Private Shizuoka Shore Excursion: Zen, Matcha and Calligraphy

5.0 (14 reviews) 2 h 30 min Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

14 reviews

5.0

Zen meditation with a local monk – Shizuoka shore excursion from Shimizu Port — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Zen meditation with a local monk – Shizuoka shore excursion — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Experience the ultimate private cultural immersion in Shizuoka. Designed exclusively for cruise travelers, this premium tour offers an intimate journey at a dynamic, efficient pace.

**Highlights**

100% Private: No waiting for groups. Enjoy a personalized pace.
Samurai Heritage: Explore Seiganyo-ji Temple, connected to Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Authentic Zen & Tea: Experience meditation (chairs available) and premium Matcha with sweets.
Premium Keepsake: Create your own calligraphy on a traditional scroll (Kakejiku).
Full Support: Your English-speaking private guide meets you at the pier and stays with you throughout the entire tour.

**Time-Efficient Itinerary (2.5 - 3 Hours)**

We maximize your limited shore time. By utilizing taxi transport and a focused 30-minute temple walk, we provide a rich experience without the wasted time of large bus tours. You’ll be back at the pier or local lunch spots with plenty of time to spare.

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At a glance

Duration: 2 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–10
Guide: English
Operated by: Authentic Cultural Experiences in Shimizu

Ages: Children (6–12 years) · Adults (13–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Snacks: Premium matcha green tea and high-quality seasonal Japanese sweets.
Included: Private Zen meditation at a serene temple. Chairs are available for your comfort.
Included: Create your own masterpiece on a traditional hanging scroll (Kakejiku) to take home.
Included: Entrance fees: All admission fees for the temple are included in the tour price.

Not included

Not included: Private transportation: Taxi fares (approx. 2,000 JPY per vehicle each way) are not included and should be paid directly to the driver. Your guide provides full navigation and escort.
Not included: Meals are not included other than the matcha tea and Japanese sweet provided during the experience.
Not included: Personal expenses (e.g. souvenirs, extra food or drinks)

Itinerary

Seiken-ji Temple

30 min Admission included

Visit Seiken-ji Temple, a historic Zen Buddhist temple with over 1,000 years of history. The temple is famously associated with Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, who studied here as a child. Guests will explore the serene temple grounds, admire its traditional wooden architecture, and gain insight into the role this temple played in shaping Japanese history and culture.
Zuiunin

2 hours

At Zuiun-in Temple, you'll enjoy a peaceful introduction to Japanese Zen culture.

Start with a zazen (seated meditation) session guided by a Zen monk. Focus on your breath and posture to experience a calm moment of mindfulness.

After meditation, enjoy matcha green tea and seasonal Japanese sweets in a traditional tatami room. Learn the basics of Japanese tea culture and hospitality.

Next is a unique calligraphy experience. Based on the sound of your name, you’ll be offered several beautiful kanji characters, each with a positive meaning such as “love,” “peace,” or “smile.” Choose your favorite, and learn to write it with brush and ink. You’ll take home your own handmade art as a special souvenir.

For those interested, we can also explain the traditional concept of stroke count balance, used in Japan to select kanji characters with good fortune and harmony.

This experience is a perfect way to relax, learn, and connect with Japanese culture in an authentic and personal way.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Your private guide will be waiting for you right in front of the "Information Counter" located just outside the ship's security gate. Your guide will be holding a personalized sign with your name on it for a smooth, stress-free meeting.

End point

Your private guide will be waiting for you right in front of the "Information Counter" located just outside the ship's security gate. Your guide will be holding a personalized sign with your name on it for a smooth, stress-free meeting.