monk/index

FOUNDERS & HIGH MONKS

Notable Monks

7 founders and high monks who shaped Japanese Buddhism. Ordered by birth year, browse by sect, life and teachings.

668-749　・　

Born in Kawachi Province (Osaka). Ordained at 15, he studied Hosso doctrine at Yakushi-ji. While Buddhism was

767-822　・　Tendai

Born in Omi Province (Shiga). Founded Enryakuji on Mt. Hiei. Traveled to Tang China in 804 with Kukai and stud

774-835　・　Shingon

Born in Sanuki Province (Kagawa). After dropping out of university, he pursued mountain asceticism. In 804, he

1133-1212　・　Jodo-shu (Pure Land)

Born in Mimasaka Province (Okayama). After his father was murdered, he became a monk at age 9. He studied at M

1141-1215　・　Rinzai Zen

Born in Bitchu Province (Okayama). After studying Tendai at Mt. Hiei, he traveled to Song China twice and brou

1200-1253　・　Soto Zen

Born to a noble family in Kyoto. Orphaned young, he entered Mt. Hiei at 13. He studied under Eisai at Kenninji

1222-1282　・　Nichiren

Born as a fisherman's son in Awa Province (Chiba). Entered Seicho-ji at 12 and after studying at various templ

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