If there is a Soto group near you, I would check it out. Soto Zen is very direct, with a strong emphasis on zazen, meditation, practice.Originally Posted by R.D_03
I'm not sure what you mean by "describe"; so here are a few comments. Soto Zen was founded in the 1200's in Japan by Zen Master Dogen. He is one of the great lights of the Zen tradition as a whole. His writings are truly sublime. Dogen inherited the Ts'ao Tung (Japanese: Soto) tradition from China. His view of Zen is that the practice of zazen itself is enlightenment, hence the strong emphasis on zazen practice.
There is a wonderful simplicity about the Soto tradition. I would recommend calling the group that is near you and ask them if they give beginner's instruction at any specific time. Many Zen centers offer such instruction on a regular basis and that would be a good way to make contact.
Regarding the Seattle Shinto Temple; I was aware you are in Australia. But I'm not aware of a Shinto Temple in Australia so I linked to the Seattle Jinja because I've found Rev. Barrish accessible to english speaking inquiries. I've corresponded with him myself and he has always taken the time to answer my questions. Tsuabaki Shrine also runs a yahoo group where you might be able to find others in Australia that share a similar interest.
Best wishes,
Jim Wilson