GyoSho – Walking in Life

The GyoSho Zen Temple – Walking in Life was born from the vision and commitment of monk Roberto Bendo Villa, one of the first students of master Tetsugen Serra. Together with Ilaria Myoki and with the support of the EnsoJi Temple – Il Cerchio of Milan, he has promoted the practice of Zen in Tuscany since 2007.

From itinerant practice to permanent headquarters

After an initial period of itinerant practice, a small office shared with other associations was opened in 2009. Thanks to growing participation, in 2011 the Center opened its independent office at Via Ticino 10/2 in Cecina (LI), where meditation, retreats, meetings, and conferences are consolidated.

Since then, GyoSho has officially become a Soto Zen Temple, an integral part of the five Zen temples of “Il Cerchio – Templi e Monasteri Zen”, under the spiritual guidance of master Tetsugen Serra, and recognized by the UBI – Italian Buddhist Union.

A place for practice, a shared journey

GyoSho Temple is today a point of reference for those who wish to follow the Way of Zen, practicing zazen, harmonizing with themselves, others, and reality. A spiritual journey experienced within the Sangha, according to an authentic tradition yet rooted in contemporary life.

The inspiring principles of the Temple

• The Transmission of Dharma: authentic and uninterrupted continuity of the Buddha's teachings, experienced in the direct relationship between master and disciple.
• A collective and contemporary practice: a Zen lived on the common path of the Sangha, capable of updating tradition in today's life.

The meaning of GyoSho

The name GyoSho literally means “Walking through life” :

• Gyō It indicates walking, acting, practicing, step by step — conscious behavior and conduct.
• Sho It represents life, birth, rising.

The ideograms come from two chapters of the Shushōgi , the fundamental text of Soto Zen:

• Gyōji Hōon – “Constant Exercise and Gratitude” (chapter V)
• Hotsugan Rishō – “The Altruistic Vote” (chapter IV)

GyoSho is therefore a place where Zen practice becomes lived experience, a real path to be followed every day.

GyoSho Temple is one of the five temples associated with the Ensoji Zen Monastery – The Circle and is affiliated with theUBI – Italian Buddhist Union, recognized by the Italian State.