Zen Meditation for Individuals

Experience a quiet moment of self-reflection through Zen meditation, "Zazen" in Japanese. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or a complete beginner, this guided session offers a peaceful introduction to Zen.

◇About the Session

Schedule: 10:30 AM or 2:00 PM
 (Duration: 30–60 minutes)
Fee: ¥1,000 per person

◇Reservation

Required by the day before.
Please note: Reservations are necessary for individual meditation sessions. We will confirm your request based on availability, so be sure to check for confirmation.

◇English Guidance Available

If you would like the meditation session to be conducted in English, please make sure to request this at the time of reservation.
Please note that we are unable to provide instruction in languages other than Japanese or English. If you plan to bring your own interpreter for another language, kindly inform us in advance.

◇Meeting Time and Location

Meeting Location: Please gather at the temple office of Ichibata Yakushi (Ichibata Temple). It is a 10-minute walk from the large parking lot. For those who have difficulty walking, you may follow the wheelchair signs to access the parking area near the temple office.

Arrival Time: Arrive at least 20 minutes before the start of the zazen (seated meditation) session. Complete the check-in process, use the restroom, and wait in the temple office lobby.

Preparation: Ten minutes before the session starts, we will conduct a roll call and begin guidance for participants.

Punctuality: If it is your first time participating, please allow ample time to arrive, as late arrivals may not be able to join the session. The temple grounds are spacious and can be challenging to navigate.

◇Unavailable Periods:

Monthly ceremonies: 8th of each month
Year-end/New Year: Dec. 25 – Jan. 10
Golden Week: Late April – May 8
Obon holidays: Aug. 8–16
What to Wear
For an optimal experience, please wear modest, loose-fitting clothing. Avoid bright colors (red, yellow, blue) or restrictive items like tight pants. Shorts and short skirts are not suitable, and outfits that minimize skin exposure are preferred. If you wear a skirt, consider bringing a scarf or lap blanket.

◇Highlights

Immerse yourself in a tranquil practice led by a Buddhist monk, who will guide you through the basics before allowing you to experience meditation at your own pace. The session concludes with tea service.

◇During meditation:

Barefoot practice
Glasses can be worn, but watches and other unnecessary accessories should be removed.
The meditation space is typically unheated and uncooled, except during cold weather after December 8 (Rohatsu, the day Buddha achieved enlightenment). This natural setting enhances the sensory connection to the seasons and surroundings.

◇Seating Options

Zen meditation is accessible to everyone. If sitting cross-legged on a cushion is challenging, a chair can be provided. Chair meditation is equally meaningful, so don’t hesitate to request this option when making your reservation.

For those sitting on cushions, part of the experience includes enduring minor discomforts like numbness or stiffness, as these moments can deepen focus and reflection. Ancient practitioners often found profound insights through perseverance in such conditions.

◇Invitation

Discover the serene world of Zen at our temple.
Join us with an open mind and experience this unique practice in a way that suits you.