This page is for the in-person at City Center sesshin. If you want to attend the shorter online version, register for the Three-Day Rohatsu Sesshin, Online 12/3–12/5.
Rohatsu Sesshin commemorates Buddha's enlightenment and closes the Fall Practice Period.
Sesshin (meaning "to gather, collect, and convey the mind-heart") is a traditional Soto Zen meditation retreat that includes formal zendo meals, Dharma talks, sitting and walking meditation, and private interviews with senior teachers.
In order to understand the nature of our formal retreats, and to be clear about the details of the practice, please review a typical sesshin schedule, as well as our guidelines for zendo conduct. We ask those who attend sesshin to commit to following these guidelines and to participating in the schedule completely. If you have questions regarding the schedule or guidelines, please consult with the head of the meditation hall, the ino, via email (ccino@sfzc.org) before completing your registration.
We have returned to the traditional Zen form of oryoki for eating meals during sesshin. You will need an oryoki set to participate in sesshin, unless you have made other arrangements through the ino. You may either bring your own set, purchase one ($100), or rent a set for the day.
If you are interested in staying at City Center for sesshin, please look for the housing option when you register. Housing is dependent on availability. Prices depend on the type of room chosen.
This Rohatsu sesshin is included with the 2026 Fall Practice Period at City Center, but is open to registration by those not participating in the practice period. If you already registered for the practice period as a resident, there is no need to register for this sesshin.
The registration deadline is November 13.
- Benefactor: $950 — supports others’ participation
- General: $735 — covers full program costs
- Member: $661 — for current SFZC members
Residents:
Current SFZC residents may attend this course for free. To register, please email onlineprograms@sfzc.org at least 72 hours before the program begins.
Support Funds
San Francisco Zen Center is committed to making Zen practice and the Dharma accessible to all who seek it. In addition to our sliding scale fees, we offer both a General Support Fund and a dedicated BIPOC Support Fund for those who need financial assistance. If cost is a barrier, please reach out to supportfunds@sfzc.org before registering—we’re happy to support your participation.
For more information on our fee structure, see this document.
Please register by Friday, November 13.
Or call 415-354-0360 for registration assistance.
