Descripción
Kissako Zen and Tea Experience A quiet Zen encounter in English at a living Kyoto temple At Shunkoin Temple, Kissako is an invitation to encounter Zen as it is genuinely practiced—through stillness, tea, and attentive presence. This experience takes place within a private temple setting and garden, normally closed to the public, where Zen practice has been sustained for over four centuries. Guests are personally guided in English by Takafumi Zenryu Kawakami, offering rare access to Zen practice as a living tradition rather than a performance or demonstration. Rather than following a rigid program, the experience unfolds with care and intention—balancing seated meditation, reflective dialogue, and the sharing of tea as a contemplative act. Each element is designed to encourage clarity, attentiveness, and a deeper appreciation of silence. Kissako is offered to a limited number of guests who seek depth, sincerity, and a meaningful cultural encounter in Kyoto. It is not designed for speed or spectacle, but for presence. What the experience includes Cold-infused tea prepared using traditional utensils from Asahiyaki, Kaikado, and Kanaami-Tsuji Seated Zen meditation (zazen) - guided meditation Tea appreciation engaging the five senses Nansō meditation, a restorative practice associated with the teachings of Hakuin Ekaku Dharma talk and reflective dialogue Guided visit to the temple garden and prayer hall Practical information Duration: Approximately 120 minutes Language: English Maximum group size: 11 participants Fee ¥22,000 per person (tax not included) Private Kissako experiences may be arranged upon request for groups. Please contact us for availability. Dress code Socks are required Modest attire is recommended Short skirts are discouraged for seated meditation Cancellation policy 100% of the total fee will be charged for cancellations made less than 7 days before the reserved date Rev. Takafumi Zenryu Kawakami Zen priest and thinker. He is the 24th head priest of Shunkoin Temple in Kyoto and teaches Zen Buddhist philosophy and meditation, other Eastern contemplative traditions, and the cultural and religious diversity in well-being in Japanese and English to visitors to the temple. His travels and talks have brought him to the likes of the Holy See (online), Brown University, MIT, Microsoft, BNP Paribas, Gallup, TED x Kyoto, Mind & Life Institute, Eton College, etc. He is a member of the U.S.- Japan Leadership Program by the U.S. – Japan Foundation and a researcher at Keio Media Design of Keio University Graduate School of Media Design. Publication: l Lambert, L., Lomas, T., Lai, A., Diener, E., Kawakami, T., etc, Towards a greater global understanding of wellbeing: A proposal for a more inclusive measure. International Journal of Wellbeing. 2020;10(2):1-18