Discover Zen Buddhism
Zen is an ancient branch of Buddhism that originated in India in the 5th century BC. It was then transmitted without interruption to China, Japan, and then to the West.
Master Deshimaru brought its living practice to France and Europe in the 1960s. Master Kosen continued his master’s mission until his passing in 2025 by opening numerous dojos, a temple in Argentina, and another in France.
At the heart of Zen is Zen meditation (zazen). Discover this practice: Zazen, the Zen meditation as well as its benefits: The benefits of Zen meditation (zazen).
If you already practice another path such as yoga, Tibetan Buddhism, mindfulness, guided meditations, and others, discover how Zen is similar to and different from these practices:
- Zen Buddhism vs Tibetan Buddhism
- Zen Buddhism vs yoga, Pilates, mindfulness, etc.
- The differences from guided meditations
Finally, to discover how Zen reached the West, consult: The history of Zen, from the Buddha to the modern world.
Introduce yourself to Zen in a dojo
Zazen, Zen meditation, is the heart of Zen Buddhism. To discover its full flavor, take an introduction in one of our practice places.
One of our instructors, often a Zen monk or nun, will guide you step by step. You will discover the right posture, breathing, and state of mind. You will benefit from advice adapted to your physical abilities. You can then participate in a meditation session with all the practitioners.
Practice regularly and deepen the teachings
Having regularity is important, ideally in a group in a dojo (see the list).
If you are too far from a dojo (or in addition to group practice), it is better to sit in posture every day, even if it is 10-20 minutes, then gradually increase the duration, rather than doing a single session per week.
If you are too far from a Zen dojo, you can also enjoy the dynamics of a group of practitioners of all levels in our online dojo (zazoom). Please first take an introduction in a dojo or at the temple, or by watching one of our educational videos.
To support your practice of seated Zen meditation and deepen the teachings of Buddhism, consult the teachings as well as the books we recommend.
Participate in Zen retreats
Throughout the year, we organize numerous retreats in Europe and Latin America (see the list) in our dojos and temples.
Participating in a retreat (sesshin) is an important moment to deepen Zen. We also organize a one-month summer camp in each of our two temples: Yujo Nyusanji in France and Shobogenji in Argentina.