A detailed explanation and meditation guidance by Zenkoji Temple monk Kaishi Yamamoto makes this accessible even for beginners. Why not try calming your mind in an environment conducive to achieving a state of mindfulness?
・Dates: Held regularly. Please contact us in advance if you wish to attend.
・Location: Zenkoji Temple Main Hall
・Duration: Approximately 1 hour
・Fee: ¥3,000
Onigiri and Miso Soup Making Experience
Why not join us in making handmade rice balls and miso soup together using fresh local ingredients?
We generally do not use meat or fish, so vegetarians and vegans can participate with peace of mind.
Enjoy a heartwarming moment while experiencing Japanese food culture.
Anyone of any age is welcome to participate. No cooking experience is necessary.
This is a special experience where you can encounter the flavors of Japan and a comforting tranquility.
・Experience Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
※Reservations required
・Location: Zenkoji Temple Cooking Studio
・Duration: 45 to 60 minutes
・Participation Fee: ¥3,000 per person
Making Your Own Incense Powder
Why not purify your mind and body at the temple while enveloped in Japanese fragrances? Experience creating your own original incense blend. Using only natural, finely ground aromatic ingredients, you can select scents tailored to your mood and physical condition.
・Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (by appointment only)
・Location: Zenkoji Main Hall
・Experience Duration: 20-30 minutes
・Participation Fee: ¥5,000 per person
Table-Style Tea Ceremony
Experience modern-style tea ceremony comfortably seated in chairs
A special moment to connect with Japanese culture and the spirit of hospitality.
Instructor Mihoko Omori (Tsubaki no Kai) guides you through this internationally popular tea ceremony in a table-style format. No kneeling required—experience it comfortably seated in chairs.
Temple Yoga is held several times a month. Why not enjoy yoga in the main hall of the temple, experiencing a slightly different atmosphere than usual?
Please come dressed in comfortable clothing.
※You may bring your own yoga mat, but we also offer free rentals.
・Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM (Reservation required)
・Location: Zenkoji Main Hall
・Duration: 1 hour
・Participation Fee: ¥3,000 per person
Kaidan Meguri
The Kaidan Meguri is a spiritual practice where participants descend stairs leading beneath the main hall and search for a lock in the darkness by touch alone. Touching this lock without the aid of light is said to grant the blessing of overcoming fear in the dark and gaining courage.
・Date: Available anytime
・Location: Underground area beneath Zenkoji Main Hall
・Participation Fee: ¥500
Sutra copying
Sutra copying is a practice of transcribing the Buddha’s teachings that has continued for over 1,300 years. Beginners are welcome to try it. Focus your mind as you transcribe the Buddha’s teachings, add your own prayers, and pray for their fulfillment.
・Dates: Available anytime
・Location: Zenkoji Main Hall
・Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
・Fee: ¥1,000 per person
Buddha drawing
This is a simple Buddhist painting experience where you trace the image of Amida Nyorai, the principal image enshrined at Zenkoji Temple, in the temple’s main hall. Concentrating on moving your brush in the main hall refreshes both your mood and mind. You’ll carefully trace the image while feeling gratitude for the unchanging routine of daily life.
・Date: Available anytime
・Location: Zenkoji Main Hall
・Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
・Participation Fee: ¥1,000 per person
Kimono Dressing Experience
Experience dressing in a kimono (or yukata in summer) at the temple. Our kimono dressers will assist you carefully, so even first-timers can enjoy the experience with peace of mind.
Wearing a kimono while strolling through Takayama’s charming streets will surely create lasting memories.
・Dates: By reservation only
・Location: Zenkoji Main Hall
・Duration: Men approx. 15 min, Women approx. 30 min
・Fee: Men ¥3,000/person, Women ¥6,000/person (includes hair styling)
