Private Zen Temple & Tea Ceremony Experience in German or English
- 1h 30m
- Free cancellation up to 24h before
- 3 languages
- Private tour
Highlights
Discover the heart of Kyoto’s cultural heritage with an exclusive visit to a 700-year-old private Zen temple — a hidden sanctuary rarely accessible to the public. On this guided experience, you will step into a world of quiet elegance, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of historic temple architecture and carefully designed Zen gardens. As you explore the grounds, your guide will share insights into the roots of Zen Buddhism and the cultural traditions that have shaped Kyoto for centuries. The experience culminates in a traditional tea ceremony within the temple, where you will take part in a time-honored ritual that reflects the essence of Japanese aesthetics, mindfulness, and harmony. Highlights: - Exclusive access to a 700-year-old private Zen temple - Guided insights into Zen Buddhism and Kyoto’s history - Authentic tea ceremony within the temple grounds - A peaceful, intimate atmosphere away from the crowds
Inclusions
What's included
- Traditionally served Matcha Tea and Sweets
Itinerary
Our guide will lead you through the beautiful Zen garden and historic halls of Ryosokuin, a private Zen temple normally closed to the public. Gain a deeper understanding of the roots of Buddhism in Japan while exploring the rich history and culture of Kyoto in an intimate and authentic setting. To complete the experience, you will take part in an exclusive tea ceremony while overlooking the serene garden. With a deep focus on all five senses, you will be invited to fully disconnect from the outside world and immerse yourself in the timeless traditions of Zen.
Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.
Reviews
5.0
- 59
- 40
- 30
- 20
- 10
Ratings come from 9 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.
Know before you go
- Meeting point
- Meet me at the front gate of the Kenninji Temple.
- Pickup
- Everyone meets at the starting point; there is no pickup.
- Ticket type
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Operated by
- IKOO Tours
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
How it compares in Kyoto
- Its from-price is 47% above the median of the 1713 experiences we list in Kyoto.
- It is shorter than most of them.
- By number of reviews it ranks 504 of 1713.
- The operator lists free cancellation on it.
About Kyoto
Kyoto, Japan's imperial capital for over a thousand years, is a city of temples, gardens, wooden townhouses and refined traditions.
The city holds many of Japan's most treasured sites. Fushimi Inari Taisha's thousands of vermilion torii gates climb a wooded mountain, Kinkaku-ji's Golden Pavilion shimmers over its pond, and Kiyomizu-dera's wooden stage juts from the hillside above the city. The rock garden of Ryoan-ji and the mossy grounds of Ginkaku-ji invite quiet contemplation.
Top-ranked sights in Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha), Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
Special offers in Kyoto
Was/now prices come from the operator, never from us.
