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 Reiki and home to the secretive Sonten sect—you’ll be personally welcomed by the head priest for a guided tour of Kurama-dera temple complex and a private prayer ceremony in the main hall. Walking the same sacred path through the tranquil forest that Usui once walked, you’ll pause to meditate at Mao-den Temple and absorb the mountain’s transformative energy.
On Mt. Hiei, the birthplace of Buddhism in Japan, you’ll practise zazen meditation in a secluded temple alongside the monks, witness a goma fire ceremony, and experience the immense privilege of a private visit to one of Japan’s most sacred pagodas.
In Kyoto, you'll go on a guided visit to the Shogo-in Temple, the historic seat of Shugendō, where the head priest will offer insights and teachings that are seldom shared with outsiders. 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 Tokyo and Kyoto, 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 prayer ceremony with the head priest 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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Practising zazen meditation with the monks at Mount Hiei.
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Experiencing a private goma fire ceremony.
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Learning the ancient practices of Shugendō at Shogo-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).
