
Welcome to One River Zen
Where ancient tradition meets modern life. At One River Zen, we blend the timeless teachings of Zen Buddhism with contemporary practices to help you awaken to your true self and realize your full potential. Our community is rooted in tradition yet fully open to the present, empowering all to embody wisdom, compassion, and mindfulness in today’s world through daily practice.
UPCOMING CLASSES & RETREATS
The Heart of Wisdom A Journey Through the Heart Sutra
Five-week series begins 10/16/25
The Heart Sutra is one of the most beloved and essential texts in Zen Buddhism. In just a few lines, it distills the profound teaching of emptiness—showing us how to live with clarity, compassion, and freedom in each moment..
Offered online & in-person
Entering the Way | Fundamentals of Zen Practice
Entering the Way | Fundamentals of Zen Practice is a four-week journey starting October 15th designed to ground you in the practices of meditation and mindfulness so you can begin to open to your life and recognize your true potential. It is a total transformation where we come face to face with our true selves.
Offered online & in-person
Dwelling in Clarity | Weekend Meditation Retreat
Dwelling in Clarity is a weekend retreat of stillness, silence, and practice at One River Zen Center. From November 14–16th, join us for a rhythm of seated and walking meditation, chanting, Dharma talks, and simple work practice.
Offered online & in-person
ADDITIONAL PRACTICE OFFERINGS
“If you are searching for fellowship with peaceful, mindful, and like-minded people look no further.”
-Rhonda N.
Visit Us
121 E Prospect Ave
Ottawa, IL 61350
One River Zen Meditation Center is located just over an hour from Chicago in Ottawa, IL – where the Illinois and Fox Rivers converge. We’re nestled in the Illinois River Valley near scenic Starved Rock State Park.
Here, Sekitō Kisen speaks of stability, embodiment, and the luminous ordinariness of awakening. We return to the hut not to escape the world, but to live freely within it. The wind, the rain, the aching knees of zazen — all are part of the same song.