Zen Practice

The Sanzen program is for people who wish to have intimate practice with sitting Zen (“zazen”). All participants in this program will stay in communal rooms and use communal baths (men and women in separate facilities).
This program includes:

• Three to four 40-minute periods of zazen (shikantaza, “single-minded sitting”).
• Participation in the morning service.
• Watching a movie about Eiheiji.
• A guided tour of the historical temple facilities.
• Two meals of traditional temple cuisine.
• Depending on the circumstances of Eiheiji or you, it may be possible to modify a schedule.

Participants must come with a respect for Zen Buddhism and for Japanese tradition and customs.

To apply for the Sanzen Program you must apply by submitting the application below at least one month in advance. Please also specify alternate dates in case your first choice is not available.
Even if a group of people would like to participate in the Sanzen program, each person should submit an application individually.
However, in the case of a group of 5 people or more, we can provide you with the Sanzen Program for a Group. If you would like to make an application as a group, please use the Contact Form below.


Once your reservation is confirmed, we will send a permission letter by email, which you must present when you arrive at Eiheiji.

14:00 to 15:00

Please be sure to check in between the above-mentioned times, otherwise you will not complete all schedules.

15,000 yen per person to be paid in cash or credit as a donation when you arrive.

If you must cancel, let us know at least one day before arrival. We make preparations for sharing our practice with you. Your cancellation without any notice in advance would disturb the monastic life. In an event of No Show, your application in the future may not be accepted.

International Department
Phone: 0776-63-3188
Fax: 0776-63-3631
Contact Form: URL is written in our reply mail after your application.

Please wear modest clothes suitable for religious practice. For zazen, loose-fitting clothes are preferable. You are also expected to bring socks (or white tabi), a towel and other toiletries (bath towel etc.).

and when there are special events.

1. After your arrival, you are expected to follow the schedule and the rules of this temple.
2. You are not allowed to go out during the stay.
3. Smoking is prohibited except in the area specifically posted for smoking.
4. Do not bring any food and drinks from outside.
5. Please respect the silence of the temple, to keep your own mind peaceful and out of respect for the practice of others.
6. Especially, please refrain from unnecessary chatting.