– Exploring the Essence of Japanese Culture with a Buddhist Monk Alumnus –

On Thursday, July 17, first-year students from the IM (Immersion) Course visited Sansho Zen Temple in Nara as part of their pre-study abroad program and experienced the practice of zazen (seated meditation). What made this experience especially meaningful was that the temple’s deputy head priest, Ryushin Minagawa, is an alumnus of our school and a former IM Course student himself.

Opening the Senses Through Zen Practice

Sansho Zen Temple is a historic Soto Zen temple in Nara City, serving as a direct training temple under Eiheiji, the head monastery of Soto Zen Buddhism. Under the guidance of Deputy Head Priest Minagawa, the students quietly adjusted their posture and began their zazen practice in the dignified main hall.

With their eyes closed, the students became attuned to subtle sounds—the soft tapping of rain on the ceiling, distant noises of city life, the quiet footsteps of monks, and the creaking of wood. Normally unnoticed, these sounds instead helped calm their minds and brought their awareness inward. By "doing nothing," they found their senses heightened and their focus drawn to the present moment—a profound experience for many.

"Before Going Out into the World, Know Where You Stand"

Rev. Minagawa graduated from the IM Course in 2015, studied abroad, and later chose the path of Zen Buddhism. With both a global perspective and deep appreciation for Japanese culture, he now serves as a "bridge between Japan and the world."

During the visit, students listened attentively to his reflections on the spirit of Zen. His words, “Studying abroad is not only a journey to meet others, but also a journey to face yourself,” captured the very meaning of the zazen experience.

To express oneself in a different cultural context, it is essential to understand and articulate one’s own culture. Learning through experience about Japanese values such as "ma" (space), "silence," and "reflection" lays the foundation for authentic self-expression in the international community.

Realizations Born in Stillness

Many students described feeling a sense of inner balance during the meditation experience.

Comments included: “When I closed my eyes, I noticed the soft rain, distant sounds of town life, the priest’s footsteps, and creaking wood. These sounds, usually ignored, instead helped calm my mind,” and “As I focused on my breathing and the present moment, I felt my inner world gradually settle.”

In a world filled with constant information, the opportunity to simply sit in silence and face their own senses was a rare and refreshing experience for the students.

Many were surprised by the depth of insight found in the simple act of "just sitting."

Centering the Mind, Facing the Future

The zazen experience at Sansho Zen Temple became a starting point for an "inner journey" for these students as they prepare for the outward journey of studying abroad. That this learning opportunity was led by a senior who once wore the same school uniform undoubtedly left a lasting impression on each of them.

Before crossing borders, the students were reminded of the importance of noticing the culture and quietness beneath their feet. In the silent temple hall, they surely felt that this awareness is the first step to becoming a true global citizen.