Introductory Program
Introductory Program
Daishu-in West has a program designed to introduce Rinzai Zen monastic training and its practice for cultivating awareness to interested participants on April 25th-26th, 2025. There are four spaces available. Please contact the temple if you are interested in attending.
What is Rinzai Zen?
Rinzai Zen is a traditional form of Buddhism practiced in Japan for over 800 years, with a rich history and direct lineage tracing back to Gautama Buddha 2500 years ago.
In the last century, Buddhist practice has made its way to America in various forms, and many people have experienced a meditation class, retreat, or workshop. However, traditional Buddhist training is still difficult to find in the west.
Weekend Immersion Program at Daishu-in West
For those interested in experiencing a traditional Rinzai Zen Temple lifestyle, Daishu-in West, is offering a weekend immersion. The Saturday-Sunday program includes Sutra Chanting, Samu (working meditation), Zazen (seated meditation) and structured meals. The tranquil setting and structured schedule provide an opportunity to step away from the chaos of our everyday lives and see deeper into the Self.
SCHEDULE
Please be aware that some of the times may change.
SATURDAY
Please call for specific directions, close attention to driving and parking will be necessary. Allow time for your drive, lunch and perhaps mistakes. Arrive no later than 12:30pm.
1:00
Tea in the Dharma Hall, Q&A.
2:00
Zazen instruction in the Meditation Hall.
3:00
Samu (working meditation).
4:00
Dinner.
4:30
Kaiyoku (bath)
After dinner practitioners are allotted a short time in the Japanese soaking tub.
This is time to refresh before evening Sutras and Zazen.
5:30
Sutra chanting in the Hondo
6:30-9:00
Evening Zazen (Sitting Meditation). There is a Sutra read when Zazen is over and before sleeping.
SUNDAY
Sunday mornings at Daishu-in West are Zazenkai, when the local
community comes to sit with the residents of the temple and stay after for
tea & Dharma talk.
5:00
Morning Sutras
6:00
Zazen
7:00
Breakfast
7:30
Niten Soji (Morning Cleaning)
Samu (Working Meditation)
9:00
Zazen
11:00
Tea & Dharma talk
12:00
Lunch
Rice and miso soup.
Final Q&A after lunch.
Participants then gather their things and head home.
How to Participate
Call (707) 923-9529 or
write to contact@daishuinwest.org.
Location
Daishu-in West is located in the serene hills of Southern Humboldt, California.
Google Maps directions are not exact, and participants will be given further
instruction before arriving.
Cost
Daishu-in West operates entirely on a donation basis. Anyone interested in participating in our training is welcome regardless of their financial means. We suggest between $200-300 for the weekend stay.