Zen Meditation Hiking Retreat
Embark on a guided journey which blends the serenity of Zen meditation with the natural landscapes of Shiga Prefecture.
This 4-day Zen meditation hiking adventure takes you through temples and trails that will feel like a world apart from the nearby cities of Kyoto and Osaka. Your guide is a Buddhist monk who provides an immersive experience in meditation, mindfulness, and traditional Japanese culture. This trip is perfect for those seeking spiritual renewal and connection with nature.
This 4-day Zen meditation hiking adventure takes you through temples and trails that will feel like a world apart from the nearby cities of Kyoto and Osaka. Your guide is a Buddhist monk who provides an immersive experience in meditation, mindfulness, and traditional Japanese culture. This trip is perfect for those seeking spiritual renewal and connection with nature.
Open Dates
Year-round (except January and August)
Length
3 nights, 4 days
Location
Shiga Prefecture
Price
¥350,000~ /person
Highlights
Authentic Temples Stays
Experience the rare opportunity to stay at two revered Zen temples: Kakuden-ji Temple in Takashima and Seiryo-ji Temple in Hikone. Experience everyday temple life in two places of worship which each have deep roots in Japanese history and culture.
Outdoor Meditation
Take your meditation practice beyond Zen temples to the outdoors with “Wild Zen” practice, a unique opportunity to practice zazen in a natural environment, instead of sitting within temple walls. Surrounded by the sounds of rustling leaves and birdsong, this experience fosters a profound connection between your inner peace and the tranquility of nature.
Guided Hiking Through Scenic Trails
Explore the stunning landscapes of Shiga Prefecture with guided hikes through ancient trails. From lush cedar forests to rolling hills, these hikes are designed to complement your Zen practice by immersing yourself in the beauty of the natural world. The 4-hour hike in Takashima and the 3-hour hike in Hikone provide both physical activity and moments of serene reflection.
About
During this adventure, you will practice the principles of Soto Zen Buddhism, which emphasizes mindfulness, simplicity, and harmony.
The foundation of these teachings is zazen, sitting in meditation, where you focus on the present moment and cultivate a sense of balance between body, breath, and mind.
Your guide on this unique journey is a zen monk who also runs a mountain guiding service in Shiga prefecture, located adjacent to Kyoto and Nara Prefectures. By combining meditation with mountain walks, he encourages his students to observe the true nature of things and embrace a deep awareness of life’s interconnectedness. His lessons aim to guide you toward living with greater clarity, compassion, and authenticity.
The foundation of these teachings is zazen, sitting in meditation, where you focus on the present moment and cultivate a sense of balance between body, breath, and mind.
Your guide on this unique journey is a zen monk who also runs a mountain guiding service in Shiga prefecture, located adjacent to Kyoto and Nara Prefectures. By combining meditation with mountain walks, he encourages his students to observe the true nature of things and embrace a deep awareness of life’s interconnectedness. His lessons aim to guide you toward living with greater clarity, compassion, and authenticity.
What's included
- Three days of guided hiking by a long trail guide & monk
- Three days of meditation sessions in temples and in nature by a zen monk
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner including traditional “shojin ryori,” traditional vegetarian Buddhist temple meals
- All transportation by private car
- Pick up available from Kyoto
Shiga Prefecture
Shiga Prefecture, located in the heart of Japan, is a region of great natural beauty and deep cultural significance. Known for the majestic Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan, Shiga is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers given its close proximity to Kyoto. The prefecture is dotted with ancient temples, historic towns, and scenic trails that wind through lush forests and rolling hills. Shiga's rich cultural heritage is reflected in its traditional crafts, festivals, and cuisine, offering visitors a true taste of Japan many visitors miss out on.
The serene landscapes and cultural treasures of Shiga provide the perfect backdrop for this Zen hiking adventure, fostering a profound connection to both nature and Japanese traditions.
The serene landscapes and cultural treasures of Shiga provide the perfect backdrop for this Zen hiking adventure, fostering a profound connection to both nature and Japanese traditions.
Guide
HIROMICHI
Hiromichi was born in Shiga Prefecture in 1971 and grew up in a Zen temple in a rural town with rich natural landscapes. When he was in the third grade of elementary school, he discovered the joy of mountains and adventure through mountain stream fishing. After completing his training period at Eiheiji Temple, he returned to the temple of his birthplace.
Currently he is engaged in the planning of long trail projects through PLUS WILD, a mountain guide service company he established. He also manages a Zen Buddhist temple.
Currently he is engaged in the planning of long trail projects through PLUS WILD, a mountain guide service company he established. He also manages a Zen Buddhist temple.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Kakuden-ji Temple
You will be picked up by private car and transferred to Kakuden-ji where you will participate in Zen temple training, including zazen meditation and evening lessons. In the evening, enjoy a traditional vegetarian dinner and sleep in temple accommodations.
Day 2: Guided Hiking and Zen Meditation
Begin the day with morning zazen and a lesson on Zen teachings before enjoying a traditional porridge breakfast. Following this you embark on a 4-hour guided hike through the scenic trails near Takashima before returning to the temple for an evening of Zen practice, vegetarian meals, and restful sleep.
Day 3: Seiryo-ji Temple
Start the morning with zazen and a porridge breakfast.
Transfer to Hikone City and Seiryo-ji Temple before taking a 3-hour guided hike through the picturesque surroundings of Hikone. Conclude the day with temple-based Zen practices, temple meals, and overnight accommodation in the temple’s zendo.
Transfer to Hikone City and Seiryo-ji Temple before taking a 3-hour guided hike through the picturesque surroundings of Hikone. Conclude the day with temple-based Zen practices, temple meals, and overnight accommodation in the temple’s zendo.
Day 4: Departure back to Kyoto
Participate in morning zazen and a lesson on Zen teachings before breakfast. A private transfer will take you back to Kyoto, concluding your journey with a sense of peace and renewal.
Accommodations
For this adventure you will stay at two revered Zen temples: Kakuden-ji Temple in Takashima and Seiryo-ji Temple in Hikone. Kakuden-ji Temple, founded during the Muromachi period, is known for its tranquil gardens and centuries-old practices that immerse visitors in the Soto Zen tradition. Seiryo-ji Temple, located in the picturesque Hikone City, holds historical significance as a spiritual hub and offers an authentic experience of temple life.