Syoganji Temple Zen Retreat

Zen Retreat was established in 2004 as a spiritual centre for foreigners who are interested in experiencing temple life in Japan. It is located at the modest Syoganji Temple located in Ojuki village, in the semi-rural Saganoseki area of Oita prefecture, and is 30 minutes from Oita city. More than 600 years old, Syoganji has been held in the Kongo family for over 100 years and is currently headed by Jiho Kongo. Surrounded by beautiful bamboo forests and a ten minute walk from the beach this idyllic location is a perfect place for studying Zen and experiencing traditional Japanese village life.

Simplicity, authenticity and quiet beauty describe Syoganji. It is a way of life, rich in spirit and culture. The informal and relaxed setting and small number of guests allows for a uniquely personalized experience. Japanese cooking lessons, mountain hikes, green tea ceremony, Japanese language lessons, and hot-spring or sightseeing excursions are some of the regular activities offered.

The friendly seaside village community of Ojuki/Saganoseki is famous for it`s fishing, as well as its rice fields and specialty citrus groves, all stretched between lush scenic mountainsides. The peaceful location is excellent for long mountain walks, endless beachcombing, or simply enjoying a slower pace of life. During the months of May to September the temperature rises and the water is perfect for swimming. There are numerous hot springs (Onsen) in the area with the largest concentration of hot springs in Japan featured in nearby Beppu.

Syogangi has many visitors from the village and surrounding area and there is ample opportunity to visit with other monks, local temple members, and even the odd foreigner teaching English at the local elementary school. On the other hand, if silence and solitude are golden to you, this request is easily fulfilled.