Start Here

Welcome. Whether you're completely new to Zen or returning with prior experience, this page will help you find your first step with us.

First step for everyone: introduce yourself by email

Before attending, please send us a brief email hello.

Tell us:

  • • Your name
  • • Your background with meditation/Zen (if any)
  • • What you're looking for in practice

This helps us welcome you well and suggest the best next step.

Email Introduction

If helpful, we can schedule a short phone or Zoom conversation.

Two paths, same destination

Choose the path that best fits your experience.

I'm new to Zen

Start with beginner night and foundational guidance

I already know Zen practice

Jump into practice with context about our lineage

If you're new to Zen

If you're just starting, we recommend attending our monthly beginner night before joining weekly zazenkai or daily sits. This creates a more grounded and supportive first experience.

What beginner night covers:

  • • Basic posture and breath
  • • What to expect in a sit
  • • Etiquette and forms (gently explained)
  • • How to begin daily home practice (even 5 minutes)

Next steps:

  1. 1. Send your email introduction
  2. 2. Attend beginner night
  3. 3. Join weekly practice

New practitioner guide

See our getting-started guide for practical details and curated external resources.

Read New Practitioner Guide

If you already know Zen practice

If you've practiced in Zen or another East Asian contemplative tradition, we'll help you quickly discern fit with our lineage and local forms.

What to review before attending:

  • • Our schedule and rhythm
  • • Our lineage/practice orientation
  • • Community norms and expectations

Next steps:

  1. 1. Send your email introduction
  2. 2. Optionally schedule a brief call
  3. 3. Attend an upcoming sit
View Practice & Lineage View Schedule

Practice unfolds over time

Our community supports a range of practice depth, from stable weekly participation to more formal training. For those called to deeper commitment, we can outline pathways that may include lay precepts, jukai, and ordination-related training in appropriate contexts.

Note: Not everyone needs the same path. Sincerity and continuity matter more than speed.

Questions?

Visit the FAQ for practical questions about attendance, etiquette, clothing, and what to expect.

Read FAQ Email Us
Kougakuji Hanko