Summary
Breath of the Ancient Capital” is a 4-day/3-night program to stay at a shukubo (a traditional lodging house) to find inner peace and balance the body and mind through Nara’s traditional temple culture and Buddhist practices. Away from the hustle and bustle of modern society, this is a journey to reconnect with your true self in the ancient capital of Nara, which has a history of over 1,300 years.
Description
Program Features
Authentic temple experience: Experience Buddhist practices such as sutra reading, sutra copying, and Zen meditation under the guidance of active monks
Historical and Spiritual Exploration: Tour World Heritage-listed temples and shrines and learn about the relationship between Buddhist art and meditation
Harmony with Nature: Experience nature in the Kasuga-yama Primeval Forest and Wakakusa Mountain to develop a sense of oneness with nature.
Awareness through food: Purification of the body and transformation of consciousness through vegetarian cuisine and meals using local organic ingredients
Journey to the inner self: deepen self-understanding and introspection through daily meditation practice
Expected Benefits
Relief from daily stress and mental refreshment
Continuous improvement of stress management skills through meditation and breathing techniques
Deep understanding of traditional Japanese culture and spirituality
Opportunity for self-reflection and re-evaluation of life priorities
Acquisition of new perspectives through a fusion of ancient wisdom and modern wellness
This program is designed to be more than just a sightseeing tour, but a transformative experience that encourages each participant’s inner journey and growth. Time spent in the temple environment of Nara will bring deep awareness and peace that will last long after you return to your daily life.
Program
Day 1: Invitation to the Ancient Capital
Afternoon arrival: Transportation by private car, check-in at a shukubo (temple near Kofuku-ji or Nan’endo)
Evening introduction to meditation: Lecture by abbot on the basics of meditation and how to prepare your mind
Dinner: vegetarian meal using local seasonal ingredients
Evening sutra copying experience: Quiet sutra copying time by candlelight
Day 2: Prepare your mind and body
Early morning sutra reading experience: Participation in morning sutra reading with the priest (starts at 5:30)
Breakfast: vegetarian morning rice porridge and a small bowl of local vegetables
Morning: “Buddhist Art and Meditation Tour” to Todaiji Temple and Nigatsudo Hall (with expert guide)
Lunch: Nara traditional tea porridge and local cuisine
Afternoon: Mindfulness walking in the Kasuga-yama Primeval Forest
Evening: Special prayer and visit to Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Evening: Zazen instruction and meditation session
Day 3: Healing Time
Early morning: Sunrise yoga at Mt.
Morning: Deer interaction experience and natural breathing exercises in Nara Park
Lunch: Meal at a local organic cafe
Afternoon: “Healing in Yamato” program
Footbath experience with medicinal herbs
Traditional Japanese Shiatsu massage (45 minutes)
Tea time with Nara’s traditional tea and Japanese sweets
Evening: Evening of Gagaku music and meditation
Evening: Moonlight bathing and star gazing at the moon viewing platform
Day 4: Closing of the inner journey
Early morning: Last morning sutra reading and zazen meditation
Breakfast: Breakfast with local products
Morning: “The Art of Gratitude” workshop to learn traditional ways of expressing gratitude
Lunch: vegetarian meal before departure
Afternoon: Departure (transportation to next destination arranged for those who wish)
