ROHATSU: Circle of the Way (In Person) at Upaya, Santa Fe

Join us for Rohatsu, one of Zen Buddhism's most sacred observances, during a transformative seven-day retreat at Upaya Zen Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico. This profound zen event honors the Buddha's awakening through intensive practice, meditation, and teaching. Running from December 1-7, 2026, this in-person gathering welcomes both seasoned practitioners and those new to Zen practice seeking a deeper understanding of Buddhist wisdom and contemplative living.

Rohatsu—meaning "eighth day" in Japanese—commemorates Buddha's enlightenment, typically observed in early December. At this distinctive Santa Fe zen event, participants will engage in rigorous zazen (sitting meditation), participate in guided dharma talks, and explore the intersection of ancient Zen teachings with contemporary life. Renowned teacher and facilitator Michael Pollan brings his unique perspective on mindfulness, interconnection, and awakening to the circle of practice, creating an intellectually rich and spiritually grounded experience.

This is not a passive retreat. Rohatsu demands commitment, introspection, and a willingness to sit with discomfort—both physical and mental. The intensive nature of this zen event in Santa Fe makes it ideal for practitioners ready to deepen their practice or for seekers curious about what serious Zen training entails.

What to Expect

The week unfolds in a carefully structured rhythm designed to support deepening meditation and insight. Days begin before dawn with the sound of the wake-up bell, followed by early morning zazen sessions, chanting practices, and work meditation (samu). Between formal sitting periods, you'll experience periods of rest, nourishing vegetarian meals eaten in mindful silence, and engaging dharma talks that illuminate Zen philosophy and practice.

Each afternoon and evening includes additional meditation sessions, often guided by teachings specific to the Rohatsu observance. The atmosphere grows increasingly intimate as the week progresses—the silence deepens, the mind settles, and the sangha (community) bonds through shared practice. By the retreat's end, many participants report a palpable shift in clarity, presence, and connection.

The daily schedule balances intensive meditation with periods of gentle movement and the contemplative work practice that characterizes Zen centers. You'll experience the profound quiet that emerges from a room of 30-50 practitioners sitting together in unified intention. This zen event in Santa Fe offers a rare opportunity to step completely outside ordinary time and touch something essential within yourself.

About the Artists

Michael Pollan brings decades of experience as a writer, educator, and thoughtful explorer of consciousness, food systems, and our fundamental relationship with the natural world. His perspective on presence, interconnection, and awakening enriches this Rohatsu circle, offering contemporary wisdom grounded in rigorous inquiry and lived experience. Pollan's contribution to this Santa Fe zen event weaves intellectual depth with contemplative insight, creating space for practitioners to engage both mind and heart.

Venue & Location

Upaya Zen Center sits nestled in the foothills of northern Santa Fe, a tranquil oasis surrounded by piñon forests and mountain views. Founded in 1990, Upaya has become one of the leading Zen practice communities in North America, known for its rigorous training, interfaith dialogue, and socially engaged Buddhism. The center's meditation halls, residences, and grounds create an ideal container for retreat practice—far enough from the bustle of Santa Fe's historic plaza to support deep silence, yet accessible to visitors and teachers from around the world.

Parking is available on-site. Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF) is approximately 15 miles away; the historic downtown area with restaurants and accommodations is about 15 minutes by car. The physical setting itself becomes part of the teaching—the beauty and spaciousness of the New Mexico landscape naturally supporting your practice.