Zen Tour in Modern Japan

In modern Japan, where skyscrapers neighbor ancient temples, Zen Buddhism remains a living tradition, not a museum exhibit. This is a unique phenomenon where millennia-old practices organically exist in the rhythm of the 21st century, allowing one to touch the profound wisdom of the East.

Behind the glass facades of Tokyo’s skyscrapers lies another Japan – one where time flows slower, where every movement is filled with meaning, and silence speaks louder than words. We invite you on a journey through this hidden door, into a world where ancient Zen practices remain as alive as they were centuries ago.

This journey is a rare opportunity to see Japan from within, where modernity and tradition create a unique fusion accessible to the attentive and sensitive traveler.

Ready to discover the true Japan? Join our unique tour.

April–May 2027 (12 nights, 13 days)

Дзен-тур по Японии
Join the Zen tour →
Дзен-тур по Японии

Zen Tour to Japan

The way of Zen is the art of conscious living. In every moment of presence, the profound wisdom of existence is revealed, where simplicity becomes enlightenment.

Дзен в Японии

Our journey will take you through the ancient capitals of Japan – Kamakura, Kyoto, and Nara, where every stone preserves the history of Japanese Buddhism’s formation. In these sacred places, as well as in the mountain monasteries of Minobu-san and Koya-san, you will discover practices that have been refined by Zen masters for centuries: morning and evening meditations, calligraphic copying of sutras, traditional tea ceremonies.

The uniqueness of our route lies in immersion into authentic monastic life. You will live in traditional cells, practice ancient rituals alongside monks, and experience the amazing temple cuisine of shojin-ryori, where every meal becomes a meditation. Surrounded by centuries-old cryptomeria trees, to the sound of temple bells, you will discover the art of finding harmony in simplicity and beauty in everyday life.

Who is the Zen tour to Japan suitable for?

Seekers of profound practices

Those wishing to deepen their experience through immersion in traditional Zen Buddhism

Appreciators of Eastern traditions

Those interested in authentic culture, striving to explore its spiritual side

In search of inner harmony

Those seeking ways to achieve inner balance and harmony through ancient practices

Discoverers of new experiences

Travelers tired of standard tourist routes and wanting to gain a deep, transformative experience

Who is the Zen tour to Japan suitable for?

Seekers of profound practices

Those wishing to deepen their experience through immersion in traditional Zen Buddhism

In search of inner harmony

Those seeking ways to achieve inner balance and harmony through ancient practices

Appreciators of Eastern traditions

Those interested in authentic culture, striving to explore its spiritual side

Discoverers of new experiences

Travelers tired of standard tourist routes and wanting to gain a deep, transformative experience

Zen Tour Organizers

Let’s build the path to a better version of ourselves together. We adapt classes and practices to the preparation level of each participant in our spiritual journeys, so you feel comfortable practicing.

Roman Teos

Each of us is given a chance to know the Universe and the essence of being through work with our body and consciousness. I constantly learn this from different teachers around the world, and by passing the flow of their knowledge, experience and energies through myself, I pass on my experience further to make my contribution to the development of this Universe.

Olya Amitara

Yoga is the path of my development, along which I take different bags (aromatherapy, sound therapy, nutritionology), gradually filling my path with deeper meanings. I am incredibly interested in moving further along my path with all my baggage, meeting other bright souls on it who are going to the same place as I am.

What Awaits Us on the Zen Tour Through Japan

Nara

Heritage of Ancient Capitals

In our journey through Kamakura, Kyoto, and Nara, we will visit unique shrines that preserve centuries-old customs.

Life in Monasteries

In Buddhist monasteries and Shinto houses, we will join centuries-old practices under the guidance of monks, from morning zazen meditations to the takigyo ritual under a mountain waterfall.

Kyoto

Path of Sacred Peaks

On our pilgrimage to the majestic Fuji-san, Minobu-san, and Koya-san, we will discover centers of spiritual practices and contemplation.

Flavors of Japan

From ascetic monastery cuisine shojin-ryori to exquisite kaiseki-ryori dishes and seafood delicacies – we will experience the authentic gastronomy of the country.

Calligraphy and Rock Gardens

In quiet shrines, we will touch upon sutra copying and contemplate famous Zen gardens, including the legendary Ryoan-ji.

Mystery of Tea Ceremony

In cozy chashitsu, we will immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of "cha-no-yu," understand its essence, and taste wagashi sweets.

Zen Tour Program in Japan

“Contemplation of the Perfection of Being”

Day 3-4. Sacred Mount Mitake

Day 1-2. Immersion in Monastic Life

Day 3-4. Sacred Mount Mitake

Day 1-2. Immersion in Monastic Life

Day 7-9. Mount Minobusan

Minobusan

Day 5-6. Ancient Capital Kyoto

Kamakura

Day 11-12. Kamakura – Cradle of Zen

Kyoto

Day 10. Enoshima Peninsula

Enoshima
Minobusan

Day 7-9. Mount Minobusan

Day 5-6. Ancient Capital Kyoto

Kamakura
Kyoto

Day 11-12. Kamakura – Cradle of Zen

Day 10. Enoshima Peninsula

Enoshima

Day 13. Return

Day 13. Return

Accommodation During the Zen Tour

Throughout the journey, we will stay in traditional Japanese monasteries and guesthouses (ryokan). The rooms are designed in classic minimalist style: tatami mats on the floor, sliding shoji screens with rice paper, traditional fusuma with exquisite paintings.

