Spend two hours in a private Soto Zen sitting at a 350-year-old temple near Kakunodate. Learn posture, breath, and a short guided zazen session followed by a tea taste of local sweets.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the quiet road and the air changes: cedar needles underfoot, a bell’s slow note drifting from a low-roofed hall, and a courtyard where cherry trees and maples mark the seasons. The temple sits in Nakagawa’s open valley, three kilometres from Kakunodate’s samurai district, its grounds both spacious and deliberately simple. The soundscape—birds, the rustle of leaves, an insect’s steady chirp—frames the teaching.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—requires ability to sit on a cushion or low bench for 15–20 minutes.
Wildlife
History
The temple follows the Soto school of Zen and has served the Nakagawa community for roughly 350 years; Soto practice historically intersected with samurai culture in northern Japan.
Conservation
Keep to marked paths, remove shoes where requested, and support the temple with a small donation; quiet respect helps preserve both the site and local traditions.
Reserve your spot on the 2 Hours Private Zen Meditation Experience in Kakunodate today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive 10 minutes early
The experience begins with a briefing and posture setup—late arrivals interrupt the quiet; public transport links are nearby but allow extra time.
Samue rental included
A traditional samue is provided for practice—wear comfortable underlayers and slip-on shoes for easy changing.
Avoid heavy meals beforehand
Zazen demands alertness; a light snack is fine and local dumplings are served after the session.
Communicate health issues
The temple notes this activity isn’t recommended for people with serious spinal or cardiovascular conditions—declare any concerns when booking.
Comfortable base layer
Wear breathable, non-restrictive clothing under the samue to sit and bow comfortably.
Non-slip indoor socks or slippers
Temples often require shoe removal; non-slip footwear helps on wooden floors and stone paths.
Light jacket or cardigan
Spring mornings in Akita can be cool on temple grounds—an extra layer keeps you relaxed during the briefing.
spring
Small water bottle
Hydrate before the meditation; drinking during the session is discouraged but useful beforehand.
summer