[Experience] The Aesthetics of Silence and Rebirth: A Day Tour of Tomonoura, the World of Tomo, and Shinshoji Temple

This tour offers a one-day experience of the two facets of Japanese culture: its communicative and spiritual aspects. Visiting Tomo, you'll learn about the history and openness of this port town, then at Shōshōji Temple, you'll confront your inner self amidst Zen meditation and tranquility. This contrast between "movement and stillness" provides a multifaceted understanding of the essence of Japanese culture.

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Gold-Guide

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Required time

1 day (8 hours required)

Transportation

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Location

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The tour we'll be introducing today is...

The Aesthetics of Silence and Rebirth: A Day Tour of Tomo and the Zen World of Shinshoji Temple

This tour is designed to allow you to experience the two sides of Japanese culture—an "outwardly open, communicative culture" and an "inwardly focused spiritual culture"—in a single day. In Seto Naikai, facing the Tomo Inland Sea, the historic townscape and permanent lanterns that flourished as a port for ships waiting for favorable tides since the Edo period still remain, creating a landscape that can be called the original scenery of Japan. You will experience the openness fostered by the exchange of people and cultures. On the other hand, at Shinshoji Temple, you will be offered an experience of immersing yourself in silence and confronting your inner self in a space where Zen philosophy and modern architecture and art are fused. Through this contrast of "movement and stillness," this tour will give you a three-dimensional understanding of the essence of Japanese culture.

Please contact us here to make a reservation.

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Meeting point: You will meet your assigned interpreter/guide at your accommodation in Fukuyama City or at JR Fukuyama.
After the meeting, we will travel to the port town of Tomo by private vehicle.

Tomonoura

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We will have lunch in the Tomo area.
Lunch will be prepared according to your preferences. Please let us know if you have any allergies or dislikes.

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After lunch, we will move on to Shinshoji Temple.

Shinshoji Zen and Garden Museum

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Please enjoy your visit to Shinshoji Temple after arriving.

Visiting Shinshoji Temple

Upon entering the main gate of Shinshoji Temple, a tranquil atmosphere unfolds within its vast grounds, allowing visitors to leisurely explore the gardens and architecture. As you proceed, your awareness shifts to natural elements such as wind, light, and sound, giving you a sense of escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In spaces dotted with contemporary art, the artworks and the environment become one, allowing you to experience the Zen worldview through all five senses.

Zen meditation experience

At Shinshoji Temple, you can experience Zen meditation in a space enveloped in silence. As you adjust your posture and focus on your breath, you will become more aware of the sounds and breeze around you, and your mind will naturally calm down. This time to leave your daily routine behind and confront yourself will be a particularly memorable experience during your trip, and it is an accessible and valuable opportunity to experience the world of Zen, even for beginners.

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After your visit, you will be transported by private car to your hotel in Fukuyama City or to JR Fukuyama Station.
*Please contact us if you would like to have your order delivered to a location other than those listed above.

For more information about the tour, please contact us here.

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