Simply put, Zen is the pursuit of understanding one’s own existence. Zen monks undergo rigorous training to achieve this, and art forms reflecting this practice include the tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and incense ceremony. Furthermore, the essence of Zen—calming the mind and delving deeply into oneself—can be applied to everyday life, influencing many aspects of Japanese thought and behavior. Zen also teaches that rather than fearing or avoiding challenges, one should confront them directly. It is through facing and overcoming trials that personal growth is achieved. We will introduce the globally appreciated philosophy of Zen and offer insights into how to engage with it. We hope that during your stay in Japan, you will gain an understanding of Zen that enriches your life.
Introduction
More Information
Zazen is a fundamental practice in Zen Buddhism, serving as a form of meditation to calm the mind and engage in self-reflection. By sitting quietly with a straight back and crossed legs, and focusing on one's breathing, practitioners aim to clear away distractions and maintain a state of mental emptiness.
Zazen is now globally recognized for its ability to relieve stress and promote mental stability in today’s fast-paced world.
Have you ever witnessed the refined elegance of a tea ceremony? Every detail, from the way sliding doors are opened to the careful handling of tea utensils, is minimal and graceful, with all excess removed. This refined simplicity not only calms the mind but naturally encourages guests to sit up straight and focus on the present moment. The tea ceremony is a practice of mindfulness and respect, where honoring the manners, people, and tools.
It may appear as a glamorous pastime, but it originally served as Zen training, focusing on the art of arranging flowers beautifully. The goal isn't to create a perfect form viewed from one angle, but rather to cultivate a mindset that appreciates beauty in imperfections and seeks to learn from the natural forms of plants about how to live harmoniously in society.
Zen philosophy emphasizes respect for all life and the interconnectedness of all existence.
In Kodo, you follow precise procedures and use various tools to carefully prepare and enjoy the delicate scents of rare fregrance wood.
In Kodo, experiencing the fragrance is referred to as "listening." This practice prioritizes the olfactory sense and "listens" to the infinite world of scents, making it an art born from the delicate sensibilities of the Japanese people.
Soybeans have long been a key source of protein in Japan, with condiments like miso and soy sauce highlighting their versatility. This tradition reflects a natural diet suited to Japan's climate, influenced by Zen teachings that emphasize minimizing harm to living beings.
Though Japan has a long history of eating fish, meat consumption only became common in the past century.
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Our Team Will Tailor a Special Itinerary Just For You
Whether it's your first time in Japan or you've traveled here before, we are dedicated to preparing the finest plans and experiences for you, your family, and your friends.
It is our mission to ensure that Japan stands out as the most remarkable destination among all your travels, leaving you with unforgettable memories of this beautiful country.
Our Suggesting Plans
1 Day Tour from Tokyo -Mt. Fuji
Mt. Fuji invites you to explore its majestic natural beauty and rich history. Dive into inspiring landscapes and uncover the timeless charm that has captivated anyone who sees it in a single glance.
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1 Day Tour from Tokyo -Nikko
Explore the UNESCO-listed temples and shrines of Nikko, where you can immerse yourself in its rich culture and history while sensing the presence of the past samurai era with untouched natural beauty.
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Stay in A Cultural Treasure
Stay in a art-like-museum-villa, dating back to the 1800's. This historic property is registered as a tangible cultural asset, and owned by the same family over generations.
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Historic Buddhist Monastery
Mount Minobu offers a secluded stay in a temple lodge or historic residence, where traditional arts, local cuisine, and Buddhist influences come together for self-reflection and spiritual renewal.
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Kodo – Art of Incense
A Kodo master will be invited to your hotel room for an exclusive private experience. The elegant tools, captivating fragrance, and the master's graceful presence will create a truly artistic moment.
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Trace back the old life with mountain biking
A half-day or full-day tour to fully enjoy the Japanese mountains using the latest e-bikes. After the tour, you can relax and unwind with delicious local cuisine and drinks made from locally sourced i...
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