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Private Zen Meditation Hall
Buddha Statue on Zen Meditation Hall Altar
Entrance to Zen Meditation Hall
Meditation Using a Chair is also Available
Compassionate Kannon

Zen Meditation for Life in Kyoto

By Brian Victoria
5 out of 5
Price is HK$937 per adult
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Features
  • 3h 30m
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
  • Multiple languages
Overview

Kyoto has been the principal home of Zen since its introduction to Japan from China at the beginning of the 13th century. Kyoto is therefore rightly famous for its Zen-influenced gardens, etc. However, the heart of Zen is the practice of meditation, for meditation is the very meaning of the word “Zen.” Given this, it is ironic there are few opportunities for short-term visitors to Kyoto to have more than a brief introduction to Zen meditation while visiting Zen temples. Thus, this workshop is unique in providing an extended, in-depth introduction to both the theory and practice of meditation (zazen) under the guidance of American-born, Sōtō Zen Buddhist priest and scholar Rev. Dr. Brian Victoria. Rev. Victoria will introduce you to both the theory and practice of Zen meditation, employing traditional meditation cushions (or chairs if needed) in a private meditation hall. By workshop completion, participants will become confident in their ability to continue meditating on their own.

Activity location

  • 453-2 Tachibanachō
    • 453-2 Tachibanachō
    • 600-8044, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • Hotel Granvia Kyoto
    • JR京都駅 Higashishiokōjichō
    • 600-8216, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

Check availability

Zen Meditation for Life in Kyoto
  • Activity duration is 3 hours and 30 minutes3h 30m3h 30m
  • English

Kyoto has been the principal home of Zen since its introduction to Japan from China at the beginning of the 13th century. Kyoto is therefore rightly famous for its Zen-influenced gardens, etc. However, the heart of Zen is the practice of meditation, for meditation is the very meaning of the word “Zen.” Given this, it is ironic there are few opportunities for short-term visitors to Kyoto to have more than a brief introduction to Zen meditation while visiting Zen temples. Thus, this workshop is unique in providing an extended, in-depth introduction to both the theory and practice of meditation (zazen) under the guidance of American-born, Sōtō Zen Buddhist priest and scholar Rev. Dr. Brian Victoria. Rev. Victoria will introduce you to both the theory and practice of Zen meditation, employing traditional meditation cushions (or chairs if needed) in a private meditation hall. By workshop completion, participants will become confident in their ability to continue meditating on their own.

Starting time: 13:30
Price details
HK$936.98 x 1 AdultHK$936.98
Total
Price is HK$936.98
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What's included, what's not

  • What's includedWhat's includedThe workshop ends with green tea and a traditional Kyoto sweet

Know before you book

  • Public transport options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travellers with spinal injuries
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Activity itinerary

The private Zen meditation hall is located a five minute bus/taxi ride from Kyoto Station, near Nishi Honganji temple, in a traditional Kyoto home (machiya). The activity includes a thorough 90 minute introduction to both the theory and practice of Zen meditation, emphasising the proper posture for the Zen form of "mindfulness" meditation. The introduction is followed by the opportunity to experience a combination of two 20 minute periods of seated meditation (zazen) interspersed with 10 minutes of walking meditation (kinhin). Zen meditation can be performed using either the traditional lotus or half lotus postures or, alternatively, on a chair for those who find this more comfortable. The key elements of Zen meditation are breath and mind control, using the proper posture. The activity ends with 30 minutes for tea and a traditional Kyoto sweet, both included in the price. Any questions that participants may have can be asked at this time. The goal of this activity is for participants to feel confident, should they wish, to continue to meditate on their own, understanding both how to meditate within the Zen tradition as well as its purpose.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES453-2 Tachibanachō
    • 453-2 Tachibanachō
    • 600-8044, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLEHotel Granvia Kyoto
    • JR京都駅 Higashishiokōjichō
    • 600-8216, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan
This activity is not accompanied by a Hong Kong licensed tour escort.

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