Jun's creative philosophy embraces minimalism and Zen principles—simplicity and presence. By integrating Zen teachings with modern architecture, his work reveals new design possibilities. Blending ancient wisdom with minimalist innovation crafts tranquil, harmonious spaces, as seen in projects like FUUUN, SLEEEP, and the upcoming PLAAAY.
Travel Mindfully: Exploring Zen, Nature, Art, and Self with Joe Jun Liao
Travel Mindfully: Exploring Zen, Nature, Art, and Self with Joe Jun Liao
8 Days 7 Nights
※About solo traveler
※About solo traveler
For solo travelers, there is a single supplement fee of $1200. After booking your trip, please indicate your preference for a private room when filling out your traveler information form, and we will send a separate invoice for the associated cost. Alternatively, if you are open to sharing accommodations with another solo traveler this option may also be available upon checkout. Please note that these shared spots are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Per person, based on double occupancy.
We offer unique journeys through Japan with our expertly curated tours. Led by a team of passionate individuals, including both Japanese locals and foreigners deeply connected to the culture, each experience offers a blend of personal stories and specialized knowledge.
With our curators by your side, our tours go beyond typical sightseeing, providing a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. The curators possess a distinctive knack for viewing Japan from both insider and outsider perspectives, allowing them to offer engaging and thought-provoking experiences. In addition, each tour includes carefully selected cuisine and cultural encounters, and offers an intimate and enriching experience.
About Our Curator
Joe Jun Liao, a Hong Kong entrepreneur and a trained architect, fosters spiritual and mental well-being through his work. His journey into Zen Buddhism began in middle school and deepened under the guidance of Zen monk Toryo Ito in Kyoto. Drawn to the aesthetics of minimalism and inspired by lifestyles emphasizing presence and mindfulness, Jun crafted an itinerary exploring Japanese minimalist design, architecture, and Zen practices. Over the years, he has cultivated deep connections with Japan, immersing himself in its rich culture and aesthetics. Combining these traditional influences with his tech-savvy nature, Jun developed location-based game PLAAAY, demonstrating his multifaceted expertise in architecture, art, and technology. Jun blends traditional values with cutting-edge innovation, allowing people to experience the world in transformative ways.
Three Reasons to Embark on a Journey with Jun
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Traveling = Be Present
Jun will guide this itinerary with an emphasis on mindfulness and presence. By engaging with local cultures and nature, Jun will help you embrace the art of living in the moment. You will leave distractions behind and gain new perspectives through mindful experiences.
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Awaken Your Senses
Over the years, Jun has developed a friendship with Toryo Ito, a Zen Buddhist monk in Kyoto. You will have the opportunity to practice Zen under Toryo's guidance, followed by an insightful dialogue on mindfulness and self-exploration between Jun and Toryo.
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Savor Craftsmanship
Jun invites you to discover the charm of Kyoto's antique shops, where each visit unveils a world of exquisite crafts. Wander through renowned stores, immersing yourself in Japan's artistic legacy. Admire the delicate beauty of lacquerware and pottery, each piece a testament to the country's rich artisanal traditions.
Itinerary
Accommodations
Our accommodations will be primarily boutique hotels run by local businesses, offering a range from minimalistic and comfortable lodgings to traditional Japanese inns called ryokans with communal baths. These serene retreats serve as the ideal starting point for “me time” a mindful journey.
Park Hotel Tokyo
Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, the Park Hotel Tokyo offers a truly unique and artistic experience for its guests. From the moment you step into the hotel, you will be surrounded by the year-round art exhibition that transcends conventional hospitality. The concept of “Art for all” has been woven into every aspect of the guest experience, including the exhibitions that grace the corridors of every guest room floor. During your stay, enjoy the guest lounge located on the 25th floor with panoramic views of Tokyo's majestic skyline, including Mount Fuji and Tokyo Tower.
Uenoya Ryokan
Uenoya, which has been around for more than 300 years, is one of the oldest and most established traditional Japanese-style inns with an onsen (hot spring) in Yugawara. The elegant wooden structure is surrounded by nature, and their hot spring is renowned for its efficacy in promoting smooth skin, among other benefits. The rooftop bath offers a spectacular view of the breathtakingly beautiful valley, filled with tranquility and peacefulness.
Ace Hotel Kyoto
East meets West in Japan’s culture capital. Ace Hotel Kyoto is the product of a design marriage between East and West through a shared love of organic materials and deep appreciation of the hand crafted with Japanese and California builders, artisans and manufacturers. It’s in a perfect spot to explore the crisscrossing streets stemming from the main thoroughfare, packed with bars and restaurants, modern cafes and traditional sweet shops.
Notes
About solo traveler
For solo travelers, there is a single supplement fee of $1200. After booking your trip, please indicate your preference for a private room when filling out your traveler information form, and we will send a separate invoice for the associated cost. Alternatively, if you are open to sharing accommodations with another solo traveler this option may also be available upon checkout. Please note that these shared spots are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Tour Capacity
We will have a maximum number of 12 guests, along with a member of Me Time Travel team. Our immersive experiences are filled with joy and inclusivity, and you can anticipate joining a diverse group representing various stages of life, backgrounds, races, genders, interests, and a mix of solo travelers, couples, and friends traveling together. It’s important to note that our trips are currently designed for travelers aged 18 and above.