The Japan Yatra with Harijiwan & Mandev is a transformative spiritual journey where we will immerse ourselves in the peaceful world of Zen Buddhism. We’ll travel during the peak of sakura (cherry blossom) season, visiting sacred Zen temples, meditating, and absorbing the mystical energy of Japan’s natural beauty and ancient traditions.

The Yatra will take place from Wednesday, April 9, 2025 to Friday, April 18, 2025. We will begin with registration at 3:00 pm on April 9 at the Hyatt Regency Tokyo, and our journey will conclude with check-out at Noon from the Westin Miyako Kyoto on April 18.

The Yatra starts in Tokyo and ends in Kyoto, which are two different cities. 

• Arrival: Please arrive at Haneda Airport (HND) in Tokyo, Japan, on April 9, 2025 in time for registration which is at 3:00 pm at the Hyatt Regency Tokyo.

• Departure: Your departure flight should be from Itami Airport (ITM) in Osaka, Japan, which is the closest airport to Kyoto, on April 18, 2025. Hotel check-out is at Noon.

When booking your flights, please select the “Multi-City” option, as you will be flying into Tokyo and out of Osaka.

No, airport transfers are not included in the yatra ticket price. You will be responsible for arranging your own transportation to and from the airport.

• Arrival in Tokyo: Upon arriving at Haneda Airport (HND), you can take a taxi, train, or Airport Limousine Bus (reserve here) to the Hyatt Regency Tokyo, which is 18 km (11 miles) away.

• Departure from Kyoto: For your return trip, from the Westin Miyako Kyoto, you will need to arrange your own transport to Itami Airport (ITM) in Osaka. You can take a taxi, train, or Airport Limousine Bus (reserve here).

Registration will take place at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, April 9, 2025 at the Hyatt Regency Tokyo. Please aim to arrive at the hotel in time for registration and our first evening session, which will include dinner and an opening session.

Visa requirements depend on your country of origin. Please check your country's specific visa requirements for Japan. Additionally, ensure that your passport is valid for travel.

While travel insurance is not required, we strongly recommend purchasing it to protect against unforeseen events such as flight delays, cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Travel insurance gives you peace of mind throughout your journey.

The closest airport to Kyoto is Itami Airport (ITM) in Osaka, located about 36 miles (57 km) from the city. Please note that most flights from Itami Airport will have at least one stop within Japan. When booking your flights, please select the “Multi-City” option, as you will be flying into Tokyo and out of Osaka.

You are responsible for your transportation from the Westin Miyako Kyoto to Itami Airport (ITM), which is 36 miles (57 km) away.

Here are some options:

• Taxi or Uber

• Train

• Airport Limousine Bus (which you can reserve here)

• Travel converters and adaptors

• A valid passport and any necessary travel documents.

• Yoga mat or sheepskin (recommended but not required).

• Travel insurance (recommended but not required).

• Comfortable clothing for meditation and travel.

• Appropriate attire for visiting temples (please avoid overly revealing or casual clothing).

• Personal items such as toiletries, any necessary medications, and a journal for your reflections.

• Bathing suit. Japan is well-known for its famous bathhouses, called onsen, which are natural hot springs.

We will visit some of Zen Buddhism's most sacred temples. These spaces are designed for deep reflection and spiritual practice. You will be guided through meditation spaces, but please remember that each person's experience will be unique. Whether you're new to meditation or have years of experience, this journey will deepen your connection with yourself and the sacred energy of Japan.

Yes, two meals will be provided each day. We will enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine, with options to accommodate various dietary restrictions. Please let us know in advance if you have any specific dietary needs.

Yes, it's a good idea to have some Japanese Yen (¥) on hand for purchases at local markets, restaurants, and smaller shops, especially in more rural areas where credit cards may not be widely accepted. While larger establishments and tourist areas usually accept credit cards, having cash is essential for convenience.

We recommend converting your money before you arrive or at the airport, and carrying smaller denominations (such as ¥1,000 and ¥5,000 bills) for easier transactions. Many places may not have change for large bills, so having smaller notes will be helpful.

You can make your payment online through our registration portal. If you are on a payment plan, your balance must be paid in full by Monday, March 3, 2025. Please ensure your payment is complete by this date to secure your spot on the Yatra.

The Yatra will take place during springtime in Japan, a beautiful time of year when the weather is mild and pleasant. Daytime temperatures will be around 67°F (19°C), while evenings can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to about 48°F (9°C).

We recommend dressing in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day, as you may experience variations in temperature. A light jacket or sweater for the evenings is a good idea.

Since we will be doing a lot of walking, it's also important to bring comfortable walking shoes. You’ll want footwear that’s supportive and suitable for both temple visits and exploring the cities. Additionally, we suggest bringing a day pack for carrying essentials like water, a hat, sunscreen, and any other items you may need throughout the day.

Yes! You should both purchase the double occupancy ticket. Email chase@gobindinstitute.com to let us know you’d like to request rooming together.

We are unable to provide refunds or credits, given the detailed planning involved in organizing this Yatra.

Travel insurance is recommended to protect against unforeseen events such as cancellations, flight delays, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Travel insurance gives you peace of mind throughout your journey.

If you would like to extend your stay in Japan before or after the Yatra, we encourage you to make arrangements directly with the hotel or through your travel agent. Please let us know if you plan to arrive early or stay later so we can provide you with additional details.