Summary
Named “Kamakura Autumn Frost Moon – An Inner Journey,” this retreat program offers time away from the hustle and bustle of modern society to face the self in the rich natural and historical environment of the ancient capital of Kamakura.
The program will take place in autumn, one of the most beautiful seasons in Kamakura. As the leaves begin to change colors, the air becomes clearer, and the number of tourists dwindles, this is the ideal time for reflection in tranquility. Participants will begin with a meditation experience at an ancient temple centering on the five mountains of Kamakura, and will be gradually guided to face their inner selves as they experience the nature and culture of the ancient capital.
Throughout the retreat, we will consciously utilize all five senses of “seeing,” “hearing,” “touching,” “tasting,” and “feeling,” and cherish the small joys and discoveries that are often overlooked in everyday life..
Description
1:Historical Significance of Kamakura:
Kamakura is the place where the samurai government was established at the end of the 12th century, and where many temples and shrines were built. In particular, there are many Zen temples, and it can be said to be one of the birthplaces of Zen culture in Japan.
2:Harmony with Nature:
Surrounded by the sea, mountains, and rivers, Kamakura’s topography symbolizes the harmony between nature and mankind. There is beauty in all four seasons, but it is especially known for its autumn foliage and clean air in autumn.
3:The antithesis of modern society:
We offer an opportunity to temporarily step away from our modern lives of digital dependency, excessive information intake, and constant “connectedness” and regain our true selves.
4:Rediscovery of Japanese culture:
Traditional Japanese culture, such as tea ceremony, haiku, and Zen, encompasses the ideas of mindfulness and the importance of the “present moment. By experiencing these in a modern context, you can discover new values in Japanese culture.
5:Community building:
We provide opportunities to build deep relationships not only through individual reflection, but also through shared experiences in small groups. Interaction with local artisans and farmers is also an important part of feeling connected to the community.
More than just a “sightseeing” or “hands-on” experience, this retreat aims to allow each participant to complete his or her own inner journey and to carry with them the awareness and peacefulness gained from their experience in Kamakura, even after they return to their daily lives.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
Program
Day 1: Arrival and Introduction
・15:00 Check-in at hotel and guidance
・18:00 Welcome dinner
・19:30 Welcome zazen session (basic meditation posture and breathing techniques)
・21:00 Bedtime preparation and free time
Day 2: Experience Buddhist culture
・07:00 Morning walk around( Hotel to the beach)
・07:30 Yoga on the beach
・09:00 Breakfast
・10:00 Opening Ceremony
・12:30 Lunch
・14:30 Zazen
・15:30 Experience sutra chanting (as a mindfulness practice to calm the mind)
・18:30 Dinner ( Shoujin ryouri)
・21:00 Free time, bedtime
Day 3: Touch in the Japanese Traditional Culture
・07:00 Morning walk around
・07:30 Yoga on the beach
・09:00 Breakfast
・11:00 Tea Ceremony in Tokeiji temple or Houan
・12:30 Workshop on “Vegetarian Cooking and Dietary Regimen” (including hands-on practice)
・15:00 Zazen
・16:30 Gentle Yoga and Breathing (in the temple garden)
・19:00 Dinner
・21:00 Free time, bedtime
Day 4: Touch in the Japanese Traditional Culture
・07:00 Morning walk around
・07:30 Yoga on the beach
・09:00 Breakfast
・11:00 Zazen
・12:30 Lunch
・15:00 Workshop on pottery
・19:00 Dinner
・21:00 Free time, bedtime
Day 5: Sightseen with wearing Kimono
・07:00 Morning walk around
・07:30 Yoga on the beach
・09:00 Breakfast
・11:00 Wearing Kimono
・12:30 Lunch
・13:30 Sightseen around Kamakura
・19:00 Dinner
・21:00 Free time, bedtime
Day 6: Closing
・07:00 Morning walk around
・07:30 Yoga on the beach
・09:00 Breakfast
・10:00 Check out and dismissal
