Zenpoji Temple Zen Meditation and Shojin Ryori Meal

Zenpoji Temple, one of the major Soto Zen training temples in Tsuruoka City in western Yamagata Prefecture, has hosted resident monks and offered visitor programs combining meditation and monastic dining for many years. The roughly two-to-three-hour visit begins with an introductory zazen seated meditation session led by resident monks in the temple's meditation hall, where a monk explains basic posture and breathing before a timed sitting period. The group then moves to a separate hall for a formal shojin ryori meal prepared according to Soto Zen monastic recipes, presenting several small savory dishes based on tofu, seasonal vegetables and grains, entirely plant-based and free of meat, fish or strong-flavored alliums in line with Zen dietary precepts. Before eating, a monk or staff member explains temple dining etiquette, including how utensils are held and how the meal traditionally begins and ends with a short recitation. Included in the price are the meditation session, the full shojin ryori meal and guided etiquette instruction, along with time afterward to explore Zenpoji's historic temple grounds; transportation to the temple is not included. Because the meal is fully plant-based, it accommodates vegetarian and vegan visitors without adjustment, though those with soy allergies should be aware of the meal's heavy reliance on tofu. Advance reservation is required, as sessions are scheduled around the monks' own daily routine rather than offered continuously throughout the day.