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
Entering the Way | Fundamentals of Zen Practice
Entering the Way | Fundamentals of Zen Practice is a four-week journey starting October 29th 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
Taking the Path of Zen
For those practicing here, Sensei Michael Brunner — Abbot and founding teacher of One River Zen, a Soto Zen Buddhist community in Ottawa, Illinois — offers direct guidance in the traditional path of Zen. What does it mean to be a Zen Buddhist? Begin your journey and find out…
Offered online & in-person
“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.

During the 2025 Ango at One River Zen, Shuso Genpo Seth Myers opened our four-week Heart Sutra study by returning us to the basics — not as beginners in knowledge, but as beginners in seeing. Rather than analyzing the Sutra as philosophy, this first class turns us back toward direct experience: what remains when the grasping mind falls silent.