⛩️ Tsurumai Mountain Eianji Temple Zen Meditation Experience

In the "Eian-ji" temple, which has deep ties with the Kaga domain's Maeda family, a Zen meditation experience is conducted. The temple is known for enshrining "Shōten-sama," who is revered for blessing the present world and is highly respected by the public. During the experience, the chief priest, Mr. Sando Rei, dressed in the traditional Shugendo yamabushi attire, blows a conch shell in front of the main hall to welcome the participants. Shugendo refers to the ancient Japanese mountain faith, which involves rigorous training in seclusion in the mountains. The conch shell is one of the essential tools during this practice. Mr. Sando studied abroad in the United States, China, and the United Kingdom for three years when he was in his twenties. During this time, he traveled the world as a backpacker, using the English skills he developed while studying abroad to explain the charm of Zen meditation, Buddhism, and Japanese religion in a simple and understandable manner. Mr. Sando practices Zen meditation daily and also engages in fasting retreats that last up to a week. Zen meditation is one of the practices in Buddhism, where one sits in the correct posture, adjusts their breathing, and focuses their attention while seated. By eliminating unnecessary energy, one can maintain prolonged stillness. A typical Zen meditation session lasts about 30 minutes, marked by the burning of a single stick of incense, referred to as "ichiyushō." The Zen meditation experience takes place in the vermilion-hued Benzaiten Hall, dedicated to the deity of wisdom and learning, Benzaiten, and in the main hall. In this tranquil setting, away from the hustle and bustle, participants reflect on themselves and adjust their minds through meditation.

Experience Zen meditation in a temple with deep ties to the Kaga Domain's Maeda family. The Zen meditation takes place in the vividly vermilion Ben-ten Hall. Each session of Zen meditation is based on the burning of a single incense stick, lasting about 30 minutes.