Dogen, the founder of Soto Zen Buddhism in Japan, was born in the year 1200 in the city of Kyoto, Japan. He was born into a noble family and was given the name Eihei Dogen by his parents. His father was a government official and his mother was from a distinguished family of courtiers.

Dogen's early life was marked by tragedy as his mother passed away when he was just two years old. This event had a profound impact on him and he often spoke about the impermanence of life and the importance of living in the present moment.

At the age of seven, Dogen was sent to study at a nearby temple, where he was introduced to Buddhism. He showed a keen interest in the teachings and practices of Buddhism and was determined to become a monk.

At the age of 13, Dogen left Kyoto to study at the prestigious Tendai monastery on Mount Hiei. He spent the next six years studying and practicing under the guidance of his teacher, Myozen. However, Dogen was not satisfied with the teachings of Tendai Buddhism and felt a strong calling towards a more authentic and direct approach to enlightenment.

In 1223, at the age of 23, Dogen left Mount Hiei and embarked on a journey to China in search of a true understanding of Buddhism. He spent two years studying under the guidance of the renowned Buddhist master, Rujing, at the Tiantong monastery in China. It was during this time that Dogen was introduced to the teachings of Chan Buddhism, which later became known as Zen in Japan.

After returning to Japan in 1227, Dogen faced many challenges in spreading the teachings of Chan Buddhism. However, he persevered and eventually established his own monastery, Eiheiji, in the mountains of Fukui Prefecture. This monastery became the center of Soto Zen Buddhism in Japan and is still an active monastery today.

Dogen spent the rest of his life teaching and writing about Zen Buddhism. He wrote many influential texts, including the Shobogenzo, which is considered one of the most important works of Zen literature. Dogen's teachings emphasized the importance of meditation, mindfulness, and the realization of one's true nature.

Dogen passed away in 1253 at the age of 53, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and guide Zen practitioners around the world. His teachings and writings have had a profound impact on the development of Soto Zen Buddhism, making him one of the most influential figures in Japanese Buddhism.