Shinzan Miyamae Roshi (1935-2021) was abbot of the hermitage temple Gyokuryuji, founded in the 1600s by Zen Master Bankei. He ordained as a monk at the age of 31, trained hard, and became a deeply realised master. He was well known for taking a vigorous stance against teachers without genuine insight.

In this interview, recorded at Gyokuryuji in July 2014, Daizan Roshi (one of Shinzan Roshi's Dharma heirs) asks him how he got into Zen and how he became a Zen master.

Zenways (www.zenways.org) promotes and encourages activities and practices that enhance human wellbeing, balance and awakening (satori or kensho - the enlightenment of Zen) in the many different situations we find ourselves in. Over many years of strict training, in Japan and the west, Julian Daizan Skinner Roshi received dharma transmission and permission to teach in both the Rinzai and Soto lineages of Zen. He now teaches at the Yugagyo Dojo in London, UK. May these recordings help you and those around you to find and realise the truth.