iCLA Students participated in a visit to Kai Zenkoji Temple and Tokoji Temple to learn about the local history and practice mindfulness under the guidance of Professor William Reed as part of the iEXPerience Program.
The iEXPerience Program aims to provide students with immersive, experiential learning opportunities that deepen their understanding of Yamanashi history and culture beyond the classroom setting. There are a variety of iEXPerience programs which are held throughout the semester. Previous programs include visits to a local winery, taiko club at a regional high school, Kofu City Hall, and more. These experiences are taught by faculty members and local experts.
The program began at Kai Zenkoji Temple, a historical temple founded in 1558 by Takeda Shingen. Fearing that the original Zenkoji Temple in Nagano Prefecture would be destroyed in the violent upheaval and war of the Sengoku Period, Takeda Shingen ordered the construction of Kai Zenkoji Temple in present-day Kofu City, and transported the sacred Buddhist treasures away from the conflict.
Professor William Reed guided the students through the temple’s rich historical background and the cultural significance of its artifacts, and encouraged students to think about mindfulness as they moved through the temple. The students looked at the temple’s Nio statues situated at the Sanmon Gate, experienced the temple’s Naki-ryu, the “crying dragon” ceiling which is the largest of its kind in Japan, and walked through the Okaidan Meguri, a pitch-black maze shaped in the Japanese character for heart/mind. Students also had an up-close look at the Shorodo Dosho, a large bronze bell which bears distinct markings from when it had been hauled from Nagano Prefecture during the Sengoku Period.
The second destination was Tokoji Temple. Tokoji is a historical temple which was restored in the 13th century and later designated as one of the Five Great Zen Temples of Kofu by Takeda Shingen. Professor William Reed led a workshop on mindfulness, which introduced the students to important Zen Buddhist concepts of nen (focused mind), hara (grounded center), katsu (shout to awaken), shitta (scolding roar), and moso (delusive thought). The session encouraged students to develop an understanding of mindfulness through observation and guided reflection. Then, students were able to conclude their mindfulness experience while appreciating the beautiful temple garden designed by the Zen Buddhist monk from China, Lanxi Daolong, in the 13th century.
“I learned a lot about the concept of Zen, Buddhism and some of the history of the local temples. I also loved talking about different concepts of Zen and learning temple etiquette. It was so fun, and educational!” – Riley, iEXPerience Participant
Links
iCLA Students Tour Kofu City Hall and Learn Disaster Preparedness
From Vine to Glass: Exploring Yamanashi’s Wine Industry
Exploring Kofu’s Historical Temples and Haiku Art
Discovering Japanese Traditional Culture Through Tea and Flowers
Immersing in Viniculture: A Hands-On Experience at Yamanashi Winery