Three Pines Asanga

Matsuoka Roshi’s Legacy

Dr. Sōyū Matsuoka Roshi (松岡 操雄, 1912–1997) was one of the earliest Zen masters to make the United States his home. During his lifetime he did not establish any organization for his dharma heirs, and thus Three Pines Asanga was established to connect his heirs worldwide, promote communication between them, and assist in promoting greater awareness of Matsuoka Roshi and his teachings.

Matsuoka Roshi received formal training as a Soto priest at Sojiji in Japan before being sent as a high level member of Soto-Shu to the US in 1939 to support the Japanese American congregation at the Los Angeles Zen Buddhist Temple. From there he moved to San Francisco to assist with the Zen Buddhist community there (to be followed later by Shunryu Suzuki), and from there he established two of his own Zen temples: one in Chicago and the other in Long Beach California. The hallmark of Roshi’s teachings was his goal of bringing a truly western Zen to America that was not trying to copy monastic life in Japan but was aimed at Zen practice in everyday life for Americans.


Join Us

Zen Gallery

Explore our curated collection of images and quotes that inspire mindfulness.

A smartphone displaying a website interface with a prominent green button labeled 'Join free.' The screen shows a search bar and various categories like Editorial, Wallpapers, and Textures & Patterns. The background is a textured, light green surface with a leaf pattern.
A group of men in suits gather in a room with wooden chairs and bookshelves. The room features a high ceiling with hanging lights and a brick fireplace at the far end. Some men are seated, while others stand around the perimeter, engaging with one another.
A bustling city street scene at night features blurred pedestrians in motion, surrounded by tall, brightly lit buildings. Traffic and street signs are visible, along with a prominent sign in the foreground encouraging membership in a nearby establishment.
A minimalistic yellow card with a chip and contactless payment symbol is positioned against a white background. The word 'Business' is printed near the contactless symbol.
An indoor setting with a row of turnstiles positioned in front of a group of people. The ceiling features linear lighting strips, and there are signs in the area indicating directions. A promotional poster for a loyalty programme is visible on the wall.
A hand holding a smartphone displaying a website or app interface related to creating a brand. The screen shows options for Home, Discovery, Members, and Topics.

Zen Membership Services

Join our community for resources, support, and connection among Zen Buddhists.

Join Us

Become a member of Three Pines Asanga and connect with a community dedicated to Zen Buddhism and mindfulness.

Join