Zen and Yoga Experience in the Temple Kyoto ｜Discover the Difference Between Zen Meditation and Mindfulness

If you are looking for an authentic Zen and yoga experience in Kyoto,
this story may inspire your journey to Japan.

In recent years, many travelers visiting Japan are searching for more than sightseeing.
They want a Japanese cultural experience that allows them to understand
the deeper philosophy behind daily life, mindfulness, and inner calm.

Our Zen × Yoga session in Kyoto is designed for international visitors
who are curious about Zen meditation, mindfulness, and Japanese culture.

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Difference Between Zen Meditation and Mindfulness

Last week, a wonderful couple originally from Sri Lanka and now living in Australia
joined our Zen and Yoga experience in Kyoto.

Sri Lanka is also a Buddhist country, and they came with a deep curiosity:

“What is the difference between Sri Lankan Buddhism and Japanese Zen?”

They wanted to explore this question not through books,
but through direct experience during their trip to Japan.

During the session, an interesting question came up:

What is the difference between mindfulness and Zen meditation (Zazen)?

At first glance, they may seem very similar.
However, I personally feel there is an important difference.

Mindfulness is often practiced with a clear goal—
to reduce stress, improve focus, or enhance mental performance.
It is a practice of gaining something.

Zen meditation, on the other hand, is simply sitting to sit.

Not to achieve, not to gain,
but to let go of what is unnecessary.
Through sitting, we begin to see what truly matters
and gently release what does not.

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ZEN-Focus on the present moment

When sitting, just sit.
When walking, just walk.
When eating, just eat.

Zazen is the practice of fully focusing on one single action in the present moment.

When I shared this idea, the woman from Sri Lanka said something beautiful:

“I think I understand Japan a little better now.
In Japan, people rarely eat while walking.

In Sri Lanka, it’s very normal,
but in Japan,
when you walk, you walk.
When you eat, you eat.

Maybe this comes from Zen philosophy being deeply rooted in Japanese culture.”

Her words made me pause.

In Japan, except in special places like hot spring towns,
eating while walking is often considered bad manners.

This simple habit reflects how Zen philosophy quietly shapes everyday life in Japan.

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Join Us for a Zen Yoga and Tea Experience in Kyoto

What feels “normal” in Japan may feel completely different to visitors from abroad.

And often, it is exactly this difference that feels most beautiful.

Rather than comparing cultures, we discover understanding through conversation and shared experience.

Through Zen, yoga, and Japanese culture in Kyoto,
I hope to continue creating meaningful moments
where travelers can truly connect with the spirit of Japan.

If you are searching for a Zen meditation experience in Kyoto,
a Japanese cultural yoga experience,
or a deeper way to understand mindfulness through Zen,
you are always welcome.

It’s a beautiful way to relax, learn, and feel the harmony of Japan.

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