Restaurant Bus Tokyo With Japanese Lunch and Zazen Experience

The Restaurant Bus Tokyo offers a unique culture that blends traditional Japanese practices with a delectable dining experience. Guests embark on a journey of self-discovery, exploring the serene Asakusa Torin-ji temple, engaging in the art of Shakyo, and savoring a multi-course Japanese lunch aboard a luxurious bus. This all-inclusive experience not only nourishes the mind and body but also provides a rare opportunity to indulge in the rich flavors and traditions of Japan. The question remains – what secrets will this exceptional tour unveil?

Key Points

• This unique cultural experience combines traditional Japanese practices like Zazen meditation, Shakyo, and a matcha tea ceremony at Asakusa Torin-ji temple.
• The tour includes an all-you-can-drink sparkling Dassai sake and an exquisite Japanese-style lunch served on a restaurant bus.
• Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo from the top of Tokyo Tower after the cultural activities.
• The tour is led by a local guide and has a maximum of 20 travelers for an intimate experience.
• Transportation expenses to the meeting point are covered, and the tour is accessible for strollers but not wheelchair-friendly.

Overview of the Experience

The Restaurant Bus Tokyo experience offers travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy traditional Japanese cultural practices and savor a delectable Japanese course meal while enjoying a scenic tour of the city.

Guests will participate in Zazen meditation, Shakyo (sutra copying), and a matcha tea ceremony at the historic Asakusa Torin-ji temple.

Following this, they’ll indulge in an all-you-can-drink sparkling Dassai and an exquisite Japanese lunch served on the restaurant bus.

The experience culminates with admission to the iconic Tokyo Tower, providing panoramic views of the metropolis.

Meeting and End Points

The meeting point for the Restaurant Bus Tokyo experience is located at 2-chōme-10-13 Kotobuki, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0042, Japan, specifically at Exit 2 of Tawaramachi Station, in front of the Asahi Shinsei Credit Cooperative.

Travelers will then be transported to the end point at Whim Gazette, 〒100-0005 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Marunouchi, 2-chōme−4−１, Marunouchi Building, B1.

The tour starts at 9:30 am and includes a local guide, with transportation expenses to the boarding location covered.

The experience accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers per tour/activity.

Tour Details

Starting at 9:30 am, the Restaurant Bus Tokyo experience includes a local guide to accompany travelers throughout the tour.

The transportation expenses to the boarding location are covered. Groups are limited to a maximum of 20 travelers per tour/activity, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

The tour is accessible for strollers, though it’s not wheelchair accessible. Infants must sit on laps. Most travelers can participate, though confirm with the provider for any accessibility needs.

Booking confirmation is received within 48 hours, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Accessibility and Participation

Although the Restaurant Bus Tokyo experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible, making it suitable for families with young children.

The tour is located near public transportation, so it’s convenient for travelers to reach the meeting point. Infants must sit on laps during the tour, but most travelers can participate.

The Zazen meditation, sutra copying, and matcha tea ceremony activities are generally accessible, though some physical limitations may apply.

Zazen (Meditation) at Asakusa Torin-ji

Asakusa Torin-ji, a historic temple in the heart of Tokyo, serves as the setting for the Zazen meditation experience. Participants will be guided through the centuries-old practice of Zazen, a form of seated meditation central to Zen Buddhism.

Under the tutelage of an experienced practitioner, they’ll learn proper posture and breathing techniques to achieve a state of focused awareness. The serene temple environment, with its ornate architecture and tranquil gardens, provides the ideal backdrop for this introspective journey.

Guests will emerge feeling rejuvenated, having had the opportunity to disconnect from the bustling city and reconnect with their inner selves.

Shakyo (Sutra Copying) and Matcha Tea Ceremony

After the calming Zazen meditation, participants then have the opportunity to engage in the traditional Japanese practice of Shakyo, or sutra copying. Seated at a tranquil studio, guests reverently copy Buddhist sutras using calligraphy brushes and ink. This meditative practice cultivates focus, patience, and appreciation for the written word. Following Shakyo, guests enjoy a matcha tea ceremony, learning the proper techniques for preparing and serving this revered green tea. The ritual’s precise movements and heightened senses transport participants to a serene world of Japanese culture and spirituality.

Shakyo	Meaning
Copying sutras	Focus, patience, appreciation
Calligraphy brushes	Precision, discipline
Ink on paper	Reverence, tradition

Matcha Tea Ceremony	Meaning
Preparation techniques	Discipline, respect
Heightened senses	Mindfulness, tranquility
Ritual movements	Refinement, spirituality

Japanese Course Meal on the Restaurant Bus

The restaurant bus then whisks guests away to an unforgettable Japanese culinary journey.

Diners are served a multi-course Japanese-style lunch with seasonal ingredients. From sashimi to tempura, each dish is thoughtfully presented and expertly prepared.

The menu also includes rice, miso soup, and pickles, providing a well-rounded and authentic dining experience. Guests can savor every bite while gazing out the window at the passing Tokyo scenery.

The all-you-can-drink sparkling Dassai ensures a lively and convivial atmosphere on board the restaurant bus.

All-you-can-drink Sparkling Dassai

While on the restaurant bus, guests can enjoy an all-you-can-drink selection of the renowned sparkling Dassai sake. Dassai is a premium sake brand known for its delicate, fruity, and refreshing flavor profile. The all-you-can-drink offering allows guests to sample and savor this exceptional sake throughout the journey.

Dassai Sake Variety	Tasting Notes	Food Pairing
Dassai 50	Delicate, floral, and smooth	Sushi, sashimi, light seafood dishes
Dassai Beyond	Crisp, bright, and complex	Grilled meats, hearty stews, aged cheeses
Dassai 23	Refined, elegant, and luxurious	Tempura, grilled fish, delicate desserts

This unlimited Dassai experience elevates the restaurant bus tour, providing guests with a true taste of premium Japanese sake in a memorable setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Menu Be Customized for Dietary Restrictions?

While the menu is set, the tour operator may accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Customers should inquire about customization options when booking to ensure their needs can be met.

Is It Possible to Participate in Just the Bus Tour Without the Activities?

Yes, it’s possible to participate in just the bus tour without the activities. The tour offers the option to book the restaurant bus experience alone, without the additional Zazen, Shakyo, and matcha tea ceremony activities.

What Is the Dress Code for the Zazen and Tea Ceremony?

The dress code for zazen meditation and matcha tea ceremony is typically casual and comfortable. Loose, modest clothing that allows easy movement is recommended. Participants should avoid shorts, tank tops, or anything that may be considered too revealing or distracting.

Can I Purchase Additional Drinks on the Restaurant Bus?

Yes, you can purchase additional drinks on the restaurant bus. The experience includes all-you-can-drink sparkling Dassai and glasses, but you can also buy any other drinks or beverages you’d like during the bus tour.

Are Photographs Allowed During the Zazen and Tea Ceremony?

During the zazen and tea ceremony, photography is generally not allowed as it can disrupt the serene atmosphere. Participants are encouraged to be present and focused on the experience rather than taking photos.

Recap

The Restaurant Bus Tokyo offers an unparalleled culture, seamlessly blending traditional Japanese practices with a gourmet dining experience. From the serene Zazen meditation to the refined Shakyo and matcha tea ceremony, this unique tour enriches the senses and immerses guests in the essence of Japanese hospitality. Complemented by a multi-course Japanese lunch and unlimited sparkling Dassai sake, this exceptional experience is a must-try for those seeking an authentic and unforgettable journey.