"The Razorblade of Zen"

Cutting Through the Clutter of Contemporary Life to the Core of Zen

Please join us for our first multi-day meditation retreat of 2026 at our Zen center in "the Zone" —  a close-in urban location adjacent to wooded green space, walking trails and pastoral park setting.

At ASZC, we gather to practice Zen together amidst the familiar terrain of the city and our daily routine, embarking on a journey into the intensity of day-long Zen meditation.

Bringing the simplicity of Zen's unique meditation (zazen) to the complexity of the urban lifestyle, we realize the sameness within the difference. Once the "retreat" — actually a Zen "attack" (we don't retreat from anything) — is over, we return to the fray, fully refreshed and reinvigorated.

Taiun-roshi will lead daily seminars from "The Razorblade of Zen," facilitate a dialog around the implications for modern life of householders in America, and offer opportunities for personal interviews (dokusan).   

Purchase a copy of the book, ether online or onsite, and read it before joining the retreat if possible.

Meditation periods alternate with meals, personal time (bring your laptop or digital device to stay in touch with office or family), and taking good care of the practice place during daily cleaning and work (soji, samu) sessions.

Oryoki monastic-style meal service training will be offered. Bring your own set of nesting bowls, or we will provide as needed. Let us know of any special dietary needs.

Registration limited to 24 total participants (not including residents), including limit of four (4) sleepovers (additional $25 per night) to preserve intimacy and interactivity of the intensive. A virtual option will be available for participation via Zoom. Details will be sent after registration.