Daiyuzenji Rinzai Zen Temple

06/19/2026

Zazen at Osaka Garden in Jackson Park

This summer, we're pleased to offer regular sitting sessions every other Saturday at the Osaka Garden in Jackson Park, a traditional Japanese-style garden originally constructed for the Chicago World's Fair of 1893. In addition, we will be offering monthly Introduction to Meditation sessions for those who are new to the practice.

Please consider joining us for a session of zazen in this serene and historic location, or share this opportunity with a friend who may be interested in attending one of the introductory sessions.

Meditation Practice
11 AM–12 PM
June 20 • July 4 • July 18 • August 1 • August 15

New to Meditation? Introduction to Meditation
10–11 AM
July 4 • August 1

Please bring a yoga mat, beach towel, or similar cushion for sitting. Wear comfortable clothing and dress appropriately for the weather, as all sessions are held outdoors.

Open to all. Registration is required. Click here for more info: https://bit.ly/3SIzEVb

06/09/2026

Zazen at Osaka Garden

Join us in the peaceful surroundings of Osaka Garden in Jackson Park for outdoor zazen. Practice together in one of Chicago's most beautiful public spaces.

Our next session is Saturday, June 20.

Limited capacity. Click here to RSVP https://bit.ly/4uHVUy5

Join Rev. Gakudo Midgley of the Daiyuzenji Rinzai Zen Temple for an introduction to traditional seated meditation in the Osaka Garden , alternating Saturdays. Every first Saturday will provide an introduction for beginners exploring simple yet powerful methods for cultivating calm attention through

06/01/2026

A few opportunities to practice with us this June:

• Thursday, June 4 – Shakuhachi Group Practice (6 PM), followed by zazen at 7 PM
• Saturday, June 6 – Introduction to Hojo at Korinji Monastery 光林寺, led by Tesshin Hozan Roshi. Hojo is a unique form of Zen training handed down through Omori Sogen Roshi that develops posture, breathing, vitality, and concentration in movement.
• Saturday, June 6 – Outdoor Breathing, Posture, and Awareness at Osaka Garden begins for the season
• June 12–14 – Sesshin, a weekend of intensive Zen practice

Visit our website for schedules, registration details, and additional information.

https://daiyuzenji.org/special-events

05/19/2026

We’re honored to participate in Chicago’s annual Toro Nagashi Lantern Ceremony in Jackson Park.

Join us for an evening of remembrance, reflection, and community inspired by the Japanese Obon tradition. Lanterns are floated across the water in honor of loved ones who have passed.

Guests are invited to decorate lanterns beginning at 7 PM before the evening ceremony.

📅 Thursday, August 6
📍 Jackson Park
🎟️ Registration required

More information and registration: https://bit.ly/4umg8hm

05/11/2026

This Saturday: Zazenkai
12 PM – 7 PM at Daiyuzenji

Spend the day in uninterrupted meditation practice through zazen, walking meditation, mindful work practice, meals, and meetings with the teacher.

Suitable for both beginners and experienced practitioners. Registration recommended. Click Here: https://bit.ly/3R3pkIH

04/13/2026

Mobility & Flexibility Workshop (UHP Method)
Led by Jitsuzan Gentetsu (Felix Carabello) Sensei.

This Saturday, join us for a practical session focused on mobility, flexibility, and reducing tension in the body. Open to all levels.

📅 April 18 | 1–4 PM
Click here to RSVP: https://bit.ly/4ciZ97H

Mobility & Flexibility Workshop in Chicago. Learn practical techniques to improve movement, increase flexibility, and reduce everyday aches. April 18.

04/05/2026

Ikebana is back 🌿

Join us next week at Gethsemane Garden Center for ikebana practice with Sensei Enmei Hunter.

These sessions are open to anyone. No experience is needed. Materials are provided.�
Morning (10:30–12) + Afternoon (1–2:30)
Click here for more info: https://bit.ly/4uHZ3in

See you there!