Viator Rating : 5 (175 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.8/10 (Verified Excellent)
Tokyo
Tokyo Zen Meditation: Private Temple & Monk Experience
90
Overview
Experience Tokyo Zen Meditation at a secret temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. This special place has been around for over 400 years.
This isn't a regular tour. It's a private Zen experience where you can connect with a monk and learn about Zen. You'll even get to try a tea ceremony! The tour starts at the temple, where you will learn about Japanese culture and Zen. A monk will teach Zazen (sitting meditation), and you'll get to try it yourself.
Plus, you can take pictures with the monk inside the temple to remember this special day. This unique cultural tour offers a peaceful escape in the busy city. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Crowd Density (8 - Empty / Light) : Very few people, free movement
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (9 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (9 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (9 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
Highlights
Meditate in a Private Temple: Find inner peace in a temple not open to the public.
Learn from a Zen Monk: Get a Zazen lesson directly from a knowledgeable monk.
Enjoy a Tea Ceremony: Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
Take Photos with the Monk: Capture memories with the monk in the temple.
Sentiment Analysis
People loved learning about Zen from the monk.
-
Visitors enjoyed the tea ceremony.
-
Many guests appreciated the chance to ask the monk questions and take photos.
-
Customers enjoyed the peacefulness of the temple.
Some people wished for more time to meditate.
-
A few visitors found it hard to find the temple.
The Journey
Asakusa Temple
A historic temple in Tokyo, where the Zen meditation experience takes place. Not usually open to the public, this temple offers a private and unique setting for learning about Zen and Japanese culture.
Tea Ceremony Room
A dedicated space within the temple where you will participate in a traditional matcha tea ceremony, an integral part of Zen culture and practice.
Know Before You Go
This Zen meditation experience includes a guided Zen session, a tea ceremony, snacks, and entrance tickets to the private temple. You'll also get to take photos with the monk. Transportation to and from the temple is not included. Please make sure to arrange your own transportation to the meet up location.
Hot Tip
Arrive a little early to find the temple, so you won't feel rushed. Also, wear comfortable clothes for sitting meditation.
Review Summary
Customers find this experience to be a truly peaceful and authentic introduction to Zen practice, with monks and guides consistently praised for their warmth, patience, and willingness to answer questions about Buddhist traditions. The private temple setting, combined with the matcha tea ceremony and calligraphy instruction, creates a grounding and memorable experience that feels like a retreat from the bustling city. The main criticisms relate to pricing concerns for some travelers and occasional difficulty locating the temple, though the knowledgeable guides and welcoming atmosphere consistently receive high praise, with most reviewers recommending the experience highly and expressing that it has inspired further interest in Zen practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Tokyo
¥13000
Shinjuku Food Tour: 13 Dishes at 4 Local Eateries
4.9
(6540 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Tokyo: Shinjuku Food Tour (13 Dishes at 4 Local Eateries) offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Tokyo's food scene. This small group walking tour, led by a knowledgeable local guide, takes participants to hidden culinary gems often missed by tourists. Experience the authentic flavors of Shinjuku, where locals go for their daily dose of delicious soul food.
What to Expect: The tour explores iconic areas like Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane), Kabukicho, and Golden Gai, each with its unique atmosphere and culinary offerings. Participants will discover 13 carefully selected dishes across 4 distinct eateries, including a food stall, an izakaya (Japanese pub), a traditional eatery, and a gastrobar. Along the way, the guide shares insights into the history and culture of the area, adding depth to the food adventure.
The tour includes food at 4 eateries, 13 dishes, a city walking & culture tour, a professional expert guide, and 2 complimentary drinks (alcohol and non-alcohol). Gratuity is not included. This culinary walking tour is perfect for food lovers wanting to experience Tokyo like a local.
Tokyo
¥14000
Shinjuku Izakaya Food Tour: Tokyo's Best Kept Secrets
5.0
(1825 reviews)
Duration: 210
minutes
The Shinjuku Izakaya Food Tour offers a tasty adventure through Tokyo's lively Shinjuku area. This walking tour takes people to hidden spots and famous places, like the bright Kabukicho and the cozy Shinjuku Alleys. They'll get to see Tokyo's neon lights and enjoy the city's unique vibe.
During the tour, guests will enjoy more than 7 yummy Japanese food samples, adding up to a full dinner, from three carefully picked restaurants. To make the meal even better, there are drinks available, like beer and sake, in true Izakaya style. Non-alcoholic choices are also available. This tour includes alcoholic beverages and dinner.
This food tour explores Shinjuku and will visit Local Izakayas, Kabukicho, Golden Gai, Shinjuku Alleys, so guests can experience must-see spots and hidden gems. It's a walk of about 1 to 2 km. This tour does not include additional items not listed. With over 2,500 5-star reviews, this experience promises an unforgettable culinary journey through the heart of Tokyo.
