Syoganji Temple Zen Retreat

Your experience at Syogangi can be as strict or as relaxed as you like depending on your needs and interests. Certain elements however, such as scheduled morning meditation, are encouraged (shown in white) for all guests. This follows the basic principle behind the existence of Zen Retreat and also fosters a sense of community and shared experience among guests.

Meals are informal, communal, and your contribution to menu design and food preparation are always welcome. Please be sure to inform us of any special dietary requirements or preferences you have - most can be accommodated.

-5:30
morning service, chanting

-6:00
Zazen - sitting meditation 30-90 minutes

-7:00/7:30
personal time (bathing, reading, rest, etc.) NO breakfast is encouraged based on the NISHI HEALTH SYSTEM.

-8:00
Samu - gardening, temple maintenance, food preparation, etc.

-10:00
Free time

-11:30
Lunch

AFTERNOONS are flexible and unscheduled but may include sightseeing, shopping, walks, runs, Yoga, swimming, other exercise, Tai Chi, trips into nearby towns, visits to area Onsens (hot-spring bathing), additional meditation, Zen teaching, Sanzen (koan), and more.

17:30 Dinner

21:00 Closing service and chanting (15-30 minutes)

Special Activities:
- Supervised fasting is an option offered at Zen Retreat but is best done with the participation of all guests. Please ask if you are interested.
- On request, at additional cost, off-site overnight stays can be arranged in places of special interest such as Ryokans.
Please ask if you are interested.