Ojukai 2026

At the beginning of July, four of us, including Abbot Taiun Roshi and Todo Hosetsu Roshi, spent several days at Eiheiji to visit Minamisawa Zenji.
They had the opportunity to meet him several times, listen to his teachings, and share his joy in transmitting the Dharma of Master Dōgen.

Despite being 99 years old, he wishes to participate in the major Ojukai ceremonies that will take place at Kanshoji from 1 to 5 July 2026, where he will officiate as Kaishi: master of precepts.

Ojukai is the traditional way of transmitting the precepts in our school. The different aspects of Enlightenment are explained and practised.






This event is a unique opportunity to bring together different lineages of Sōtō Zen – many masters will be present, along with members of their sangha.
Anyone who is a beginner can receive the precepts, thus expressing their aspiration to live the values of Buddhism. Monks, nuns and bodhisattvas can also use this opportunity to renew their commitment to the practice of Enlightenment by receiving the precepts again. The precepts can be received several times in a lifetime.
Through these ceremonies, which are open to a wide audience, the Buddha’s teachings are gradually being transmitted throughout the world, contributing to the evolution of humanity.

Registration :
secretariat@kanshoji.org

Preparations: the investment of an entire sangha

Given the scale of the event—we are expecting around 200 people—we have a lot of preparations and work to do this year, including expanding the hattō (ceremony hall), building new toilets, and renovating the apartment of the founder, Minamisawa Zenji.

Ojukai also requires a lot of investment in the general organisation and rehearsals for the ceremonies.
We will carry out these activities while maintaining the schedule of events that usually take place at Kanshoji: Sesshins, Discovery Retreats, Sewing Workshops, Ango, etc. The traditional Ango (training retreat) will take place as usual from 15 January to 15 April 2026 in its basic form.
To carry out all these projects, we need the support of the entire sangha. You are welcome to join us at any time throughout the year.

Summer retreats

We have experimented with summer retreats in a new format: including a sesshin at the beginning of the cycle and more convivial time. Although the practice is more intense than in previous years, the atmosphere is very light and warm. Everyone agrees that this has been a positive experience. We will therefore keep this format for the 2026 summer retreats.

Words from the abbot

It is a great opportunity that the 99-year-old Zenji of Eiheiji is coming to Europe to participate in Ojukai as master of transmitting the precepts. This rare opportunity will probably not arise again anytime soon. It is a great opportunity for us to be able to participate in this historic meeting.
These ceremonies of entering the Way are open to all – it is possible, and even desirable, for monks, nuns and bodhisattvas to renew their vows.
I therefore hope that many of you will join us for this great gathering.
Gasshō,
Taiun.