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Shakyo (Sutra Copying) at Shourinji Temple

 

starts from

$21

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Description

While in Kyoto, take a moment to calm your mind through the practice of shakyo at Shourinji Temple. Open to beginners, no Japanese knowledge required. Copying sutras is considered a form of 'writing meditation', to align the body and mind with the sutras the practitioner writes out. It is considered a meritorious practice, dating back to the times before the printing press, when the only way to pass on knowledge was by hand-copying. Trace over the characters within the quiet tatami halls and garden-facing porches of the temple, guided by the monks of Shourinji. Shourinji Temple was built in 1550, and the Heian-era statue of Bishamonten which graces the altar was originally found hidden in the ceiling of Tofukuji Temple.

Cancellation Policy

  • Any cancellations made after 1 hours prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount.

Activity Detail

Pricing Details

Prices Starts From:01-10-2019   Ends On:01-01-2038    Available Days:   All Days
Adult/Child (Age 0 & Up) $21

Inclusion

  • Shakyo Session
  • Japanese tea and sweets

Check In/Pickup Location Details

  • The temple is 8 minutes by foot from Tofukuji Station on the Keihan train line, 8 minutes by foot from Tofukuji Station on the JR Nara line and right next to the Tofukuji bus stop (served by the 202, 207 and 208 buses).

Additional Notes

  • All the writing tools will be provided by the temple, so you do not need to bring your own.
  • The shakyo session should take approximately an hour, but this is only an estimation. The session may be slightly longer or shorter.
  • While the monks can speak some English, they are not fluent.

Schedule

Shakyo (Sutra Copying) at Shourinji Temple
16:44:03 Arrive at Shourinji Temple

Day: Day1
Explanation of shakyo

Day: Day1
Read the Heart Sutra

Day: Day1
Cleanse mind and body with incense

Day: Day1
Shakyo
You will trace over the characters, so no previous knowledge of Japanese characters is required.
Day: Day1
Tea and sweets

Day: Day1
Conclusion of shakyo

Day: Day1

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