What Is Zazen?
Tip: Don't worry about achieving 'emptiness' on your first try — even monks say that simply sitting with correct posture IS the practice, not a means to some other goal.
Beginner-Friendly Zen Temples in Tokyo
Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early for instruction if it's your first time — most temples provide cushions but bringing thin socks (for cold wooden floors) helps in winter.
Kyoto's Zen Temples
Tip: Shunkoin's English zazen with Rev. Kawakami is the single best Zen experience for English speakers in Japan — his explanations bridge cultural gaps beautifully.
Multi-Day Zen Retreats
Tip: Multi-day retreats are physically demanding — the schedule, seiza (kneeling) position, sparse meals, and silence challenge even experienced meditators. Start with a single session first.
Practical Tips for Zen Practice
Tip: If your legs go numb (they will), gently shift weight during walking meditation (kinhin) between sittings — the numbness passes quickly once you stand.
