Welcome to the International Zen Center Noorder Poort!

International Zen Center Noorder Poort was founded in 1996 as a training center of the International Zen Institute (IZI), in the tradition of Zen master Gesshin Prabhasa Dharma.

Through the efforts and generous contributions of the sangha, it was possible to acquire a farm located in the peaceful countryside of Wapserveen, The Netherlands. Members of the Dutch and German sanghas sit on the center's board of directors.

Zen master Jiun Hogen is the present spiritual director of Noorder Poort. Greetje Modana Rouw is director of daily management.

The Zen center has a meditation hall, zendo, that seats 35 people. Sleeping accomodations consist primarily of single- and double bedrooms, each with its own bathroom. Meals are vegetarian, as this benefits our various programs of meditation practice.

Our library has a collection of books on Zen and Buddhism in several languages.

Although the official language of Noorder Poort is English, the language used at any given time is tailored to the needs of those present. During retreats, for example, Dharma talks are usually given in Dutch and German or Dutch and English.

The center offers the possibility of residential training for both ordained and lay people. In addition, guests may stay at the center for periods of varying length to participate in the daily practice schedule.

Activities
Regularly there are intensive Zen retreats, weekends and courses.
If you are interested in our activities, if you would like to know how to visit us or what our history is, you can look further at:
Agenda Noorder Poort, Roadmap Noorder Poort and History Noorder Poort.