Tokyo
$20.5
Tokyo: Imperial Palace & Shogun History Walk
5.0
(2221 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Tokyo: Imperial Palace and Shogun Historical Walking Tour lets one stroll through history in the heart of Tokyo. This walking tour is perfect for history buffs and anyone wanting to learn more about Japan's rich past.
Participants will explore the Imperial Palace East Garden, a serene oasis, and discover the ruins of Edo Castle, where shoguns once reigned. The tour provides historical insights into the Imperial Family and the powerful shoguns who shaped Japan. An English-speaking guide will lead the way, sharing stories of samurai, emperors, and feudal lords.
Expect to see the iconic Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. This walking tour offers a deep dive into Japanese culture and history. This tour excludes entrance fees and food and drinks.
Tokyo
¥23500
Tokyo Private Tour: See the City with a Local Guide
4.9
(3883 reviews)
Duration: 360
minutes
Experience Tokyo with the Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide. This tour shows visitors both the new and old parts of Tokyo, one of the biggest cities in the world. This private tour is perfect for people who want to see a lot in a short amount of time.
The guide will help visitors discover what makes Tokyo special. People can pick 3 or 4 places they want to see, like the busy Shibuya Crossing or the peaceful Meiji Shrine. They can also visit Asakusa, known for its old temple, or the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. Other great spots include the Imperial Palace, Tsukiji Outer Market, Akihabara, Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, Hama Rikyu Gardens, Tokyo National Museum, Sensoji Temple, Rikugien Garden, Yoyogi Park, Harajuku, Odaiba, Shibamata, Yanaka and Nezu, Golden Gai, Tokyo Tower, and Gotokuji Temple and Ueno Park. The guide knows a lot about Tokyo and can answer questions and share stories about the city.
This walking tour lasts six hours. The guide meets people at a set spot in Tokyo. The tour price covers the guide's entry fees to the places on the What to Expect list. It does not cover transportation, food, or personal costs. This tour is a great way to see Tokyo with a friendly, local expert.
Tokyo
$30
Tsukiji Fish Market Food Tour: Taste Tokyo!
5.0
(1707 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Tokyo: Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Walking Tour invites everyone to discover the heart of Tokyo's vibrant food culture. A local, English-speaking guide leads visitors through the bustling 80-year-old Tsukiji Fish Market. This isn't just a tour; it's a tasty adventure into Japanese culinary traditions.
Visitors will explore the historical Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple and the lively Tsukiji Outer Market, two key stops that showcase Tokyo's unique blend of old and new. Expect to sample yummy street foods like sushi, Japanese-style omelets, and fried fish cakes. The tour focuses on small groups, ensuring a personal experience as you learn about local dishes and ingredients.
The tour includes entry to the Tsukiji Fish Market, Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, and Tsukiji Outer Market. A knowledgeable local guide will provide insights throughout the experience. Food and drinks are not included, allowing flexibility to choose personal favorites. This walking tour offers a deep dive into Tsukiji’s culture and flavors, promising an engaging and delicious exploration.
Tokyo
¥16036
Shinjuku Bar Hop: All-You-Can-Drink + Dinner!
4.9
(3571 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
The Tokyo Bar Hopping Tour in Shinjuku takes visitors into the heart of Tokyo's vibrant nightlife. A friendly guide leads the way through Shinjuku's exciting food alleys, where the smells of grilling fill the air.
Imagine exploring Memory Lane (Omoide Yokocho), a narrow street packed with tiny eateries and bars. Then, the tour moves to Kabukicho, known for its lively izakaya bars. These bars buzz with locals enjoying after-work drinks. The tour also passes near the famous Godzilla Head at the Shinjuku Toho Building and Uniqlo Shinjuku Nishiguchi Shop near Black Pillar, offering great photo opportunities.
This tour includes visits to three local izakaya bars, all-you-can-drink at one bar, and a full dinner. Guests can choose from a special menu. The tour also provides photos to remember the night. Magical Trip, a tour operator with a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, ensures a small-group experience. This allows for more interaction with locals and a deeper dive into Japanese drinking culture. Not included are extra drinks beyond what's offered and transportation. Participants should be ready for a walking tour with a fun, social atmosphere. It is an excellent culinary walking tour that many have enjoyed! The experience has received over 2,500+ 5-star reviews!
Top Things to Do in Tokyo + Tours & Trips
Explore Tokyo’s best attractions, tours, and adventures. From foodies joining a Tokyo food tour to travelers seeking Mt. Fuji tours from Tokyo or day tours from Tokyo to Hakone, we’ve brought together the top 100+ experiences in one place. Whether you’re looking to explore culture, nightlife, or adventures, our guide brings you the best things to do in Tokyo to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
View Tokyo Activities