Zen is a Japanese sect of Buddhism that emphasizes meditation and intuition as a means to enlightenment. It is believed to have been founded in the 12th century by Eisai, a Japanese monk who studied ZEN in China. ZEN is known for its focus on simplicity and minimalism, and its practitioners strive to live in the present moment. ZEN is also known for its use of koans, or paradoxical questions, to help practitioners reach a higher level of understanding.