The pilgrimage is close to half full
The Deep Roots Pilgrimage — Kyoto, Japan — May 2027
You will practice with and learn directly from the monks, nuns, and priests who keep these traditions alive today, inside the very temples where their lineages were first taught, with access rarely extended to outsiders.
May 12 – 20, 2027
9 Days – 8 Nights
KYOTO, JAPAN
The 2027 pilgrimage is capped at 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.
Nine days, at a glance
- May 12Arrival in Kyoto, then the evening Reiki share with Inamoto Sensei
- May 13Private tour of Shogo-In with its head priest and a private goma fire ceremony
- May 14Mt. Kurama with the head priest of Kurama-dera: private prayers at Maoden and a walk on the mountain
- May 15Mt. Hiei with Enan Ajari Sama, the current Ajari, and private zazen in the former Emperor's hall
- May 16Private Zen teaching and practice with Tosei Shinabe at his temple
- May 17Shugendō on Kōyama with priest and horagai master Miyashita Hitoshi
- May 18Mountain walking and ancient prayer rituals with Shugen monks in the Kurama range
- May 19Private entry to Bujo-ji, then the second Reiki share with Inamoto Sensei
- May 20Ceremony at Fukuden-ji, a final ascent of Mt. Kurama, and the Uesaku full moon fire ceremony
This video was filmed during the 2026 Pilgrimage by my friend Nicolas, the founder of Be Lighted Productions.
His work is top-notch – as I think this video shows. If you are in need of a great editor, I recommend him fully!
Countdown To Kyoto
"This wasn't a tour. It was a journey into the living roots of Japanese spirituality."
Private Zen practice with the second most senior monk on Mt. Hiei, in the former Emperor's chambers, a space closed to the public and normally opened only to visiting heads of state and senior spiritual leaders. There is a short video clip of this experience further down the page.
Reserve Your Place
$4,595 USD
Three-payment plan closes in:
Video Testimonials from Deep Roots Pilgrimage Attendees
Laura White speaking on the 2025 Pilgrimage. Laura is a Reiki, yoga, and meditation practitioner & teacher based in Oslo, Norway
and online at Laura White Beyond
Suzanne Gallo speaking on her experience during the 2025 Deep Roots Pilgrimage.
Find Suzanne on Instagram at @innerlightreikisuzanne
Loretta Carraro from Nourished Energy is speaking on the 2026 pilgrimage with her private group from Australia.
This is a pilgrimage deep dive talk (~ 1hr), please enjoy!
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
Walking together with the head nun of Kurama Mountain.
Here we are at Osugi Gongen – the place considered to be the birthplace of Reiki.
👇 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!
What it costs
All teachings and guided practice, private sessions with monks and priests, admission to the temples and sites on the itinerary, Deep Kurama meals where listed, and all coordination, translation, and local guiding.
Pay in full, in three equal payments (through 31 January 2027), or in ten fortnightly payments for bookings made by 26 November 2026. 31 January 2027 is the last date to book with the three-payment option. Refund policy, hotel list, and travel details.
The full moon lighting our journey through Mt. Kurama
Private temple access, far from the tourist trail
Join Bruce Taylor for this pilgrimage, which includes:
- 👺 9 days and 8 nights in the Kyoto area
- 👺 Two journeys to Mt. Kurama, including a private audience with the head priest of Kurama-dera, a walk on the mountain with him, and private prayers at Maoden
- 👺 The Uesaku full moon fire ceremony on Kurama mountain, an ancient ritual held on the night of the May full moon
- 👺 A day on Mt. Hiei with a private audience, teaching, and goma blessing from Enan Ajari Sama, the current Ajari of the mountain, revered as a living incarnation of Fudō Myō-ō
- 👺 Private zazen in the former Emperor's hall on Mt. Hiei, led by the second most senior monk on the mountain, and entry to the rarely opened Tōdō stupa
- 👺 A full day of Shugendō practice with priest and horagai master Miyashita Hitoshi, walking from Kamigamo Shrine to the sacred peak of Kōyama
- 👺 A private tour of Shogo-In Temple led by its head priest, with a private goma fire ceremony for our group
- 👺 A journey into the Deep Kurama valley, with a ceremony at Fukuden-ji and private entry to Bujo-ji
- 👺 Private Zen teaching and extended seated practice with Tosei Shinabe at his private temple
- 👺 Teachings from Bruce Taylor on Reiki, spirituality, and esoteric Buddhism throughout the journey
- 👺 Two Reiki share evenings with Inamoto Sensei and Komyo Reiki-Do teachers and practitioners
- 👺 Time to explore Kyoto's temples, gardens, and rich cultural history
Strictly limited to 20 participants. Secure your place now.
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, as it is believed to be the very site where life first came to Earth.
Having a private prayer recital here, in this place, is such a beautiful experience, and I can't wait to be back here with everyone during the 2027 pilgrimage!
