Guide - See / Do - Zazen at Seishoji Temple

Zazen at Seishoji Temple

Hone your spiritual power through meditation at a prestigious temple
Budget
Opening Hours Mon - Fri: 0900 - 23:00 ; Sat - Sun: 17:00 - 23:00

Zen Buddhism is getting more and more popular around the world. Zazen, meaning seated meditation, is a central practice of Zen. To practice Zazen, you have to fold your hands and legs and meditate. The essence of Zazen is to gain an insight into the nature of our existence. There’s no better place to do this than Seishoji, a prestigious temple and one of the three major ones of the Caodong school in Edo, or pre-modern Tokyo. Beginners are given meticulous guidance, starting with etiquette.

Transport Kamiyachou Station (Eidan Hibiya Line) Onarimon Station (Toei Mita Line)
+81 3 3431 3733
2-Chome-4-7 Atago, Minato-ku, Tokyo
東京都港区愛宕2-4-7

1. The magnificent Seishoji temple door gate welcomes you to a day of zazen, or seated meditation practice.

2. Zafu (round cushions) are available for you during meditation. Settle your body and mind as you meditate!

3. Decorative details like this fountain depicting a dragon holding a gold pearl, a scene that symbolises wisdom, add moments of beauty to your contemplative stroll.

4. Listen to the sounds of the stepped running stream and let it wash away your troubles and woes.

5. Sculptures around the grounds offer the opportunity to appreciate Buddhist art and symbolism, and are perfect subjects for photographers!