貴重な体験ができました。

The head monk was very accommodating, despite not being to communicate in English we did our best and we came to an understanding eventually. If you're after an authentic experience to Zen Meditation, with some calligraphy and some tea; this is as genuine as it gets.

Mariko was a wonderful host. We especially enjoyed the first part of the tour, at the temple. We had tea, listened to the monk chanting inside the temple, got to try our hand at copying Japanese calligraphy, ate the most delicious vegan lunch, then rang the huge temple bell. The monk and his wife were enthusiastic and so friendly and welcoming.

After lunch, we walked around the historical neighborhood. This part of the tour was a bit awkward, as our guide (Mariko)was interpreting for us from another tour guide who had lots of detailed information
in Japanese that just didn't grab our attention.