Zen Meditation Retreat in Japan

5 Days, Multiple Departures

Zen Meditation Retreat in Japan
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Step into a slower, more intentional rhythm of life at Daitaiji, a 1,200-year-old Zen temple nestled in the serene mountains of Nachi-Katsuura, Wakayama.
This 5-day retreat blends deep spiritual practice with cultural immersion, guided by resident Zen master and former Tokyo schoolteacher, Nishiyama-san.

Each morning begins with peaceful monk-led Zazen meditation, with optional early chanting and sutra copying — helping you ground your mind and reconnect with your inner self. You’ll also have access to self-guided Zazen anytime, and receive gentle, on-demand support from Nishiyama throughout your stay.

This retreat is highly customizable, with cultural workshops such as sushi-making, calligraphy, or dressing in traditional Heian-period robes for a mindful walk along the sacred Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail — a UNESCO World Heritage site. Additional unique add-ons include temple stamp making, a tuna cutting show and dinner, BBQ, and more.

During your free time, relax in the peaceful temple gardens, soak in the Zen Riverside Sauna, visit Nachi Falls (Japan’s tallest waterfall), or experience the lively local tuna market. Remote workers are welcome — full Wi-Fi is available in the temple, and quiet workspaces are open during the day.

Rental cars and bicycles are also available if you’d like to explore nearby hot springs, local festivals, fireworks shows, and other hidden gems around the Kumano region.

Your stay includes 4 nights of accommodation at a cozy temple lodge, blending historical charm with simple modern comfort. A welcome dinner is provided on the first night. Other meals — including breakfast and dinner — can be arranged upon request, or you can explore several nearby cafés and restaurants. A shared kitchen is also available.

Whether you're here to meditate, explore, work remotely, or just rest, this retreat offers a flexible environment to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with yourself and the world around you.

If you'd like to extend your stay beyond the 5 days, just let us know — we’re happy to accommodate.

Accommodation at the temple is available from July 11 to 15 and August 17 to 21, 2025, while accommodation in the Kumano area is available on the remaining dates.

About
About The Host
Chief Priest Tomi

Chief Priest Tomi

Tomi is the head monk of Daitaiji Temple in Nachikatsuura, a peaceful town in Wakayama, Japan. Although born into a temple family, he first worked in Tokyo as a junior high school teacher. After a major flood struck his hometown, he returned to take on the role of monk and help rebuild the community.

Since then, Tomi has opened the temple to travelers through temple stays, a riverside campsite, and RV parking. With a background as a DJ and a love for jazz, he brings creativity and openness to temple life. His goal is to make the temple a place where anyone can feel relaxed and inspired.

Itinerary

Things to keep in mind