Sleeping arrangements consist of soft futon mattresses that are laid out in the evening and stored away in special closets in the morning. Each room has a low table for tea ceremony and meditation.

This accommodation format allows for complete immersion in the atmosphere of traditional Japan and experiencing the spirit of Zen Buddhism, where simplicity and functionality create the perfect space for practices and contemplation.

Daily Schedule

06.30-8.00

Morning cleansing practices, yoga, pranayama, meditation

08.30-09.30

Breakfast

10.00-17.00

Walks / excursions / rest / Spiritual meetings / Lunch

17.00-20.00

Yin yoga / meditation / dinner

20.00-21.00

Om mantra / relaxation practices

21.30-06.00

Sleep

Photos from Previous Tours and Retreats

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of our spiritual journeys through photographs that capture the beauty of the country, nature, and participants’ emotions. Dive into the magic of meaningful travel.

Date and Cost

Zen in Modern Japan

"Contemplation of the Perfection of Being"

April–May 2027

Pricing

Triple occupancy

Double occupancy

Important note: Some monasteries may not have double occupancy available.

In such cases, accommodation will be for 3 or 4 people.

What's Included in the Price

We always care about your comfort and try to include everything necessary for the trip in the tour price, so you don’t worry about anything during your vacation with us.

Included

Accommodation

Accommodation in traditional monasteries and ryokans. Each place is selected for authenticity and comfort.

Breakfast

Daily traditional Japanese breakfasts at accommodation places, including monastery cuisine and regional specialties.

Guidance

Experienced Russian-speaking guide living in Japan for over 15 years, practicing spiritual traditions and fluent in Japanese.

Spiritual Practices

All practices with monks: zazen, takigyo, meiso, calligraphy, and tea ceremonies.

Wellness Activities

Group yoga, pranayama, meditation practices, and aromatherapy sessions with tour organizers.

Transportation

All transfers between cities on high-speed trains and comfortable buses.

Not Included

Airport Transfer

Individual transfer to/from airport. We will help organize it based on your arrival city.

Visa

Japanese visa must be obtained at the embassy of your country. We provide all necessary documents for application.

Medical Insurance

You need to arrange medical insurance for your stay in Japan to protect yourself from unforeseen circumstances.

Meals

Lunches and dinners at local restaurants and cafes (average €30-40 per day).

Souvenirs

Personal purchases and memorable gifts from Japan.

Included

Accommodation

Accommodation in traditional monasteries and ryokans. Each place is selected for authenticity and comfort.

Breakfast

Daily traditional Japanese breakfasts at accommodation places, including monastery cuisine and regional specialties.

Guidance

Experienced Russian-speaking guide living in Japan for over 15 years, practicing spiritual traditions and fluent in Japanese.

Spiritual Practices

All practices with monks: zazen, takigyo, meiso, calligraphy, and tea ceremonies.

Wellness Activities

Group yoga, pranayama, meditation practices, and aromatherapy sessions with tour organizers.

Transportation

All transfers between cities on high-speed trains and comfortable buses.

Not Included

Airport Transfer

Individual transfer to/from airport. We will help organize it based on your arrival city.

Visa

Japanese visa must be obtained at the embassy of your country. We provide all necessary documents for application.

Medical Insurance

You need to arrange medical insurance for your stay in Japan to protect yourself from unforeseen circumstances.

Meals

Lunches and dinners at local restaurants and cafes (average €30-40 per day).

Souvenirs

Personal purchases and memorable gifts from Japan.

Additional
Bonuses for Zen Tour Participants

Access to Exclusive
Club Practices

All tour participants receive free access to our exclusive Club practice database for 2 months after the tour ends. Currently, our database contains over 60 recorded practices of different styles, complexity levels, and targeting different body parts, so you can comfortably practice at your convenience and as many times as you like.

20% Discount on Main Courses and Marathons

As a participant in our spiritual tour, you can use a 20% discount on purchasing any of our main courses and/or marathons within 12 months after the zen tour ends. This discount applies to all our educational programs lasting up to 1 month.

Emotions of Our Tour and Retreat Participants

See what participants say about our tours and retreats. Sincere opinions help understand how our experience and knowledge change people’s lives, inspiring and supporting them on their path to health and harmony.

