Japanese religion - Buddhism

Horyuji-temple in Nara

Buddhism was born about 2500 years ago in India. It was founded by the Indian Prince Siddharatha Gautama.
Though China and Korea, Buddhism was introduced to Japan in the 6th century.

Zazen

The goal of Buddhism is to reach the state of nirvana.(= a state of enlightenment which exists beyond all pain and suffering). People who attained enlightenment are called "Buddha."

In Japan, there are 13 Buddhist sects- one of them is "Zen".
The focus of Zen is to achieve enlightenment that comes from within. Enlightenment is achieved by emptying our mind and giving up earthly desires.

Tea Ceremony

Zazen is a method to calm our minds through meditation which is performed in the lotus position.

To study Zen, you can go to a Zen Buddhist temple. You can stay for a few weeks or a few months, depending on the temple.

Zen gave great influences on various cultures - ex. tea ceremony, flower arrangement.

And we Japanese often prefer quiet reflection when people from other cultures might talk a lot. Maybe that's why we say Japanese culture is Zen culture.