Encounter with Minamizawa Zenji

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