Suwa, Nagano Prefecture, Japan – As summer vacation unfolds, a group of elementary school students in Suwa, Nagano Prefecture, are finding a unique way to spend their time: engaging in Zen meditation and sutra chanting at a local Buddhist temple. This immersive experience, held annually at Jizo Temple, aims to foster a sense of familiarity and connection with temples among the younger generation.
On July 30th, fifteen local elementary school students participated in the program. The temple’s head priest, Tomohiko Shinozaki, began by instructing the children on the correct posture for Zazen meditation, including how to properly cross their legs. He then walked among the students with a kyosaku, a wooden stick used to help practitioners maintain focus during meditation.
After approximately 15 minutes of meditation, the children stretched their legs, their faces reflecting a sense of relaxation. Following the meditation session, the students joined Priest Shinozaki in chanting sutras and even tried their hand at transcribing sacred texts.
Usually, I’m surrounded by the sounds of the TV and other noises, said a fifth-grade boy who participated in the program. But during Zazen, it was so quiet, and it made me feel very calm.
This initiative by Jizo Temple highlights a growing trend in Japan to reconnect younger generations with traditional cultural practices. In an increasingly digital and fast-paced world, the opportunity to experience the tranquility and mindfulness offered by Zen meditation can be invaluable for children. By introducing these practices in a welcoming and accessible environment, Jizo Temple is not only preserving cultural heritage but also providing young people with tools to manage stress and cultivate inner peace.
The program’s success underscores the potential for similar initiatives across Japan and beyond. As children face increasing pressures in their daily lives, the ancient practice of Zen meditation offers a pathway to cultivate focus, reduce anxiety, and foster a deeper connection with themselves and the world around them. The smiles on the faces of the students in Suwa suggest that this summer experience will leave a lasting positive impact.
References:
- NHK World News. (2025, July 31). 长野县诹访市小学生暑假在寺庙体验坐禅诵经 [Elementary school students in Suwa, Nagano Prefecture experience Zazen meditation and sutra chanting at a temple during summer vacation]. Retrieved from [Insert URL if available, otherwise omit]
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