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 spectacle 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?
Reserve Your Place
$4,595 USD
Three-payment plan closes in:
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!
It was an amazing adventure, beautifully put together. The tour allowed such unique access to people and places that you just can't get anywhere else. Bruce's efforts in crafting a spiritual tour of a lifetime didn't disappoint!
This is our time with Enan Ajari Sama, the current Ajari of 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 Pilgrimage Overview
Please note: the 2027 pilgrimage itinerary is still in development. However, it will strongly resemble or surpass the 2026 journey described here. Use this as a true reference for the depth of experience you can expect.
The "Deep Roots of Reiki" pilgrimage spans nine days and eight nights, weaving together sacred practice, rare temple access, and once-in-a-lifetime encounters across Kyoto, Kurama, and Mt. Hiei.
This is a Reiki and spiritual pilgrimage where each day gives you the opportunity to live these practices, learn directly from the most significant spiritual leaders in Kyoto, and experience it all first hand.
👺 Kyoto
Private Zen meditation and teaching with Tosei Shinabe in his private temple in Kyoto.
A guided tour of Shogo-In Temple, dedicated to Fudō Myō-ō, with rare access to its inner halls and cultural treasures.
Two evening Reiki shares with Inamoto Sensei and Komyo Reiki-dō shihans and practitioners.
Shugendo priest and horagai master Miyashita Hitoshi will walk with us from Kamigamo Shrine to its god mountain, Kōyama, for direct teaching and practice on one of Kyoto's most sacred and hidden peaks.
👺 Mt. Kurama
Two journeys to the birthplace of Usui Reiki Ryōhō, including a private audience with the head priest of Kurama-dera, a walk on the mountain with him, and private prayers at Maoden.
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.
The Uesaku full moon fire ceremony at Kurama-dera, an ancient ritual held on the night of the May full moon, an immersive experience with the mountain deities.
👺 Mt. Hiei
Full-day excursion to the mother mountain of Japanese Buddhism and home of the Marathon Monks.
Private audience with Enan Ajari Sama, the current Ajari of Mt. Hiei, including a sacred goma fire ritual.
Zazen meditation in the former Emperor's private meditation hall, led by the second most senior monk on the mountain.
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.
Exclusive access to Bujo-ji Temple in the far northern reaches of the Kurama valley, a secretive and deeply significant temple to the understanding of Reiki Ryōhō that is far off the tourist map.
Opportunities to participate in complete sutra recitation in one of Japan's hidden spiritual centers.
Rural Japanese village experience and lunch (TBC), with the kind of sustained, genuine connection that only comes from being welcomed into these communities.
Cultural immersion in Kyoto, 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 private prayers, a private walk on the mountain, and time in conversation with the head priest of Kurama-dera?
Private audience with Enan Ajari Sama on Mt. Hiei.
He is a monk who 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 more than a decade, 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.
In fact – the opening scene on the video is the very room you see in the photo above.
Deep Roots Pilgrimage Itinerary By Day
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 as they are finalized.
👺 May 12 · Arrival in Kyoto & Reiki Share
Arrive in Kyoto and settle into your accommodation. In the evening, we join my teacher, Inamoto Sensei, for the weekly Reiki share with Komyo Reiki-dō teachers and practitioners. It is a grounding way to open the pilgrimage and connect as a group.
👺 May 13 · Kyoto: Shogo-In Temple & Goma Fire Ceremony
A full private tour of the Shogo-In Temple grounds led by the head priest, followed by a private goma fire ceremony for our group 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.
This is a light day by design. The remainder of the afternoon and evening is yours to rest, restore, decompress, and explore Kyoto at your own rhythm.
👺 May 14 · 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, receiving 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.
👺 May 15 · Mt. Hiei: Sacred Mountain of Japanese Buddhism
On Mt. Hiei, the mountain of Japanese Buddhism, we sit private zazen in a secluded hall once used by the imperial family, led by the second most senior monk on the mountain, and visit Hokke Sōjiin Tōdō, housing 1,000 hand-copied Lotus Sutras. We meet Enan Ajari Sama, the current Ajari of Mt. Hiei, who has completed the Kaihōgyō, for a private audience and goma blessing in the Wisdom King Hall, then tour Enryaku-ji with the monks. This is a day of deep connection to the practices within the mountain and will be long remembered.
Return to Kyoto for dinner.
👺 May 16 · Kyoto: Private Zen with Tosei Shinabe
We come together with Zen monk and teacher Tosei Shinabe (read about him here and visit his homepage here). We will join Shinabe-san in his private temple to learn about Zen, the nature of the mind, and the ability to "see clearly." We will then enjoy an extended seated and guided Zen practice together.
This is a light day by design. The remainder of the afternoon and evening is yours to rest, restore, decompress, and explore Kyoto at your own rhythm.
