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Private Zen Retreat in Kyoto Shisendo Temple Before Opening
Kyoto is one of the most visited cities in the world. This morning shows you the other Kyoto: still, unhurried and entirely your own. Shisendo was built in 1641 by Ishikawa Jozan, a samurai who left his career to live as a poet. He made it a place to step away from the world. On this morning, it does the same for you. The temple opens early for one party only, before any other visitor arrives. Zazen is simple. You sit, you breathe and you let your thoughts settle. It suits anyone who wants to
Operated and fulfilled by partner operators via Viator.
From
¥280,000
Booking opens on our partner's site, which handles payment, confirmation and support. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate disclosure
Overview
- ✓Kyoto is one of the most visited cities in the world.
- ✓This morning shows you the other Kyoto: still, unhurried and entirely your own.
- ✓Shisendo was built in 1641 by Ishikawa Jozan, a samurai who left his career to live as a poet.
- ✓He made it a place to step away from the world.
- ✓On this morning, it does the same for you.
Kyoto is one of the most visited cities in the world. This morning shows you the other Kyoto: still, unhurried and entirely your own. Shisendo was built in 1641 by Ishikawa Jozan, a samurai who left his career to live as a poet. He made it a place to step away from the world. On this morning, it does the same for you. The temple opens early for one party only, before any other visitor arrives. Zazen is simple. You sit, you breathe and you let your thoughts settle. It suits anyone who wants to rest a tired mind, or to start the day with a clearer head. Then cross the lane to The SEN East, our traditional Japanese house, and pause over tea and a seasonal wagashi among works by Kyoto artists. Everything is arranged for you, from your hotel door and back. A morning to rest, to think clearly, and to return to your day lighter than you began it.
Kyoto is one of the most visited cities in the world. This morning shows you the other Kyoto: still, unhurried and entirely your own. Shisendo was built in 1641 by Ishikawa Jozan, a samurai who left his career to live as a poet. He made it a place to step away from the world. On this morning, it does the same for you. The temple opens early for one party only, before any other visitor arrives. Zazen is simple. You sit, you breathe and you let your thoughts settle. It suits anyone who wants to rest a tired mind, or to start the day with a clearer head. Then cross the lane to The SEN East, our traditional Japanese house, and pause over tea and a seasonal wagashi among works by Kyoto artists. Everything is arranged for you, from your hotel door and back. A morning to rest, to think clearly, and to return to your day lighter than you began it.
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Questions about this tour?
Have a question, want different dates, or need a private group? Send us an enquiry and we'll reply by email within 24 hours.
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What’s Included
- ✓Private transportation
- ✓Entrance fees
- ✓Private English interpreter
- ✓Zazen guided by the priest of Shisendo, seated on a traditional zafu cushion.
- ✓Calligraphy at The SEN East, if you wish.
- ✓Tea and coffee
What’s NOT Included
- ✗Sightseeing after the morning
- ✗Artwork purchases
What to Bring
- •Public transportation options are available nearby
- •Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting and Pickup
🚐Hotel pickup OR meet at start point
9 pickup locations available — or request your own hotel
Pickup starts 30 min before departure
We pick you up at the main entrance of your hotel or ryokan in Kyoto city. Your host will be waiting a few minutes before your pick-up time. If you are staying outside the city, or cars cannot stop at your entrance, we will contact you by the day before with a nearby pick-up point. At the end of the morning, we can take you back to your hotel or on to your next stop in Kyoto.
📍 Meeting point / start
Meet your host at the main gate of Shisendo at 7:50, ten minutes before the start. The gate will still be closed to the public; your host will be waiting outside with a "The SEN" sign. Shisendo is a short walk uphill from Ichijoji Station (Eizan Railway).
🏁 End point
Meet your host at the main gate of Shisendo at 7:50, ten minutes before the start. The gate will still be closed to the public; your host will be waiting outside with a "The SEN" sign. Shisendo is a short walk uphill from Ichijoji Station (Eizan Railway).
Send a Booking Enquiry
Tell us about your preferred dates and group size and we'll confirm availability and answer any questions — usually within 24 hours.
Before you book
Visit the Zen and Ghibli exhibition in Kyoto featuring Toshio Suzuki's curation from October 2026. New taxi regulations let drivers eject rude passengers — know the etiquette before you ride. Budget ¥15,000–¥25,000 daily for mid-range Kyoto travel including transit, entry fees, and meals.
Osaka rooms run below Tokyo and Kyoto rates, while the Amazing Pass requires tighter break-even checks; use an IC card for other days and check exclusions.
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Booking opens on our partner's site · we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you
From
¥280,000