Zen Meditation and Shakuhachi on a Noh Stage: Find Inner Balance in Kyoto

An Oasis of Japanese Tranquility Designed by Architectural Giant Kengo Kuma

Kyoto’s Higashiyama area is home to numerous historic sights like Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Kodai-ji Temple, attracting visitors from all around the world. However, there exist certain paths that will lead you away from the crowds. Venture up a certain hilltop to find Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto, a graceful hotel designed by famed architect Kengo Kuma, uniting modern elegance and traditional beauty as a sanctuary standing between forest and city.

Rather than merely providing luxury, the hotel deeply honors the ancient city’s heritage through its design, cuisine, and cultural experiences. A particularly significant feature is the striking outdoor Noh stage, constructed from hinoki cypress—used in Japan’s palaces, temples, and shrines since ancient times—and inspired by the concept of yugen (unfathomable profundity) in addition to the artistic beauty of one of the world’s oldest theatrical forms still performed today.

The only hotel in Kyoto with its own Noh stage, Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto regularly hosts performances by Noh actors, geisha, and other practitioners of Kyoto’s treasured arts. Now, you are invited to step onto this very stage for a private experience exclusive to Wabunka: zazen, breathing, and observing suizen (shakuhachi flute meditation) with shakuhachi master Lenzan Kudo. Under his guidance, walk away from simple sightseeing and embark on a journey of spiritual practice that will better your heart, body, and mind.

Learn from Lenzan Kudo, a Master Musician, Teacher, and Practitioner of Zen Buddhism

Lenzan Kudo is a world-class shakuhachi player with abundant experience in Japan, Europe, and beyond, including accomplishments like collaborating with legendary composer Ryuichi Sakamoto and performing on the BBC. A flexible musician whose work harmonizes with both classical and contemporary genres, he is also deeply connected to Zen Buddhism and nature. His values are even apparent in each of his shakuhachi, which he shapes and finishes by hand with bamboo personally harvested from various groves.

In addition to performing and teaching, Kudo’s mission is to educate a wider audience about the practice of suizen, literally meaning “blowing Zen,” where one enters a meditative state through concentrated shakuhachi playing. While zazen is now known in many countries, suizen is still a rare sight, even for those living in Japan.

Look Inside Yourself Through Kudo’s Zazen and Breathing Method

First, meet Kudo in the comfort of Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto’s lobby. After getting acquainted, you’ll make your way to the Noh stage together. Its exposed structure rejoices in connection with nature, rather than seeking to shield from it: the perfect environment to take in Kudo’s instruction on zazen—a Zen Buddhist form of meditation that helps to balance body and mind—and breathing.

As he brings you through the basics of the zazen position and breathing method, free yourself from straining your muscles and let go of your thoughts. It is not unusual to experience self-consciousness or distractions, but remember the concept of returning to your true core self. By looking inside and recognising the entirety of yourself, including both the light and the dark, it is possible to come closer to your natural self.

*Please note that as the Noh stage is outside, in case of rain, extreme heat, or extreme cold, the zazen and breathing experience will be held at the indoor Movement Studio.

*Guests who are unable to sit in the traditional zazen position will still be able to participate with an alternative position or chair.

Experience Shakuhachi as You’ve Never Heard it Through Suizen

With your mind and body renewed, see Kudo demonstrate suizen by playing a single piece on the Noh stage. This is a rare opportunity to privately experience shakuhachi as a profound Zen practice, rather than a public performance intended as entertainment. Kudo explains that as he plays, his “soul is bared,” which he expresses to those present to feel for themselves. Let his music draw you into a wordless connection with him, his practice, and nature.

After the suizen session ends, take a relaxing walk around the hotel’s garden. Just a few steps from the Noh stage, it incorporates a tranquil bamboo grove: the perfect spot to reflect on the sensations and thoughts evoked by the day’s activities. Even on rainy days, the private garden allows you to take in the beauty of bamboo without being distracted by the crowds outside.

*The suizen session will still be held at the Noh stage in hot weather, but will be moved to Ryozen in case of rain. However, guests are welcome to explore the garden even if it is raining.

Relax with Seasonal Sweets in a Private Setting

After parting with Kudo, wind down over a drink and an arrangement of sweets in a private room with a view of the Noh stage at the hotel’s main restaurant, Ryozen. The sweets carefully crafted for your visit change according to the season, echoing the Kyoto kaiseki meals that spotlight seasonal ingredients, thus providing fresh experiences on different visits. Parents can also rest easy with kid-friendly options available.

A Special Opportunity For Spiritual and Cultural Nourishment in Kyoto

Held in a serene, culturally rich environment cultivated by Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto, this unhurried private session—available only through Wabunka—will enable you to learn about zazen and breathing from celebrated shakuhachi player Lenzan Kudo first-hand, in addition to the rare practice of suizen. With his guidance, elevate your trip from simple tourism to a journey that speaks to the soul.