Reiki Pilgrimage
April 18-24th, 2026
Join me next April in Japan for an extraordinary 7-day pilgrimage to the spiritual and historical roots of Reiki. Walk the paths where Mikao Usui once sought enlightenment and deepen your own Reiki practice as you explore its rich connections to Shintoism, Shugendō, and Buddhism. This transformative experience offers rare opportunities for learning, reflection, and profound spiritual growth.
The Experience
We start our Reiki Pilgrimage in Tokyo, paying homage to Mikao Usui at his Memorial Stone at Saihoji Temple, before travelling to Kyoto to explore the sacred peaks of Mount Kurama and Mount Hiei. (Here we will have exclusive access to temples and areas normally closed to the public.)
On Mt. Kurama—the birthplace of Usui Reiki and home to the secretive Sonten sect—you will walk the same sacred path through the tranquil forest that Usui once walked, pausing to meditate at Mao-den Temple and absorb the mountain’s transformative energy. You will also have the opportunity to participate in a private prayer ceremony in the main hall of Kurama-dera temple.
On Mt. Hiei, the birthplace of Japanese Buddhism, you will take part in a private guided visit of Enraku-ji Temple and meet a Dai-ajari, a rare and deeply respected monk who has completed the kaihōgyō, earning the title of “marathon monk”. In a relaxed and intimate setting at the Kakushō-ritsuan hermitage, where he now serves as head monk, you will have the opportunity to ask about his 1,000-day kaihōgyō practice and participate in a Kaji Buddhist empowerment ceremony.
In Kyoto, you'll visit Tanukidani-san Fudō-in Temple, a prominent temple associated with the mountain practice of Shugendō and a powerful place to connect with Fudō Myō-ō. And at the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha, you will walk beneath the thousands of vermilion torii gates, feeling the presence of Shintoism’s influence on Reiki, and receive a personalised prayer at the grand altar.
And this is only a glimpse of what awaits you on our Reiki pilgrimage. Over seven transformative days in and around Kyoto and Tokyo, you’ll be immersed in a rare blend of culture, spirituality, and history, with countless moments for insight and reflection.
Highlights
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Paying homage to Usui at his Memorial Stone in Saihoji Temple.
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Walking in the footsteps of Usui and meditating on Mount Kurama.
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Attending a private prayer ceremony at Kurama-dera Temple.
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Hiking along the 'root path' through the sacred forest to the Kibune Shrine.
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Participating in a Kaji Buddhist empowerment ceremony on Mount Hiei.
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Experiencing a goma fire ceremony.
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Learning the ancient practices of Shugendō at Tanukidani-san Fudō-in Temple in Kyoto.
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Exploring Shinto practices at Fushimi Inari Taisha.
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Visiting some of the 1600+ temples in Kyoto.
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Participating in a Reiki Circle with a Reiki Master/Buddhist lay monk.
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Enjoying time for contemplation and deepening your Reiki practice.
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Relaxing and integrating in a traditional onsen (hot spring).
