6 – 17 April 2026 | Blossom Season | Kyoto, Kanazawa, Myoko Kogen, Nagano, Osaka
An Immersive Zen & Meditation Pilgrimage
Step into the heart of Japan’s monastic tradition. This retreat introduces you to the country’s rich spiritual heritage through temple stays, authentic Zen teachings, and immersion in Japan’s natural and cultural beauty.
Rooted in simplicity, presence, and reverence, this is a pilgrimage of the heart and mind – this is a journey through the essence of Zen, wabi sabi, and Japanese monastic life. You’ll walk beneath blossoming sakura, meditate with Zen monks, and rest in temples, ryokans, and serene mountain lodges.
Your Guides
Celia Roberts – BIYOME founder, meditation teacher of over 20 years, and former resident of Japan for 3.5 years, where she immersed herself in the language, traditions, and cultural life of Japan.
Leigh‑Ann Rohde – Long‑time BIYOME colleague, part‑time resident in Japan, and devoted student of its culture, natural beauty, and seasonal rhythms.
Together, Celia and Leigh‑Ann will guide you beyond the tourist trail into authentic temples, gardens, and experiences rarely seen by visitors.
Retreat Highlights
- Daily meditation with Celia, Leigh‑Ann & Zen monks
- Private temple access & tea ceremony experiences
- Iconic cultural sites: Golden Pavilion, Fushimi Inari, Philosopher’s Path, Zenkoji Temple
- Spring blossom walks, historic gardens & rural mountain retreats
- Immersion in both vibrant cities & peaceful countryside
11 Days – The Daily Flow – BIYOME Japan Retreat
6 – 17 April 2026 | Blossom Season
6 April – Day 1 – Arrival in Osaka – TRAVEL DAY
Arrive at Kansai International Airport, where the calm pace of your journey begins. Settle in after your international flight, enjoy a gentle evening, and rest deeply in preparation for the days ahead. **Enjoy an overnight stay at Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, conveniently located just a 3‑minute walk from the terminal — ideal for rest and adjustment before the retreat begins.
7 April – Day 2 – Kyoto: Golden Pavilion & Zen Meditation – RETREAT BEGINS
*Meet in the Foyer of Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport the next morning at 9.30am after Breakfast.
Travel to Kyoto, the ancient capital. Visit Kinkaku‑ji, where gold leaf shimmers over a still pond. In the quiet halls of Myoshin‑ji Temple, take part in a private Zazen meditation with a Zen monk, followed by the mindful beauty of a traditional tea ceremony.
8 April – Day 3 – Kyoto: Fushimi Inari & Philosopher’s Path
Begin in silence beneath thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, a sacred pilgrimage route winding up Mount Inari. In the afternoon, wander the cherry blossom‑lined Philosopher’s Path, a route once walked daily by monks and philosophers.
9 April – Day 4 – Kyoto: Free Exploration
A day to follow your own rhythm — perhaps the bamboo groves of Arashiyama, the thousand Kannon statues at Sanjusangendo, or the terrace view from Kiyomizu‑dera. The evening is yours for quiet contemplation or gentle exploration.
10 April – Day 5 – Kanazawa: Gardens & Tea District
Travel to Kanazawa, home to Kenroku‑en, one of Japan’s most celebrated gardens. Wander the historic Higashi Chaya district, with its preserved wooden teahouses and refined atmosphere of old Japan.
11 April – Day 6 – Kanazawa: Morning Meditation
At Myohoji Temple, begin the day with a seated Zazen meditation led by a local monk. The afternoon offers time for stillness by the sea, a peaceful garden walk, or rest.
12 April – Day 7 – Myoko Kogen: Lake & Mountain Retreat
Journey to the mountain town of Myoko Kogen, surrounded by alpine views and blossoms. Spend the afternoon walking mindfully along the shores of Lake Nojiri, breathing in the crisp mountain air.
13 April – Day 8 – Myoko Kogen: Waterfalls & Onsen
Take a gentle hike to a nearby waterfall along moss‑covered trails and wooden bridges. In the afternoon, soak in a traditional onsen, allowing mineral‑rich waters to soothe the body and mind.
14 April – Day 9 – Nagano: Zenkoji Temple Stay
Travel to Nagano for an overnight temple stay at Zenkoji, one of Japan’s most important Buddhist sites. Experience temple lodging, a tea ceremony, and an evening meditation in sacred surroundings.
15 April – Day 10 – Nagano: Zazen with Local Monk
Begin the day with a private Zazen session led by an English‑speaking monk, deepening your connection to Zen practice. Later, we will travel to Osaka, ready to close our pilgrimage together.
16 April – Day 11 – Osaka: Final Reflections
Gather for a closing meditation with Celia Roberts, integrating the insights and stillness gained. The afternoon is free to explore Osaka’s cultural treasures or prepare for departure.
17 April – Departure Day
With hearts full and clear minds, we farewell Japan and return home — carrying the spirit of Zen into our daily lives.
What’s Included
- 10 nights’ accommodation in temples, ryokans, local accommodation and traditional hotels
- Daily meditation with Celia Roberts and Zen monks
- All listed temple programs and cultural experiences
- Ground transport between destinations
- Breakfast daily & selected temple meals
Not Included:
- International flights
- Some lunches and dinners
- Personal expenses
- First Night – Monday 6 April 2026: Arrival in Osaka
Arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX) in the late afternoon.
**Enjoy an overnight stay at Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, conveniently located just a 3‑minute walk from the terminal — ideal for rest and adjustment before the retreat begins
If you would like to contact Celia to learn more about the meditation teacher training journey, please do visit our Meditation Teacher Training Page or find us on Facebook or Instagram or contact Celia directly.