Embracing Zen: A Week in Kyoto's Ancient Temples
Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan for more than a thousand years, is home to over 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines. Our writer spent a week immersed in the spiritual practices and daily rituals of these sacred spaces.
From participating in a traditional tea ceremony at Daitoku-ji Temple to experiencing a meditation session with Buddhist monks at Ryoan-ji, this article details how visitors can respectfully engage with Japan's spiritual traditions and find moments of peace amidst busy travel itineraries.
We also explore the philosophical concepts behind Japanese garden design, the significance of seasonal changes in Zen practices, and how these ancient traditions continue to influence modern Japanese culture and daily life.
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