Find Your Inner Peace in China
Authentic Zen Retreats for Mind, Body, and Spirit
Leave the noise behind. Immerse in ancient Buddhist traditions, practice zazen in mountain temples,
and discover tranquility through tea, calligraphy, and nature.
Chinese Zen Culture
From Millennium Wisdom to Inner Awakening
Chinese Zen practice, rooted in Buddhism introduced during the Eastern Han Dynasty (25–220 CE), merged with Confucian and Taoist philosophies during the Tang and Song Dynasties, forming a unique “Chinese philosophy of the heart.” It doesn’t seek to abandon the world but advocates “cultivating the mind in daily life”—as Huineng, the Sixth Patriarch of Zen, said: “Buddhahood is found in the world, not apart from it.”
The Unique Charm of Chinese Zen: Where East Meets West
Unlike Japanese Zen’s strict rules or Indian meditation’s abstract philosophy, Chinese Zen acts as a gentle life mentor:
- Inclusive & Open：Anyone, religious or not, can find peace through “breath awareness” or “walking meditation” (no proselytizing—just practical mind-calming techniques).
- Down-to-Earth：No obsession with “enlightenment.” Instead, it teaches you to “savor every bite of food” or “stay patient while waiting in line”—true Zen is living every ordinary moment with awareness.
Why Choose Our Zen Retreat?
Immersion in Ancient Temples
Practice in World Heritage sites like Shaolin Temple (Songshan) and Lingyin Temple (Hangzhou). Stay in tatami meditation rooms, eat temple vegetarian meals, and follow the monks’ daily routine.
Bilingual Guidance
Senior monks + bilingual translators (English/French) ensure even beginners understand Zen philosophy like "letting go of attachments" and "living in the present."
Multi-Sensory Healing
A blend of zazen (seated meditation), walking meditation, Chan tea ceremonies, and sutra copying—engaging all six senses (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch, and mind).
Cultural Depth
Go beyond meditation: learn Zen flower arranging from intangible cultural heritage masters or practice Tai Chi Zen in bamboo forests—experiencing "harmony of motion and stillness" through your body.
Retreat Itinerary
3-Day "Reset for Mind & Body" Journey
This schedule is for reference only, the schedule varies from date and location. For a detailed schedule, please submit your travel request.
Day 1: Unwind & Discover Zen
- Early Morning: Join monks to ring the morning bell and practice abdominal breathing, releasing tension as you imagine inhaling mountain air and exhaling stress.
- Morning: Attend a Zen talk on “Zen in daily life”, then try seated meditation.
- Afternoon: Walk in the forest, focusing on each step to connect with nature’s sounds and scents—learn to “just walk when you walk.”
- Evening: Experience a tea ceremony, sip tea to taste its bitter-then-sweet journey, mirroring Zen’s path of growth.
Day 2: Presence & Reflection
- Early Morning: Wear a monk’s robe to join morning prayers, chanting the Heart Sutra — feel the healing resonance of collective chanting.
- Morning: Copy passages from the Diamond Sutra with a wolf-hair brush. Embrace imperfections (no need to correct mistakes)—a lesson in accepting life as it is.
- Afternoon: Choose one Zen art experience: Zen flower arranging or Tai Chi Zen.
- Evening: Gather by the fire for a casual talk with monks—get answers to life’s worries and learn how to “eat when you eat, sleep when you sleep.”
Day 3: Carry Zen Home
- Early Morning: End with a farewell meditation, visualizing the peace of these days as a “Zen seed” planted in your heart for future stress.
- Morning: At the closing ceremony, receive a handwritten “Fu” bookmark by the abbot and a meditation guide. Dress in a monk’s robe for photos— experience “a day as a monk.”
- Afternoon: Depart with temple gifts (incense and herbal tea). Your guide reminds you: “Life is meditation. Save 10 minutes daily for ‘doing nothing’—just tea, walks, or watching clouds.”
Is This Zen Retreat Right for You?
High-Pressure Professionals
Cultural Explorers
Yoga/Meditation Enthusiasts
Seekers of Change
Frequently Asked Questions
A:No religious background is required! Chinese Zen focuses on mindfulness and life balance, not religious doctrine. We welcome people of all faiths—or none—who seek inner peace and cultural exploration. Monks share philosophical insights, not religious teachings, making this suitable for everyone.
A:Absolutely. All activities include bilingual guidance (English/French) by experienced translators and monks who speak basic English. Key terms (e.g., “zazen,” “koan”) are explained in simple language, and materials like sutra copies use Romanized phonetics or English translations. You’ll never feel lost!
A:Yes, all meals are vegan/vegetarian temple cuisine (e.g., seasonal vegetables, whole grains, tofu dishes). We gladly adjust for gluten-free, nut-free, or other needs—just let us know when booking. Breakfast is light (oatmeal, pickled veggies), lunch/dinner are balanced with soups and stir-fries.
A:We encourage a “digital detox” to deepen your experience. Phones are stored during group activities (8:00–20:00), but you can use them in private time (morning/evening). Emergency calls are always allowed—your guide will have a phone for any urgent needs.
A:Comfortable, modest clothing is best (loose pants, long skirts, breathable tops). Avoid shorts/short skirts in temples. We’ll provide a monk’s robe (haiqing) for ceremonies, but bring your own clothes for Tai Chi or walking meditation.
A:Perfect for beginners! Sessions start with basics like breath awareness, and guides offer one-on-one support. Many participants join with zero experience—you’ll learn at your own pace, and there’s no pressure to “achieve” anything. The retreat is about exploration, not perfection.
A:Yes! Contact us after booking to discuss adding 1–2 extra days for deeper practice (e.g., joining monks for farm work or evening prayers). Extended stays include the same guidance and accommodation at a discounted rate.
A:Bring an open mind and no expectations! Zen is about embracing the present, so let go of goals like “I must feel enlightened.” Focus on small moments—sipping tea, walking slowly, even struggling with meditation—and trust the process.