Studios of the Central Valley
White Cloud Sanctuary
White Cloud Sanctuary was a small Daoist temple and study center on a mountain farm near San José, where one guest at a time could stay for one-to-one tai chi, qigong and meditation. We couldn't confirm it still runs in November 2026, so check before you plan a stay.
Update, November 2026: We couldn't confirm White Cloud Sanctuary is still running. Its old website no longer works and we found no current listing for it. Treat it as closed unless you hear otherwise.
White Cloud Sanctuary described itself as a small Daoist temple and study center for meditation, qigong, tai chi and other Chinese internal martial arts. It said it had been teaching in Costa Rica since 1972.
The setting
The sanctuary sat on about 12 acres of gardens, fruit trees and trails in the mountains of the Central Valley, not far from San José, with a river along one side. On clear days it looked out toward the Poás and Irazú volcanoes. The grounds had a temple and studio for meditation and movement, a tiled outdoor court for practice, and stables.
Where guests stayed
There were two places to stay: rooms in the temple quarters, with a private bathroom and kitchen, and a one-person casita at the top of the property with a bedroom, sitting room, kitchen and valley views.
How the training worked
The sanctuary took only one guest at a time, so each stay was effectively a private course. It offered 2-week intensives in your choice of tai chi forms (including Kuang Ping Yang style and a 48-posture Chen-based form), qigong, Hsing-I and sword work, with a daily schedule of guided sessions and quiet seated meditation.
Tai chi and meditation elsewhere in Costa Rica
If a quiet, one-to-one stay appeals, look at meditation and silent retreats; our guide to choosing a yoga retreat in Costa Rica explains the different kinds of center and what to ask before you book.
Frequently asked questions
Is White Cloud Sanctuary still open?
We couldn't confirm it as of November 2026. Its website no longer works and we found no current listing.
What is qigong?
A Chinese practice of slow movement, breathing and focused attention, often practiced alongside tai chi.
Where was White Cloud Sanctuary?
On a mountain farm in the Central Valley near San José, with views toward the Poás and Irazú volcanoes. Its exact location wasn't published.
[Updated on: 4 November 2026]
