Private Zazen Meditation Experience at a Zen Temple in Asakusa, with Matcha and Sweets

A Temple Linked to the Tokugawa Family With Over 400 Years of History

Kinryuji is a Zen temple founded in 1611 by Kamehime, the eldest daughter of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of Japan’s last shogunate, and Zen master Nanden Soyu. Originally built in Hatchobori, Tokyo, it was relocated to Asakusa in 1635. Though it was destroyed by the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and during WWII air raids, it has since been rebuilt and stands as it does today.

Enjoy cherry blossoms and camellias in spring and vibrant leaves in autumn on the lush temple grounds

Kinryuji is just a street away from the busy main road in Asakusa, offering a peaceful retreat. The main hall, where the zazen experience takes place, is surrounded by trees whose appearance changes with the seasons. With its sturdy structure and tranquil atmosphere, the hall naturally calms the mind.

The wooden main hall exudes a nostalgic and calming atmosphere

A Chance to Connect With Zen and Experience Zazen

In the main hall, the head priest begins his explanation. Taijun Namiki, the 23rd head priest of Kinryuji and director of the Tokyo Zen Center, introduces Zen through zazen and sutra copying. He also presents Zen teachings in an easy-to-understand manner.

The head priest explains Zen in a friendly and relaxed way

Zen is said to have begun when the Buddha attained enlightenment while sitting in zazen under the Bodhi tree. During this experience, you'll learn the basics, including the origins of Zen and practical methods like proper sitting posture. Even beginners can participate with confidence.

If crossing your legs is uncomfortable, any other position is fine

Restore Your Body, Breath, and Mind With Zazen

The head priest will chant the Enmei Jikku Kannon Sutra before the eleven-faced Kannon (Goddess of Mercy), the main deity of Kinryuji. The sutra's echoes in the quiet main hall create a refreshing atmosphere.

A time for quiet contemplation

The next zazen session lasts 10 minutes, followed by a 2-minute break, and is repeated three times. Each session is timed by the burning of one incense stick. While traditional zazen lasts longer, this shorter format is designed for beginners. If you wish, you can continue meditating during the breaks.

The main hall's atmosphere shifts with the drifting aroma of incense

When the incense burns out, the sounds of clappers and bells signal the start and end of zazen. Sit up straight and focus on slow, deep abdominal breathing to regulate your breath. Although it may be hard to concentrate at first, the head priest will guide you in the Zen breathing technique called susokukan, where you count your inhales and exhales to help harmonize your mind and body.

A keisaku strike is available upon request

During zazen, the head priest walks around with a keisaku, a flat wooden stick used to tap the shoulders for encouragement. You can request this tap if you wish. After bowing and receiving the tap, you'll likely feel your posture straighten and align.

Enjoy a Chat With the Head Priest Over Matcha and Sweets

After the three zazen sessions, enjoy a break with matcha tea prepared by the head priest. Seasonal sweets are served, and on our visit, we were offered fresh treats from Ryushotei Nishimura, a 19th-century shop near Kaminarimon that supplies Sensoji Temple. Experience the hospitality of beautifully seasonal sweets and tea.

Enjoy seasonal sweets and matcha or sencha (only for reference)

The tea ceremony is a well-known Japanese tradition, but the practice of drinking matcha actually originated in China. Eisai, the founder of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism in Japan, brought the method of making tea, along with tea seeds, back to Japan. Initially used as a medicinal aid to stay alert during zazen, tea remains a staple in Zen temples and is enjoyed several times a day.

Deepen your understanding of Zen

Relax with tea, closely connected to Zen, and chat with the head priest. It's a great chance to learn more about Zen.

This Experience Immerses You in the Depths of Zen

In this experience, zazen is done in 10-minute intervals, shorter than usual, to help you focus in a brief period. The head priest says, "I want you to experience zazen in a setting that feels completely different from your everyday life and lets you connect with the seasons." As you sit quietly, breathing slowly and upright in the main hall surrounded by nature, you'll feel your mind begin to relax.

Sit upright in zazen and savor the slow passage of time

This is a valuable opportunity to center yourself through sutra recitation, zazen, matcha tea, and sermons, bringing your mind and body into harmony. Why not escape the busy streets of Asakusa and spend some time in a quiet temple, experiencing the profound world of Zen?