Kanji Buckwheat Hull Zafu

The Buckwheat Hull Zafu (pron. za' - foo) provides ideal body posture and support in addition to the comfort of the zabuton meditation mat. While still providing all the support of a traditional kapok-filled zafu, this buckwheat meditation cushion conforms more readily to each individual's shape and is somewhat softer. It is like sitting on sand at the beach- the hulls move where you want them.

Japanese Poem by Zen Buddhist Monk

Woven into our Kanji fabric is an ancient Japanese poem, a reflection of impermanence and self-transcendence:

"The fragrant, colored flowers are delicately scattered.
Who can remain unchanged in this world?
Transcend the present world, do not dream fleeting dreams, do not act out."

This poem is attributed to Ikkyū Sōjun (一休宗純, 1394–1481), a renowned Japanese Zen Buddhist monk and poet known for expressing profound truths in a direct, and poetic manner. The poem reflects the Zen Buddhist concept of impermanence, reminding us that all things, no matter how beautiful, are fleeting. Flowers serve as a powerful reminder of this, as their brief bloom symbolizes life’s transience.

The second half of the poem, “Do not dream fleeting dreams,” embodies a fundamental Zen teaching: to let go of our desires. In Zen Buddhism, clinging to worldly attachments leads to suffering, as we endlessly seek to fulfill fleeting dreams that will never truly satisfy us. 

Our Kanji fabric weaves a timeless artistry with wisdom, reminding us to embrace life’s impermanence and celebrate the fleeing beauty of the present moment.

Specifications

• We fill our buckwheat husk zafu with approximately 4.5 lbs. of organic buckwheat hulls enclosed in a zippered muslin shell, making it easy to add/remove buckwheat for customized comfort.

• Regular zafu measures 15" in diameter with a 5.5" loft.

• Hi-Zafu measures 14” in diameter with an 8” loft.

• Cover is made of 100% cotton fabric with a convenient carrying handle.

Handmade in the USA.

Scroll to view our meditation cushion care instructions and FAQ.