Engakuji Temple Tour & Zen Practice
Experience Overview
Experience the spiritual heritage of Kamakura with an exclusive Zen program at Engakuji, one of Japan's most revered temples. The tour features a private monk-led visit to the National Treasure Shariden (Reliquary Hall), normally closed to the public. Guests then proceed to the training hall for an introduction to Zen philosophy and a guided zazen seated meditation session. The journey concludes with shukuza, a traditional morning monastic rice porridge meal served in ritual bowls.
Experience Description
Discover Zen practice firsthand at Engakuji Temple in Kamakura with this private monk-led experience. Highlights include rare entry to the Shariden (Reliquary Hall), an architectural National Treasure typically closed to visitors. Participants receive instruction in seated meditation (zazen) and Zen mindfulness from an English-speaking monk in the authentic training hall. Afterwards, savour shukuza, a ceremonial breakfast of nourishing rice porridge served in traditional monastic style, offering genuine insight into over 700 years of living temple heritage.
Inclusions
Activity fee, English guide fee, monastic rice porridge (shukuza)
Location
Kita-Kamakura, Kamakura (1 minute walk from JR Yokosuka Line Kita-Kamakura Station)
