Ori-ori Sanpai

Start the morning practicing zazen at this spot, where Prince Shotoku’s villa allegedly once stood about 1400 years ago.
Join a monk in slowly bringing your mind, breath, and body in order to attain a clear state of mind.
After the zazen session, we will visit the upper garden, which was built by the high priest Muso Kokushi and is considered not only the oldest dry landscape garden in Japan but also the epitome of this gardening style.

Application Guidelines

Advance registration is required at least 4 days prior to the visit. (*Reservations may be accepted up to one day in advance when available.)
[Qualified] Only Saihokai members *aged 13 or older at time of visit. *Accompanying persons need not be members. (About Membership)
[Dates] December, 2023 : 10(Sun), March, 2024: 17(Sun), 23(Sat)
*Applications accepted 2 months in advance
[Start Time] 9:00(Meet at 8:55 am)
[Required Time] Approx. 100 min.
[Contents] After practicing zazen in the main hall (for approx. 20 minutes), you will be guided to the oldest dry landscape garden in Japan (usually closed to the public).  Please wear comfortable walking shoes as you will need to climb stone steps.
(After the program, you are free to participate in copying a sutra, which is part of Nichi-nichi Sanpai, and spend time by closing time)
*Please refrain from taking pictures during the tour.
[Quota] 5 people
[Admission fee] 10,000 yen (Includes Saihoji-branded calligraphy brush)
*Visitors who bring their own brush or fine brush will receive a piece of Saihoji original merchandise instead of the pen.
*Our system usage fee of 110 yen (tax included) will be charged per person per visit, aside from admission fee.
[Language] Japanese
*Even if you don't understand Japanese, please feel free to join this program. We will provide you with a leaflet with English information.

[Important notes when reserving your visit]
-Creation of your account is required for making a reservation.
-Personal data, such as names of each visitor, are required for making a reservation.
-The garden paths are not wheelchair accessible, as the temple grounds include steps and areas covered in gravel.

[Change/Cancellation]
The date and time of the visit cannot be changed. If you wish to change the date and time of your visit, please cancel your reservation and make a new one. Cancellations (including reduction in the number of participants) will be subject to the following cancellation fees.
Cancellation fees: 
(Up to 4 days before) Free of charge
(3 days before - 1 day before) 50%
(On the day of your visit) 100%
*The system usage fee(110 yen including tax per person)  is not refundable regardless of the date of cancellation.