ZAZEN TOURS
Practice Zen Meditation & Matcha in Tokyo
Step away from the busy streets of Tokyo and spend a quiet moment in a real Zen temple.
In this experience, you’ll learn the basics of zazen (seated meditation), listen to simple teachings on Zen philosophy, and share matcha tea with a monk.
Whether you’re completely new to meditation or already practice at home, this is a gentle introduction to Zen in everyday life.
GALLERY
POINT
01
Step into a real Zen temple
Leave the busy streets behind and enter a quiet temple hall where daily Zen practice takes place.
POINT
03
Meditate with guidance from a monk
Try a short zazen session with clear, simple instructions so even first-timers can relax and experience the silence.
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POINT
02
Learn the basics of Zen & zazen
Get a gentle introduction to Zen philosophy and learn how to sit, breathe, and focus during seated meditation.
POINT
04
Share matcha & ask your questions
After meditation, enjoy matcha and sweets while talking with the monk about Zen, temple life, and anything you’re curious about.
MAP
Detailed information about the meeting place and time will be sent to you by email after your reservation is confirmed.
Meeting Point/Disbanding Point
【Tour Highlights】
・Learn the basics of Zen from a real monk
Get an easy-to-understand introduction to Zen ideas and how to bring them into daily life.
・Experience authentic zazen meditation
Sit on a cushion in the temple hall, learn posture and breathing, and try a short session of seated meditation.
・Enjoy matcha and conversation
After meditation, relax with a bowl of matcha and Japanese sweets while asking the monk questions about Zen and temple life.
・Small-group, calm atmosphere
The experience is kept to a small group so everyone can listen, ask questions, and settle into the quiet mood.
・Beginner-friendly & bilingual
Guidance is offered in simple English (and Japanese), so no prior knowledge of Buddhism or meditation is required.
【Important Notes】
・Please arrive 10–15 minutes before the start time so we can begin on schedule.
・You will be asked to sit on a cushion on the floor. Chairs are available if sitting on the floor is difficult.
・The meditation hall is a quiet space. During zazen, please keep silence and follow the monk’s instructions.
・Please wear modest, comfortable clothing that allows you to sit easily (no very short skirts or revealing outfits).
・Photography is allowed before and after the meditation, but not during the zazen session itself.
・This is not a counselling or therapy session; it is a cultural and spiritual experience.
FAQ
Q1 .
How can I book or cancel the tour?
You can book through various tour platforms or directly from our website. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Q2 .
Where is the meeting point?
Once your booking is confirmed, we will send you an email with the exact temple name, address, and a Google Maps link.
The temple is located in central Tokyo and is a short walk from the nearest station.
Q3 .
How long does the experience last?
The experience lasts about 2 hours in total, including:
・A short introduction to Zen
・A guided zazen meditation session
・Matcha tea time and Q&A
Q4 .
Is matcha included in the tour price?
Yes. The participation fee includes the meditation experience, temple use, and a bowl of matcha with a small sweet.
There is no additional charge on the day unless you choose to buy extra items.
Q5 .
Do the guides speak English?
Yes. All our guides (called Okami) speak English at a business level or above.
Q6 .
Is the tour held in case of bad weather?
Yes. Since the experience takes place inside the temple, it runs rain or shine.
In case of a typhoon or public transport disruption, we may reschedule and will contact you as early as possible.
Q7 .
How many guests are in the tour?
The number of guests varies depending on the season, ranging from 1 to about 50 participants.
Q8 .
Is the tour accessible for seniors or people with mobility issues?
Chairs are available for those who find sitting on the floor difficult.
However, there may be steps at the temple entrance, so full wheelchair access is not guaranteed.
If you have concerns about mobility, please contact us in advance.
Q9 .
Is there Wi-Fi at the temple?
No, unfortunately Wi-Fi is not available in the meditation hall.
We recommend downloading maps or information in advance.
Q10 .
Are there restrooms available
Yes. Restrooms are available inside or near the temple.
We recommend using them before the meditation session starts.
Q11.
Can I take photos or videos?
You may take photos before and after the meditation, and during matcha time, as long as it does not disturb others.
Out of respect for the temple and participants, video recording during the meditation session is not allowed.
Q12.
Can I talk to the monk?
Yes. During the Q&A and matcha time, you are welcome to ask questions about Zen, daily practice, or temple life.
Our guide can help with translation if needed.
Q13.
Can I bring drinks or food?
Please do not bring food into the meditation hall.
Water or tea in a closed bottle is fine, but please refrain from drinking during the meditation itself.
Q14.
Is there a minimum age requirement?
We generally recommend the experience for children aged 10 and up, so they can sit quietly during meditation.
Younger children may join at a parent’s responsibility, but please be prepared to step outside with them if they become restless.
Q15.
How far is the temple from the meeting point?
The temple is usually within a 5–10 minute walk from the designated meeting place.
Detailed directions will be provided in your confirmation email.
Q16.
Are there any rules I should know about?
Yes. For this experience, please:
・Remove your shoes when entering designated temple areas
・Keep silence during the meditation
・Do not take photos or video during zazen
・Follow the instructions of the monk and guide at all times
