Chan Buddhism is a major school of Chinese Buddhism that emphasizes direct experience and meditation over theoretical knowledge. It originated in China around the 6th century and is known for its focus on achieving enlightenment through mindfulness and the practice of zazen, or seated meditation. The teachings of Chan stress the importance of personal insight and the realization of one's true nature. It often employs paradoxical statements and questions, known as koans, to challenge conventional thinking and encourage deeper understanding. Chan later influenced the development of Zen Buddhism in Japan.