Zen Meditation Opportunities in Kyoto

*Taizon-in: This sub-temple is part of the Myoshinji temple complex, one of Kyoto’s last traditional Zen training halls like Daitokuji which means it’s alive and well with the spirit of Zen. They have a short course on sitting meditation and also on traditional tea, calligraphy and flower arrangement. The cost is 7, 500 yen, but I would think this is the one to go to. The garden here is truly stunning. Also the Myoshinji complex is off the main tourist route so you will get a true Zen experience here more importantly learn about Zen & the Arts.

Visit their web page to apply for this course or contact the temple:

http://www.taizoin.com

35 Myoshinji-cho, Hanazono, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, TEL (075) 463-2855

Genko-an: A beautiful temple located north of Kyoto; Meditation on on 1st and 3nd Sunday from 7:00-9:00; \1,000; Tel: 492-1858. Kennin-ji : 8:00 – 10:00 on 2nd Sunday; Tel: 561-6363.

Kosho-ji: Located in Uji by the Uji River, a Soto sect temple founded by the famous Zen master, Dogen Zenshi, in the 17th century. Meditation held on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month, 8:45-10:00; no reservation necessary; Tel: 0774-21-2040.

Mugeko-in : In Shimizu-cho of the Takano area. Meditation every Saturday, 17:00-18:00. Tel: 781-1227.

*Nanzen-ji: on 2nd and 4th Sunday, from 6:00 to 7:00 (April to October) 6:30 to 7:30 (November to March); Tel: 771-0365.

Rinko-in : Sub-temple of Shokoku-ji, located just north of Doshisha University’s Imadegawa campus. Meditation held every Saturday, 16:00-18:00; discussion 18:00-20:00; Tel: 231-3931.

*Ryuzen-an : A sub-temple of Daitoku-ji, located near the sub-temple of Hoshun-in. Meditation Wednesday to Sunday, 7:00-8:30. First-timers are requested to call ahead and attend an orientation session at 6:30 am. You are also requested to dress appropriately (ie: no T-shirts or shorts). Tel: 491-0543.

*Tofuku-ji: One of Kyoto’s largest Zen monasteries, Tofuku-ji is a spectacular place to sink into the Zen space. However, they only offer this opportunity once a month. The session is led by the head of the Tofuku-ji complex, a busy man by any standard, who is well known for his kindness to foreigner and his sharp mind. Tel: 551-0334.