Mindful Eating at the Japan House Los Angeles

Join us for an in person mindfulness eating event at the Japan House, Los Angeles.

Food as Practice | Nurturing Healthy Mind, Body & Soul

Location: JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles Salon, Level 5

Shojin Ryori: An Exploration into Buddhist Cuisine
Date: 07.22.2023 (Sat.)
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: JAPAN HOUSE Salon, Level 5
Fee: $35

The Harvard-Westlake Mindfulness Club is excited to introduce you to the profound culinary tradition of shōjin ryōri, an ancient Buddhist vegetarian cuisine that encapsulates philosophical insights and offers nuanced flavors. Revered for its simplicity yet imbued with complex meaning, shōjin ryōri encourages us to reflect on our relationship with food and its connection to our bodies and the world around us.

Join us on July 22, 2023, at the JAPAN HOUSE Salon for a unique immersive experience, featuring the esteemed Soto Zen monk, Rev. Shumyo Kojima. With a series of intimate lectures and tasting sessions, you’ll journey into the heart of Zen philosophy through the medium of cuisine. Rev. Kojima will guide us through the principles of this mindful culinary practice, showing how each dish, especially tofu, serves as an expression of Zen philosophy.

The event will include film clips showcasing traditional monastery life and the spiritual discipline that monks undertake in their culinary preparation. Following the discussion, participants will have an opportunity to taste a variety of shōjin ryōri dishes, immersing themselves in the flavors and textures while engaging in quiet contemplation similar to the monks’ practice.

Program Schedule:

• Welcome
• Explanation of Zen Cuisine
• Introduction to Tableware and Table Manners
• Tasting Experience
• Q&A (Please note, the program is subject to change)

We will be showcasing various images of shōjin ryōri, including scenes of Buddhist monks from Zenshuji Temple, preparations, and service of shōjin ryōri dishes. Photos courtesy of Zenshuji.

All dishes are vegetarian. Please note, allergens may include soy, wheat, and sesame, and we are unable to make substitutions or dietary accommodations.

About Rev. Shumyo Kojima: Rev. Kojima is a Soto Zen monk and head priest of Zenshuji Buddhist Temple, the oldest Soto Zen Temple in North America. He grew up under the tutelage of his father in their family temple in Saga prefecture, Japan. After studying Buddhist history and philosophy at Komazawa University, he joined the Soto Institute for Buddhist Studies. He has been a full-time minister at Zenshuji for the past 28 years.