Summary
A special program in Kyoto this spring offers a unique retreat experience with traditional cultural activities. This six-day program at Chishakuin Temple combines spiritual and cultural experiences, including morning meditation, walks, sutra copying, and evening meditation or yoga sessions. Guests enjoy Japanese-style or refined vegetarian meals each day.
Activities like kendo practice, sightseeing, and outdoor yoga add variety. Each day balances structured activities with free time, allowing participants to explore at their own pace.
Description
The six-day program at Chishakuin Temple offers a transformative experience combining Japanese culture, spirituality, and relaxation.
Key Highlights:
- Daily Routine: Each morning begins with a temple walk and meditation, offering quiet time for reflection. Evenings feature meditation or yoga, grounding guests in the temple’s serene ambiance.
- Morning Service: Join a serene morning service and explore the temple grounds with a guided tour by a monk, including visits to renowned gardens. Begin your day with this extraordinary experience in the fresh, pure air of early morning. It’s a time to reflect on daily gratitude and the precious gift of life—you may discover new insights and a deep sense of appreciation.
- Activities: Guests can engage in sutra copying (shakyo), kendo (martial arts with a focus on etiquette), and yoga in a traditional setting. Outdoor yoga and sightseeing are also available, allowing participants to explore Kyoto’s beauty.
- Kendo Experience: An instructor certified by the Kyoto Kendo Federation will introduce the foundational movements and spirit of kendo. This martial art focuses on strengthening both body and mind through dedicated practice, ultimately fostering personal growth and character development.
- Yoga: The foundation is standard Hatha Yoga. In the morning, we’ll awaken the body and recharge for the day ahead with repeated Sun Salutations. In the evening, we’ll incorporate poses and relaxation techniques to release the day’s fatigue, finishing with meditation to center the mind and body.
- Zen and Tea Party: Experience serenity at Kodaiji Temple with a Zen meditation session followed by a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of Kyoto while exploring these timeless cultural practices.
- City Tour: Experience Kyoto’s timeless beauty on this city tour, visiting iconic temples, serene gardens, and historic districts. Explore Gion’s charming streets, the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the peaceful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the golden Kinkaku-ji Temple. Discover the rich history and culture of one of Japan’s most treasured cities.
- Meals: The program includes traditional Japanese or Shojin Ryori (vegetarian) meals, enhancing the authentic cultural experience.
- Balance of Structure and Freedom: Structured activities are balanced with ample free time, letting guests explore temple life and the surrounding Kyoto area independently.
- Ayurveda spa treatments combine ancient healing practices with relaxation, using natural oils, herbs, and therapies to balance the body and mind. These treatments are personalized to your dosha, promoting rejuvenation, detoxification, and deep relaxation, making them a unique blend of wellness and luxury.
- Abhyanga, a traditional Ayurvedic oil massage technique, relaxes your stressed body and restores you to your natural state of well-being.
- Suite Luxury – This treatment will take about 205 mins. (body, head & face with Swedana 110 mins., Shirodhara 35 mins. and rest time of 60 mins.)
- This treatment is recommended for those who want to be freed from daily fatigue and busyness and want to reset. Guide you towards a deeper sense of liberation. Taking a bath after the treatment further increases the sense of relaxation, leaving your body and mind refreshed.
- Suite Body & Shirodhara – This treatment will take about 165 mins. (body, head & face with Swedana 70 mins., Shirodhara 35 mins. and rest time of 60 mins.)
- Suite Special – This treatment will take about 170 mins. (body, head & face with Swedana 110 mins. and rest time of 60 mins.)
This unique blend of structured spiritual practice and flexible exploration offers a meaningful retreat for those seeking cultural enrichment and personal growth.
Program
Day 1
Afternoon~Evening
- Check-in (15:00~20:00)
- Free time
- Dinner
- Meditation or Hatha Yoga
Day 2
Morning
- Morning Temple Routine ・Morning Walk (Optional)
- Breakfast
- Sightseen Chionin temple
Afternoon ~ Evening
- Hatha Yoga (2hours or from 13:00~15:00)
- Dinner
- Sutra ・Meditation
Day 3
Morning
- Morning Temple Routine ・Morning Walk (Optional)
- Breakfast
- Sightseen Nanzenji temple
Afternoon ~ Evening
- Kendo Experience (2hours)
- Dinner
- Meditation
Day 4
Morning
- Morning Temple Routine ・Morning Walk (Optional)
- Breakfast
- Free time
Afternoon ~ Evening
- Hatha Yoga (2hours or from 13:00~15:00)
- Fushimi inari shrine and Tofukuji
- Dinner
- Sutra・Meditation
Day 5
Morning
- Morning Temple Routine ・Morning Walk (Optional)
- Breakfast
- Free time
Afternoon ~ Evening
- Hatha Yoga (2hours or from 13:00~15:00)
- City Tour
- Dinner
- Sutra ・Meditation
Day 6
Morning
- Morning Temple Routine ・Morning Walk (Optional)
- Breakfast
- Check-out (10:00 am)
Near Chishakuin Temple, take a leisurely morning walk to the nearby Kodaiji Temple, a perfect spot to explore during your free time. Surrounding Kodaiji Temple, you’ll discover the enchanting Nene-no-Michi street, the vibrant Yasaka Shrine, the serene Maruyama Park, and the atmospheric Ishibe Alley, each offering a unique glimpse into Kyoto’s timeless charm and cultural heritage.