Anya and Lida

At the temple at 4:30 AM, I truly caught my Zen. When we came out after the service, and it began to dawn... This huge temple complex, the beautiful pagoda, the first rays of the sun created an incredibly blessed atmosphere. That was my Zen moment. And it was also so much fun when we all tried on kimonos together!
Япония

Lyusya and Sveta

The most amazing discovery was understanding that Buddhism offers the possibility of becoming enlightened in this lifetime. We especially loved the diverse practices — particularly the temple services with the mesmerizing chanting of monks. The individual ceremonies with our names in Japanese were very impressive. Our main goal — to open our hearts — was achieved. We encountered different energies and gained an unforgettable spiritual experience!
Япония

Lena and Natasha

We came here to find ourselves. Choosing Japan was an unexpected decision, but everything unexpected always comes at the right time. We were particularly impressed by the practices and temples — each temple became a gateway to new knowledge for us. Most importantly, we found that special silence that only Japan can offer. Now it lives within us, and we will definitely take it home with us. Thank you!
Япония

Margo and Tonya

We came here to be alone with ourselves — it's so hard to do this at home. Our experience here can be described with four words: trial, resistance, overcoming, and purification. Especially under the waterfall and in the forest on the way to it. It felt like we visited another world where everything is pure, beautiful, and divine. Dreams come true! We can't believe this is our last day in Japan. We don't want this to end.
Участница тура в Японию

Tatyana

As one wise person said: "If you want to understand the essence, find what unites everyone." In Japan, I found this — it's the level of kindness and care that people show toward each other. The nature here is incredible! Deer and monkeys are not afraid of people at all and are very friendly. This was a wonderful experience. The main realization of this trip — how little we need in life for true happiness. Thank you for this amazing experience!
Япония

Lyudmila and Alexander

We were amazed by how differently people here look at their problems. We're from different worlds, but there's something to learn from them — whether you're an adult or a child. Our main goal was achieved — we charged ourselves with life energy! Now the task is to preserve this state. Thank you for the amazing experience!

Vlad and Sveta

I was amazed by our constant movement – so many trains, stations, funiculars, I had never seen anything like it! But the main thing was the waterfalls. Especially on the second day, when we arrived with the first rays of the sun. That stream of water simply cleansed me, giving me strength for the entire journey ahead. And meditating with the monks in the very top temple – that was something special.

Mila and Marina

In the ancient capital of Kamakura, for the first time, I truly understood what Zen is. I felt warmth along my spine, it was amazing! And those deer – who would have thought they bite! And in general, there were many funny moments, I haven't laughed like that in a long time.

Sveta and Olya

I have poor health, but I decided to undertake the waterfall purification, and it amazed me. The waterfall truly cleansed me – my sinusitis cleared up in three days instead of the usual two weeks! And I saw so many beautiful places, I felt God nearby. And in the rock garden, for the first time, I felt that flow of energy they talk about.

Oksana and Alena

The strongest impression was the temple with the goddess Kannon and 1001 statues. I still remember every detail. And of course, the waterfall – it's purification, the monk playing the singing bowls, that amazing melody... For me, it was something completely new.

Questions

How to book a spot on the Zen tour?

After your application, we check for available spots in the group within 12 hours. For guaranteed booking, a first prepayment of 1000 euros is required. A second prepayment of 1500 euros is due by the end of June. The remaining amount is paid on the first day of the tour in cash or by bank transfer. After the first prepayment, we will send you a complete information package to prepare for your trip.

What happens if I make an advance payment but then can't go?

The prepayment confirms your booking in the tour, as well as your reservation in the monasteries and traditional guesthouses where we will be staying.

The prepayment is non-refundable because:

We reserve your spot in the group.
We make advance payments for accommodation in the monasteries.
We decline other interested participants from joining the tour.
However, the prepayment can be refunded in two cases:

If we find another participant to take your place.
In case of force majeure circumstances (border closures, cancellation of air travel). In this case, the amount is refunded minus the bank transfer fees.
Before making the prepayment, please review the Disclaimer and the Public Offer Agreement, which detail the terms of participation in the tour and the responsibilities of both parties.

What are Za-zen and Takigyo?

Za-zen is a traditional Zen Buddhist sitting meditation aimed at calming the mind and achieving a state of inner silence. It is practiced in the lotus or half-lotus position, with a straight back.

Takigyo is a Shinto waterfall meditation practice, during which the practitioner, dressed in a white kimono, stands under a stream of cold water, performing special breathing exercises. It is a practice for purifying the body and spirit.

Is it mandatory to participate in all practices?

Participation in practices is voluntary. We recommend trying everything to gain a full experience, but if you feel tired or unwell, you may skip some sessions. The main thing is to notify the organizers in advance.

Is it difficult to manage early mornings?

In monasteries, the day indeed starts early – usually at 5:30-6:00 AM. However, thanks to the measured daily routine and early bedtimes (around 9:00 PM), the body quickly adapts to the new schedule. Moreover, morning practices are the most favorable time for meditation.

Can I take photos during ceremonies?

In most cases, photography during ceremonies and practices is prohibited, as it disturbs the atmosphere and distracts participants. However, there will be special moments for photography, which the guide will announce. In some temples, photography is permitted for an additional fee.

What clothing is needed for practices?

For practices, comfortable, loose clothing in neutral colors is recommended:

For Zazen: Loose trousers or a skirt below the knees, a long-sleeved T-shirt or shirt.
For Takigyo: A white kimono (provided on-site).
For temples: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees.
For yoga: Comfortable athletic wear.
We recommend bringing a warm jacket, as it can be cool in the temples.

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