Ryumonji, Zen Monastery Details

History of Kaizozan Ryumonji

Ryumonji Zen Monastery was founded in February of 2004. Forty acres of land where donated at that time for the purpose of establishing a Soto Zen Monastery. Rev. Shoken Winecoff, a dharma successor of Katagiri, Dainin Roshi, is the founder and residential abbot of Ryumonji. He has been assisted during this time by his disciple Rev. Jikan Kondrick, who was also a disciple of Katagiri Roshi.

The first activity of this monastery was to renovate an existing farmhouse. This building is at its core is an historic log cabin, which was built in the 1890's. The farmhouse was used as an interim practice facility until permanent monastery buildings could be built.

In 2004 a new Hondo was built. It was built according to the ancient specifications for a hondo temple building. Soon after in 2007, a new Kuin was built with connecting walk- way to the Hondo. The Kuin building has residential space for teachers and students. There is dormitory space for sixteen guest practitioners. Also a bell tower and entry gate where built at this time.

The long-range plan includes the building of a new Sodo and Shuryo according to specifications transmitted from ancient times. Excavation for these buildings has already begun.

Ryumonji conducts traditional Summer and Winter angos, as well as monthly sesshins and daily practice. Practice format follows the guidelines of the Eihei Shingi.

More background information and pictures are available on the web site at www.Ryumonji.Org.