A few weeks ago I spent two pleasant days exploring the Zen temple complex of Myoshin-ji in north-western Kyoto. The results are now up on Chris Rowthorn's Inside Kyoto website. This is my last article of 2015. Myoshin-ji, or “Sublime Heart Temple,” is a massive Zen temple complex in the north west of Kyoto. In addition to its main buildings the grounds contain 46 … [Read more...]
Shakuhachi, Cello & Zazen Live!
Our old friend, shakuhachi player Yoshida Koichi, has written to tell me of an event he has lined up for the 4th of July! On this occasion Koichi is planning to hold a mixed event of zazen and musical appreciation with classical cellist William Prunkl accompanying Koichi's shakuhachi. William Prunkl has practiced meditation in America under a Tibetan teacher, and is now … [Read more...]
Ikkyū
Ian Ropke writes... Ikkyū was a Zen monk who was famous for burning the candle of life at both ends. By day, he was devout and extremely accomplished monk and scholar. By night, he reveled in the so-called “floating world” of drink and women. He lived in tumultuous 15th century Japan at a time when most of the country was ruined by civil war. Ikkyū was born the … [Read more...]
