Discovering True Calm: My Life-Changing Zen Meditation Experience at Nanzenji Temple, Kyoto

Have you ever truly felt calm—deep down in your heart?
Or do you sometimes get swept away by anxiety, stress, or little arguments that throw off your balance? If you find yourself struggling to keep your mind at peace, let me share a secret that transformed my own life: Zazen meditation at Nanzenji Temple, Kyoto.

Why Everyone Needs Mindfulness—Now More Than Ever

Modern life is noisy. Work deadlines, parenting stress, random bad news, even just a baby’s sudden cries or a fight with your partner—it’s so easy to lose your cool. I used to think, “Is my mind really peaceful?” The honest answer: not really. That’s when I discovered the power of traditional Zen meditation.

What Is Zazen? The Ancient Japanese Secret to a Calm Mind

Zazen (“座禅”) is the foundation of Zen Buddhism—just sitting, breathing, and letting your mind settle. It’s not just for monks! Anyone, anywhere can try it.

And there’s no better place than Nanzenji, one of Kyoto’s most historic and spiritual temples.
Founded over 700 years ago by Emperor Kameyama, Nanzenji is the birthplace of Japanese “Chokuganji”—temples built by imperial command. And it’s still alive with the spirit of Zen.

The Zazen Experience: How I Joined a Morning Meditation at Nanzenji

Here’s what amazed me: Every second and fourth Sunday, anyone can join a FREE Zazen session at Nanzenji.
No fee, no reservation, just show up at 6 am. You’ll be guided by real Zen monks and even have the option to experience the “keisaku”—a flat stick monks use to gently tap your shoulders to wake you up from distraction. (It sounds scary, but trust me, it’s actually refreshing and helps you focus!)

My Journey: From Sleepless Dad to Zen Beginner

As a new parent on paternity leave, I was feeling drained. My baby’s unpredictable sleep patterns, little arguments with my wife, the sense that I was always on edge… Something had to change. So I decided: I’ll go to Nanzenji, even if it means traveling the night before.

I woke up before dawn and arrived at the temple just before 6am—surrounded by ancient trees, with about 30 other people already quietly seated on meditation cushions.
Pro tip: There’s no locker for valuables, so only bring what you can keep in your pocket.

What Actually Happens in a Zen Meditation Session?

• First 10 minutes: A monk explains the basics of posture, breathing, and how to count your breaths (“Susokukan”).
• Main session: 20 minutes of sitting, focusing only on your breath. If (when!) your mind wanders, just gently return to counting.
• Short break, then another 20 minutes of Zazen.
• Optional: If your mind is really busy, raise your hands and the monk will give you a gentle tap on the shoulder with the keisaku to help you refocus!
• Final minutes: A short Dharma talk and group chanting.
• Bonus: You even get a copy of the sutra to take home!

The Magic of Zazen: What I Actually Felt

At first, my legs were stiff, my thoughts kept spinning—but as I focused on my breath, a strange calm washed over me. When the monk tapped my shoulder, all my anxieties melted away. By the end, I felt lighter, more focused, and grateful.
Zen isn’t about “emptying your mind”—it’s about learning to let go, over and over.

Practical Zen Tips for Total Beginners

• No fancy equipment needed: Just loose clothes, a cushion, and an open mind.
• Count your breaths: One to ten, then start again.
• It’s normal for thoughts to come and go! Don’t judge—just breathe.
• If you get distracted, it’s ok. That’s what the keisaku is for!

Why Try Zen Meditation at Nanzenji?

• It’s free!
• It’s authentic: Led by real monks, in a real temple.
• It’s welcoming: All ages, all backgrounds—no experience needed.
• It’s a chance to hit reset. Whether you’re a busy parent, student, or just stressed out by life, you’ll find something here.

Make It a Kyoto Adventure!

After the session, don’t miss the Sanmon Gate (famous for its panoramic view), the Suirokaku Aqueduct (a gorgeous Instagram spot), or the hidden shrines nearby. If you’re a fan of history like me, check out the sites related to Ryoma Sakamoto—a true samurai legend.

Essential Details

• Where: Nanzenji Temple, Kyoto
• When: 2nd & 4th Sunday every month, 6–7am (except August)
• What to bring: Light clothing, minimal valuables
• More info: Nanzenji official site

My Takeaway: Zen Meditation Changed My Parenting, My Mind, and My Life

I’ve tried meditation apps before, but nothing compared to sitting in silence, breathing with strangers who quickly felt like friends. My parenting feels calmer, my arguments less heated, and my days brighter.

If you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, or just want to find real peace—give Zazen at Nanzenji a try. It’s a life hack that’s been around for 700 years.
Who knows? The biggest breakthroughs sometimes happen when you’re just sitting still.