Hotel Metropolitan Morioka is welcoming back its popular WELLNESS TIME series for 2026, now entering its 5th season. The program invites a resident temple abbot to guide participants through a Zen meditation session, followed by an original shojin cuisine breakfast. Reservations opened on April 20, 2026.
The event offers a chance to step away from the busyness of daily life and experience quiet contemplation alongside a nourishing meal. Detailed etiquette and seating guidance are provided, making it accessible for those trying Zen meditation for the first time.
Event Overview
Event Name: WELLNESS TIME 2026 – Zen Meditation and a Wholesome Breakfast
Dates: 5 sessions / 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM (estimated)
- May 31 (Sun), June 28 (Sun), July 26 (Sun), September 13 (Sun), October 18 (Sun)
Participants may join one session, multiple sessions, or all five — based on their own schedule.
Venue: New Wing Banquet Hall
Capacity: 20 people per session (subject to change depending on the venue)
Price: 3,000 yen per person (Zen meditation + breakfast, tax and service charge included)
Reservation Start: April 20, 2026 (Mon)
How to Reserve: Online via the hotel's official website or through the Marketing Department
Inquiries: 019-629-2601 (10:00 AM to 5:00 PM)
Online reservations: https://morioka.metropolitan.jp/topics/fws-002.html
Zen Instructor: Reverend Eigen Takahashi, Head Priest of Seijuji Temple (ancestral temple of the Nanbu clan)
Session Schedule
7:15 AM – Reception opens / Hotel banquet hall
7:30 AM – Zen meditation
Participants learn the fundamentals and mindset of Zen practice through three sets of approximately 15 minutes each. Note: Shoulder-striking (keisaku) instruction will not be used.
8:50 AM – Breakfast
An original eclectic shojin (Buddhist vegetarian) meal is served, including rice porridge, a main dish, seasonal ohitashi vegetables and other side dishes, and dessert.
Chair seating is available for those who prefer it — please request this when making a reservation. Comfortable clothing is recommended; a changing room is also available.
All photos are for illustrative purposes only.
About the "For Wellness" Project
Since 2022, Hotel Metropolitan Morioka has been developing the "For Wellness" project — a series of programs designed to support physical and mental well-being while celebrating local culture, food history, and traditions. From 2024, the project has expanded to include elements that highlight the distinct character of the Morioka and Iwate region.
Past events have included:
- A special Zen meditation session combined with a lesson on local Morioka history
- A nel-drip coffee experience at a locally-roasted Morioka coffee shop
- A session on the world of Japanese dashi (broth) and autumn flavors
- A miso-making workshop using Iwate Prefecture soybeans and house-made rice koji from Matsuzaka Miso Store
Hotel official website: https://morioka.metropolitan.jp/
