Deep Roots of Reiki Pilgrimage — Kyoto, Japan — March 2026
Step into a Japan few will ever see. Walk the hidden paths of sacred mountains, sit in private audience with revered monks and spiritual leaders, and take part in esoteric ceremonies closed to the public.
The Deep Roots of Reiki Pilgrimage is more than travel — it is a rare and intimate immersion into the living heart of Reiki and Japanese spiritual tradition, offering a chance to deepen your practice and transform your understanding in ways only direct experience can reveal.
March 28 – April 4, 2026
A 8 Day/7-Night Tour –
KYOTO, JAPAN
The 2026 pilgrimage is strictly
limited to 20 participants!
What’s To Come: Private access to Mt. Kurama and Mt. Hiei – audiences and trainings with revered monks and spiritual leaders – exclusive access to sacred temples and sites that are rarely (if ever) open to the public – memories and experiences that will transform your personal practice and your life.
Countdown To Kyoto
Day(s)
:
Hour(s)
:
Minute(s)
:
Second(s)
“This wasn’t a tour. It was a journey into the living roots of Reiki.”
Rootsoflife.org Students/Members Can Save $250!
Early bird registration is now open, and all students/members of rootsoflife.org should have the early bird coupon already in their mailbox!
Are you a student/member and can’t find the coupon?
👉 email me 👈
And I’ll get it right out to you.
Not yet a student or site member?
Register for free here
Video Testimonials from Deep Roots of Reiki Pilgrimage Attendees
Christine Renee from Reiki Cafe
Speaking on the 2023 pilgrimage
Myriam – speaking on the 2024 pilgrimage
Melhem Zouheiri @starseedreiki717
Speaking on the 2023 pilgrimage & his master attunement on Mt. Kurama
👇 A wonderful video shot by Melhem on the 2023 pilgrimage and the impact that the journey to Japan had on him. The video can also be viewed directly on his Instagram page here
I joined the 2025 Deep Roots Pilgrimage and it blew away any expectations that I had. There were so many opportunities to practice and learn from monks and spiritual leaders in Kyoto. It was clear, from day one, that we were in for a magical week. As soon as the Zen temple closed to tourists, and it was just us sitting with Tosei san, under the rain, in the stillness of the temple – I knew this pilgrimage was going to be magical – and somehow, each day seemed to get deeper and better. Endless thanks for all you did to bring us this pilgrimage!
Bruce created a outstanding Reiki Pilgrimage. It was full of unexpected blessings that revealed themselves like miracles. Many times the spaces we were welcomed into brought me to tears. We had so many experience that were off the beaten path and I felt so privileged to have this special access. Ultimately it answered my Reiki questions, created sacred space for me to settle into to, and to bless my healing practice. Thank you Bruce for the incredible journey!
Going on a pilgrimage through the sacred sites of Reiki was incredibly powerful and impactful. I am so happy that I had the opportunity to join this tour and would encourage anyone who loves Reiki + all Reiki practitioners to embark on a similar journey once in their lifetime. The tour was elegantly organized and culturally rich. It was wonderful to have Inamoto Sensei on the tour to give us a deeper awareness of Reiki from a Japanese perspective. Thank you Bruce for organizing such a meaningful tour. You will benefit greatly from embarking on this experience!
The full moon lighting our journey through Mt. Kurama
Join Bruce Taylor for this amazing pilgrimage that includes:
8 days and 7 nights in the Kyoto area
Guided tours of Mount Kurama, including a rare private audience with the head priest of Kurama Temple
A full moon fire ceremony on Kurama mountain led by the head priest of Kurama-dera — a profoundly moving and spiritual experience
A day on sacred Mt. Hiei with a private audience and training from Ajari Sama, revered as a living god in Japan. This day on Mt. Hiei will be a true landmark in your personal and spiritual evolution
A journey into the Deep Kurama valley, renowned for its spiritual heritage, where we will write a new chapter in the living history of this sacred place
A private tour of Shogo-In Temple in Kyoto, along with a Zen meditation experience led by Tosei Shinabe in the historic Kenninji Temple
Teachings from Bruce Taylor on Reiki, spirituality, and esoteric Buddhism within the Kurama temple complex and throughout the journey
A Reiki Share Evening with Komyo Reiki-Do teachers and students (TBC)
Time to explore Kyoto’s beauty, with its temples, gardens, and rich cultural history
Strictly limited to 20 participants — secure your place now.
