Abstract: This chapter explores the first stage or period of Dgen’s career. This period covers his initial training in China with Master Ju-ching to his return to Japan to establish authentic Sung style practice. The period has two sub-periods. The first is the “early early” sub-period (1223-1227), which covers his travels to the Five Mountains region of China and experience of shinjin datsuraku, which are examined for a critical understanding of the impact on Chinese Ch’an on Dgen’s entire career development. The second or “late early” sub-period (1227-1233) began when Dgen returned to Japan. It includes his first few years at Kenninji temple and then at Fukakusa beginning in 1230, and his composition of the Bendwa. The history and conversion of the Daruma School and its founder, Nnin, are also discussed.

Keywords: Bendwa, Daruma School, Eisai, Five Mountains, Ju-ching, Nnin, shinjin datsuraku,