Introduction to Japanese Buddhism

Led by Sensei Nem Etsugen Bajra

Tuesdays, May 19 & 26; June 2, 9, 16, & 30

7:00-8:30 p.m.  • Zoom Only

CLASS INFO

This six-session course introduces Japanese Buddhism for those interested in visiting Japan, exploring the roots of our American Zen practice, or understanding how Buddhism has shaped Japanese culture and everyday life.

Learning how Japanese people adapted Buddhist teachings to their social and cultural conditions can inspire us to experiment with our own Zen practice in daily life, work, and community. This course is not a scholarly or monastic study, but a practical and cultural introduction.

Whether visiting Japan or simply reading about it, one inevitably encounters temples, gardens, and rituals influenced by Buddhism. Yet Japanese Buddhism is highly diverse, and without some historical and cultural context it can feel overwhelming. This course provides that context.

This course explores three cultural themes—equality, work, and service—through core Buddhist values: the equality of all beings, work as mindful practice, and service as compassionate action.

The following topics will be introduced:

1. How Buddhism, introduced in the sixth century, developed into the diverse forms practiced in Japan today.
2. Major Buddhist schools – Kegon, Tendai,  Shingon, Zen, Pure Land, and Nichiren – and their core teachings.
3. The Lotus Sutra—the core teaching of the Tendai school—and the background from which Zen, Pure Land, and Nichiren Buddhism emerged.
4. Buddhist pilgrimage traditions, including Shikoku Henro, Kumano Kōdō, and Bashō-related pilgrimage routes.
5. Japanese everyday Buddhism observed through Rituals and seasonal practices such as home altars, funerals, Obon, and Higan.
6. How Buddhism is practiced and reinterpreted by younger generations in Japan today

In addition to these topics, your questions and interests will help shape our discussions.

REGISTRATION & PAYMENT

Members: $180
Non-Members: $240

PLEASE SEE YOUR CONFIRMATION EMAIL FOR CLASS 1 LINK.

The Zen Center policy is to turn no one away for lack of funds. If you have concerns about payments click here to request Dharma Training Fund. If you have any other questions, please contact Myoki at programsteward@zcla.org.