Experience Premium Wellness Retreat at the World Heritage Site, Hieizan Enryakuji

Premium Wellness Retreat at Hieizan Enryakuji

In a remarkable collaboration led by NAKED, INC., a creative company based in Tokyo, a premium wellness retreat program is set to take place at Hieizan Enryakuji, a UNESCO World Heritage site, from November 21 to November 29, 2025 (excluding November 23). Sponsored by the special sutra offering experience executive committee of Hieizan Enryakuji, this retreat offers an incredible opportunity to immerse oneself in Japan's spiritual culture.

Unique Cultural Experience

The Hieizan Enryakuji Exclusive Sutra Offering program promises an exceptional cultural experience typically inaccessible to the public. Participants will have the rare chance to engage in the shakyo (sutra copying) at the sacred East Tower of the Hokkesojiin temple. This special activity involves using rare konji paper alongside gold and silver ink to replicate texts from the Kongo Shitokyo, a treasured cultural asset known for its intricate designs.

In the evenings, the retreat participants will experience a unique performance featuring gagaku, a form of Japanese classical music, at Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine, which will be specially illuminated by the beautiful autumn colors of the foliage. This holistic approach naturally connects the mind and body, allowing participants to embrace Japan's spiritual heritage.

A Balance of Body and Spirit

The retreat program is designed to harmonize body and mind through cultural experiences that promote wellness. Participants will interact directly with cultural practices that highlight Japan's deeply rooted spirituality. The highlight includes participating in the special shakyo at the rare East Tower of Hokkesojiin, accompanied by guidance from temple monks.

Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy a unique dining experience at the Enryakuji Kaikan, where traditional dishes are infused with modern culinary techniques. The traditional Yakushi Gozen set menu will incorporate maiko protein, a plant-based protein derived from fermented rice, reflecting modern dietary needs while preserving traditional flavors.

The Special Display of Konjihon

One of the notable highlights of this cultural retreat is the special exhibition of the Konjihon—a decorative sutra that is traditionally kept hidden from public view. This exquisite text features texts inscribed on deep blue paper created from indigo dye, embellished with gold and silver mud. Its rich decoration represents Japan's cultural elegance.

The Konjihon displayed at Enryakuji is adorned with intricate patterns that echo the beauty of the Buddha's realms, thus allowing participants to encounter significant cultural heritage, making it a rare opportunity.

Evening Performance

The evening cultural experience at Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine encapsulates the mingling of spirit and sound, where participants can immerse themselves in the ethereal atmosphere created by the gagaku performance, symbolizing the coexistence of Shinto and Buddhism in Japan. This special evening event will allow attendees to experience the depth of traditional Japanese aesthetics during a captivating nocturnal setting.

Seamless Experience

The program includes comprehensive arrangements for transportation and accommodations at the Enryakuji Kaikan for a seamless experience, addressing accessibility issues in the Hieizan Sakamoto area. This initiative aims to foster sustainable cultural heritage, ensuring it thrives for future generations.

Conclusion

The Hieizan Enryakuji Exclusive Sutra Offering program stands out as a unique wellness retreat, skillfully blending Japan's richly cultural and spiritual heritage with modern wellness practices. With a focus on community engagement and the preservation of tradition, NAKED, INC. is committed to creating a higher-value experience that revitalizes local culture while offering participants an unforgettable journey into Japan's spiritual landscape.

For registration, visit the official sites:

About NAKED, INC.

Founded in 1997 by Ryotaro Muramatsu, NAKED, INC. prides itself on fostering creativity across various genres. Known for blending real and virtual experiences, NAKED continues to innovate, producing experiences that integrate art, culture, and technology, including the stunning NAKED GARDEN ONE KYOTO project. For further inquiries, visit NAKED's website or follow them on social media.