Walking Mountain Pilgrimage Sesshin with Bells Mountain

The format

This is an unusual sesshin structure: the first week is a walking meditation pilgrimage (5–10 miles daily), and the second week is stationary at a base camp. Both are conducted in silence with formal Zen practice integrated throughout. The walking phase combines kinhin (walking meditation) with longer-distance hiking; the sesshin phase settles into traditional zazen rhythm with eight hours of seated meditation daily, chanting, and guided hikes.

What to expect

A physically demanding retreat that assumes reasonable fitness — daily hiking with a pack in mountain terrain — combined with formal sesshin structure. The first week is mobile and dynamic; the second is rooted and sits-heavy. Both weeks maintain noble silence (no speaking except with teachers). You'll need to carry your gear or arrange support; the center should clarify logistics and what base camp accommodation looks like.

The combination of walking and sitting is rare. It appeals to practitioners who want intensive practice but find eight hours of daily zazen alone difficult, or who want to practice meditation while moving through landscape. It's not easier than a standard sesshin — it's different, and more physically active.