Kyoto: Zen Meditation at a Private Temple with a Monk

Overview

Available languages

English

1 hour 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

Experience Zen meditation at a hidden temple in Kyoto. While Zen is globally renowned and recognised, there are few places in Japan where you can have the best Zen experience with English tour guide support.

This temple is not open to the general public, and you can enjoy hidden atmosphere of the temple and authentic zen experience,

Enjoy a private Zen experience, fostering a connection with the monk. Meet at the temple, where you'll learn briefly about Japanese culture and Zen.

Following that, a monk will personally lecture on the principles and techniques of Zazen (seated meditation), and you'll have the opportunity to practice. Unify your mind, confront yourself, and detach from ego and worldly concerns. After zen experience, you will get the opportunity to enjoy watching beautiful traditional garden, which will make you forget hustle and bustle of the daily life.

Capture photographs with the monk and within the temple, creating lasting memories for a lifetime.

Additional Info

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Kodaiji Park

We're taking you to the hidden temple close from Kodaiji Park.

Admission Not Applicable

What‘s Included

Matcha and Japanese traditional snacks

Zen meditation experience with a monk

Options

Kyoto: Zen Meditation at a Private Temple with a Monk

Reviews

5.00

24 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

A Truly Unique and Highlight Experience
940chis,,Dec 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This activity booked through Klook was an absolute highlight of my trip. It offered a rare chance to visit a temple not normally accessible to the public and participate in a meditation session led by a genuinely serene and positive monk. The monk skillfully wove Buddhist philosophy into practical guidance, making the meditation both insightful and experiential. The atmosphere was deeply peaceful. It felt like an authentic practice rather than a tourist show; I believe locals would also appreciate its value. Beyond the meditation, we gained an introduction to Japanese tea ceremony and had the privilege of touring the temple's historic buildings and tranquil gardens. The whole experience was beautifully rounded. A special note for families: my child participated and found the meditation a helpful practice for learning focus and calm. We are both grateful. I highly recommend this exceptional and profound experience.
Peaceful vibes
557harryx,,Dec 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
great experience, monk was very helpful in teaching us about Buddhist values. The garden was very peaceful and serene. Overall, very valuable and memorable experience.
Authentic experience
GraemeP290,,Dec 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This experience is a must do if you have any interest in learning how to meditate. The Monk exudes a sense of calm and we found as a complete novice we were able to achieve 20 minutes of meditation. Our interpreter Ruko was charming and spoke perfect English.
Great experience and a nice change of pace.
L3692FSstephanier,,Nov 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
My husband & I participated in this zen meditation experience and really enjoyed it. It was a nice change of pace to have this peaceful experience in the busy city of Kyoto. The guide and translator were both very knowledgeable and kind, and I would highly recommend this experience to anyone who has any interest in meditation, Buddhism, or just trying something new.
Excellent
Maria C,,Nov 18, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Amazing experience our guide was amazing and the ceremony was beautiful and the meditation was a wonderful experience
Beautiful Experience
Sam N,,Nov 7, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
It is a more private experience at a smaller but beautiful temple. The monk is very genuine but insightful. I highly recommend this experience
Recommended
Voyage41833894241,,Oct 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
The experience has been amazing, and the staff kind and available. The meditation itself was grounding, and they allowed us to ask questions and visit the internal garden. Since they might change the schedule often and without much notice, just make sure if you book it to have some room for flexibility in your itinerary.
Relaxing and knowledgable experience!
Ryan D,,Oct 17, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Very authentic private-like experience. Great translation and very educatuonal. Didn't think I'd need to go to japan to learn how to sit upright correctly. Meditation practice put into a good metaphor.
Amazing time and learning experience
980sethr,,Sep 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Had a amazing time learning and experiencing the tea ceremony and the meditation. Soma was an excellent host and provided great information. Walking around the private garden was an added bonus
Meditation in hidden temple
johannalaural,,Aug 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
An amazing and special experience, away from the crowds. The meditation session was very well guided!😊 It was well organized and not rushed. At first got to taste the special matcha tea:)) and cracker. Then we learned the basics and the session began, afterwards felt very relaxed! Thank you so much!!✨