Zen Temples in Japan for Meditation (English-friendly)

There are 5 Buddhist monasteries and meditation temples in Japan in our directory that welcome English speakers, across Zen traditions. Many offer free or donation-based (dana) teachings and retreats; check each temple's website for dates and guidelines.

Zen, Chan and Seon

AntaijiHyogo · Soto Zen
EiheijiFukui · Soto Zen
Shunkoin Temple (Myoshinji)Kyoto · Rinzai Zen
SogenjiOkayama · Rinzai Zen

Other temples

Eko-in (temple lodging)Koyasan, Wakayama · Shingon

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Questions people ask

Can beginners visit a Buddhist monastery in Japan?

Yes. Most monasteries and meditation temples in Japan welcome beginners for talks, group sittings or retreats. Contact the temple first and follow its guidelines.

Do Buddhist retreats cost money?

Many monasteries run on donations (dana) and ask nothing fixed. Lay-run retreat centres usually charge for food and lodging, often with a sliding scale.