Temple Yoga Retreat in Kyoto
SOLD OUT!
Join us for a unique blend of yoga, meditation, and Japanese culture.
Due to the overwhelming response to our first week in Japan, we've added this second retreat to ensure more participants can experience the magic of Kyoto
Join Doug Keller, an internationally recognized yoga teacher, and native Japanese speaker, Yuki Riley, for an unforgettable journey to Kyoto, Japan. Immerse yourself in a harmonious blend of yoga practice, temple morning rituals, enriching excursions, and immersive traditional Japanese cultural experiences.
This retreat offers a profound journey into the heart of Kyoto's spiritual essence. Staying in serene temple lodgings, you'll delve into meditative and spiritual practices that foster a deep sense of peace and self-discovery. This unique experience will leave you with lasting memories and a newfound tranquility that will continue to enrich your life long after you return home.
Begin Your Day with Peace
- Temple Rituals and Morning Yoga: Each day starts with a peaceful temple ritual and a short outdoor yoga session (weather permitting), setting a mindful tone for the day ahead.
Discover Cultural Riches
- Tea Ceremonies and Traditions: Engage in serene zazen meditation, traditional tea ceremonies, and capture the moment with a group photo in a kimono.
- Culinary and Craft Mastery: Master the art of preparing authentic Japanese meals, participate in Tosenkyo (a traditional fan game), and experience the meditative practice of sutra copying.
Unveil Kyoto's Wonders
- Iconic Site Excursions: Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Shrine, the serene Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the mystical Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and the golden splendor of Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion).
- Historic Gion District: Immerse yourself in the charm of traditional Kyoto with a stroll through the historic streets of Gion.
Connect and Reflect:
- Shared Experiences and Free Time: Build lasting friendships and connections while enjoying moments of mindfulness, with ample free time for personal exploration or relaxation.
The Details
About the Lodge
We will be staying at Wajun Kaikan which serves as the a temple lodging (shukubo) of Chion-in, the head temple of the Jodo Shu school of Buddhism, built in the 13th century. Shukubo are accommodations originally intended for pilgrims and visitors to the temple, offering a unique opportunity to experience the temple's environment and practices. Wajun Kaikan combines the tranquility of traditional Japanese lodging with the comfort and convenience of modern amenities. Located near Maruyama Park, Yasaka Shrine, and the famous Gion district, Wajun Kaikan offers a peaceful retreat from the clamor of everyday life. Take time to relax and align your mind with the rhythmic chanting of Buddhist rituals. The lodge’s restaurant provides a truly relaxing experience, offering hospitality unique to Chion-in. Enjoy authentic kaiseki cuisine, prepared with seasonal ingredients distinctive to Kyoto.
In this Retreat You Will:
• Practice daily yoga and meditation classes.
• Participate daily morning rituals and sutra copying meditation at Chion-in
• Experience cultural activities like kimono dressing, traditional tea ceremony, and Kyoto
fan dart game.
• Learn to prepare an authentic Japanese meal.
• Discover the popular sites of Kyoto including Fushimi Inari, Kiyomize Dera, Arashiyama
Bamboo Forest, Kinkaku-ji, etc.
• Experience the timeless charm of Kyoto's historic Gion district.
• Connect with Fellow Yogis
Payment Schedule & What's Included
Payment:
$1000 non-refundable deposit due upon registration
Installment of $1500 due by December 15, 2024
Balance to be paid by February 15, 2025
Retreat includes:
6-night stay at Chion-in Wajun Kaikan
Breakfast
3 dinners
1 lunch
Yoga & meditation classes
Daily morning rituals at Chion-in
Group Excursion to Arashiyama, Ryoan-ji, & Kinkaku-ji
Group Activities:
• Kimono Rental & Tea Ceremony
• Fan dart game at traditional Kyoto townhouse
• Cooking Class at Washin-kan
• Sutra copying meditation
Sales tax & hotel taxes
Not included in the pricing:
Airfare to Japan
Airport departure taxes (should be included in airfare)
Transfer to & from Airport
Local Transportation other than the Group Excursion
Admissions to the Temples/Shrines/Gardens, etc.
Meals other than 6 breakfast, 1 lunch & 3 dinners
Beverages outside of meals & alcoholic drinks
Massage service
Laundry services
Travel insurance
Cancellation Policy:
Deposits are non-refundable. No refunds will be issued for the installment payment or final balance unless your space can be filled with someone from the waiting list. No credits or refunds will be issued if cancellation is received within one month of the event. If Radiance Yoga must cancel due to insufficient enrollment, your deposit and any paid installment and balance will be refunded in full.
