Travel Mindfully: Exploring Zen, Nature, Art, and Self with Joe Jun Liao

On the first morning, we will meet Jun in the hotel lobby and head out to immerse ourselves in the reverent atmosphere of Meiji Shrine, where tranquility graces the heart of the bustling metropolis. It offers a serene change of pace from the city before you venture onto the lively streets of Harajuku. We will turn our focus to food and explore and savor whatever piques your interest from crêpes to rice flour dumplings and cotton candy. 

After lunch, we will go on a walking tour with Jun to explore Omotesando, known for its high concentration of buildings designed by world-renowned architects. Jun will conduct a specially tailored and interactive tour through the area, sharing his “streetologist” insights and perspectives on urbanism and architecture. You will also have the option to participate in a scavenger hunt using PLAAAY, a location-based game developed by Jun and his team. It’s a unique way to experience the streets in a different light. The evening concludes with a warm welcome dinner at a traditional dining spot, marking the beginning of your journey.

After breakfast, we will visit Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, located in Asakusa. Don’t miss the chance to draw a good omikuji fortune. Around the temple, you will find traditional shops with delightful local sweets and snacks. Next, we will visit Kappabashi, an 800-meter stretch with over 170 stores offering culinary supplies for professionals and home cooks. For lunch, you will join a “Make Your Own Ramen” workshop, mastering the art of crafting a perfect ramen bowl with your choice of toppings.

You’re free to choose your own dinner. Explore a range of dining experiences, from casual izakayas to Michelin-starred establishments. Discover unique restaurants tailored to your palate and enjoy a delightful meal.

We will travel to Odawara by car to Enoura Observatory, which was created by globally celebrated photographer Hiroshi Sugimoto. As his magnum opus, the place harmonizes various artistic disciplines into a singular achievement. Its gravity-defying structures include exhibition spaces, Noh stages, and a teahouse. Noteworthy features include a subterranean gallery framing the ocean horizon and a Noh stage with a floating glass platform. Sugimoto aims to create a "new Neolithic aesthetic," ensuring enduring beauty even in ruins. We will take a short break at the Stone Age Cafe at the Observatory. Afterward, we'll enjoy lunch in the area before heading to the ryokan in Yugawara.

Enjoy the calm atmosphere of a traditional hidden hot-spring inn nestled amidst bamboo groves in the renowned Yugawara hot springs. It’s a perfect setting for “me time.” In the evening, savor authentic kaiseki at the inn, offering the finest Japanese cuisine.

Enjoy breakfast in a tranquil setting before heading out to the tour of Yugawara. This walking tour is led by Jun’s colleague Yuval, an onsen aficionado currently authoring a book on hot springs and architecture. You also have the option to explore Yugawara using the PLAAAY platform.

Conclude the morning with a sumptuous unagi (eel) lunch. The eel at this upscale restaurant is prepared with care and is renowned for its exceptional flavor, promising an unforgettable dining experience. Afterward, we will board a Shinkansen (bullet train) from Atami to Kyoto. After checking in at the hotel, you can enjoy bars and restaurants, modern cafes and traditional sweet shops across the street or spend time and dine at your leisure.

Enjoy breakfast before heading out to Ryosokuin. We offer a meditation session led by Jun and Toryo Ito, where you can explore Japanese Zen philosophy and practice. Zen monk Toryo guides you through zazen meditation, samu (zen practice of working meditation), and shojin ryori. Tour the rock garden, which reflects Zen philosophy, and contemplate your spiritual journey as you stroll through the extensive grounds.

The next stop is Kennin-ji, Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, which has a beautiful Zen garden. Continuing along the path through Kyoto’s renowned Gion district, we will take you to a stunning contemporary tea establishment where ancient Japanese aesthetics meet modern interpretation. In a tranquil setting, savor the exquisite craftsmanship of Japanese confectionery paired with green tea or a cocktail. In the late afternoon, we will return to the hotel, offering a chance to unwind at your leisure. Dinner is your choice to explore.

Today, we venture into the nestled by Kyoto’s western mountains, Arashiyama offers cultural wonders and nature pursuits. Iconic sights include the Bamboo Forest and Togetsukyo Bridge, steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. After enjoying the spectacular view, we'll explore antique stores, hidden gems known only to those in the know, where you may uncover a special treasure of your own.

For lunch, we'll savor the culinary delights of Nishiki Market. Its narrow streets teem with small independent stores, buzzing with activity from morning till night, drawing locals and tourists alike. Dinner is your choice to explore. We will see you the following morning as we set forth on an adventure to experience the spiritual splendor of Kyoto’s temples.

As we conclude the trip, we will have a morning session with Jun and Toryo. They will discuss the interconnectedness of architecture, design, Buddhism, and space. Spend this time listening to the speakers, who have superb abilities to integrate new elements with the old. The end is the beginning. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. Explore Kyoto at your own pace and indulge in some “me time.”

For the farewell dinner, prepare to delight in shabu-shabu with Kuroge-wagyu beef in a traditional Kyoto townhouse-style establishment. As the evening unfolds, enjoy an authentic dance performance by a geisha accompanied by music. You’ll even have the chance to partake in traditional games with her.

It’s time to bid farewell. You will carry the memorable experiences in your hearts until our paths cross again. The tour will conclude after breakfast. If you plan to stay a few extra days, we can provide you with some tips on places to explore.