Restaurant Bus Tokyo With Japanese Lunch and Zazen Experience

Imagine embarking on a culinary and cultural journey through the bustling streets of Tokyo. The Restaurant Bus Tokyo offers an immersive experience that blends traditional Japanese cuisine with a deep dive into the country’s rich heritage. From Zazen meditation to a matcha tea ceremony, this four-hour excursion promises to captivate the senses and reveal the nuances of Japanese hospitality. As you indulge in all-you-can-drink sparkling Dassai, the stunning views of Tokyo Tower provide a breathtaking backdrop to this one-of-a-kind adventure.

Key Points

• This unique culture experience in Tokyo includes a Japanese course meal, Zazen meditation, Shakyo sutra copying, and a matcha tea ceremony.
• Travelers will enjoy all-inclusive amenities such as Japanese lunch, all-you-can-drink sparkling Dassai, and alcoholic beverages on a private bus.
• The tour includes a visit to the iconic Tokyo Tower, providing stunning city views, and is led by a knowledgeable local guide.
• The meeting point is located outside Exit 2 at Tawaramachi Station, and the tour ends at the Whim Gazette in the Marunouchi Building.
• The experience is priced from $253.47 per person, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start.

Overview of the Experience

The Restaurant Bus Tokyo experience offers travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy traditional Japanese culture.

Participants embark on a journey through the streets of Tokyo, enjoying a Japanese course meal on a specially-designed bus. Along the way, they engage in Zazen meditation, Shakyo sutra copying, and a traditional matcha tea ceremony at Asakusa Torin-ji.

The experience also includes a visit to the iconic Tokyo Tower, providing stunning views of the city.

With all-inclusive amenities and a knowledgeable local guide, this tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Inclusions and Amenities

This experience offers a variety of inclusions and amenities to enhance the journey.

Participants will enjoy a Japanese lunch and all-you-can-drink sparkling Dassai on the restaurant bus. Alcoholic beverages are also included.

The tour provides a Tokyo Tower admission ticket to the main deck, allowing visitors to take in the city’s panoramic views.

For convenience, the bus is equipped with a restroom. A local guide accompanies the group, and transportation expenses to the boarding location are covered.

These thoughtful inclusions create a well-rounded and seamless experience for travelers.

Meeting and End Points

Participants meet at the 2-chōme-10-13 Kotobuki location in Taito City, Tokyo, just outside of Exit 2 at Tawaramachi Station, in front of the Asahi Shinsei Credit Cooperative.

The tour ends at the Whim Gazette, Marunouchi Building, B1, 2-chōme−4−1, Chiyoda City, Tokyo. This location is conveniently situated near major landmarks and transportation hubs.

The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, from 9:30 am start time to the final drop-off.

Travelers can expect a seamless journey with a reliable local guide and private transportation throughout the activities.

Tour Details

The tour begins promptly at 9:30 am, accommodating a maximum of 20 travelers.

Most you can participate, though the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

Aboard the restaurant bus, guests can enjoy an all-you-can-drink sparkling Dassai and alcoholic beverages.

The tour includes a Japanese course meal and admission to the Tokyo Tower’s main deck. A local guide accompanies the group, and transportation expenses to the boarding location are covered.

The tour concludes at the Whim Gazette in the Marunouchi Building.

Booking Information

How much does the Restaurant Bus Tokyo Experience cost? The experience is priced from $253.47 per person.

Travelers can book and secure their spot while staying flexible, as confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Plus, the company offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts, giving customers the option to change their plans if needed.

For those looking to guarantee the lowest price, the booking platform provides a Lowest Price Guarantee.

The Zazen (Meditation) Experience

As part of the Restaurant Bus Tokyo Experience, travelers embark on a mindful Zazen meditation session at the Asakusa Torin-ji temple.

Under the guidance of a resident monk, participants learn the proper Zazen posture and breathing techniques.

The tranquil environment and the instructor’s soothing voice create an atmosphere conducive to inner reflection.

Guests experience the profound stillness and focus that characterize Zazen practice.

This meditation session allows travelers to momentarily disconnect from the bustling city and enjoy the contemplative essence of Japanese culture.

The Shakyo (Sutra Copying) Activity

Immediately following the Zazen meditation session, participants engage in the centuries-old practice of Shakyo, or sutra copying.

This meditative activity involves carefully and mindfully transcribing Buddhist scriptures using a specialized brush and ink. Participants focus on the graceful movements of the brush and the rhythmic sounds of the writing, finding a sense of tranquility and connection to the sacred texts.

The guide provides instruction and support, ensuring everyone can partake in this contemplative experience.

Through Shakyo, travelers gain a deeper understanding of Japanese Buddhist traditions and the value placed on mindful, contemplative practices.

The Matcha Tea Ceremony at Asakusa Torin-ji

Following the Shakyo activity, participants visit the Asakusa Torin-ji temple to engage in a traditional Japanese matcha tea ceremony.

They’re welcomed into the temple’s serene environment and instructed on the proper etiquette and techniques for preparing and drinking the carefully crafted matcha.

The host meticulously prepares the tea, whisking the powder with hot water to create a frothy, vibrant green beverage.

Participants then take turns sipping the tea, experiencing its rich, umami flavors and the calming atmosphere.

This culture allows visitors to appreciate the artistry and mindfulness inherent in the Japanese tea ceremony.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for This Experience?

The dress code for this experience is casual. Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as you will be seated on a bus and engaging in various activities like meditation and a tea ceremony.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?

No, participants can’t bring their own food and drinks on the bus. The experience includes a Japanese course meal, all-you-can-drink sparkling Dassai, and alcoholic beverages, so outside food and drinks are not permitted.

Are There Any Vegetarian or Dietary Options Available?

The tour offers vegetarian and other dietary options upon request. Guests should inform the provider of any dietary requirements when booking to ensure their needs are accommodated. Dietary restrictions can typically be catered for on this experience.

Can I Take Photos During the Zazen and Shakyo Activities?

Photos aren’t allowed during the zazen and shakyo activities as they’re considered disruptive to the meditation and calligraphy practice. However, you can take photos at other points during the experience, like the tea ceremony and on the bus.

Is There an Age Limit or Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have an age limit or minimum age requirement. Infants must sit on laps, but most travelers can participate in the experience, as long as they meet the general health and mobility requirements.

The Sum Up

The Restaurant Bus Tokyo offers a unique blend of culinary and cultural experiences. Guests can savor a traditional Japanese lunch while exploring Tokyo, and enjoy Zazen meditation, Shakyo sutra copying, and a matcha tea ceremony. With stunning views, all-you-can-drink sparkling Dassai, and knowledgeable guides, this four-hour tour provides a perfect balance of indulgence and cultural enrichment.