Zen Spiritual Tour

Japan’s religious identity is a fascinating amalgam of varying outside influences that, over time, have been molded and shaped into something completely unique and undeniably “Japanese”. Step inside the world of Zen Buddhism in Yamagata, where you’ll meditate, chant sutras, and converse with real temple monks as they continue their never ending pursuit of enlightenment.

4 days / 3 nights

From $1,950 per person

Arrive in Yamagata Prefecture, the entry point into Japan’s northerly Tohoku region. Spend a relaxed evening exploring the prefecutre’s capital on your own before retiring to your accommodation.

In the morning, climb the 1,000 stone steps to Yamadera, a historic zen temple perched on a steep hillside. From there, move east toward the coast and Zenpoji Temple, a working zen temple and your home for the next 2 nights.

Begin your day the same way the monks of Zenpoji do - with seated meditation called ‘zazen’. Continue this immersive Zen experience by eating traditional Buddhist cuisine and participating in daily temple activities such as chanting sutras, practicing calligraphy, and more.

A day at a Zen temple starts before the sun rises. Join the monks for morning services, meditation, and daily cleaning activities - or sleep in and enjoy a relaxed morning of your own! After breakfast, your driver will transfer you to Tsuruoka Airport for departure to your next destination.

Logistics

Pricing from $ 1,950 / per person

• The price shown above is calculated based on the two people traveling.

• The price includes select meals, all activities, guides, accommodation, and transfers.

• Our Yamagata tours are customizable, so all itineraries and price quotes are uniquely tailored to our guests.

• The only exact price will be the one you receive in your personalized quotation.