In 1994, Jianhu Shifu followed the Grand Master Wei Chueh, founder of Chung Tai Chan Monastery, to become a monk. He was appointed the dean of Chung Tai Buddhist Institute for many years. Afterwards, he founded and served as the abbot of a number of Chan centers (Chinese Zen teaching monasteries) such as Buddha Gate Monastery in East San Francisco Bay, Chung Tai Zen Center of Sunnyvale (South Bay), and Buddha Jewel Monastery in Seattle.

Jianhu Shifu has guided dozens of Chan-7 (7-day meditation) retreats and weekend retreats; taught Buddhism courses from beginning to advanced levels, given lectures on many sutras and topics, engaged in interfaith dialogues, for over 20 years.

In 2022 Jianhu Shifu formed "Prajna Dharma" to support his solo practice, as well as teaching the Dharma in the United States and internationally.