Kyoto: Hidden Riverside Zen Meditation&Uji Matcha Experience

3 hours

Easy

Discover the spirit of Zen through hidden riverside meditation in Kyoto, followed by a Japanese tea tasting with premium Uji matcha and seasonal wagashi.

Begin your day with a rare and deeply reflective experience along a peaceful river in Kyoto.

Unlike typical zazen sessions held inside temple halls, this private meditation takes place on an open-air riverside deck, where the sounds of flowing water, morning breeze, and seasonal scenery become part of your inner stillness. Here, nature is not just a backdrop—it is part of the meditation.


The meditation is led by a respected Zen instructor who has spent decades teaching zazen at Kyoto’s most historic temples and shrines.

Beyond posture and breath, you’ll explore the deeper spirit of Zen and its connection to Japanese culture, mindfulness, and harmony.


After the session, enjoy a quiet moment with premium Uji matcha, served alongside seasonal wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets).

It’s not a formal tea ceremony, but a peaceful, mindful way to close the experience—an invitation to savor Japanese flavors with intention.


Throughout the experience, an English-speaking cultural guide accompanies you, offering real-time interpretation and cultural insight, ensuring that language is never a barrier to understanding the depth of this practice.


Complimentary pickup and drop-off from a central meeting point in Kyoto is included, so there’s no need to worry about finding your way to the riverside location—just meet us in town, and we’ll take care of the rest.

What's included?
  • Entry or admission fee

Private riverside zazen meditation with a Zen instructor

Premium Uji matcha tasting

Seasonal wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets)

English-speaking cultural guide throughout

Traditional tools (paper napkin & wooden sweet pick)

Pick up & drop off transportation in Kyoto city (Free)

Photo service of the experience

Exclusions
  • Tip or gratuity

Personal expenses (Breakfast, lunch)

Please note

    -For your convenience, we offer complimentary pickup and drop-off from a designated meeting point in Kyoto city.

    This is a free courtesy service to help you reach the riverside location easily. The exact meeting point will be provided after booking. Please arrive 10 minutes early to ensure a smooth start.


    - The meditation takes place in a calm indoor space overlooking the river.

    You’ll be sheltered from weather conditions, but we still recommend dressing comfortably for the season.


    - Sitting on a cushion on the floor is required during the meditation session.

    If you have any physical concerns (e.g., knees or back), please let us know in advance. We’ll do our best to accommodate you.


    - In the event of severe weather or unforeseen circumstances, the session may be rescheduled.

    We will contact you in advance if any changes are necessary.

    What to bring

      Nothing special but make sure not to wear short skirts or dresses.