“We may simply understand our practice as a meditation in daily life, where we take everyday events as opportunities to help others.”
—Her Holiness Shinso Ito
About Shinnyo-en
A tradition in which anyone can become aware of the infinite possibility hidden within themselves.
Our Story
Forging a path for others, step by step, over a lifetime
“Even if the lamp is extinguished, in every moment there is light that dispels darkness.” With great resolve, Masters Shinjo and Tomoji Ito dedicated their entire adult lives to embodying this line of the Buddha’s teaching in action. Through many joys and hardships, through great successes and setbacks, they tirelessly worked to establish a living spiritual community in which modern lay people could pursue the peaceful fruits of Buddhist practices. Explore a brief historical timeline of their lives and works, and of the community of Shinnyo‑en.
Experience the timeline
Our Practices
Cultivating shared humanity and interconnectedness
The spiritual practices at Shinnyo‑en are rooted in understanding that all living beings are interconnected. The tradition focuses on simple practices in our daily lives that nurture and bring out our natural goodness and foster harmony in the relationships we share with others. Read an overview of Shinnyo‑en practices.
Learn about the practices
Her Holiness
Teaching to promote harmony amid diversity
Her Holiness Shinso Ito is one of the few women in the world to lead a Buddhist denomination. Since assuming responsibilities as the head of Shinnyo‑en in 1989, she has carried forward and expanded on the work of the founders for the twenty-first century. Read about her life, education, Buddhist training, and the work she has undertaken as leader of Shinnyo‑en.
Meet Her Holiness
Community Outreach
Taking meaningful action to benefit others in the world
The founders of Shinnyo‑en placed generosity, service, and care at the heart of their spiritual practice. Shinnyo‑en has cultivated strong philanthropic roots in many local communities, initiating and supporting a wide variety of efforts to promote health, happiness, and the wellbeing of all. Learn how the Shinnyo‑en community is working to build a future of hope, one concrete step at a time.
Read about the community work