Zen Meditation in the Shimanto River

Zen Meditation in the Shimanto River

Zen Meditation in the Shimanto River

Overview

Experience Zen meditation in the Shimanto River, said to be the last clear stream in Japan. Why not experience mindfulness that is unique to Kochi? Iwamotoji Temple, the 37th of the 88 sacred places on the pilgrimage that is the pride of Shikoku, is a popular temple that combines art and Buddhism, which is rare in Shikoku. Visitors can experience the full course of the temple's ascetic practices, starting with the early morning service, breakfast, gomataki (Buddhist fire ritual), and Zen meditation in the Shimanto River. Before the experience, you can leave your cell phone as a digital detox (on request only). Breakfast using Niida rice, a brand of rice produced in Shimanto Town, is also excellent.

Highlights

  • Digital detox: Optional smartphone surrender for a moment of disconnection
  • Full monastic experience: Morning sutra chanting → goma fire ritual → underwater zazen → traditional breakfast
  • Exquisite breakfast: Local morning meal made with premium “Niida rice” from Shimanto
  • Zazen: A one-of-a-kind mindfulness experience in the clear waters of the Shimanto River
  • Art meets Buddhism: Practice at Iwamoto-ji, Temple No. 37 of the Shikoku Pilgrimage

Key Information

Description