A short video from our Mt. Kurama tour with the head priest.
We’re at Maoden, the main temple on the mountain for Maoson. The energy of this place is incredible—we even held a recital here with the 2025 pilgrimage.
I can’t wait to be back and share this experience with everyone.
Uesaku Full moon Fire Ceremony on Mt. Kurama
A deeply moving and powerful experience connecting you to the heart of Mt. Kurama. The energy and spectical of this evening is extraordinary!
The elegant simplicity of country life in Japan. You will experience traditional Japanese culture, customs, and ways of life that are far removed from the tourist trail.
– The Goma Ceremony –
Will You Be With Us For A Similar Experience?
Pilgrimage Price:$4595 USD
Tour Date: March 28 – April 4, 2026
Location: Kyoto – Japan
Only 20 spots available!
Do you have questions about the pilgrimage? Contact me via the form below, and let’s talk!
When I saw the ad about this tour, I immediately felt that I was already there. The energy felt right, the goal felt like mine, and it was the quickest “yes I am in” I have ever taken in my life. After that, all the logistics (I need a visa to travel almost every where) fell in place. It turned out to be one of the most cherished experiences of my life!
Our time with Ajari Sama on Mt. Hiei. It is such an honor to sit together, learn about the Kaihogyo and the mystical practices of Hiei-zan. This photo was snapped on the 2025 pilgrimage moments before we headed into a secluded mountain temple for our private Goma fire ceremony and blessing. This is an experience that will be long remembered and I can’t wait to return!
If you watch the “Nowness Video” further down, you’ll see this exact room in the opening as it pans into the Ajari!
Coming together in the Deep Kurama mountains on the 2025 pilgrimage for a very special afternoon at Fukuden-ji Temple. We are joined by special guests, including monks, teachers, and Reiki practitioners from Japan.
Our evening meditation practice under the rain at Kennin-Ji Temple under the guidance of Tosei Shinabe
The beautiful Kurama-dera temple on Mt. Kurama – the birthplace of Usui Reiki Ryoho and the home of the mysterious Sonten Sect.
Deep Roots of Reiki Pilgrimage Overview
Please note: the 2026 pilgrimage itinerary is still in development. However, it will strongly resemble or surpass the 2025 journey described here. Use this as a true reference for the depth of experience you can expect.
The “Deep Roots of Reiki” pilgrimage spans eight days and seven nights, weaving together sacred practice, rare temple access, and once-in-a-lifetime encounters across Kyoto, Kurama, and Mt. Hiei.
👺 Kyoto
Private Zen meditation with Tosei Shinabe at Kennin-ji, the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto. The entire temple grounds will be reserved for us.
A guided tour of Shogo-In Temple, dedicated to Fudō Myō-ō, with rare access to its inner halls and cultural treasures.
Evening Reiki share with Inamoto Sensei and Komyo Reiki-dō shihans.
👺 Mt. Kurama
Two journeys to the birthplace of Usui Reiki Ryōhō, including a private audience with the head priest of Kurama-dera.
Reiki teachings with Bruce Taylor held on temple grounds, where Usui Sensei once walked in search of enlightenment.
Opportunity for Rootsoflife.org students to receive attunement live on Mt. Kurama.
Full moon fire ceremony at Kurama-dera, an immersive night ritual with the mountain deities.
👺 Mt. Hiei
Full-day excursion to the mountain of Pure Land Buddhism and home of the Marathon Monks.
Private audience with Ajari Sama, current senior Kaihōgyō practitioner, including a sacred goma fire ritual.
Zazen meditation in the former Emperor’s private meditation hall.
Guided entry into a rarely opened stupa, over 1200 years old, followed by a tour of the Enryaku-ji Temple complex with Mt. Hiei monks.
👺 Deep Kurama Mountains
Private temple ceremony at Fukuden-ji with monks and spiritual leaders, marking a new chapter of practice in the Kurama Valley.
Sacred music performance by Hiroki Okano within the valley’s forest temples.
Opportunities to participate in complete sutra recitation in one of Japan’s hidden spiritual centers.
Cultural immersion in Kyoto, including the Aoi Matsuri festival, with time for gardens, temples, and the city’s timeless rhythms.
Throughout the pilgrimage, Bruce Taylor will guide ongoing teachings on Reiki, spirituality, and esoteric Buddhism, paired with time for practice, stillness, and exploration.
