Milan, Italy's economic epicentre, can be very hectic, stressful, busy, full and loud - just like every other metropolis. At the same time, Milan is not exactly the greenest city one could imagine. Spots to relax, re-charge one's battery and have a moment of silence and contemplation are rare.
All the more necessary and precious is a place like the Enso-Ji Zen monastery in a quiet side street on the edge of the Navigli neighbourhood. From the outside, the place in the backyard of an apartment house couldn't be less spectacular. But never judge a book by its cover! Once inside, Enso-Ji is a refuge from the energy-draining urban hustle and bustle. The interior design is authentically Japanese - reduced simplicity and pureness, nothing in there that would distract meditators from being mindful.
Zazen (meditation session) takes place three times a week (after work or early morning). The meditations are guided by Italian volunteer monks and nuns, all of them ordained in Japan. After 90 minutes of combined seated and walking meditation, everybody leaves way more serene and concentrated than when they came in. The atmosphere is very conducive to being mindful and focused. I've only met co-meditators doing their very best not to distract or disturb others. Even more important, there is no better environment to meditate than together with like-minded folks. The vibes created by a meditation group are by far more intense than just sitting on a cushion alone at home. My favourite place in Milan!
Explore Milan like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Milan guide.
Milan's "Bagni Misteriosi" might seem like too fancy a swimming pool for you, but if you go and if you're like me, you'll want to go again & again...
By
"Circolo Magnolia" is one of Milan's best music entertainment venues. It's home to some of the best music festivals and you can relax under the trees...
By
"Conca dell'Incoronata" is an ancient water basin in Milan, one of its most unique corners. I always fantasize about what might have been here...
By
"10 Corso Como" in Milan is an essential art space with an elegant garden cafe & a sophisticated concept store. It's why it's worth checking open gates!
By
"Bar Picchio" is a down-to-earth, unpretentious tobacco bar in one of my favorite areas in Milan; this low-priced, friendly bar reminds me of the '80s...
By
"Hangar Bicocca" in Milan is an exposition site in an a former industrial hangar. It's the perfect place to see the world from a different perspective...
By
"La Belle Alliance" is my comfort pub in Milan, a true temple for beer lovers. Whenever somebody's visiting me, I simply take them there...
By
"NUN" in Milan is the perfect street food deli to have a quick kebab. It has been serving gourmet wraps in a neat atmosphere since 2013!
By
"Via Lincoln" and the area around it is Milan's very own Notting Hill! Not only that -- there's a little bit of Venice and Liguria in this garden district.
By
"La Gravina" is one of the best pizza restaurants in South Milan. It has Apulian spirit, the best panzerotti & pucce, and you have to try their specialty.
By
The panzerotto is a sort of little fried rolled pizza, so the shape is like that of a sandwich completely closed that has a filling inside. Tasty!
By
185 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 185 Insider Tips from our local Spotters