Ganjin

Ganjin, also known as Jianzhen in Mandarin Chinese, was a highly influential Chinese Buddhist monk of the Tang dynasty. He is renowned for his arduous journey to Japan, where he played a pivotal role in establishing the Risshū (Vinaya school) of Buddhism. Born in 688 CE in Guangling (modern-day Yangzhou), Ganjin dedicated his life to studying and propagating Buddhist teachings.

His most significant undertaking was a series of attempts to reach Japan. Over a period of eleven years and across five expeditions, Ganjin faced numerous hardships, including storms, shipwrecks, and illness, which resulted in the loss of his sight. Despite these setbacks, his determination to share Buddhist precepts with the Japanese people remained unwavering.

Finally, in 753 CE, at the age of 65, Ganjin successfully arrived in Japan. He was warmly received by Emperor Shōmu and the Japanese Buddhist community. He established the Tōdai-ji temple in Nara as his main base and meticulously taught the Vinaya, a set of monastic rules, to a large number of disciples. His efforts significantly shaped the development of Buddhism in Japan, introducing a more disciplined and scholarly approach. Ganjin passed away in 763 CE, leaving behind a profound legacy as a key figure in the transmission of Buddhism between China and Japan.