As late summer gradually transitions into early autumn, the mountains of Longmen begin to embrace a gentle sense of tranquility. From August 21 to August 27, 2026, participants from across China gathered at Funzendo, located within Longmen Guanghua Temple in Luoyang, for a seven-day, six-night deep Zen meditation retreat. Away from the fast pace of modern life, participants entered a peaceful temple environment surrounded by ancient heritage, practicing meditation, cultivating awareness, and experiencing the harmony between traditional wisdom and modern well-being.

The Funzendo Seven-Day Zen Meditation Retreat was designed around a progressive learning journey, guiding participants from physical preparation to deeper meditation practice and inner awareness. Through foundational exercises, Zen meditation, sound healing, and tea meditation, the retreat offered a complete experience of body, mind, and spirit. The program was led by an experienced teaching team, including Master Huijue, Jingyi Teacher, and Lay Practitioner Wude, who provided guidance throughout the retreat.

During the first two days, participants entered the “Foundation Building” stage, focusing on establishing a stable foundation for meditation practice. Each morning began with breathing exercises, standing meditation, and introductory seated meditation. Through mindful movement and conscious breathing, participants learned how to regulate their bodies, settle their minds, and develop a deeper connection with their inner state. For many first-time practitioners, this stage helped them discover that meditation is not a distant or complicated practice, but a practical method that can be integrated into everyday life.

The following three days focused on “Deepening Meditation Practice.” Under the daily guidance of Master Huijue, participants explored deeper seated meditation, mindfulness observation, and traditional Zen practices. In the quiet meditation hall, surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the ancient temple, participants gradually learned to observe their thoughts, release external distractions, and develop greater stability and clarity within themselves.

On the sixth day, the retreat featured two special Tibetan singing bowl sound healing sessions led by Jingyi Teacher. Through the resonance of the singing bowls, participants experienced deep relaxation and a renewed connection between body and mind. The gentle sound vibrations created a peaceful atmosphere, allowing everyone to release tension and enter a state of calm awareness.

The final day concluded with a traditional tea meditation experience guided by Lay Practitioner Wude. Through the process of preparing, serving, and appreciating tea, participants practiced mindfulness in every simple movement. From the rising aroma of tea to the quiet moments of tasting and reflection, the tea ceremony became another form of meditation, bringing the seven-day journey to a peaceful and meaningful completion.

Throughout the retreat, participants not only developed a deeper understanding of Zen practice but also experienced the value of slowing down and reconnecting with themselves.

A business executive participant shared: “My daily work requires constant decision-making and brings a great deal of pressure. These seven days gave me the opportunity to truly slow down and discover how inner stability can positively influence both my work and personal life.”

A psychology counselor commented: “The retreat helped me understand the importance of awareness from a personal experience. It gave me a deeper understanding of emotions, physical sensations, and the relationship between people and themselves.”

A freelance professional shared: “Before joining, I thought meditation was something distant from my daily life. After experiencing it, I realized that meditation can be simple and practical — a way to return to balance and clarity.”

Located within Longmen Guanghua Temple, a historic center of Buddhist cultural heritage, Funzendo continues to offer meditation programs that combine traditional wisdom with modern approaches to personal growth. Through structured courses, experienced guidance, and immersive cultural experiences, Funzendo hopes to provide a peaceful space where more people can explore mindfulness and inner balance.

Looking ahead, Funzendo will continue to offer a variety of meditation programs. The Three-Day Zen Meditation Retreat will be held monthly from the 15th to the 17th, providing an accessible introduction for those beginning their meditation journey. The next Seven-Day Zen Meditation Retreat will also open soon, inviting more participants to experience deep meditation practice in the tranquil surroundings of Longmen Guanghua Temple and discover a greater sense of inner peace and awareness.