Shoganji temple in Ojuki village, Oita.

This photo was taken was Jiho Sensei. Head monk of the fully operable temple that his family have ran for generations. 

Staying here for 1 week was a blessing. 

This area was so calm and peaceful. There was nothing to do other than learn from Jiho how to remain mindful and at peace in life. Jiho taught me in ways that he did not even realise. He is the epitomy of everything that 'Zen' is all about.

Growing his own food and living off the land, spending every moment in mindfulness, taking the 'middle way' and not choosing to be overly happy or sad about any situation. I found him and his way of life so inspirational, and grew stronger as a person after my stay.

He was always at peace in life. Whether it was teaching us how to grow vegetables in his beloved garden, how to make udon fresh udon without using any machinery, recounting stories of monk training in his youth or drinking beer and having a social evening together.

Thank you Jiho.

I cannot wait to go back.

Here a peaceful weekend everyone :-)

David 

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I am a highly experienced professional English teacher, Yoga Instructor, Tai Chi teacher, Nutrition Consultant and Personal Trainer from London, UK. I recently left London to work and travel around Japan on a Working Holiday Visa with my best friend and longtime girlfriend Ashley (who is also a teacher on Cafetalk : https://cafetalk.com/tutors/profile/?id=54542&lang=en ). We love sharing adventures travelling, teaching, exploring and understanding new cultures. We hope to speak with you soon!

If you would like to follow my travels on instagram, and see where we are in the world you can do so here:

 

Feel free to send me a message if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule a lesson at a time in which my schedule is not open. I will always do my best to accomodate every student.

David