Taisen Deshimaru, a Japanese Zen Buddhist master, is credited with bringing Zen to Europe in the 1960s. He was a disciple of the renowned Zen master Kodo Sawaki and studied under him for 15 years before being sent to France to spread the teachings of Zen.

Deshimaru arrived in France in 1967 and immediately began teaching Zen meditation, also known as zazen, to a small group of students. His teachings were greatly influenced by his master, Sawaki, who emphasized the importance of practicing Zen in everyday life rather than just in a monastery.

Deshimaru's teachings quickly gained popularity and attracted students from various European countries. As a result, he traveled extensively and established Zen centers in several countries, including France, Belgium, Spain, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and the Netherlands.

In France, Deshimaru founded the Association Zen Internationale (AZI) in 1970, which became the main organization for Zen practice in Europe. He also established the first Zen temple in Europe, La Gendronniere, in 1979, which continues to serve as a training center for Zen practitioners.

Deshimaru's teachings were not limited to just the traditional Japanese Zen practices, but he also incorporated elements of Western philosophy and psychology into his teachings. This approach made Zen more accessible and appealing to Western students.

In addition to establishing Zen centers and temples, Deshimaru also published several books on Zen, including "La pratique du Zen" (The Practice of Zen) and "Questions to a Zen Master" which have been translated into multiple languages and have become popular among Western readers.

Deshimaru's efforts to spread Zen in Europe were not limited to just teaching and writing. He also organized numerous retreats, workshops, and conferences, which attracted people from all walks of life and helped to popularize Zen in Europe.

Today, the influence of Taisen Deshimaru can still be felt in the thriving Zen communities in Europe. His teachings have inspired many to incorporate Zen into their daily lives and have helped to bridge the gap between Eastern and Western cultures.

In conclusion, Taisen Deshimaru brought Zen to several European countries, including France, Belgium, Spain, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. His teachings and efforts have played a significant role in popularizing Zen in Europe and continue to inspire people to this day.