Please note: this pilgrimage is a living experience. The itinerary is subject to change as new opportunities open. Additional encounters may be added at any time.
The head priest of Mt. Kurama with Bruce Taylor and the 2024 Deep Roots tour group. Will you be there to join us for our private prayer ceremonies, private tour of the mountain, special learning opportunities and so much more all with the head priest of
Kurama-dera temple?
Private audience with Enan Ajari Sama on Mt. Hiei.
He is a monk that is revered as a living incarnation
of the deity Fudo-myoo, making him one of the most significant spiritual figures in Japan. He has remained on Hiei
Mountain for the past 13 years dedicated to practice in the very temples and spaces we will join him in. These are the same halls and temples that you can see in the video on the Kaihogyo below
Deep Roots of Reiki Pilgrimage Itinerary By Day & In Depth
Please note: As the pilgrimage is filled with private experiences and exclusive site access, the planning is complex, and the itinerary will continue to evolve. Several events are already confirmed, noted below, and more details will be added very soon.
March 28 — Kyoto: Shogo-In Temple & Goma Fire Ceremony
We begin together at Shogo-In for the monthly goma fire ritual in honor of Fudō Myō-ō. Held within former imperial grounds, this is a rare chance to witness—and take part in—one of Japan’s most potent esoteric ceremonies. It opens a direct doorway into Shugendō and the spiritual currents that will carry us through the week. Our first gathering in Kyoto starts here.
March 29 — Mt. Kurama: Teachings & Walking with the Head Priest
Morning teachings with Bruce set the foundation: Reiki, esoteric practice, and the meaning of Kurama. Then we step onto the mountain with the head priest himself—private prayers, quiet walking, and time for true conversation. Few visitors ever receive this kind of welcome. It’s the clearest way to walk in Usui Sensei’s footsteps and feel what Kurama really offers.
Return to Kyoto for dinner.
March 30 — Mt. Hiei: Sacred Mountain of Japanese Buddhism + Reiki Share in Kyoto
On Mt. Hiei—the mountain of Japanese Buddhism—we sit private zazen in a secluded hall once used by the imperial family and visit Hokke Sōjiin Tōdō, housing 1,000 hand-copied Lotus Sutras. We meet Ajari Sama, a monk who has completed the Kaihōgyō, for a private audience and goma blessing in the Wisdom King Hall, then tour Enryaku-ji with the monks before returning to Kyoto to meet with my teacher – Inamoto Sensei – for the weekly Reiki share.
March 31 — Kyoto: Zen & Sights
Daytime programming (TBC) with possible Zen practice in Kyoto.
This will be a day to rest and explore with planned activities in and around Kyoto
April 1 — Kyoto: Private Zen with Tosei Shinabe (TBC)
After temple grounds close to the public, we enter for a private evening of zazen and conversation with Tosei Shinabe—an intimate window into living Zen practice in one of Kyoto’s most significant temples.
April 2 — Bujoji & Kurama: Rare Temple Access & Full Moon Ceremony (Hanase)
At Bujoji—rarely opened and for limited hours—we enter for a private tour and prayer with one of Japan’s most significant Kannon statues. This visit deepens our understanding of the spiritual trinity of the Kurama area and why it is central to Usui Reiki Ryōhō.
Kurama Full Moon: At night we join the main temple for a full moon fire ceremony—mountain, group, and flame moving as one.
Overnight: Hanase homestays—traditional houses, local organic meals. If you love food and the countryside, this is unforgettable.
April 3 — Deep Kurama: Fukuden-ji Festival & Village Life (Hanase)
(Confirmation pending) We celebrate at Fukuden-ji, dedicated to Bishamonten, with sutra service and goma—marking a new chapter for this mountain temple. Music and cultural offerings may join the day as the village gathers.
Overnight: Hanase—another evening of village rhythm, cuisine, and the deeper energy of the Kurama mountains.
April 4 — Kyoto: To-ji Temple & The Final Embrace
We gather at To-ji to bring the pilgrimage into focus—what moved, what opened, and what continues.
Tour concludes ~12:30. It isn’t goodbye; we leave with the people, places, and practice alive in us.
Because our journey involves private audiences and exclusive access, details may shift as new doors open. What you see here reflects the latest confirmations and is a reliable guide to what you can expect—at minimum—on this pilgrimage.
