Kissako Zen and Tea Experience in English on November 24th, 2026

A contemplative Zen encounter in English at a living Kyoto temple At Shunkoin Temple in Kyoto, Kissako is an invitation to encounter Zen not as a performance, but as a living contemplative tradition. Set within a private temple environment and garden, normally closed to the public, this experience offers guests a rare opportunity to enter the quiet rhythm of Zen practice through meditation, tea, attentive silence, and thoughtful dialogue. Guests are personally guided in English by Rev. Takafumi Zenryu Kawakami, the 24th-generation head priest of Shunkoin Temple. Known internationally for his talks and workshops on Zen, self, well-being, and contemplative traditions, Rev. Kawakami brings both the depth of traditional Zen training and a contemporary intellectual perspective to the experience. Rather than a conventional sightseeing activity, Kissako is designed for guests who seek depth, sincerity, and meaningful cultural engagement. The experience unfolds with care and intention, combining seated meditation, tea appreciation, contemplative exercises, and reflective conversation. Through this intimate setting, guests are invited to slow down, listen deeply, and explore Zen as a practice of awareness, presence, and transformation. This experience is especially suited for discerning travelers, cultural specialists, travel advisors, and guests interested in Zen philosophy, contemplative studies, mindfulness, and direct dialogue with a Zen priest in English. What the experience includes Cold-infused tea prepared with traditional utensils from Asahiyaki, Kaikado, and Kanaami-Tsuji Guided seated Zen meditation, or zazen Tea appreciation through the five senses Nansō meditation, a restorative contemplative practice associated with the teachings of Zen master Hakuin Ekaku Dharma talk and reflective dialogue with Rev. Takafumi Zenryu Kawakami Guided visit to the temple garden and prayer hall Practical information Duration: Approximately 120 minutes Language: English Maximum group size: 12 participants Fee: ¥23,000 per person, excluding 10% consumption tax Private Kissako experiences may be arranged upon request for groups. Please contact us for availability. Dress code As this experience takes place in a Buddhist temple, guests are asked to dress respectfully. Socks are required Modest attire is recommended Short skirts are discouraged for seated meditation Guests without socks may not be able to enter the temple spaces used for the experience. Cancellation policy Cancellations made less than 7 days before the reserved date will be charged 100% of the total fee. About Rev. Takafumi Zenryu Kawakami Rev. Takafumi Zenryu Kawakami is a Zen priest, thinker, and the 24th-generation head priest of Shunkoin Temple in Kyoto. He teaches Zen Buddhist philosophy, meditation, Eastern contemplative traditions, and the relationship between cultural and religious diversity and well-being in both Japanese and English. His work bridges traditional Zen practice with contemporary discussions on the self, consciousness, well-being, and contemplative studies. His talks and workshops have brought him to institutions and organizations including the Holy See, Brown University, MIT, Microsoft, BNP Paribas, Gallup, TEDxKyoto, the Mind & Life Institute, and Eton College. He is a member of the U.S.-Japan Leadership Program by the U.S.-Japan Foundation. Selected publication: Lambert, L., Lomas, T., Lai, A., Diener, E., Kawakami, T., et al. “Towards a greater global understanding of wellbeing: A proposal for a more inclusive measure.” International Journal of Wellbeing, 2020, 10(2), 1–18.