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Sanbo Zen
A modern Japanese Zen lineage integrating Sōtō and Rinzai elements, influential in the West via the Diamond Sangha.
Sanbō Zen (formerly Sanbō Kyōdan) was founded by Yasutani Hakuun and developed by Yamada Koun. It combines Sōtō-style shikantaza with a Rinzai-inspired kōan curriculum and has been especially open to lay and non-Japanese practitioners.
Through students such as Robert Aitken and Philip Kapleau, Sanbō-related teaching shaped much of North American Zen. Independent Diamond Sangha and affiliated groups continue the approach of rigorous kōan work within lay life.
Practices
Integrated kōan curriculum
Progressive cases taught alongside everyday lay practice.
Shikantaza
Objectless sitting as both foundation and fruition.
Texts
The Three Pillars of Zen
Philip Kapleau
Taking the Path of Zen
Robert Aitken