[December Only] Spiritual Guidance from a Monk: “Omamori” Amulet-Making and Meditation in a Private Temple Hall

This tour is a perfect opportunity to deeply explore the wonders of Kohfukuji Temple. Accompanied by a local interpreter guide, you will use the Kohfukuji Temple Tourist Visual Guide to explore the temple's iconic architectural landmarks, including the “Nan-endo” Southern Round Hall, the Three-story Pagoda, and the “Chukondo” Central Golden Hall. Through detailed explanations, you will gain a deeper understanding of the historical background and cultural significance of each building.

Additionally, as a special experience exclusive to this tour, we offer two unique activities: a meditation session in the currently closed “Tokondo” Eastern Golden Hall and an “omamori” amulet-making workshop (available only on December 5th and 19th). With a monk personally guiding each session, these programs provide a rare opportunity to learn something that can only be experienced in this sacred setting.

In this workshop, you will have the rare opportunity to create your own “omamori” amulet, learning directly from the head priest about its history and how to make it. Write your wish on a “gomagi” prayer stick and create a unique amulet, filled with your hopes and prayers. By crafting your own amulet, you will gain insight into Japanese faith and craftsmanship, and experience a calming and refreshing moment for your mind.

You will have exclusive access to the “Tokondo” Eastern Golden Hall, currently closed to the public, with a personal tour led by a monk from Kohfukuji Temple. Through the monk's guidance, you will discover the temple's structure, learn about Buddhist history, and understand the proper etiquette for worship. Then, in this private temple setting, you will learn how to sit with correct posture and practice Buddhist meditation techniques to calm your mind. By regulating your breath and mindset, this experience will provide an opportunity to refresh your spirit—an experience that can only be had on this specific day and in this unique location.

Kohfukuji Temple is a historic temple founded in 710 when the capital of Nara was established. As the main temple of the Hosso sect of Buddhism, many national ceremonies have been held at Kohfukuji since the Nara period (710-794), and the temple has been deeply involved in the culture and history of the ancient capital of Nara. The temple preserves many masterpieces of Buddhist art, including the Ashura statue, a national treasure which tells the history of Buddhism in Japan. The Chukondo (Central Golden Hall), in particular, is one of the central buildings of Kohfukuji Temple and houses many exquisite Buddhist statues as well as magnificent architecture. In addition, its splendid five-story pagoda and charming gardens offer visitors beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons, symbolizing the harmony between Nara's history and nature.

What's Included
◎ English-Speaking Guide
◎ Kohfukuji Temple Tourist Visual Guide
◎【Only in December】Private Tour of the “Tokondo” with a Monk: Guided Tour of the Hall, Explanation of Buddhist History, and Ritual Etiquette

On December 16th (Mon), only the experience at the “Tokondo” Eastern Golden Hall will be available.

13:00 - Meet in front of the “Nan-endo” Southern Round Hall for a general introduction, followed by a guided tour of Kohfukuji Temple using the Kohfukuji Temple Tourist Visual Guide



14:00 - Exclusive experience at the “Tokondo” Eastern Golden Hall



15:00 - “Omamori” amulet-making workshop



16:00 - End of the tour

For those who wish to deepen their knowledge of Nara and have a more immersive experience, we also offer a two-day extended tour that includes this special experience. If you are interested, please mention it when you apply.

・Your reservation will be confirmed upon a reply from Sharing Kyoto.
・Please book at least 1 business days in advance so that we can build the best experience for you.
・Applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply. Minors must obtain the consent of a parent or guardian before applying. Elementary school children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
・The experience may be canceled or postponed at short notice, or the content may be changed due to traffic conditions, etc.
・We may share your responses to surveys and reviews on our social networking sites and media.

・Free of charge for cancellations up to 8 days prior to the tour date, 100% for cancellations 7 days or less prior to the tour date.
・Special Cases (Natural disaster, virus, etc.): Full refund.
・Bank transfer fees for refunds in the event of cancellation due to the customer’s circumstances will be borne by the customer.