Kyoto: Zen Meditation & Garden Tour with Shojin Lunch

Summary

Find calm in Kyoto’s Zen gardens then meditate with monks before sharing a simple temple lunch

You’ll step quietly into Kyoto’s Tofukuji Temple for a real Zen meditation session led by monks, wander through peaceful gardens with your guide explaining every detail, then share a traditional Buddhist lunch together. Expect moments of silence—and maybe some laughter over lunch—that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We shuffled off the city street and through Tofukuji’s old wooden gate, the air suddenly cooler and full of that dry pine scent you only get in temple gardens. Our guide, Yuki, smiled and waved us closer—she had this way of making everything feel less intimidating. “Zen isn’t about emptying your mind,” she said quietly, “it’s more like noticing what’s here.” I tried to follow her gaze across the raked gravel lines and mossy stones. I’m not sure I got it (maybe no one ever fully does?), but standing there in that hush, even the crows sounded softer.

Inside the meditation hall, we lined up on tatami mats. The monk gave us a nod—he didn’t speak much English but his gestures were clear enough. Sitting still for zazen is harder than it looks; my legs started tingling after five minutes. There was this tiny bell, just a single chime, and suddenly everyone seemed to breathe at the same time. I caught myself thinking about lunch (I know), but then the sunlight shifted through those old paper screens and I kind of forgot where I was for a second. It felt honest somehow.

Lunch came later than I expected—a simple shojin meal served on lacquered trays in another quiet room. Miso soup with a smoky dashi taste, pickled roots that made me pucker a bit (Yuki laughed when I fumbled my chopsticks), and rice that tasted almost sweet after all that silence. We ended near Chishaku-in Temple, walking slow because none of us wanted to break whatever spell we’d picked up along the way. Sometimes travel sneaks up on you like that—I still think about that garden when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zen meditation and garden tour

• Visit Zen garden with local guide
• Learn Zen meditation basics
• Explore Tofukuji Zen Temple
• Practice Zen meditation at small temple
• Enjoy traditional Buddhist meal

Top questions

How long is the Kyoto Zen meditation & garden tour?

The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours from start to finish.

Is lunch included during the Zen meditation tour?

Yes, a traditional Buddhist shojin meal is included after meditation.

Where does the tour take place?

The main activities are at Tofukuji Temple in Kyoto and nearby gardens.

Is this tour suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

Some dietary requests can be made in advance (by the day before), but substitutions aren’t always possible as food is prepared in external kitchens.

What is included in the price of this day trip?

The price covers entry fees to all venues visited, guided tour, zazen meditation experience, photos during the tour, and lunch.

Does this activity include pickup from my hotel?

No hotel pickup is provided; public transportation options are available nearby.

Can children join this Zen garden & meditation tour?

The minimum age is 12 years old for participants on this tour.

What should I bring or wear for this experience?

Dress comfortably; summer can be hot so bring water and consider wearing a hat to prevent heat stroke.

What’s included

Your day includes entry fees to Tofukuji Temple and its gardens, an hour-long zazen meditation session led by monks with guidance from your local host, photos taken during your visit so you don’t have to worry about your phone, and a traditional Buddhist shojin lunch—all ending near Chishaku-in Temple in Kyoto.