FAQ

The Lotus Sutra is known as the “King of Sutras” — the culmination of Mahayana Buddhism.

Its central message, the One Vehicle spirit (Ekayāna), teaches that everyone has the potential to become a buddha. This spirit has been passed down from Shakyamuni Buddha’s time to the present day, nurtured through daily recitation, chanting, and putting the teachings into practice in everyday life. At RKUK, we learn together how to bring the Lotus Sutra’s wisdom to life, here and now.

To find out more, please visit the “Threefold Lotus Sutra — our primary scripture” page.

RKUK is often referred to as part of Nichiren Buddhism, because we uphold the spirit of Nichiren in sharing the Lotus Sutra.

But there are many schools within Buddhism. Zen Buddhism often focuses on seated meditation, Pure Land Buddhism centres on devotion to Amida Buddha, and Tibetan Buddhism uses unique rituals and mantras.

At RKUK, our non-monastic practice is rooted in the Lotus Sutra’s One Vehicle spirit, and we choose to learn, chant, recite, and live its teachings in our daily lives within family and society.

Openness rooted in the One Vehicle spirit of the Lotus Sutra.

RKUK values the same wish that Nichiren had — to share the Lotus Sutra with everyone, so that all people can nurture a buddha’s heart through non-monastic practice in daily life.
We chant the O-daimoku (Namu Myoho Renge Kyo) and we also enshrine the Eternal Buddha Shakyamuni as our Gohonzon, study the entire Lotus Sutra deeply, and put its teachings into action in everyday life.

This openness comes because we hold firmly to the true spirit of the Lotus Sutra — the One Vehicle —.
In this way, we seek to carry on the full spirit of Buddhism through the Lotus Sutra, as taught by Shakyamuni himself, without narrowing it to any single form or exclusive view.
At RKUK, everyone is free to learn and practise at their own pace, with no pressure, no coercion, and an open heart.

To find out more, please visit the “Nichiren Buddhism” page.

We follow three basic practices:

• Sutra recitation (expressing gratitude and making offerings)
• Reaching out and Hoza (supporting and guiding one another through group sharing and individual care)
• Dharma study (deepening our understanding of the teachings).

Chanting the O-daimoku is one part of this, but our practice goes further — helping each of us put the Lotus Sutra’s spirit into action in our everyday lives.

It’s simple and open to everyone: “Namu Myoho Renge Kyo”. You can chant aloud or silently — what matters is sincerity, not formality. We will guide you step by step on the meaning and rhythm, so you can naturally make it part of your day.

At RKUK, we practise non-monastic Buddhism — we choose to learn and live the teachings of the Lotus Sutra while remaining within everyday life. Rather than withdrawing from family and society, we value supporting and learning from one another as fellow practitioners.

In this way, we aim to put the Dharma into practice in our families, workplaces and communities.

People of all backgrounds and walks of life join us — from complete beginners to people with experience in Soka Gakkai, Nichiren Buddhism, or other Buddhist schools.

We welcome all ages, nationalities and family situations. We grow together, supporting one another as fellow practitioners.

Our main activities are based in London, but people across the UK can also join our meetings online. No matter where you live in the UK, you’re welcome to connect and practise with us.

No special items are needed. Just come as you are — comfortable everyday clothes are perfectly fine. If you’d like to join chanting or recitation, we’ll guide you through everything step by step.

There are no fees for our basic activities — everyone is welcome to join and learn freely.

If you decide to become a member, there is a small monthly membership fee (currently £1 per month), which helps support the running of our centre and activities. Any additional donations or offerings are completely voluntary and never compulsory.

Your practice and sincere effort are what matter most.

No — there are no fees for joining our regular activities. You’re welcome to attend services, join group meetings, or explore the teachings at any time, without any cost or obligation.

Some special events may include a suggested donation, but this is always optional and clearly explained in advance.

If you choose to become a member, there is a monthly membership fee starting from £1, which helps us sustain our activities and provide a space for learning and practice. You’re welcome to give more if you wish, but there is no expectation to do so.

You may also wish to purchase a few items to support your practice — such as a sutra recitation set (prayer beads, sash, and Kyoten) or books. These are available in our online shop, where you can check the current prices.

All purchases and donations are entirely voluntary.
We’re here to support your spiritual journey — not to ask for your money or possessions.

Absolutely! Families and children are always welcome at RKUK.

We are committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable people in line with Charity Commission guidelines, and our staff have Enhanced DBS checks to ensure everyone’s safety and wellbeing. Many parents join online or in person with their children, making practice part of family life in a way that feels natural.

That’s no problem at all. You do not have to convert or give up your beliefs. RKUK is open to people of all faiths and none — we learn together with mutual respect.

Yes — we offer Buddhist memorial services and prayers for loved ones who have passed away. Anyone is welcome to ask; please feel free to contact us for more details.

If you’re not confident in English, please don’t worry — we do our best to support people whose first language is not English, and we can communicate in Japanese too. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us. We are always here to listen and help you find the best way to connect.