Title: Winter Study Abroad in Taiwan: Zen Meditation

Description:

Taipei and Taichung, Taiwan
December 31, 2025–January 21, 2026
Complete details.

• 3 credits—CHIN / MVMT 2080 Zen Meditation
• Cost: $2200: includes housing in hotel, insurance, few group meals, and course-related excursions. Not included: tuition, flight, and personal expenses.
• Contact: Professor Chia-Ju Chang, Department of Global Languages, Literatures, and Cultures
• Application Deadline: October 17, 2025

Course Information
This three-week immersive winter study abroad program in Taiwan introduces students to Chan (Zen in Japanese) meditation through direct engagement with Buddhist practice, philosophy, and culture.

Participants will be based primarily in Taipei and Taichung, taking part in a range of classes that include lectures, seated meditation (zazen), eight-movement meditation, and other contemplative activities such as Tai Chi, walking, photography, farming, and the tea ceremony.

In addition to lectures and intensive meditation practice, students will join a half-day meditation retreat. You will also have the opportunity to take part in a “Farm-to-Table” activity—traditionally called farming chan (nongchan)—to experience Zen practice beyond the cushion, including fieldwork, meal preparation, mindful eating, and more. The program also includes outdoor excursions to Yangmingshan National Park, the Chiang Kai-shek Shilin Residence, the Apricot Blossom Water Buffalo School, and the Lin Family Garden.

Taught in English. No prior experience in meditation is required—only an openness to explore and engage deeply with the rich culture of Chan Buddhism in Taiwan.

Date: September 6, 2025 11:00 am EDT