3 hours
Guided in English
Private tour
Mobile ticket

Highlights

Step into the peaceful world of Daijoji Temple, one of Kanazawa’s most important Soto Zen temples, and experience Zen through the guidance of a Buddhist monk. This private experience offers a rare opportunity to explore the temple, learn about Zen and practice Zazen meditation directly under the guidance of a resident monk, with an English-speaking interpreter throughout the experience. Away from the usual tourist sites, discover a quieter and more authentic side of Kanazawa through its living Zen tradition.

Inclusions

What's included

English-speaking guide & interpretation
Tea and snack
Private hotel pick-up & drop-off
Zazen meditation session
Guided temple visit

Itinerary

Discover the profound stillness of Daijoji Temple, one of Japan’s most prestigious Soto Zen training monasteries. This exclusive experience is personally guided by a resident monk, with a professional interpreter ensuring you understand every nuance of Zen philosophy. Your journey begins with a private vehicle pick-up from your Kanazawa hotel. At the temple, you will be led on an in-depth tour of the historic architecture and sacred grounds by the monk. Following the tour, enter the meditation hall for a private Zazen (seated meditation) session. The monk will provide direct instruction on posture and breathing, translated in real-time by your guide. Conclude your experience with traditional matcha tea and a moment of reflection. This is a rare opportunity to engage deeply with authentic Zen life in a private, serene setting.
2 hAdmission included

Cancellation

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Know before you go

Pickup: Pickup is included for everyone.
Ticket type: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Operated by: Beyond Kanazawa

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

How it compares in Kanazawa

Its from-price is 24% above the median of the 249 experiences we list in Kanazawa.
Its length is typical for the group.

About Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a castle city on Japan's Sea of Japan coast, with the celebrated Kenrokuen garden, geisha and samurai districts, gold leaf and fresh seafood.

Kanazawa was the seat of the Maeda clan, who ruled the rich Kaga domain through the Edo period, and it escaped the bombing of the Second World War, so its old streets survive. Kenrokuen, one of Japan's three great landscape gardens, spreads over a hill beside the castle, with ponds, stone lanterns and pines that are held up by ropes against the winter snow. The turrets and gates of Kanazawa Castle have been rebuilt.

See all 249 experiences in Kanazawa