[Japan Wellness] Zen Meditation and Temple Tour in Matsushima

Discover the tranquility of Matsushima through a captivating Zen meditation and temple tour. This immersive experience blends spiritual practices with cultural exploration, offering visitors a chance to connect with Japan’s rich heritage. With serene views, historic sites, and delectable cuisine, this tour promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of traditional Japanese wellness. Whether you’re seeking a moment of mindfulness or a deeper understanding of the country’s treasured customs, this tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to…

Key Points

• Experience Zen meditation and explore historic temples in the scenic town of Matsushima, known for its picturesque pine-covered islands.
• Enjoy a traditional Shojin Ryori (Buddhist vegetarian) lunch at Entsu-in Temple and savor matcha tea at Kanrantei Tea House.
• Benefit from a seamless, all-inclusive tour with transportation, admission fees, and a maximum of 10 travelers for a personalized experience.
• Discover the "Three Views of Japan" and visit Zuiganji Zen temple, renowned for its stunning architecture and tranquil atmosphere.
• Suitable for participants with loose-fitting clothes, avoiding short skirts, and requiring extra time for potential delays due to the non-refundable policy.

Tour Overview and Details

The Zen Meditation and Temple Tour in Matsushima offers visitors an immersive experience in the serene beauty of this coastal Japanese town.

Priced from $180 per person, the tour accommodates up to 10 travelers and boasts a perfect 5.0 rating based on 4 reviews.

Highlights include a Shojin Ryori (Buddhist cuisine) lunch at Entsu-in Temple, matcha tea and traditional sweets at Kanrantei Tea House, and a walking tour following a train ride from Sendai.

The tour includes all transportation, admission, and activity fees, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off.

Participants are advised to wear loose-fitting clothes and avoid short skirts for the Zen meditation.

Inclusions

Included in the tour are a Shojin Ryori (Buddhist cuisine) lunch at Entsu-in Temple and matcha tea with traditional sweets at Kanrantei Tea House.

These culinary experiences provide a glimpse into Japanese cultural traditions.

The tour also includes all transportation, admission, and activity fees, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience for participants.

Hotel pickup and drop-off further add to the convenience.

With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour offers an intimate and personalized exploration of the Zen meditation and temple sites in Matsushima.

Meeting and Transportation

Travelers meet at the Stained Glass Paean for the Trees, located at the JR Sendai Station, with the tour commencing promptly at 9:00 am.

The journey begins with a train ride from Sendai to Matsushima, allowing participants to admire the scenic views.

Once in Matsushima, the group will embark on a walking tour, exploring the area’s highlights:

• Entsu-in Temple, where they’ll enjoy a Shojin Ryori (Buddhist cuisine) lunch
• Kanrantei Tea House, where they’ll savor matcha tea and traditional sweets
• Various temples and shrines, seeing the region’s rich cultural heritage
• Breathtaking vistas of the Matsushima Bay, renowned for its pine-covered islands.

Participant Guidelines

Loose-fitting clothes are recommended for the Zen meditation portion of the tour, as you will be sitting for an extended period.

Attendees should avoid wearing short skirts, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

However, the tour is located near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

The tour company confirms bookings within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Participants should allow extra time for potential delays due to traffic or unforeseen circumstances, as the tour is non-refundable with no cancellations allowed.

Sendai, Japan

Sendai, the largest city in the Tōhoku region, serves as the perfect starting point for this Zen meditation and temple tour. Visitors can explore the city’s vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning natural landscapes. The tour begins at the Stained Glass Paean for the Trees, a landmark at the JR Sendai Station.

• Sendai boasts numerous shrines, temples, and gardens, offering a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual heritage.

• The city’s modern infrastructure, including the efficient train system, makes it easy to navigate and access the nearby Matsushima area.

• Sendai’s culinary scene is renowned, featuring local specialties and fresh seafood from the nearby Matsushima Bay.

• The city’s temperate climate and scenic beauty make it a popular destination for both cultural and outdoor enthusiasts.

Zen Meditation at Entsu-in Temple

After arriving at Matsushima, the group is led to the serene grounds of Entsu-in Temple, a picturesque Zen Buddhist monastery dating back to the 17th century.

Surrounded by lush gardens, participants gather in the meditation hall to learn the fundamentals of Zen practice. Under the guidance of an experienced monk, they engage in seated meditation, focusing on their breath and cultivating inner stillness.

The tranquil atmosphere and rhythmic chanting create a profound sense of peace.

Afterward, the group enjoys a traditional shojin ryori lunch, savoring the flavors of seasonal, plant-based Buddhist cuisine.

Exploring Matsushima

After exploring the serene grounds of Entsu-in Temple, the group sets out to discover the picturesque town of Matsushima.

Nestled along the Pacific coast, Matsushima is renowned for its stunning pine-covered islands and tranquil bay. The walking tour takes the group through the charming streets, past historic temples and shrines, and along the waterfront promenade.

Highlights include:

• Viewing the iconic "Three Views of Japan" from picturesque vantage points
• Browsing the local shops for handcrafted souvenirs and traditional confections
• Admiring the intricate architecture and art at Zuiganji, a prominent Zen temple
• Savoring a matcha tea ceremony and traditional sweets at the historic Kanrantei Tea House.

Dining at Kanrantei Tea House

The historic Kanrantei Tea House offers visitors a tranquil respite from the bustling streets of Matsushima.

At this traditional teahouse, travelers savor matcha tea and delicate Japanese sweets as part of the Zen meditation and temple tour.

The serene setting provides an authentic cultural experience, allowing guests to enjoy the rituals and aesthetics of Japanese tea ceremony.

Surrounded by stunning natural scenery, the Kanrantei Tea House offers a peaceful haven where visitors can momentarily escape the outside world and indulge in the refined pleasures of this centuries-old tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Zen Meditation Session?

Photography isn’t allowed during the zen meditation session. The tour guidelines state participants should avoid distractions and focus on the meditative experience. Taking photos would disrupt the peaceful atmosphere.

Can I Bring My Own Meditation Cushion or Mat?

Participants can bring their own meditation cushion or mat for the Zen meditation session. The tour provider recommends wearing loose-fitting clothes, but provides all necessary equipment and supplies for the meditation experience.

What Is the Dress Code for the Zen Meditation?

The tour recommends wearing loose-fitting clothes for the Zen meditation, and suggests avoiding short skirts. This helps participants feel comfortable and respectful during the spiritual practice in the temple setting.

Are Any Special Dietary Accommodations Available for Lunch?

The tour offers a shojin ryori (Buddhist cuisine) lunch at Entsu-in Temple, which can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary restrictions with advance notice. Guests are encouraged to specify any dietary needs when booking the tour.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

This tour has a non-refundable policy, so there are no refunds for cancellations. Travelers should confirm their booking within 48 hours, subject to availability, as last-minute changes or delays may occur.

The Sum Up

The Zen Meditation and Temple Tour in Matsushima offers an enriching cultural experience, blending mindfulness and tranquility. Visitors can enjoy scenic views, participate in seated meditation, savor a traditional Shojin Ryori lunch, and explore iconic temples, all while benefiting from seamless transportation and personalized exploration. This intimate tour is a perfect way to take in the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of the region.