Rohatsu Sesshin

Rohatsu—the commemoration of Shakyamuni Buddha's awakening under the Bodhi tree—is observed across Zen centers with an intensive seven-day sesshin. Mountain Rain's version follows the traditional format: sustained sitting practice punctuated by walking meditation (kinhin), private teaching meetings (dokusan), and formal meals eaten in silence and ceremony (oryoki).

This is a full residential retreat. Expect early mornings, extended sitting periods, and a schedule structured around the practice itself rather than comfort. The sesshin creates conditions for deep concentration; many practitioners return to Rohatsu sesshin year after year for this reason. If you've never sat sesshin before, this is a significant but manageable entry point—the retreat is open to beginners, though you'll be sitting alongside experienced practitioners.

Come prepared for silence (not just during sitting but throughout the day), simple vegetarian meals, and shared living space. The rhythm is demanding but clear: sit, walk, eat, rest, sit again.