In 753, Jianzhen’s (also known as Ganjin in Japanese; 688-763) sixth attempt at crossing eastward to Japan finally succeeded: a native of Jinhua appeared on the scene of history and contributed to the success of the mission. 

Before Jianzhen’s departure, a delegation from Japan attracted the attention of monks and laymen in Yangzhou, where Longxing Temple was located, and raised concerns about Jianzhen’s leaving the temple for his upcoming trip. The temple was under strict surveillance and Great Master Jianzhen was unable to leave, being constantly watched. The day of departure was about to arrive, and the plan of eastward crossing to Japan was soon to be tested again. 

While visiting Yangzhou, Rengan, a Chan Master native to Wuzhou (Jinhua), heard that Jianzhen’s plan to leave for Japan was having issues and was quite sympathetic. In addition, Rengan himself had the desire to go to Japan with Jianzhen. He sent someone to give Jianzhen a message, and prepared some boats at the riverbank so that, as long as Jianzhen arrived, they could put out to sea. An authoritative source is the Tōdaiwajō tōseiden (1), mentioning the role of Rengan: 

“... Longxingsi temple was under strict surveillance and no one could leave or enter [without being watched]. Then the Meditation Master Rengan 仁幹 came from Wuzhou 務州. He was secretly told that the Great Master wishe[d] to leave. He prepared some boats at the riverbank and waited to meet [Ganjin and his followers].” (2)

This passage clarifies three points: the monk who contributed to the success in Jianzhen’s sixth mission to Japan is 1. Rengan, 2. a native of Jinhua, and 3. he used his own boat to help Jianzhen overcome the initial obstacle. Rengan was a strong supporter of Jianzhen’s plan to cross the sea and go to Japan. He not only assisted Rengan with his help, but also was part of the whole trip to Japan and the transmission of teachings. Before leaving for Japan, Rengan is said to have been a monk at the Qiyun Temple in Jinhua. (Translated by Marco Lovisetto, edited by Kendra Fiddler)

Notes:

1. A text dating to 779 which describes the adventurous journey of Jianzhen from China to Japan.

2. Marcus Bingenheimer: “A Translation of the Tōdaiwajō tōseiden 唐大和上東征傳.” (Part 2) [Rev. PDF edition (ver.1)].