The Kaihogyo – A taste of what’s to come on Mt. Hiei
From the 2025 pilgrimage – Zen teaching and practice at the Emperor’s former private quarters on Mt. Hiei – led by the second most senior monk on the mountain!
Bruce Taylor teaching at the base of Mt. Kurama during the 2023 pilgrimage.
Frequently Asked Questions
👺 What is the closest airport to fly into?
The closest major airport to Kyoto is Kansai International (KIX) in Osaka. Many travelers also fly into Tokyo (Haneda or Narita) and take the shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto. If you want the simplest route, KIX is the easiest.
👺 How do I get from Kansai Airport to Kyoto?
KIX is directly connected to a train station a short walk from arrivals (clear English signage). Go to the Ticket Office and purchase a direct ticket to Kyoto Station (about 90 minutes, few stops, ~USD $20 one-way). Staff are helpful and used to international travelers.
👺 I’m a solo traveler — is Japan safe?
Japan is widely regarded as one of the safest countries to visit. People are courteous, transportation is organized, and staff at stations and shops are used to helping visitors. As always, use normal travel awareness, but most guests are surprised by how easy and comfortable it feels right away.
👺 How much support will I have with travel and logistics?
Once you reserve your spot, you’ll have direct support from Bruce for flights, accommodations, and logistics. Recommended hotels are listed on the pilgrimage page and are close to the meeting point. A private Facebook group will open for Q&A, updates, and coordination so you feel supported at every step.
👺 Who is this pilgrimage ideal for?
Practitioners and seekers drawn to Reiki, Japanese Buddhism, and living tradition. It’s also welcoming to thoughtful travelers who want an intimate, non-touristy experience with private access to sites rarely open to the public. Many attendees are Reiki students; some are new and come for the depth and culture.
👺 Can my family come along to Japan, even if they don’t attend the pilgrimage events?
Yes. Some guests make this a family trip. The participant follows the daily itinerary while family members enjoy Kyoto and meet up in the evenings. Kyoto has something for everyone: gardens, temples, food, markets, galleries, and hiking.
👺 Will there be time for personal exploration?
Yes. The schedule includes breaks for rest, reflection, and personal time so you can explore Kyoto at your own pace.
👺 How much walking is involved? I’m not a strong hiker.
The walks are moderate and very doable with normal fitness. We visit Mt. Kurama twice and Mt. Hiei once. Mt. Kurama’s main path is paved or compacted trail with steps; the ascent to Maoden is about 1 mile (~45 minutes). You can ride the cable car to the main temple and walk the shorter, gentler section from there (~800 m). Mt. Hiei is reached by road; walking there is within the temple complex. We take our time, wear good shoes, and pause as needed—guests of many ages manage comfortably each year.
👺 What’s included, and what isn’t?
Included: all teachings and guided practice; private sessions with monks; selected sacred sites and locations not open to the public; full coordination, translation, and local guiding; two nights in remote mountain homes (TBC); ceremonial forms for deepening the pilgrimage; and access to a private group for updates and Q&A.
Not included: special temple experience fees (e.g., goma or private rites), flights to/from Japan, transport to reach Kyoto, general in-country transport unless specified, admissions for optional excursions not on the official itinerary, most meals (except where noted), and travel/medical insurance (strongly recommended).
👺 Can I receive a Reiki attunement on Mt. Kurama?
Yes. Current students of Bruce may receive a live attunement at Mt. Kurama, commemorated with a special certificate. If you are not yet a student and would like to be eligible, please click here to view courses and enroll.
👺 How about food preferences and allergies?
Japan is friendly to vegetarians and vegans, with many Buddhist restaurants. Gluten sensitivity can usually be managed with rice and buckwheat options, though fully separate “gluten-free kitchens” are rare. Let us know your needs when you book so we can guide choices.
👺 How is the food, and is any included?
Kyoto’s food is exceptional—many guests say it becomes a highlight. Our Deep Kurama meals (locally prepared, organic, and traditional) are included when specified in the itinerary. Other meals are pay-as-you-go; a typical budget is about USD $8–15 per meal depending on style.
👺 When should I arrive?
Guests from Asia/Oceania often arrive the day before. If you’re coming from Europe or the Americas, consider arriving a couple of days early to settle in and adjust to the time zone comfortably.
👺 Will I be able to keep up? The itinerary looks packed!
