O-An Zendo

As its Japanese name signifies, O-An means “hut of harmony.” Zendo is Japanese for meditation hall where zazen (sitting meditation) is practiced.

Our zendo is a small meditation center founded in 2003, which is surrounded by 140 acres of forest in central Pennsylvania. Everything from the living roof over the entrance to the live-edged interior wood trim is designed to reflect and harmonize with the surrounding natural landscape.

We offer a quiet, secluded atmosphere for meditation practice, providing a regular Sunday service and a monthly full-day sitting, as well as other compatible activities.

Although focused on Zen Buddhism in the Soto (Japanese, Houn Kobun Chino lineage) tradition, O-An welcomes anyone interested in meditation, regardless of their background and/or style of practice. Newcomers are invited to contact us for a personal introduction and instruction on the basics of Zen practice and our protocols prior to attending our services.

Although the zendo is used primarily for our own diverse program, it is available by special arrangement to community groups and individuals for other activities such as yoga workshops, memorial services, weddings, etc.

We are located in Julian Woods Community, a member of the School of Living Land Trust, 20 minutes northwest of State College off Alternate Route 220 North, midway between Port Matilda and Milesburg, Pennsylvania.