NOTICE:
The 2024 PILGRAMAGE is SOLD OUT!
If you are interested in joining us in 2025, See below for details.
Join us for a one-week spiritual pilgrimage to sacred Kyoto, where ancient traditions and serene landscapes create the perfect backdrop for deep spiritual exploration and personal growth.
We will visit a curated selection of temples and sites that hold historical relevance, and spiritual power or are imbued with unique lessons or experiences that can be supportive of our spiritual awareness and practice. Many of the sites we’ll visit will not be on the top 10 places to visit in Kyoto list. We’ve chosen these sites based on the experience and insight we want you to be exposed to.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Come away with us for a week in the incredible and culturally-rich country of Japan, where we’ll be staying in the cultural capital of Kyoto, the city with 1600 temples. The accommodations we’ve chosen are to support a more communal experience. We’re not going to a luxury resort. We’ve rented a beautiful property/complex in Higashiyama Kyoto composed of 5 homes that surround a small courtyard. There are single, double, and dorm room accommodation options to provide price ranges of access and to invite the group to connect and spend time with each other.
We’ll be teaching and sharing specific practices and principles that harmonize with being in Kyoto, its history and the sites we will be visiting. We will be doing practices at our accommodations but mostly at or near the sites we will be visiting.
SOME OF THE THEMES OF THE TRIP
The power of simple rituals and how it impacts our body/mind.
Tracking the energy and accessing the spiritual benefits of sacred sites.
The transformational art of Animist and Deity practices
Esoteric History of Japan and Kyoto
Shinto and Japanese Buddhist principles
The spirituality of Japanese tea ceremony
The use of nature in spiritual environments and practice.
And much more…
WHAT AWAITS YOU
Ancient Temples and Zen Gardens
Visit 1000 year old sacred sites and temples that hold the history, transmission and energy of spiritual practice and ritual with guides that will reveal the spiritual power, history and relevance of these sights that you won’t get from your average guide! We’ll be visiting many Buddhist, Shinto temples and shrines as well as some secret sites that are home to the wild mystics of Japan. Each visit is designed to immerse you in the peace and wisdom of these sacred spaces.
Guided Self-Cultivation Practices Connected to the History of Sacred Sites
Begin each day with guided practice sessions led by Mark and Caiyam. We’ll be engaging in practices specifically designed to help you connect deeper to the power and significance of the sights we will visit. We’ll have the opportunity to experience the power of uniting our inner practice with our environment.
Ceremonial Tea Practice
Experience the meditative beauty of the Japanese tea ceremony. Learn about the intricate rituals and spiritual significance behind this ancient practice, and enjoy the calming effects of a perfectly brewed cup of matcha.
Cultural Immersion, History and Illumination of Japan’s Hidden Spiritual Gems
Sacred Walks to Kyoto’s Power Sites
Take part in guided walks through historic Kyoto, including the sacred paths of Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates. Feel the spiritual energy as you walk in the footsteps of pilgrims who have sought enlightenment here for centuries.
Why Join Us?
• Expert Guides: Our team of experienced spiritual guides and local experts will ensure you gain the most from every experience.
• Authentic Experiences: Engage deeply with Japanese spirituality and culture through authentic, immersive activities.
• Personal Growth: Return home with a renewed sense of purpose, inner peace, and practical tools for maintaining your spiritual practice.
Spaces are limited to ensure a personalized and intimate experience. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to embark on a transformative journey in the heart of sacred Kyoto.
CUISINE
Healthful food is part of the pilgrimage experience. Some meals will have an option for vegetarian, seafood, and/or meat. Ingredients are local and seasonal, and our meals will be inspired by the Japanese traditions. We'll enjoy a traditional coursed menu and some special local culinary spots.
DEEP PRACTICE
We’ll be teaching and sharing specific practices and principles that harmonize with being in Kyoto, its history and the sites we will be visiting. We will be doing practices at our accommodations but mostly at or near the sites we will be visiting.
* Participation in classes and activities is optional throughout the retreat. All levels welcome!
DETAILS / PRICING
8 days / 7 nights (Nov 3 - 10, 2024)
Inclusive Retreat Price
Economy: $3900 (dorm-style accommodation)
Double Occupancy: $4900
Single Occupancy (share bath): $5900
Premium Single: $6900 private bath
Deposit to hold space = $1,500
Group Size: 12 - 15 pilgrams
* Guests traveling alone can choose the shared room and we match up based on guest profile. Rooms are spacious with separate beds and private bathrooms.
** Final balance due 90 days before retreat start date.
Cancellation policy
Deposit and payment are 100% refundable if cancellation happens within three months before the event start date (August 3, 2024), 50% refundable within two months before the start date (September 3, 2024), and nonrefundable after that.
INCLUDED*:
Accommodations in Tokyo and Kyoto
Cultivation sessions at centuries-old temples and sacred sites
Creativity and travel-journal time
Walking meditation among Fushimi Inari Red Gate Shrine
Daily Breakfast
Most Lunches and a select dinner
Welcome reception
Tea Ceremony
Transportation to/from day trips
Entrance to Kyoto sites, temple visits
Taxes
* airfare not included
** meals will be a mix of seafood and vegetarian options on specific meals. special dietary restrictions can be accommodated. Breakfasts will be open for all menu for choice of guests. There will be a lunch and a dinner where guests can choose their own menu as well for those not wanting to stick to seafood and vegetarian.
*tentative schedule, activities may be substituted based on weather and seasonability. All activities are carefully chosen based on the best experience for the group.
LOCATION / TRAVEL:
We will meet in Tokyo and recommend you fly to Toyko, Narita.
Our first adventure: We will ride the Shikansen (Bullet Train) together from Tokyo to Kyoto
For those wishing to arrive/depart in Tokyo and/or extend their travel by adding some time in the capital city, this is easily reachable by direct bullet train to/from Kyoto
SUGGESTED PACKING:
Besides the basic packing and travel needs, here are a few things to think about bringing with you.
Bathing suit (spa day)
Yoga / movement clothes
Walking/hiking shoes
Smart phone with camera and/or digital camera
Plug adaptors / converters
TO HOLD YOUR SPOT, PLEASE MAKE YOUR $1500 DEPOSIT VIA ZELLE TO:
DONATE@CLEARBRIGHT.ORG
Then, please fill out the accommodation preferences form here.
You wil receive an email confirmation of your donation soon after sending it.
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