Sanshin Zen Community

Sanshin Zen Community is a meditation center in Bloomington located on South Olive Street in a dedicated building for daily practice. Regular zazen sittings, teachings, and extended retreats take place here under the guidance of experienced instructors.

The center was established in 1996 by Shohaku Okumura after his work as interim abbot at Minnesota Zen Meditation Center. This founding brought Zen practice to the local area through an experienced teacher and his lineage.

The center teaches Soto Zen practices with a focus on Dogen Zenji's writings. Participants learn how zazen meditation and the study of classical texts connect, and how both relate to daily living.

Visitors can join daily zazen sittings, monthly retreats, and intensive three-month practice periods. It is helpful to call ahead or check their schedule, as specific times and participation requirements vary by program.

The name Sanshin represents three spiritual qualities in Zen practice: a generous mind, a parental mind, and a joyful mind. These three aspects form the foundation for understanding zazen and relating to others within the center.

Location: Indiana

Inception: 1996

Website: https://sanshinji.org

GPS coordinates: 39.14773,-86.51963

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:02