Annual and Special occasion Sesshins held by the Zen Group of WA


'Sesshin' is a Japanese term, used in Zen, to describe intense periods of zazen meditation that take place over several days or more.

Traditionally, the Zen Group of WA has held two main sesshins each year: the Rottnest Island sesshin and the Mt Helena Spring sesshin. Opportunities for several smaller sesshins are also provided on a regular basis throughout the year.

If you like you can visit the photo gallery to see some shots from sesshin!


To attend our sesshins you will need to download (or pick up at the zendo) and complete a Sesshin application form and disclaimer.

Upcoming Sesshin Application Forms

 (Click to download as a Word document)

Rottnest Island Sesshin

Fremantle Zendo Weekend Sesshin


Rottnest Island Sesshin 

For the last two years ZGWA has run an Autumn sesshin on island of Rottnest.  We all share together in the old Sargent’s Mess in the grounds of Kingstown Barracks, which can accommodate about 14 – 15 people, with enough space for a dojo and bunk-bed dormitories.  

It costs a little more to travel over to Rottnest on the ferry.  It takes time to pack everything in

Fremantle from the Port Zendo and lug all the cushions, Buddha statutes and bells down to the boat, not to mention organising food. More work and more expense, but well worth it.  The sunrise…,  the view from the top of the dunes…, the sleeping seals on the beach…, wandering peacocks…, that old stick we used for a kyusaku because the real one was forgotten. These things deepen our practice.