Limited to 3 Days: Exclusive Meditation Experience with Monks in a Private Hall for Small Groups

A special meditation experience will be held at Kohfukuji Temple in Nara, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This exclusive event offers a rare opportunity to learn meditation techniques directly from experienced monks in the Tokondo, a hall that is not usually open to the public. Furthermore, participants will have the chance to listen to the monks speak about the rich history and cultural significance of Kohfukuji, with time allocated for questions and conversation. The small group size ensures that each participant can engage in a meaningful and in-depth dialogue with the monks. In this serene environment, quiet your mind and take the opportunity to reflect on yourself. Surrounded by the magnificent scenery of Kohfukuji, this experience will offer a refreshing escape from daily life and become a treasured memory of your trip.

February Only: Meditation in a Sacred Building Closed to the Public

The “Tokondo” Easter Golden Hall, currently closed to the public, will be exclusively reserved for this event, with a monk from Kohfukuji personally guiding you. You will be able to learn about the temple, the history of Buddhism, and the proper practices for worship. In this private hall, you will also sit in a correct posture and be taught Buddhist techniques for achieving mental clarity. The experience of focusing your breath and calming your mind to refresh your spirit will be truly special, one that can only happen at this time and place.

Kohfukuji Temple : A Landmark of Nara with Over 1,300 Years of History.

Kohfukuji Temple is a historic temple founded in 710 when the capital of Nara was established. As the main temple of the Hosso sect of Buddhism, many national ceremonies have been held at Kohfukuji since the Nara period (710-794), and the temple has been deeply involved in the culture and history of the ancient capital of Nara. The temple preserves many masterpieces of Buddhist art, including the Ashura statue, a national treasure which tells the history of Buddhism in Japan. The Chukondo (Central Golden Hall), in particular, is one of the central buildings of Kohfukuji Temple and houses many exquisite Buddhist statues as well as magnificent architecture. In addition, its splendid five-story pagoda and charming gardens offer visitors beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons, symbolizing the harmony between Nara's history and nature.