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Tassajara Zen Mountain Center

Tassajara Zen Mountain Center in California's Big Sur Mountains is the first Zen Buddhist monastery established outside Asia, founded by the…

Carmel, Ventana Wilderness, Carmel Valley, California · 21917 visits
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About Us

Tassajara Zen Mountain Center

Tassajara Zen Mountain Center in California's Big Sur Mountains is the first Zen Buddhist monastery established outside Asia, founded by the San Francisco Zen Center in 1967. During summer, the retreat opens to the public as a hot springs spa, offering natural thermal baths, zen massages, meditation sessions and zazen practice. The space includes outdoor thermal pools, massage rooms, zen gardens and cabin accommodation in an atmosphere of deep silence and contemplation.

Wellness

Body & mind ritual

Tradition

Ancient techniques

Care

Personalised attention

Tassajara Zen Mountain Center
21917Views
48ZenStars
Services & Prices

Rituals for your
transformation

Book via WhatsApp

Most Popular
Zen Bodywork (Shiatsu & Somatic)
A 60-minute integrative session combining traditional shiatsu with somatic-release techniques to relieve tension, restore balance, and support meditation practice. Ideal after hiking or sitting retreats.
60 min
80
Book
Most Popular
Mindful Facial — Mineral Spring Renewal
A 90-minute restorative facial using mineral-rich spring water and gentle, plant-based formulations to soothe skin exposed to mountain air, paired with a short guided breathwork sequence.
90 min
120
Book
Guided Somatic Movement Session
A 45-minute small-group or private somatic movement class focused on body awareness, trauma-informed grounding, and gentle mobility to complement meditation and yoga practice.
45 min
65
Book
Private Meditation & Yoga Instruction
A 60-minute one-on-one session tailored to your level, combining Zen meditation guidance with restorative yoga to deepen stillness and ease physical holding patterns.
60 min
95
Book
Communal Hot Spring Soak + Tea Ceremony
A 120-minute experience in our remote hot springs, including mindful soaking, a guided tea ceremony, and silent reflection time to integrate retreat practice.
120 min
180
Book
Team

Meet our team

Miguel Santos
Senior Therapist
Miguel trained in traditional shiatsu and somatic therapy in Portugal and Japan, bringing 15 years of experience working with retreat participants to support physical and energetic release.
Shiatsu, somatic release, trauma-informed bodywork
Ana Pereira
Wellness Specialist
Ana is a certified yoga teacher and meditation coach who leads guided movement, breathwork, and private mindfulness sessions tailored to retreat goals.
Zen meditation instruction, restorative yoga, breathwork
Reviews

What clients say

4.7
3 reviews
J
Jane M.

"The hot springs and silent walks in the Ventana Wilderness transformed my weeklong retreat. The shiatsu sessions helped release years of shoulder tension and the vegetarian meals were nourishing and creative."

C
Carlos R.

"A profoundly peaceful place — morning zazen overlooking the canyon and the evening tea ceremony were highlights. Staff were attentive, and the guided somatic work supported my meditation practice deeply."

S
Sophie K.

"Beautiful remote setting and sincere teachers. My facial left my skin glowing after long hours outdoors; only wished there were more evening class options during my stay."

ZenStars

Community recognition

48 ZenStars

One of the most appreciated spaces on the platform

ZenStars are awarded by The ZenMap community in recognition of the quality, authenticity and experience offered by this space.

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Reservations can be made online via our website or by phone. For weekend stays and popular summer guest season dates, book at least 4–6 weeks in advance to secure space.
Arrive 20–30 minutes before your scheduled service to check in. Bring comfortable clothing, a reusable water bottle, and any personal yoga props if you prefer; robes and towels are provided for spa services.
This is a Zen retreat center: quiet attire and respectful silence in shared spaces are appreciated. For treatments, modesty is maintained; therapists will provide appropriate draping and privacy.
Please disclose pregnancies, recent surgeries, or serious medical conditions when booking. Therapists may decline services if contraindicated. Tipping is not required but appreciated; small gratuities may be left at reception.
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Contact

How to find us

WhatsApp
Address
39171 Tassajara Road, Carmel Valley, CA 93924, Ventana Wilderness, Carmel Valley, California, Carmel
Hours
SunToday 09:00 – 20:00
Mon 09:00 – 20:00
Tue 09:00 – 20:00
Wed 09:00 – 20:00
Thu 09:00 – 21:00
Fri 09:00 – 19:00
Sat Closed
Location

Where to find us

39171 Tassajara Road, Carmel Valley, CA 93924, Ventana Wilderness, Carmel Valley, California, Carmel

Tassajara Zen Mountain Center
Verified 48