Step beyond the public areas of a Engakuji temple and enter a side of monastic life rarely seen. Guided by an English-speaking monk, this experience offers privileged access to the inner monastery of one of Kamakura’s largest and most important temples, where daily life unfolds away from visitors.
Meet at the gates of Engakuji Temple in Kamakura and get ready to discover Zen Buddhism in a rare, intimate way conversing directly with an English-speaking resident monk.
After an introduction to the temple’s vast and beautiful grounds, guests are led into the monks’ living quarters, an area usually off limits to the public. During this visit, travelers are granted exclusive access beyond those boundaries, entering places not typically seen even during the very few official openings.
Discover where the monks live, practice, and carry out their daily routines, from sleeping quarters to kitchen and bathing areas. Along the way, the expert guide shares personal insights about what it means to be living in the monastery and devote to the Zen training, speaking openly about the discipline and challenges behind this way of life.
After peeking inside the world of monastic life, visitors will also get to experience one of the most essential aspects of a monk’s training: zazen meditation. At the zazen hall, they will be guided into calming the inner waves through meditation, learning the techniques to master breathing and relax every part of the body.
Finally, visitors can enjoy a taste of the traditional monk’s breakfast, a simple yet meaningful meal that is another precious moment of reflection the monks at Engakuji cherish every morning before starting their day.
Notes:
Array
Here is a selection of products that may also fit the needs of your client.
Become a partnerHere is a selection of products that may also fit the needs of your client.
Become a partnerOur sales team is on hand to ensure that the process of working with us is as smooth as possible. If you should have any questions, feel free to reach out to them.