Baikaryu Eisanka are Buddhist hymns sung with the accompaniment of bells in praise of Shakyamuni Buddha and the two founders of the Soto Zen Buddhism (Dogen Zenji and Keizan Zenji), and to show respect for our ancestors.
The songs were born from Japan's culture and daily life. Their calm and gentle melodies are easy to sing and evoke a peaceful heart and new inspiration.

Baikaryu Eisanka came into being in 1952. At the time, the Eisanka Research Committee had been formed at the Toukei-in Temple in Shizuoka Prefecture, and was conducting a large amount of research and investigations into the operation and organization of the schools, etc.

Subsequently, the lyrics and music were completed, and the manners and methods of singing were established. The style had not yet been given a name, so Baikaryu was selected, as it contained the character bai (meaning "plum"), which was associated with the two founders.

The compiled lyrics are heavily tinged by the teachings of the Soto Zen School, and are permeated with the lives and teachings, etc., of Shakyamuni Buddha and the two founders. Singing itself is at the foundation, but it consists of manners that lead to the teachings of Zen, and exudes the very nature of the Buddhist way in singing so that the heart of Shakyamuni Buddha is communicated.

In addition, the ideal nature of Baikaryu is to sing with a focus always on the three vows of Baikaryu, namely to "live according to the Buddha's teachings," "live in harmony with others," and "create a cheerful world around us."

The place at which people can learn proper teachings through the singing of Baikaryu Eisanka is called a Baikako. There are currently over 6,400 Baikako in Japan and overseas. Proper teachings are received from the scriptures and instructors, and through discussions with fellow practitioners. Many people gather at temples, etc., to learn eisanka together and pray for one another's happiness. It is a place to mutually heal your pain and worries, encourage each other, and enjoy wonderful lives together.

Individuals affiliated with a Baikako are called Baikakoin ("Baikako members"). There are currently approximately 140,000 Baikakoin. They are wonderful friends with deep faith who perform the same religious practices together, accepting others just as they are, with their diverse tastes and preferences. Many people learn the teachings of Buddhism, as well as techniques for good relationships and getting along well with others.

The Soto Zen School hosts the annual National Baikaryu Singing Conference at which fellow practitioners (Baikakoin) from all over Japan gather to sing Baikaryu Eisanka. Approximately 10,000 people gather for the two-day event. Participants present the results of their daily practice in regional units, and foster the spirit of performing the same religious practices together.