Shao Shan Temple is a small Soto Zen temple providing a regular schedule of meditation, study, retreats, and liturgy. Located in an area surrounded by a protected wetland habitat in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, Shao Shan Temple sits serene amidst exuberantly thriving wildlife. Meditation is frequently accompanied by calling songbirds, chanting choruses of bog frogs and sounding deer from the woodlands' fringe.

The Shao Shan Temple was built in 1997 specifically for the purpose of spiritual practice. Shao Shan Temple had a dedication-opening ceremony in year 2000 with Tanaka Shinkai Roshi, Abbot of Hokyoji Training Monastery in Fukui, Japan, presiding. Rev. Taihaku Seiren ordained, trained and received dharma transmission(2004) from Tanaka Shinkai Roshi at Hokyoji. Rev. Taihaku Seiren resides at Shao Shan Temple. An assistant ordained monk also lives on the premises.

Shao Shan Temple primarily serves the lay community and has tailored traditional Buddhist programs to fit the needs of the practitioners. The Shao Shan Sangha (community of participants) come from nearby rural areas, from Montpelier(30minutes) and from as far away as Burlington(75minutes). The Sangha is sincere and enthusiastic about Buddhist practice and work together to facilitate events and ceremonies. Although there is a growing number attending, Shao Shan Temple continues to be an intimate family setting where it is always possible to have tea with Rev. Taihaku Seiren and discuss practice. There are no fees or charges associated with any activities and programs.

Activities offered:

• Weekly schedule of meditation
• Friday Temple Day, program based on monastic daily life, several times a month.
• Monthly One Day retreats (Zazenkai)
• Twice a year a 3-day intensive meditation retreat.
• In December an 8-day intensive meditation retreat (Rohatsu Sesshin).
• Individual meetings to discuss matters related to spiritual practice.
• Individual introductory instructions in meditation.
• Special practices and study as the need arises: for example, sewing, bowing, and chanting.
• Landmark ceremonies performed on occasions such as ordination, marriage, death and consecrations.
• Annual ceremonies on the occasions of the anniversary of the temple, Buddha's Birthday and New Year's Eve. These ceremonies and celebrations are well attended and include refreshments and social time.