Question 1

What kind of event is the Plum Village Monastic Group Mindfulness Japan Tour?

Accepted Answer

This event will bring together monks, including Dharma teachers who have received direct teachings from Thich Nhat Hanh, from Plum Villages around the world, including France, the United States, Thailand, and Hong Kong, to Japan and learn and practice the methods taught by Thich Nhat Hanh in various parts of Japan. This is a rare opportunity to experience the energy of mindfulness from monks in Japan. In 2025, the main event will be the Fujisan Mindfulness Retreat, with eight pre-tour and specialized programs in Tokyo, Aichi, and Fukushima. For more information, please see the Home menu on this website.

Question 2

What kind of organization is the Plum Village Invitation Committee, the organizer of this event?

Accepted Answer

We are a voluntary group made up of volunteers who support the teachings of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh and share the teachings of Plum Village, an organization founded by Master Hanh, in Japan. We are active when inviting Plum Village monks to Japan. All activities are carried out on a volunteer, non-profit basis. We are also involved in the management of the website "Thich Nhat Hanh's Teachings of Mindfulness," and are responsible for planning, managing, and disseminating information regarding Plum Village invitations.

Question 3

I am not a Buddhist but I am interested in the teachings of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh and Plum Village. Can I attend these events?

Accepted Answer

Anyone can participate, regardless of religion, sect, occupation, etc. The practice of "mindfulness" and its teachings will help you to be happy in the present moment and live in peace with yourself, your family, and the people of the world.

Question 4

I have no experience with meditation, but can I still participate in the events on the Japan tour?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can. Plum Village monks will be providing guidance at each event.

Question 5

What language will be used at each event? Will there be Japanese interpreters? What if an English speaker attends?

Accepted Answer

The languages available are Japanese and English only.All programs led by monks, such as sermons, will be conducted primarily in English. Some of the visiting monks will be Japanese speakers, so some parts may be spoken in Japanese. All English talks will be accompanied by consecutive or simultaneous interpretation into Japanese. Those who do not understand English can participate without any problems. English speakers are also welcome to participate. Most sermons, Q&As, etc. will be conducted in English. Sharing sessions (time for participants to share) may be conducted only in Japanese, but if there are a large number of English-speaking participants, we will do our best to support them, such as by creating English-only groups. Please feel free to participate.If you are an English speaker, please let us know by filling out the application form when applying.

Question 6

Can children participate?

Accepted Answer

Except for the Mt. Fuji Mindfulness Retreat, participants for most events must be high school students or older. For events with student rates, students (high school students, university students, and working students) can use the student rate. Please contact us for details regarding participation of elementary and junior high school students or younger (accompanied by a parent or guardian). The Mt. Fuji Retreat also has plans for a kids' program. For more information, please see the Retreat Information page or contact us.* If you wish to bring along infants or small children, please contact us separately. Regarding bringing children along varies depending on the event, so please contact us when you apply.

Question 7

There are events that include meals, but what kind of meals are they? Also, if I don't need them, is it possible to apply without the meals?

Accepted Answer

Vegetarian (eggs and dairy products may be used in small amounts), vegan or shojin-style meals will be provided. Please note that for events with meals, with some exceptions, the participation fee basically includes meals even if you do not require meals. There are also events where you can choose to include meals, so for details, please contact the contact point of each event when applying.

Question 8

I would like to participate in an event that includes meals. Can you accommodate my allergies?

Accepted Answer

Since this varies depending on the event, please check the details page of the event you wish to participate in on Peatix or other sites and contact the contact information for that event.

Question 9

I have been diagnosed with a mental illness, can I still participate?

Accepted Answer

If you have been diagnosed with a severe mental illness and are taking medication, please get permission from your doctor to attend. For more information, please contact the contact information for each event.

FAQ