Shakyo (Sutra Copying) at Shourinji Temple

Sutra copying, or shakyo, at Shourinji Temple, explicitly advertised as requiring no Japanese knowledge. Tracing sacred characters with brush and ink is meditative even without understanding the text, and the resident monk speaks some English to guide you. Beginner-friendly and about one hour long — a calm, hands-on introduction to temple practice in a quiet setting. The completed sutra copy, stamped with the temple seal, becomes a personal keepsake.