Kamakura: Zen Journey

Kamakura, a coastal town steeped in Zen Buddhist history, beckons adventurous travelers to embark on a transformative journey. This immersive experience offers a rare glimpse into the serene world of Japanese spirituality, guiding participants through ancient temples, scenic hikes, and a profound Zazen meditation session. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment or simply a deeper connection with Japan’s rich cultural heritage, this eight-hour tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you captivated and yearning to uncover more of Kamakura’s timeless allure.

Key Points

Immersive guided tour exploring Kamakura’s Zen Buddhist heritage, including visits to historic temples and a Zazen meditation session.
Itinerary highlights include Kakuonji Temple, Kenchoji Temple, and a guided meditation session at Zenkyoin Temple.
Tour includes traditional Japanese bento lunch, transportation, and temple entrance fees for a seamless experience.
Moderate physical fitness required for hiking and meditation, but the tour aims to accommodate diverse accessibility needs.
Flexible booking and cancellation policy, with language options in English, French, and Japanese.

Tour Overview

The Kamakura: Zen Journey tour offers an immersive experience, taking participants on a guided journey through the historic city’s Zen Buddhist heritage.

Priced at $394.74 per group of up to 7 people, the 8-hour excursion is available in English, French, and Japanese.

Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, as well as the option to reserve now and pay later, ensuring flexibility.

Along the way, they’ll visit 14th-century Kakuonji Temple, hike to the 13th-century Kenchoji Temple, and participate in a guided Zazen meditation session at Zenkyoin Temple.

The tour also includes a traditional Japanese bento lunch and exploration of Kamakura’s charming shops and woodcraft.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors on the Kamakura: Zen Journey tour will explore a rich tapestry of Zen Buddhist heritage, beginning with a visit to Kakuonji Temple and its awe-inspiring 14th-century Buddha statues.

The journey continues with a hike to the historic Kenchoji Temple, the first Zen temple established in Japan in the 13th century.

Participants will then engage in a guided Zazen meditation session at Zenkyoin Temple, led by a French-speaking monk.

The tour also includes a stop at the iconic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shinto shrine and opportunities to discover Kamakura’s traditional woodcraft and incense shops.

Explore the 14th-century Kakuonji Temple
Hike to the 13th-century Kenchoji Temple
Participate in a Zazen meditation session
Visit the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shinto shrine

Activities Included

The Kamakura: Zen Journey tour includes a guided Zazen meditation session at Zenkyoin Temple, led by a French-speaking monk.

Participants will also enjoy a traditional Japanese bento lunch at the temple, as well as cover the costs of transportation and entrance fees to Kakuonji and Kenchoji temples.

This immersive experience allows visitors to explore the rich spiritual heritage of Kamakura, exploring its Zen Buddhist roots.

Along the scenic trails, travelers will visit the 14th-century Kakuonji Temple and the historic Kenchoji Temple, the first Zen temple in Japan, founded in the 13th century.

Throughout the day, the tour provides a well-rounded look at the cultural and natural wonders that make Kamakura a renowned spiritual destination.

Culinary Experience

A traditional Japanese bento lunch awaits participants at Zenkyoin Temple, offering a delectable culinary experience that complements the spiritual journey. The bento box, meticulously prepared, presents a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Guests can expect:

Steaming white rice, a staple of Japanese cuisine
Tender, marinated meat or fish, expertly cooked
A variety of colorful, freshly prepared vegetables
A small dessert, providing a sweet conclusion to the meal

After the nourishing lunch, participants can enjoy a coffee break at Milk Hall Kamakura, a charming local cafe. This break allows them to reflect on the morning’s Zen activities before continuing their exploration of the historic town.

Accessibility and Restrictions

Unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for certain individuals due to the physical demands involved. Pregnant women, those with back problems, and wheelchair users would find the hiking and zazen session challenging to participate in. However, the tour operator is willing to accommodate other accessibility needs upon request, ensuring an inclusive experience for all guests.

The tour’s activities require a moderate level of physical fitness. A table of the accessibility considerations is provided below:

Consideration	Accessibility
Hiking	Moderate
Zazen Session	Moderate
Temple Visits	High
Bento Lunch	High

While some aspects of the tour may pose challenges for certain individuals, the operator is committed to making the Zen Journey accessible to as many travelers as possible.

Pricing and Booking

The Kamakura: Zen Journey tour is priced at $394.74 per group, accommodating up to 7 participants.

Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, allowing them to keep their travel plans flexible.

The booking process is straightforward and convenient:

Secure your reservation without upfront payment
Enjoy the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Choose from multiple language options, including English, French, and Japanese
Benefit from the tour’s inclusive nature, with transportation and entrance fees covered.

With these flexible booking options and an all-inclusive price, the Kamakura: Zen Journey tour makes it easy for travelers to embark on a captivating Zen-inspired adventure.

Languages and Cancellation

The Kamakura: Zen Journey tour offers participants a choice of three languages – English, French, and Japanese – making it accessible to a diverse audience.

Plus, the tour provides a flexible cancellation policy, allowing travelers to receive a full refund if they cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance.

This ensures that guests can plan their trip with confidence, knowing that they can adjust their plans if necessary without incurring any financial penalties.

Whether you’re an English, French, or Japanese speaker, the Kamakura: Zen Journey tour caters to your needs and provides a hassle-free experience from start to finish.

About Kamakura Town

Nestled in the Kanagawa prefecture, just a short train ride from Tokyo, Kamakura is a charming coastal town steeped in rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the town’s tranquil atmosphere, exploring its serene temples, shrines, and picturesque streets.

Some highlights of Kamakura include:

Browsing the local shops and artisan workshops, where traditional crafts like Kamakura bori woodwork and incense-making are showcased.
Admiring the iconic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shinto shrine, with its impressive torii gates and beautiful gardens.
Indulging in the town’s culinary delights, from the famous Kamakura bento lunch to the charming Milk Hall cafe.
Discovering the town’s Zen Buddhist roots by visiting temples like Kenchoji and Zenkyoin, where visitors can participate in guided meditation sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Temples Open on National Holidays?

The temples in Kamakura are generally open on national holidays, though hours may be reduced. Visitors should check temple websites or inquire directly to confirm operating schedules during holiday periods.

Can I Visit the Sites on My Own Before or After the Tour?

Yes, visitors can explore the sites on their own before or after the tour. The temples and attractions are generally open to the public, allowing independent exploration outside the guided experience. However, advance reservations may be required for certain activities.

Is the Tour Appropriate for Children Under 12?

The tour may not be well-suited for children under 12 due to the activities and locations involved. The itinerary includes challenging hikes and participation in Zen meditation sessions, which may not engage or be comfortable for younger participants.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Temples?

Most temples in Japan allow visitors to take photos inside, but they may have restrictions. It’s best to ask the tour guide or temple staff before taking pictures, as some temples prohibit photography to preserve the peaceful atmosphere.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour’s duration can’t be extended, but travelers can explore Kamakura further on their own after the tour. The itinerary focuses on the key Zen sites, and extending the time wouldn’t fit within the scheduled activities.