June 19 (Thursday)
The Thursday morning class, 20 learners and 17 volunteers walked from Tsurumi Station—about a 7-minute walk—to Sōjiji Temple.
First, we split into two groups: one with a German monk guiding in English, and the other with a Japanese monk guiding in Japanese.
We toured the temple grounds and its impressive buildings.
The large hall with a thousand tatami mats was decorated in a truly stunning way.
Everyone was amazed by the beautiful sliding door paintings and the long corridor called “Hyakken Rōka” (100-ken corridor).
People were listening attentively, asking lots of questions, and snapping photos with their smartphones.
Next, we all came together for a zazen (seated meditation) experience, led by the German monk who gave explanations in both Japanese and English.
He showed us how to cross our legs, place our hands, focus our gaze, and breathe using diaphragmatic breathing.
For many of us, it was the first time trying zazen, so we were a bit nervous.
But everyone followed the steps carefully and quietly, just as instructed.
Even though it was a hot day, the meditation room was cool and dim, shielded from the sunlight.
The only sound was the quiet hum of a fan.
Some people said they were able to focus deeply and felt refreshed both in body and mind.
Others spent the time trying to clear their thoughts, letting them come and go until the session ended.
It was a valuable experience that helped everyone deepen their understanding of Japanese culture—and everyone seemed to really enjoy it.
A (from Indonesia):
I’m really glad I got to visit Sōjiji Temple.
It made me happy to learn more about Buddhism.
The morning activities, the meals, and even the temple itself, where the monks live and pray, were all so beautiful and clean.
After the visit, I had a great time having lunch with my teacher and classmates.
B (from the Philippines):
I learned so many new things—it was a really good event.
The buildings were beautiful, and since we all went together, it was a lot of fun.
C (from China):
The buildings were huge!
My legs got tired, and I felt pretty sleepy.
But after it was over, my eyes felt refreshed and my head felt so clear.
