Cherry Blossom and Zazen (Seated Zen Mediation) Course
In the old days, it was said that the beautifully blooming then bravely dispersing cherry blossoms embodied the ideal samurai model. In this course, you can experience the beauty of the cherry blossoms and contemplate the samurai way of life through Zen meditation. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the mysterious lives of the bygone samurai.
(About 5.5 hours)
1. Hirano-jinja Shrine → 13:30 - 14:30
In Kyoto, it is said the cherry blossoms of Hirano-jinja Shrine are the first to bloom and the end of March is the best time for viewing the cherry blossoms here. Next to the shrine is a cherry blossom park which has many tea shops from where visitors may enjoy some sake while gazing at the cherry blossoms in full bloom. This shrine is a major cherry blossom viewing spot, and there are good luck charms for sale as well as many unique cherry blossom-themed items.
Details
Address: 1 Miyamoto-cho Hirano Kita-ku, Kyoto
Access: A short walk from city bus stop Kinugasako-mae
Hours: 5:00-17:00 (In winter: 6:00-17:00)
Admission: Free
2. Myoshin-ji Shunko-in → 15:00 - 17:00
Myoshin-ji Shunko-in is a Zen sub-temple in the Myoshin-ji temple complex. Although usually closed to the public, this facility is open to foreign tourists during this time without reservations so visitors can experience a seated Zen meditation experience. An overnight stay in a traditional pilgrim's lodging is also included in this course. Reservations can be made through the website.
Details
Address: Myoshinji-cho Hanazono Ukyo-ku, Kyoto
Access: A short walk from city bus stop Myoshin-ji Kitamon-mae
Hours: Closed to the public (Zen meditation, 4 times daily: 9:00-10:30, 10:40-12:10, 13:00-15:00, 15:20-16:50)
Price: Zen meditation: 2000 yen; Overnight stay + Zen meditation: 5000 yen
Nijo-jo Castle, a UNESCO
World Heritage Site, is especially stunning when the 220 cherry trees and castle garden are illuminated during the cherry blossom season. During this event, the outer citadel (which is normally closed to the public) is the site of an ikebana flower arrangement exhibition and traditional Japanese musical performances. Tea will be served within the main castle garden especially for this event.
Details
Address: 541 Nijojo-cho Horikawa Nijo-dori Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
Access: A short walk from Nijojo-mae Station on the Tozai Subway Line
Hours: 18:00-21:30 (Last entry at 21:00) Friday and Saturday: 18:00-22:00 (Last entry at 21:30)
Admission: 400 yen (Free for visitors dressed in kimonos)
