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"ZAZEN"-Zen meditation and Sake-tasting in Saijo, Higashihiroshima

Akikokubuji-Temple

"ZAZEN"-Zen meditation and Sake-tasting in Saijo, Higashihiroshima

Unique Experience

Joined 2024

Keiko K.

5.00 / 5

(37 reviews)

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

Hiroshima

English, German, Japanese (Native)

4 hours

Private tour (only you and Keiko K.)

Up to 3 people

Tired of the crowds in central Hiroshima? Escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a peaceful day in Higashihiroshima.

Higashihiroshima, famous for its Sake Brewery, originally developed around Aki Kokubunji Temple, established along the old Saigoku-kaido.

How about experiencing Zen meditation (ZAZEN) at this prestigious temple, surrounded by serenity and tradition?

After the session, we’ll visit a Sake-Brewery Street (Sakagura-Dori) and taste different types of Sake produced in Saijo.

Itinerary

This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!

10:00 AM

Meeting Point

JR Saijo Station

- at the exit of the ticket gates

10:10 AM

Akikokubunji-Temple

Aki Kokubunji is an ancient temple founded in the 8th century as part of a system of provincial temples across Japan. It played an important role in the history of the Hiroshima region. They offer some traditional activities such as Zazen (zen-meditation), Goma(fire) ritual experience, Shabutsu (Buddhist image tracing experience) and Scented sachet-making experience. How about participating in one of those unique activities?

11:40 AM

Saijo Sake-Brewery Street

Step into the heart of Japan’s sake culture in Saijo. Stroll along the historic Sake Brewery Street (Sakagura-dori), lined with traditional white-walled storehouses and towering red brick chimneys.

Let me take you to this picturesque district, where you’ll learn how sake is made and enjoy tastings at seven different breweries.

Ending Point

JR Saijo Station

Want to personalize this tour?

This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.

Inclusions & Exclusions

What‘s included

-Guiding fee

-Guide's transportation from home to the meet-up place and backward

What‘s not included

-Admission fee: Sankeien-garden (JPY350p.p)

*Please cover the admission fee for the guide

-Activities at Akukokubuji-Temple (JPY2000~3000p.p: it depends on your choice)

Note: This tours requires a minimum of 2 participants to operate. For solo travelers, please kindly cover my activity fees so I can join you as a participant.

Tour Important Information

*Guests can choose their preferred activities among Zazen, Goma (fire) ritual experience, Buddhist image tracing experience, and Scented sachet-making experience.

*Before booking, please let me know your preferred tour date. I would like to ask the temple of their availability and vacant spots in advance.

This tour is NOT available in August.

Important message from the supplier

Weekdays are basically available.

Weekends are also available upon request, though, family matters are prioritized.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time

Joined 2024

Keiko K.

5.00 / 5

(37 reviews)

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

About Tour Guide Keiko K.

Hello, welcome to my profile! I'm Keiko (Kay). As a national certified guide deeply passionate about the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of this area, I am eager to share these experiences with you. With over 16 years of experience living abroad, mostly in Europe, I've had the privilege of immersing myself in diverse cultures and meeting incredible people from around the world. I'm sociable, outgoing and love making new connections wherever I go.

I'm also very active, enjoying sports like badminton, biking, jogging, and dancing, especially zumba and salsa. On top of that, I've been playing the piano for over *xx years, a passion that brings balance to my life. (The reason XX is simply because I hesitate to disclose my age...)

Health and nutrition are important to me, as is the same to everyone, and I love exploring new ways to stay healthy and enjoy good food!

Our itinerary will take us through some of the most iconic landmarks, as well as a few hidden gems that only locals know about. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient architecture, indulging in the local cuisine, or learning about the fascinating history that has shaped this place, I am here to tailor the tour to your interests.

Would I be a good fit for your company here in Hiroshima?

Warm regards,

Keiko(Kay)

Reviews

Noreen O.

5 / 5

Jun 26, 2026

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