Shunryu Suzuki, the founder of San Francisco Zen Center, had a close and respectful relationship with other Zen masters. He was deeply influenced by his own teacher, Soen Nakagawa, and maintained a strong connection with him throughout his life. Suzuki also had a close relationship with Taizan Maezumi, the founder of the White Plum Asanga and a fellow Zen teacher in the United States.

Suzuki's relationship with his teacher, Soen Nakagawa, was one of mutual respect and admiration. Nakagawa was a renowned Zen master in Japan and Suzuki considered him to be his spiritual father. Suzuki often spoke fondly of Nakagawa and credited him with shaping his understanding of Zen. He also maintained a close correspondence with Nakagawa, seeking his guidance and support in his own teaching.

Suzuki's relationship with Taizan Maezumi was also one of great mutual respect. Maezumi was a pioneer in bringing Zen practice to the West and Suzuki saw him as a valuable ally in spreading the teachings of Zen. They often collaborated on projects and Suzuki would often refer students to Maezumi's Zen Center in Los Angeles. Maezumi, in turn, had great respect for Suzuki and considered him to be a wise and compassionate teacher.

Suzuki also had a strong connection with other Zen masters in Japan, including Dainin Katagiri and Kobun Chino Otogawa. He maintained a regular correspondence with them and would often invite them to visit and teach at the San Francisco Zen Center. Suzuki also encouraged his students to study with other Zen masters, believing that exposure to different teachings and traditions could deepen their understanding of Zen.

Overall, Suzuki's relationships with other Zen masters were characterized by mutual respect, collaboration, and a shared commitment to spreading the teachings of Zen. He saw himself as part of a larger community of Zen practitioners and was always open to learning from others. This attitude of openness and humility was a hallmark of Suzuki's teaching and continues to be an important aspect of the San Francisco Zen Center today.