The pilgrimage is intentionally rich but paced with pauses for reflection and integration. You’ll be guided closely by Bruce and supported by Japanese colleagues. Many guests report the quiet conversations with monks and teachers during these pauses as some of the most meaningful moments of the trip.
Refund Policy & Further Details
The pilgrimage is strictly limited to 20 participants.
It is the responsibility of each participant to ensure that all travel documents and requirements (including visa and insurance) are fully in place before departure. Please note that refunds are only offered under the terms outlined below, and no exceptions will be made for personal, family, or travel issues outside of this policy.
Tour Size, Booking, and Refund Policy
Tour dates: March 28 – April 4, 2026
Group size: Minimum 12 participants · Maximum 20 participants
If the minimum of 12 participants is not reached, all booking fees will be refunded in full.
Early Bird Pricing is available until November 29th, 2025 for rootsoflife.org members. Not yet a member? Register here.
Liability Policy
By securing your space on the Deep Roots of Reiki Pilgrimage, you agree to release Bruce Taylor, Rootsoflife.org, associated teachers, and all designated guests from any personal or general liability arising from your attendance. You further confirm that you have read and agree to the general Terms and Conditions of rootsoflife.org, which can be found here.
Refund Dates
- Before November 29, 2025: 100% refundable (less 1–2% transaction fees charged by payment processors).
- Nov 30, 2025 – Jan 1, 2026: 50% refundable (less 1–2% transaction fees).
- From January 2, 2026 onward: Non-refundable. At this point, deposits for new bookings will also no longer be accepted.
No exceptions: Because of the commitments made to temples, monks, and special guests, as well as the private nature of these arrangements, this policy will be strictly upheld.
Travel Insurance Requirement
All participants are strongly advised to purchase:
- Fully refundable flights
- Comprehensive travel and medical insurance
This ensures you are protected in case of cancellation due to unforeseen issues such as pandemics, natural events, travel restrictions, or border closures.
What’s Included
- All teachings, meditations, and private practice sessions with monks
- Select admission to temples, sacred sites, and locations closed to the public
- All pilgrimage coordination, scheduling, translation, and local guiding
- 1–2 nights’ accommodation in private Japanese mountain homes (TBC)
- Welcome gifts and ceremonial items for use during the pilgrimage
- Access to a private Facebook group for ongoing updates and Q&A about logistics, accommodation, and travel
What’s Not Included
- Special temple experiences (e.g., sutra copying at Mt. Kurama, private prayers, festival tickets; approx. $30 USD per person per experience)
- Flights to/from Kyoto and transport needed to reach Kyoto
- In-country transport (rail, taxis, buses, or other transport unless listed as included)
- Additional admission fees for excursions not listed in the official itinerary
- Meals and snacks (except where specified for Deep Kurama)
- Travel and medical insurance (strongly recommended)
Lodging
Accommodation can be arranged according to your taste and budget. Airbnb is highly recommended for unique lodging near Yasaka Shrine, though hotels are also available. Suggested options include:
Our pick-up and drop-off location will be the Statue of Izumo-no-Okuni, as shown below. All of the recommended hotels (except the Hotel Higashiyama) are within a few minutes’ walk of our meeting point.
A General Estimate On Prices In Kyoto:
GREAT NEWS! Currently, the Japanese YEN is still very weak. Your USD and EUR are going to go FAR in Japan!
Visa Fee: (USA, Europe, and most countries enter visa-free. Some countries may need to apply in advance; please check this list:
General Transportation Estimated Costs:
Osaka-Kyoto bullet train ~$10 each way
Subway ride in Kyoto ~$1 USD per trip (depends on distance traveled)
Bus fare ~$1 USD per trip, based on distance
Taxi in Kyoto ~$10-25 USD depending on distance
Entrance to most shrines (Mt. Kurama, etc) ~$5 USD or less
Dinner out at a mid-range restaurant ~$15-20 USD
Budget restaurant dinner (still amazing food!) ~$6 USD
Onsen (public bath) entrance fee ~$7-10 USD per person and usually good for an entire day
A rough estimate of all of the above might be around $40 USD/35 EUR/day for food, admission, transport, and general expenses. Slightly more, depending on the quality of restaurants and transport used.
As a very rough estimate for the total trip cost, you should budget between 6-7.5K EUR (~ 6500-8000 USD) , which would be inclusive of all travel, personal expenses, and retreat costs,
Don’t wait — the 2026 pilgrimage is capped at just 20 participants!