👺 May 17 · Kyoto: Shugendo Lived Practice
We will be joined by Shugendo priest and horagai master Miyashita Hitoshi, known as "Dragon" among the monks of Ōmine and commissioned by Togakushi Shrine to revive their ancient conch-shell lineage. Together we will walk from the ancient Kamigamo Shrine to its god mountain, Kōyama, for direct teaching and practice on one of Kyoto's most sacred peaks.
The practice of Shugendo is a central component of the pilgrimage, as this is likely one of the pillars of Reiki, and further, it is likely a practice engaged in by Usui Sensei prior to his enlightenment on Mt. Kurama.
👺 May 18 · Sacred Mountain Walking & Ancient Prayer Rituals
A very special opportunity to walk the mountains of the Kurama area alongside Shugen monks, taking part in ancient prayer rituals just as Usui Sensei likely did. This is a rare and privileged day of mountain practice, spiritual walking, and direct connection to the esoteric traditions that shaped the origins of Reiki Ryōhō.
This is a full day. For those who wish to rest instead, this day is also yours to take at your own pace in Kyoto.
👺 May 19 · Bujo-ji Temple & Reiki Share
In the morning, we travel to the far northern reaches of the Kurama valley to visit Bujo-ji, a secretive and deeply significant temple to the understanding of Reiki Ryōhō, far off the tourist map. Rarely opened and for only 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.
We return to Kyoto in the afternoon, and in the evening we join Inamoto Sensei once more for our second Reiki share with Komyo Reiki-dō teachers and practitioners.
👺 May 20 · Deep Kurama, Mt. Kurama & the Uesaku Full Moon Ceremony
The pilgrimage reaches its crescendo. In the morning, we travel to Fukuden-ji in the Deep Kurama mountains, dedicated to Bishamonten, for a ceremony with monks and spiritual leaders, marking a new chapter of practice in the Kurama Valley. We gather for lunch together in Kurama village before making our final ascent of Mt. Kurama.
As night falls and the full moon rises over the mountain, we join the Uesaku fire ceremony, an ancient ritual held on the night of the May full moon. Candle flames are passed hand to hand in the darkness as prayers are offered for awakening and world peace. Mountain, group, and flame move as one.
The pilgrimage closes under the full moon on Kurama mountain.
👺 May 21 · Departure
Tour concludes. Participants depart Kyoto at their own pace.
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 in 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; 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, and 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
Tour dates: May 12 – 20, 2027 · Group size: Maximum 20 participants · Price: $4,595 USD
Early Bird pricing (limited to six member spots) closed on 18 August 2026. Bookings made by 26 November 2026 can be split into ten fortnightly payments of $459.50 with no fees or interest; bookings made by 31 January 2027 can be split into three equal payments, which is the last date to book with the three-payment option.
👺 Refund dates
- On or before November 29, 2026: 100% refundable (less 1–2% transaction fees charged by payment processors).
- Nov 30, 2026 – Jan 1, 2027: 50% refundable (less 1–2% transaction fees).
- From January 2, 2027 onward: Non-refundable.
No exceptions: because of the commitments made to temples, monks, and special guests, and the private nature of these arrangements, this policy will be strictly upheld.
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. Refunds are offered only under the terms above, with no exceptions for personal, family, or travel issues outside this policy.
👺 Travel insurance
All participants are strongly advised to purchase fully refundable flights and comprehensive travel and medical insurance. This protects you in case of cancellation due to unforeseen issues such as pandemics, natural events, travel restrictions, or border closures.
👺 Liability
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.
👺 What's included and what isn't
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
- Deep Kurama meals where specified in the itinerary
- Welcome gifts
- Access to a private Facebook group for ongoing updates and Q&A about logistics, accommodation, and travel
Not included:
- Optional 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 and our meeting point
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:
Our pick-up and drop-off location is the Statue of Izumo-no-Okuni, shown below. All of the recommended hotels (except the Hotel Higashiyama) are within a few minutes' walk of the meeting point.
👺 Visas and everyday prices in Kyoto
Visas: citizens of the USA, Europe, and most countries enter Japan visa-free. Some countries need to apply in advance; please check this list.
Getting around: Osaka to Kyoto bullet train about $10 each way; subway or bus in Kyoto about $1 per trip; taxi in Kyoto about $10 to $25 depending on distance. Entrance to most shrines and temples is about $5 or less.
Eating: dinner at a mid-range restaurant about $15 to $20; a budget dinner (still excellent) about $6. An onsen visit is about $7 to $10 and usually good for the whole day.
Taken together, about $40 USD (35 EUR) a day covers food, admissions, transport, and general expenses, a little more if you choose finer restaurants or take taxis.
As a rough estimate for the whole trip, most participants spend between 6,000 and 7,500 EUR (roughly 7,000 to 8,700 USD), including the pilgrimage fee, flights, hotel, and personal expenses.
Don't wait. The 2027 pilgrimage is capped at 20 participants.
