Wakayama: Meditation & Lunch in a 1,200-Year-Old Temple
Delve into Buddhist traditions and cuisine in Ekoin Temple, in the lush forests of Koyasan, Wakayama, where you’ll experience a private meditation and a shojin ryori traditional lunch.
Highlights
Travel to the ancient Ekoin Temple in Koyasan, Wakayama Prefecture, known for being one of Japan’s famous Buddhist hubs
Enjoy a beautifully presented shojin ryori traditional lunch that is naturally vegan and vegetarian. A gluten-free option is also available
Engage in a 40-minute ajikan meditation guided by monks
Mindful experience in a tranquil area near Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto
10 meals
Experience Details
Immersed in the serene forested mountains of Koyasan, Wakayama, stands a peaceful temple with over 1,200 years of history. Enshrining the Buddhist deities of Amida-Nyorai and Bishamonten, Enkoin Temple sets the scene for a unique private experience that includes a shojin ryori lunch and ajikan meditation guided by monks.
Traditional Buddhist cuisine (shojin ryori) typically includes wild vegetables and hearty legumes and is completely free of animal products, making it vegetarian and vegan. These visually captivating dishes are crafted with special care to create a delicate assortment of colors and textures without overpowering flavors. Delight in your beautifully presented shojin ryori meal in a traditional space overlooking the lush temple garden. A gluten-free option can also be prepared upon prior request.
Additionally, participants will engage in a 40-minute private ajikan meditation, an ancient esoteric Buddhist practice led by monks that welcomes individuals of all faiths. Even those new to meditation can rest assured, as no previous experience is required. A friendly English-speaking guide will also participate to ensure a comfortable experience.
Revitalize both body and spirit by exploring Buddhist culinary traditions and customs in this experience in Wakayama, a tranquil haven for travelers seeking out the ancient wonders of Japan near Kyoto, Nara and Osaka.
Inclusions
Shojin ryori vegetarian lunch (gluten-free option available)
English interpreter
Meditation experience
Exclusions
Transportation to and from the temple
Meeting Point and Meeting Time
Meet your host at Ekoin Temple in Koyasan, Wakayama Prefecture. More detailed information and a Google Maps link will be provided upon booking.
Remarks
Please note that the shojin ryori lunch is expected to be about an hour, while the ajikan meditation is typically about 40 min.
When booking at 10:00, the order will be ajikan meditation followed by lunch, while guests booking the 12:00 slot will enjoy lunch first and the ajikan meditation afterwards.
If you have dietary restrictions or food allergies, please notify the host at least one week in advance. Please note that requests submitted with less than a week's notice may not be accommodated
Cancellation Policy
Cancel your booking at least 2 days before the experience start time to receive a full refund minus a 3.2% transaction fee.
Experience Location
Whether you want a taste of tropical beach life, or traditional temple life, this diverse prefecture has you covered.
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10 meals
Delve into Buddhist history and cuisine in this private experience in the ancient Ekoin Temple in Koyasan, Wakayama. Taste authentic vegetarian Buddhist cuisine (shojin ryori) and experience a goma fire prayer ritual performed by monks.
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Enjoy a vegan Buddhist lunch in Ekoin, a temple with over 1,200 years of history in Koyasan, Wakayama. Learn about shojin ryori (traditional Buddhist cuisine) and feast on a variety of fresh dishes while overlooking the tranquil temple gardens.
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