Japan’s temple gardens are commonly described as inducing “Zen-like calm,” and in books that use the title Zen and the art of… you’ll find advice on countless activities, from golf to motorcycle maintenance. Let us help you cut the waffle to find the true meaning of the word Zen.
We can arrange for you to join our expert guide in Asian religion and together you will explore the history and philosophy of Zen by visiting the temples belonging to the three Japanese Zen schools: Obaku, Rinzai and Soto. From the Rinzai school tradition of koan, enigmatic Zen puzzles, to the Soto school’s focus on shikantaza, “just sitting,” and the Obaku school with its unique Chinese influence, let us help you explore the fascinating Zen of Kyoto through of its temples and gardens.