Hoi an – Half-Day Mindfulness Meditation Retreat

Tucked away in the ancient town of Hoi An, a half-day meditation retreat promises to transport visitors to a realm of tranquility and self-discovery. Led by a local Buddhist monk, this immersive experience delves into the principles of mindfulness, guiding participants through a series of spiritual rituals, meditative practices, and insightful discussions. Whether seeking personal growth or a deeper connection with the present moment, this retreat offers a unique opportunity to find solace in the heart of Vietnam’s cultural landscape.

Key Points

• The half-day mindfulness meditation retreat takes place at a pagoda in Hoi An town, lasting 4 hours and costing €55.59 per person.
• The retreat includes a local guide, entrance fees, spiritual rituals, vegetarian lunch, mineral water, and transportation.
• Activities during the retreat involve Buddhist rituals, teachings, walking meditation, meditation for soul purification, and mindful discussions with a monk.
• Mindfulness practices include walking meditation, seated meditation, deeper meditation, and mindful dialogue to cultivate inner peace.
• The retreat is led by a local Buddhist monk and focuses on receiving blessings and practicing meditation techniques to achieve inner peace and happiness.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Retreat Overview and Details

The Hoi An – Half-day Mindfulness Meditation Retreat offers a 4-hour program that costs €55.59 per person.

The retreat takes place at a pagoda in Hoi An town. Participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The retreat includes a local guide, entrance fees, spiritual rituals, a vegetarian lunch, mineral water, and transportation.

Participants should wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and aren’t allowed to bring shorts, short skirts, drinks, alcohol, drugs, or fireworks.

Schedule and Activities

The retreat’s schedule and activities commence at 8:00 AM with greetings and an introductory lesson on pagoda regulations and proper etiquette when interacting with monks.

The retreat begins at 8 AM with greetings and an introductory lesson on pagoda regulations and proper etiquette for interacting with monks.

This is followed by Buddhist rituals and teachings from sutras. Participants then engage in walking meditation and learn the art of touching peace through meditation.

The morning continues with meditation for soul purification and insight, as well as mindful discussions with the monk about Karma Law.

The retreat concludes with a ritual of asking for blessings and a compassionate practice of releasing beings, culminating in a grateful meal practice.

Greetings and First Lesson

What kicks off the retreat is the greetings and first lesson on pagoda regulations and monk etiquette. Participants gather at the designated pagoda in Hoi An town.

The local guide warmly welcomes them and provides an overview of the day’s activities. Then, the guide explains the proper etiquette for interacting with the monks, such as keeping a respectful distance, avoiding touching them, and speaking softly.

Participants learn about the pagoda’s rules, like removing shoes before entering and dressing modestly. This initial session sets the tone for the mindful, reverent experience ahead.

Buddhist Rituals and Teachings

After the initial guidance on etiquette, participants move on to the Buddhist rituals and teachings from sutras.

The monk leads them through chants and explanations of key Buddhist concepts like impermanence and the Four Noble Truths. Participants attentively listen, eager to deepen their understanding of the philosophy behind meditation.

The monk’s calming presence and clear instructions help bring the teachings to life. Through this interactive session, participants gain valuable insights into the Buddhist worldview and how it informs the practice of mindfulness.

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Mindfulness Practices

Following the Buddhist teachings, participants engage in a series of mindfulness practices. They start with walking meditation, focusing on each step and breath. Next, they experience the art of "touching peace" through seated meditation, calming the mind and body. Soul purification and insight are cultivated through deeper meditation practice. Lastly, participants engage in mindful talking with the monk, exploring the concept of Karma Law.

| Mindfulness Practice | Duration | Key Objectives |

| — | — | — |

| Walking Meditation | 9:15 – 9:30 | Cultivate present-moment awareness |

| Seated Meditation | 9:35 – 9:45 | Calm the mind and body |

| Deeper Meditation | 9:50 – 10:10 | Purify the soul and gain insight |

| Mindful Dialogue | 10:15 – 10:30 | Understand the philosophy of Karma |

Spiritual Guidance and Rituals

The retreat also includes spiritual guidance and rituals led by a local Buddhist monk. Participants learn proper meditation techniques and Buddhist philosophies, including the concept of Karma.

They engage in walking meditation, compassion practice, and a ritual to receive blessings from Arhats, or enlightened beings. The monk guides participants through mindful talking and discussions about finding inner peace and happiness through meditation.

The retreat culminates in a grateful meal practice, where attendees cultivate mindfulness and appreciation during a vegetarian lunch.

Grateful Meal Practice

The retreat culminates in a grateful meal practice, where attendees cultivate mindfulness and appreciation during a vegetarian lunch.

They savor each bite, contemplating the origins and journey of the food. The monk guides them to be fully present, acknowledging the efforts of those who grew, harvested, and prepared the meal.

Participants reflect on their blessings and express gratitude, fostering a deeper connection to the nourishment they receive.

This mindful eating experience reinforces the principles learned throughout the retreat, empowering attendees to carry the practices of inner peace and compassion into their daily lives.

Important Information and Customer Feedback

Attendees should be aware that last-minute location changes may occur due to pagoda ceremonies.

Equivalent experiences will be provided in such cases.

The retreat isn’t suitable for children under 5, wheelchair users, or babies under 1 year.

Based on 1 review, the overall rating is 5/5.

The reviewer, Pascal from Belgium, praised the program, organization, and guide Hung Nguyen.

Participants should bring long-sleeved shirts and pants, as shorts and short skirts aren’t allowed.

Alcohol, drugs, and fireworks are also prohibited during the retreat.

Since You Asked

Is Prior Meditation Experience Required?

No prior meditation experience is required. The retreat is designed for beginners and experienced practitioners alike, with a focus on teaching correct meditation techniques and Buddhist doctrines through hands-on practice and guidance from a monk.

What if I Have Dietary Restrictions?

If you have dietary restrictions, let the organizers know in advance. They’ll accommodate your needs and provide a suitable vegetarian meal during the retreat. Just be sure to communicate your requirements before the event.

Can I Bring My Own Meditation Cushion?

You’re welcome to bring your own meditation cushion. The retreat organizers provide meditation equipment, but using your own can make the experience more comfortable. Just be sure to follow the program’s dress code and other guidelines.

Is There an Option to Extend the Retreat?

The retreat doesn’t offer an option to extend the 4-hour program. However, travelers can book additional retreats on subsequent days if they wish to deepen their mindfulness practice in Hoi An.

How Many Participants Are Typically in a Group?

The typical group size for this mindfulness meditation retreat is small, with around 8-12 participants. This intimate setting allows for personalized attention from the guiding monk and a more immersive meditation experience.

Final Words

The Hoi An Half-Day Mindfulness Meditation Retreat offers a tranquil escape. Led by a local Buddhist monk, you will embark on a journey of spiritual rituals, guided meditation, and insightful discussions. A delicious vegetarian lunch and immersive practices aim to cultivate inner peace. Whether seeking personal growth or a spiritual connection, this retreat provides a beautiful setting to deepen one’s mindfulness practice.

You can check if your dates are available here: