Komazawa Gakuen Girls’ Senior High School

As we pulled up to the front of the school we were amazed by the size of the campus. It not only housed a high school but a middle school, university and grad school. Komazawa Gakuen Girls’ Senior High School is a private Buddist school and the day began with Principal Makoto Suzuki chanting onver the loudspeaker. We were greeted by two English teachers, Jackie from Ireland and Travis from New Zealand. They gave us an introduction to the school and then took us on a tour. The building was both huge and beautiful, The main entrance into the auditorium was so grand it looked like the poshest of hotels. The class rooms were numerous and very simple. Going along with the simplicity of Buddism both the classrooms and halls were very empty looking, a sharp contrast to the elementary school yesterday. We had time to visit classes on our own and observe the girls. In the gym we were able to see about 100 girls during meditaion. It was absolutely silent and every single person was perfectly still. The jikido paced back and forth between the rows carrying his kyosaku (stick) to be used if someone loses their form. (If you start falling asleep or slouching the stick is used to strike your shoulder (it doesn’t hurt, I tried it later) and remind you to stay focused.)


The practice of Zazen was explained to us and we went up to the mediation room to experience it for ourselves. I was very conscious of every step I took and move I made trying to do everything perfectly. Once seated on my zafu (pillow) I kept my eyes at a 45-degree angle and let my mind settle into complete tranquility. I definitely felt a sense of relaxation but it was hard not to let my mind wander and start thinking about different things.


After lunch in the cafeteria, where we were joined both high school and university students we were off to a calligraphy class. We were given the chance to try our skills with the brush and ink. After practicing some words, we were able to choose our best work and put it on a fan. It was a lot of fun trying calligraphy and showing off our work to each other.



At the end of the day we had the chance to meet with the principal and staff for a question and answer session. We learned that the school had a partnership with a school in Australia and the girls would be heading off for their annual trip in November. They were really excited about the opportunity.
http://www.komazawagakuen-h.ed.jp