A General Outline of the Daily Schedule
6:00am: Temple Ritual & Outdoor Yoga
7:30am: Breakfast
9:00am: Group Activities & Free Time
3:30pm: Group Yoga
5:00pm: Evening Meal
For a more detailed schedule please click here.
April 26-May 2, 2025
Check in is at 3-11pm and check out is at 10am. Curfew is 11pm.
Some More Useful Information to Consider
Travel Insurance:
We recommend that international retreat participants take out travel insurance in case of any life situation that may alter your plans. You may consider plans from travelinsure.com, insuremytrip.com, or any other option provided by your credit card, airline, or travel company. Also, note that your health insurance may not provide coverage internationally. Check with your provider and consider additional coverage if necessary. In order to guarantee maximum coverage, most travel insurance providers require that you obtain a policy within 5-10 days of placing your initial deposit.
What airport do I fly into?
Osaka (ITM) or Kansai (KIX) International Airport are the close to Kyoto. There are direct flights from Dulles (IAD) to Tokyo (HND), if you would like to spend a few extra days to explore other cities.
How to get to the Hotel from the airport?
Shuttle Bus from Osaka (ITM) to Kyoto Station: ~60min, ~$10
Shuttle Bus from Kansai (KIX) to Kyoto Station: ~90min, ~$18
Bullet Train from Tokyo to Kyoto: ~2hrs, ~$85
Taxi from Kyoto Station to the Wajun Kaikan: ~15min, ~$15
Do I need a Visa to travel to Japan?
American citizen visitors to Japan do not need a visa if they are traveling as a tourist with a valid U.S. passport. You will be issued a visa upon arrival, which is valid for up to 90 days. If your passport expires within six months of your arrival date to Japan, please be sure to renew your passport before you go to avoid any issues with immigration. There are no exceptions.
What time is check in and check out?
Check-in is 3:00pm and check-out is 10:00am.
Are gratuities included?
Gratuities are not included in the price of the program. It is not customary to tip in Japan.
Are meals included?
All breakfasts are included. Dinner on Saturday, Sunday, and Thursday, and lunch on Tuesday (part of the cooking class) are included.
Are there spa services available?
No. Only communal bath is available at Wajun Kaikan
Are there yoga props?
No. Please bring your own mat.
Is WiFi available?
WiFi is available.
What should I bring to wear?
The weather in Kyoto during late April can be variable, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), so it's best to bring light layers like long-sleeve shirts, light sweaters, and a medium-weight jacket. Comfortable walking shoes are essential as Kyoto is a city best explored on foot, with many temples, gardens, and other attractions to visit. Since April can also bring some rain, it's wise to pack a small umbrella or a waterproof jacket. While Kyoto is relatively casual, it's a good idea to bring a smart-casual outfit if you plan to visit upscale restaurants or attend cultural events. Additionally, a scarf or shawl can be useful for layering and for visiting temples where modesty is appreciated.
What is the group size for this retreat?
14 students
What is the minimum age to attend?
18 years or older
Single Room
$4,199 Per Person Single Occupancy
Each room is equipped with modern amenities, including air-conditioning, an air purifier/humidifier, a bidet toilet, WiFi, TV, and refrigerator. Down duvets on a US full-sized bed ensures a simple yet comfortable stay. Guests can also enjoy the newly renovated state-of-the-art communal bath and relax in traditional yukata and haori jackets during their stay.
Double Room
$3,499 Per Person Shared Occupancy
Each room is equipped with modern amenities, including air-conditioning, an air purifier/humidifier, a bidet toilet, WiFi, TV, and refrigerator. Down duvets on two US full-sized beds ensure a simple yet comfortable stay. Guests can also enjoy the newly renovated state-of-the-art communal bath and relax in traditional yukata and haori jackets during their stay.
Instructors
Meet the instructors leading the retreat.
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Doug Keller
See Doug's BioDoug has been teaching workshops and trainings internationallyzin the therapeutic applications of yoga for 20 years, and is known not only for his effectiveness in communicating this ever-evolving approach in these trainings, but also for his extensive writing on the topic in magazines, journals and his two-volume work on ‘Yoga As Therapy.’
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