Temple Yoga Retreat to Kyoto
April 26 - May 2, 2026
Join us for a unique blend of yoga, meditation, and Japanese culture.
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 in a Temple’s morning ritual, zazen meditation, traditional tea ceremony, complete with a group photo in kimono
• Learn to prepare an authentic Japanese meal.
• Discover the popular sites of Kyoto including Fushimi Inari, Kiyomize Dera, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kinkaku-ji
• Experience the timeless charm of Kyoto's historic Gion district.
• Connect with Fellow Yogis
Total package price is dependent on your room selection. See details on rooms and link to register below
Single Rooms- $4599/pp
Double Room - $3599/pp
Additional Pricing Details:
• Deposit: $1000 non-refundable upon registration
• Second Installment: $1500 due by December 15, 2025
• Balance: Due by February 15, 2026
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 and/or Morning Yoga with Yuki
7:30am: Breakfast
9:00am: Group Activities & Free Time
4:00pm: Group Yoga with Doug
5:30pm: Evening Meal
For a more detailed schedule please click here.
April 26 - May 2, 2026
Born and raised in Japan, Yuki is passionate about sharing her rich cultural heritage. As a lead teacher for Radiance Yoga Teacher Training and a certified yoga therapist, she offers private yoga therapy sessions tailored to individual needs. Yuki is excited to create a nurturing space for your once-in-a-lifetime experience at this retreat. Click here to see Yuki's full bio.
Doug 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.’ Click here to see Doug's full bio.
Some More Useful Information to Consider
Rooming Options & Double Occupancy Policy
All retreat rooms feature two full-size beds and may be booked as single or double occupancy.
If you book a double occupancy room and do not have a confirmed roommate, please read the following carefully:
At the time of registration, you may choose:
I am traveling with a roommate (please include their name at checkout), OR
I would like to be matched with a roommate.
If you request a roommate:
By the first installment due date, if no roommate has been found, you will have two options:
1. Upgrade to a single room and pay the price difference (subject to availability), OR
2. Cancel your reservation for a full refund, including your $1000 deposit.
If you choose to continue past the first installment date and no roommate has been found by the second installment due date, you will again have two options:
1. Upgrade to a single room and pay the price difference, OR
2. Cancel your reservation. At this point, your $1000 deposit becomes non-refundable. Any additional payments will be refunded in accordance with our cancellation policy.
We always do our best to match solo travelers, but we cannot guarantee a roommate will be available. If you want to guarantee the double occupancy rate, we strongly encourage you to register
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 Hotel: ~8min, ~$7
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 Sunday, Monday and Friday, and lunch on Thursday (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
$4,599 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
$3,599 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.
Please click on the "More Info" tab above to review the double room policy if not booking with another person.
