4-Day Spring Tohoku Zen Wellness Trip: A Journey to Inner Depth

The tour is subject to availability. We will contact you within 48 hours and provide an update on the next steps. Your credit card will only be charged upon confirmation of your booking.

A minimum of 2 participants is required for this tour. Solo travelers are welcome to inquire about availability by using the contact button.

Matsushima, renowned as one of Japan's three most scenic views, is a place where breathtaking scenery unfolds, a tapestry of beautiful pine forests and islands. Since ancient times, it has also been a sacred place where many monks have visited and practiced Zen.

This retreat offers you four days to connect with yourself through Zen, nestled in the historic landscape of Matsushima. Each morning, you will practice Zen meditation in the serene atmosphere of a temple with a Buddhist priest. In the afternoons, immerse yourself in the unique charm of Matsushima in spring. Stroll through a traditional Japanese garden inspired by Zen, enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms in full bloom, and delve into the history of Oshima Island, once a training ground for Zen monks. Step away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and refresh your mind and body in the beauty of nature.

Please note:

• We offer flexible itinerary customization to suit your preferences. If you have any requests, such as adding time in Tokyo before Tohoku, including/excluding specific activities, or exploring different accommodation options to align with your budget, please contact us in advance using the contact button.
• The price is per person based on twin occupancy. Solo travel is also possible, but an additional charge will apply. Please contact us in advance using the contact button.
• Activities and itineraries may change depending on your desired travel dates.

Highlights

Practice Zen over 4 Days: On Day 1, you will visit Zuiganji Temple, one of Tohoku's most renowned Zen temples, to delve into its history and learn the basics of Zazen. For Day 2 and Day 3, you will spend each morning at the serene Saikoji Temple, a temple affiliated with the same Zen sect as Zuiganji Temple, to practice Zen. You will practice two 20-minute sessions of zazen to cultivate stillness, followed by a one-hour gentle yoga session to energize your body. On Day 4, challenge yourself with a 40-minute Zazen session, just as the monks do, and reflect on your 4-day journey.

Spring in Tohoku: Experience the beauty of Matsushima as it emerges from the long winter with cherry blossoms and fresh greenery. Visit Sai Gyō Modoshi no Matsu Park for breathtaking views and flower-viewing, and explore the verdant Entsuin Temple.

Revitalize from Within: Rejuvenate your body from the inside out with onsen (hot springs) and healthy Japanese cuisine featuring local ingredients.

Discover Deeper Meaning: Experience the heart of Japan through drinking matcha in a traditional Japanese building and gain deeper insights into Japanese culture through interactions with a Buddhist priest.

Itinerary