American Zen

“American Zen will carry the same flavor and essence as Shakyamuni’s original teachings, as well as the Chinese and Japanese flavors, yet will become its own special form of Zen.”

Quote - Soyu Matsuoka Roshi

Soyu Matsuoka Roshi, came to America in 1939 as the assistant minister at Zenshuji in Los Angeles. Later he moved to San Fransico and began taking on 'American' Students of Zen and promoting 'Shikantaza' for westerners. From here, his next Zen temple was in Chicago. Later he moved back to the West Coast and Established the Long Beach Zen Center. The Establishment of Zen in America for Americans was his realized goal, and he was to be the first of his kind.

My teacher, Rev. Ryugen Watanabe was his disciple. Matsuoka Roshi is, therefore, my Dharma Grandfather.

-jyozen-