The Essence of Matsushima: Zen Meditation and Private Temple Tour

Confirmation will be provided within 48 hours, and is subject to availability. Your credit card will only be charged upon confirmation of your booking.

A minimum of 4 participants is required for this tour. Solo travelers are welcome to inquire about availability by using the contact button.

You will receive a full refund of the tour price if you cancel at least 72 hours before the tour.

Overview

What is Included

• Lunch
• Enjoy a Shojin Ryori (Buddhist cuisine)-based lunch in a traditional Japanese building in Entsu-in Temple.
• Snacks (Matcha tea and traditional sweets at Kanrantei Tea House)
• All transportation fees from Kamakura Station
• All admission fees and activity fees

Start Time

09:00 am

What to Expect

Kanrantei

Traditionally, Buddhist monks have employed matcha as a pre-Zazen ritual to enhance their concentration. Before embarking on Zazen later in the morning, enjoy a bowl of matcha at the Kanrantei Tea House, where you will be treated to a stunning panoramic view of the bay. As you savor the delicate flavor and rich aroma of matcha, surrounded by the serene atmosphere, prepare your mind for the tranquility of Zazen. This traditional ritual helps to center your focus and appreciate the beauty of stillness.
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Matsushima Bay

Matsushima is one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, where poets, warlords, and other historical figures fell in love with its scenery. Visit the renowned Godaido Temple, one of Matsushima's most picturesque landmarks.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Zuiganji

Zuiganji temple is one of Tohoku’s most famous Zen temples. An English-speaking Buddhist priest will show you around the temple first. He will even let us enter special rooms which are not open to the public. Learn interesting history facts which are not on your travel guide book. Later, we will have a Zazen (Zen meditation) session with the monk. Learn Zen breathing techniques and meditate in the serene environment of the temple.

1 hour 45 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Entsu-in Temple
Indulge in a traditional Shojin Ryori (Buddhist cuisine)-based lunch at Entsu-in Temple, savoring the delicate and colorful Buddhist cuisine served in a historic Japanese building.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Entsu-in Temple

Entsuin Temple, nestled in Matsushima's waterfront, honors Mitsumune Date, a promising samurai heir who tragically passed away at 19. It features beautiful moss gardens as well as a rock garden which represents the islands of Matsushima Bay.
45 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Sendai Station (Pass By)

The tour is scheduled to end at 4:45 PM at Sendai Station.

Additional Info

• Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
• The remaining hours will be allotted for travel and lunch time
• Please be aware that the end time may be delayed due to traffic conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. We kindly request that you allow for extra time when scheduling. 
• Loose-fitting clothes are best for Zen meditation. Short skirts are not recommended.
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers