Synopsis

Exploring the significance of Buddhism within modern Japan after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, simply referred to as “3.11,” Tenzo centers around Dogen Zenji’s “Instructions for the Cook” through the tale of two priests who end up living very different lives. After completing their training, disciples Ryugyo and Chiken return to their respective temples. Chicken, head priest of Kounin, located at the base of Mt. Fuji in Tsuru, Yamanashi, lives an active life with his family. Engaged in a variety of undertakings, he is enthusiastically involved in providing counseling service, Buddhist cuisine classes, and Zen yoga all the while holding his position as Vice President at the National Zen Buddhism Youth Association. Ryugyo, on the other hand, who lives in coastal Fukushima, is forced to cope with the tragic aftermath of losing his family and parishioners to the events of 3.11. Currently residing in temporary housing, he works to remove the rubble and struggles letting go of rebuilding the main temple.