Hakuin Ekaku

Hakuin (1685-1768) is a Zen monk of the mid-Edo period.

He restored to health to the Rinzai sect of Zen in Japan, and was considered as the most famous monk in 500 years.

“Sentient beings are essentially Buddhas.”

His writings and paintings, which he left behind for the purpose of educating the people, are a fascinating group of works that emit a very unique character from the perspective of Japanese art history.

Hakuin’s works have many fans not only in Japan but also around the world.

For a detailed description of Hakuin’s life and works, click here.

Opening of Hakuin’s specialized exhibition hall, “Shogon-do” (Gallery Sō was also involved in the collection of artworks).