Kyol Che Long Retreats

‘Kyol Che’ is an intensive Kwan Um Zen silent retreat, traditionally held for 30 days in the summer and 90 days in winter. The name means ‘tight dharma’ or ‘coming together.’ As the head temple of the Kwan Um School of Zen, Providence Zen Center has hosted Kyol Che at the Diamond Hill Monastery for over forty years.

Kyol Che practice clarifies our direction, resulting in a more harmonious relationship with all aspects of life. The daily schedule, conducted in silence, includes sitting, chanting, walking, and bowing meditation, as well as work practice. Retreat leaders give regular dharma talks and kong-an interviews. Meals are eaten in traditional temple style.

Kyol Che is a time of intensive group practice. Each year, Dharma Teachers and Zen practitioners from all over the world join Kyol Che to practice ‘together action’ to benefit all sentient beings. Prior retreat experience in the Kwan Um School of Zen is required to enter Kyol Che. One and two-day meditation retreats appropriate for beginners are regularly scheduled at Providence Zen Center, other Kwan Um Zen Centers, as well as through the Kwan Um Zen Online (KUZO). 

Sitting Kyol Che

• Review the Kyol Che Booklet before registering
• Check Event Listings for upcoming Kyol Che entry/exit dates
• Questions about Kyol Che? Speak to the guiding teacher of your sangha, or email info@providencezen.org.