Japan Tour - Spiritual Kyoto | Exotissimo Travel

Spiritual Kyoto

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OVERVIEW

On this day-trip travelers will be immersed in the unique spiritual heritage of Japanese Buddhism. A religion that practices the idea of 'experiential wisdom', a practice in which wisdom is manifested within oneself through the power of experience, clients can expect an insightful day. The day's program includes some Zen meditation, temple exploration, scenic strolls through ancient parks home to significant shrines, as well as a ubitiqious tea drinking ceremony complete alongside a tea master.

PROGRAM DETAILS

This morning experience the quintessential Japanese enlightenment experience - Zazen (Zen meditation).

Your guide will meet you in the morning and take you to a Zen temple, where you can learn the basics of the same sitting meditation that led the Buddha to Enlightenment: folded legs, erect posture, half-closed eyes and a focus on measured breathing that leads to awareness of the way the mind works.

After Zazen, head to Chion-in temple. Chion-in is the head temple of the Jodo (Pure Land) sect of Japanese Buddhism, which has millions of followers and is one the most popular Buddhist sects in Japan.

The Sanmon Gate, Chionin's main entrance gate, stands 24 meters tall and 50 meters wide, making it the largest wooden gate in Japan and dates back to the early 1600s.

From Chion-in walk through Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto's most popular Shinto Shrines.

Your spiritual day finishes with a Tea Ceremony in a Gion tea house.

Your Tea Master will give you a full explanation of Japanese tea as well as the tea ceremony itself, its long history and relationship with Zen Buddhism.
The Master will also tell you the meaning behind each movement involved in the making and serving of the tea, as well as the equipment involved.

PRICING: in JPY per person

Rates are valid until 31 December 2012