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Tag: Denchuji Temple

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Shinjuku’s Kagurazaka: Deep Connections with the Third Shogun of the Edo Shogunate

By ninjakotan

Shinjuku’s Kagurazaka: Deep Connections with Tokugawa Iemitsu, the Third Shogun of the Edo Shogunate   Tokugawa Iemitsu, the Third Shogun who Consolidated the Foundations of the Edo Shogunate Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third Shogun of the Edo Shogunate (in office from 1623 to 1651), had a deep connection with Kagurazaka. Iemitsu solidified the hierarchical feudal system of the Shogunate and mandated the Sankin-Kotai system, which required feudal lords to reside in Edo periodically. He was also instrumental in establishing the isolationist policies that defined the Edo period.   Kagurazaka Street in Shinjuku, Constructed by Shogun Iemitsu The most notable connection with Kagurazaka is the construction of Kagurazaka Street itself by Iemitsu. Designed as the ‘Onarimichi,’ or Shogun’s route, it connected the Ushigome gate of Edo Castle to the residence of the senior councilor Sakai Tadakatsu.   Shogun Iemitsu Named Denchuji Temple Denchuji Temple, located between Kagurazaka and Edogawabashi stations, is a historic Zen temple named by Iemitsu. In 1650, while on a falconry outing, Iemitsu visited the temple and, noting its location amidst the fields, named it Denchuji. This temple has deep ties with Eiheiji Temple in Fukui Prefecture, a prominent Zen temple of the Soto sect. Saishoji Temple Founded byread moreShinjuku’s Kagurazaka: Deep Connections with the Third Shogun of the Edo Shogunate

CategoriesExperience

During Zazen, Shoulder Tapping Isn’t Punishment: How to Learn Authentic Zen Experience in Shinjuku, Tokyo

By ninjakotan

During Zazen, Shoulder Tapping Isn’t Punishment: How to Learn Authentic Zen Experience in Shinjuku, Tokyo   What is the Stick Used to Tap Practitioners’ Shoulders or Backs Called? For those unfamiliar with Zazen, the image of being struck with a wooden stick and experiencing pain might come to mind. Let’s clarify the use of “hitting with a stick” during Zazen. The stick used to tap the shoulders or back of practitioners is called “Kyosaku” in Japanese Zen Buddhism. It’s an abbreviation of “Keikakusakurei,” meaning “to awaken and encourage.” In the Soto Zen tradition, it’s called “Kyosaku,” while in the Rinzai Zen tradition, it’s called “Keisaku.” Originally, “Kyosaku” is a shortened form of two verbs: “Kyokaku” (to caution) and “Sakurei” (to encourage). “Keikaku” implies attention or warning, while “Sakurei” means encouragement. The purpose of using the “Kyosaku” is to awaken and encourage practitioners when they feel drowsy, have poor posture, or lack mental composure during Zazen.  You Can Request to Receive the “Kyosaku” When feeling sleepy or restless, practitioners may request the use of the “Kyosaku,” or the person in charge (Jikido) may decide to administer it. If you wish to receive the “Kyosaku,” you should remain seated and make aread moreDuring Zazen, Shoulder Tapping Isn’t Punishment: How to Learn Authentic Zen Experience in Shinjuku, Tokyo

Zazen
CategoriesExperience

Private Zen Experience in Tokyo in English

By ninjakotan

Private Zen Experience in Tokyo in English   About Zen Zen signifies a state of calmness and undisturbed mind within Buddhism. Originating in China, Zen Buddhism has flourished in Japan, evolving into major schools such as Soto and Rinzai. Understanding Zazen In the Soto tradition, zazen, or sitting meditation, embodies simply sitting (Shikantaza). It’s seen not as a means to an end but the embodiment of enlightenment itself. The Rinzai school, however, incorporates koans (philosophical puzzles) into its practice, fostering a unique form of Zen dialogue through the presentation of one’s koan understanding. The practice of zazen in the Soto School is the prevalent image of ‘Zazen.’ The Soto School’s Legacy Founded roughly 800 years ago by Zen Master Dogen and Zen Master Keizan, the Soto School is a cornerstone of Zen Buddhism in Japan. It emphasizes perceiving the true nature of things and responding aptly, with zazen at its core. Dogen Zenji taught that all daily activities are Zen practice, advocating for the harmony of body, breath, and mind through sitting. Zen Meditation at Denchuji Temple Denchuji Temple, blessed by the third Tokugawa shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu, offers a profound zazen meditation experience in English. With deep ties to theread morePrivate Zen Experience in Tokyo in English