Zen is a branch or lineage of Buddhism which focuses on meditation to realize the true nature of the self and reality. This method is different from other lineages which also consider chanting, praying, or virtuous deeds necessary to attain realization. While the word zen is Japanese, the practice of zen itself has strong roots all South-Eastern Asia, though it is called different things. In China, it is known as Chan. In Tibet, Dzogchen. Zen centers are just a place that people gather to practice meditation together, usually silently.