Universal Chan: International Zen Buddhist Center

I'm grateful to have discovered Universal Chan Center, and the opportunity to learn meditation and attend two of the retreats over the past year and a half. Learning from Shifu Da Xing has been a profound experience, both for me and my family, and I highly recommend anyone interested in cultivating a meaningful practice to attend Universal Chan.

I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to enter this retreat. I’ve learned so much from Sifu Da Xing. With his compassionate leadership, he created a safe haven to reflect. The organization was very well put together. We had plenty of food, comfortable living conditions, and enough time for introspection. After the retreat, I feel much more strong. My heart is calm, and I highly recommend anyone interested in joining.

Universal Chan Zen Center is tucked away on a quiet corner on the border of Kensington/Berkeley. Walking by during our 2020 pandemic, I noticed they were offering Zoom meditation classes. I signed up and have been attending regularly for months now. Shifu always runs the classes no matter how many participants show up. At the center which is starting to reopen, they offer tea tastings per appointment. The center is a beautiful serene place which is perfectly placed in a quiet neighborhood for meditation. Qi gong and Tai Chi will also be offered once the center fully reopens. Staff are very open and hospitable to anyone with questions so don't hesitate to ask.

Excellent center to practice meditation and learn about Mahayana Buddhism. Friendly group led by a Western monk who knows how to relate these teachings to a modern audience and apply them to everyday life. While there are many meditation opportunities in the Bay Area, it is rare to find a monk with this level of training in Chan (Zen). This is the real deal. If you are looking to find out about Buddhism or dive deep into a meditation practice, you can be confident you won't be cheated at this center. Check it out as there are also amazing rare teas served before and after most classes.

I love this place and the people! It’s a great place for meditation and getting in touch with your inner Buddha. Before each practice, we gather together and drink free tea. The environment has a very calming effect and I feel at peace whenever I step through the door. I highly recommend!