Big Heart RetreatsAn Invitation Into Presence
What distinguishes Genpo’s teaching is its simplicity. He opens a space where your own wisdom naturally reveals itself. Many experience a meaningful shift within the first day. This five-day Big Heart Retreat will be held in Genpo Roshi’s private home in Captain Cook, near Manini Beach—an area known for its quiet power and breathtaking ocean views, a setting that offers a rare container of intimacy, stillness, and inspiration. Participation is limited to a maximum of 10 people, ensuring an immediate, deeply personal experience. Held by ocean and volcanic earth, you will be guided into a deeper relationship with yourself and with life through silence, gentle inquiry, and authentic connection. Big Heart is the capacity to meet everything—love and grief, strength and vulnerability, clarity and uncertainty—without closing. There is nothing to achieve. Only space to remember what matters. This gathering is for those who sense that true wealth is inner freedom. You will leave not with answers, but with a deepened trust and faith in your own inner knowing. We are honored to welcome you. Upcoming events
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Genpo Roshi is internationally recognized for his rare ability to guide people into direct, A Retreat with Purpose
More than just a personal retreat, Big Heart Retreats serve as a vital way to generate essential funds to sustain and expand the mission of Kanzeon Big Mind Zen:
"Our mission is to fuse the ancient Eastern wisdom of Zen with a modern understanding of Western psychology, igniting personal transformation while assisting the awakening of the world consciousness to the oneness of life."
What to Expect
Participants are responsible for their own accommodations, meals and transportation.- For accommodations close to ocean activities and Roshi's home we recommend searching near Manini Beach in Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island of Hawaii.
- For those new to the area or new to Big Heart Retreats, please email Chet Cannon for assistance or suggestions.
Join Us
Whether you are beginning your journey or have been practicing for years, the Big Heart Retreats offer a powerful space for awakening, insight, and transformation.
Contact Chet Cannon for more information
What People Are Saying About Big Heart Retreats
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Julia V., Attorney at Law, The Netherlands: "The most powerful moment for me was when Roshi guided me to shift from anger to its opposite in just a split second—suddenly the anger was gone. This opened my eyes to the possibility of real change: to listen wholeheartedly, to step fully into another’s perspective, and to take responsibility. The retreat was heartwarming, spacious, and transformative—a true adventure that was both profound and fun.” |
Paul J., Buddhist Practitioner and Scholar, United States: "A powerful experience of radical honesty and self-disclosure from both Roshi and the Sangha. It confirmed my own path of teaching with openness and vulnerability, helping me and others move deeper into self-acceptance. Something remarkable happens when you simply show up, question without judgment, and allow the process to unfold.” Nina N., Actress, Sweden: |
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Dan L., Psychologist, Sweden: "Genpo Roshi was unforgettable—on fire, intense, and profoundly moving. His energy drew me in completely, leaving me inspired and deeply connected." |
"A magical experience—joyful, inspiring, and crystal clear. His presence was electrifying, blending wisdom, humor, and performance into an unforgettable experience that touched my heart and filled me with energy, love, and understanding.” |
Paul M., Business consultant, The Netherlands:
"An Incredibly powerful event and filled with energy—both mind-blowing and grounding in life. I realized emotions are not obstacles but places to explore, even anger or anxiety carry hidden wisdom. My takeaway: if stuck, be completely stuck. This retreat is unlike anything else—an adventure with your self, supported by the group and guided by Genpo Roshi. Mind-expanding, deeply grounding, and surprisingly simple.”
Birgitte G, Denmark, Psychotherapist & Yoga Teacher:
Following Roshi on his European tour was groundbreaking. He truly embodies the hazy moon, transcending light and dark, sanity and madness. I witnessed him teach with full force—whether seated, napping, or walking. The mornings spent in Zazen with him were most powerful, as he embodied a state of being both alive and dead. His sharing of a lifetime of practice, from breakthroughs to breakdowns, was profoundly touching. Roshi teaches with rawness and humanity that resonate deeply. The entire month was a strong pull to let go of everything I thought I knew about Zen, the world, and myself. How wonderful!