Chan

Chan Buddhism developed in China from the fifth century onward, flowering with figures such as Huineng, Mazu, and Linji. It stressed “a special transmission outside the scriptures,” sudden awakening, and meditation integrated with ordinary life.

Modern Chan includes large institutions such as Dharma Drum, Fo Guang Shan, and Chung Tai, as well as classical monastery lineages. Chinese-language temples across the diaspora remain among the most active Buddhist communities in many Western cities.