Kuya Falls and the Mountain Rivers: A Day of Mountain Hiking and Healing (away from golden week crowds!))
2026-05-07 09:30 - 13:00 (Europe/London)
Hike in the mountains north of Arashiyama, Kyoto in a mountain gorge toward the beautiful Kuya Falls, a sacred waterfall on the remote grounds of an Eight Dragon King Shrine. We will practice numerous contemplative exercises on the way, learning about the origins of these hidden natural wonders as ancient contemplative spaces for mountain ascetics through Japanese history. A day filled with immersing yourself in the magic of nature, living with the traditions of centuries of contemplatives who came before.
We will have also hike to a beautiful spot on the river, in the mountain gorge with flowing rapids for a picnic and sharing of our experiences.
CONTACT us for inquiries:
note: listed cost includes plant-based snacks, taxes, and entree fees. When registering, please alert us to any feed allergies or dietary restrictions.
(If you would like to register a group of 3 or more, feel free to inquire about group discounts!)

Morning Meditation Retreat at Secluded Shrine
2026-05-15 08:00 - 12:30
Spend the morning in a quiet calm and magical area of Kyoto, hidden away from the crowds. We will practice a few forms of meditation throughout the morning to both relax and revitalize as Spring begins to flourish around Kyoto. Being in a quiet, hidden shrine with the sounds of a waterfall and birds in the background help set the mood of the space, as you are guided through a series of deep relaxation and kindness meditations. Whether you are new to meditation or very experienced, this morning retreat can offer adaptations to fit you.
We will meet at Tofukuji Station at 8am, and walk together from there to Gosh-no-Taki Shrine. You will also receive a short behind-the-scenes tour of the shrine with areas the public does not get to see.
Fees from the meditation also support repairs at the shrine

Meditation Guide: A Shingon Buddhist Priest, who previously trained extensively in Zen and Thai Forest traditions. “Jishin” has about 20 years experience guiding meditations. With a PhD in culture and history of religions, and experience teaching in several universities around the world, Jishin has both the academic and insider understandings of Buddhism and Japanese religion. Previously a researcher at Tohoku University and Ryukoku University on Buddhist chaplaincy, Jishin wrote about and volunteered in disaster and crisis care. Their books include Refuge in the Storm: Buddhist Voices in Crisis Care and A Thousand Hands: A Guidebook to Caring for your Buddhist Community. Jishin was also certified as a Clinical Meditation Teacher.
For Questions and Inquiries, feel free to contact:

OPTIONAL ADDITION: For an extra donation to the shrine, those interested may also try “Taki-gyo” (waterfall meditation) after the retreat period. Taki-gyo is a about a 1300 year-old meditation tradition in Japan that involves chanting meditation while standing under a waterfall. The shrine will provide special clothing, laundry service and a warm shower, while Jishin will provide instructions. Please mention if you are interested in adding this unique experience.
