Hsi Lai Temple, located in Hacienda Heights, California, holds significant prominence as the North American branch of the Fo Guang Shan tradition of Mahayana Buddhism. Established in 1988, the temple is recognized as one of the largest and most designed Buddhist temples in the Western Hemisphere.

The architecture of Hsi Lai Temple is a blend of traditional Chinese styles, featuring elaborate carvings, vibrant artwork, and serene gardens. The Great Buddha Hall is a focal point, housing a sizable statue of Sakyamuni Buddha. Other halls and pavilions within the complex serve various ceremonial and educational purposes, contributing to the overall aesthetic and spiritual atmosphere.

Beyond its role as a place of worship, Hsi Lai Temple is a hub for cultural and educational activities. The temple provides classes and workshops on Buddhism, meditation, and Chinese culture, with a mission to foster understanding and appreciation of Buddhist teachings within the broader community.

Operated under the International Buddhist Progress Society (IBPS), Hsi Lai Temple is part of a global initiative founded by Venerable Master Hsing Yun. The society promotes Buddhism, facilitates cultural exchange, and engages in humanitarian activities worldwide.

Throughout the year, Hsi Lai Temple hosts various events and festivals. These include celebrations for major Buddhist holidays, cultural festivals, and educational programs. Visitors are warmly invited to participate in these events, allowing them to immerse themselves in Buddhist traditions and cultural experiences.

Detailed information:

• Address: 3456 Glenmark Dr, Hacienda Heights, CA 91745, United States
• Phone: +1 626-961-9697
• Website: http://www.hsilai.org/en/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hsilaitemple/

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Wat Thai Temple, situated in North Hollywood, California, serves as a Theravada Buddhist temple and a cultural haven for the Thai community in the greater Los Angeles area. Established to provide a dedicated space for worship and community engagement, the temple holds a significant role in the lives of Thai Buddhists in Southern California.

The architectural design of Wat Thai Temple is characterized by traditional Thai elements, featuring detailed carvings, bright colors, and fancy decorations. Visitors often find a revered Buddha image within the main hall, contributing to the temple's tranquil and contemplative atmosphere. The temple grounds, adorned with gardens and statues, provide a serene backdrop for religious and cultural activities.

Regarding religious practices, Wat Thai Temple follows the Theravada tradition, the prevalent form of Buddhism in Thailand. The temple hosts regular religious services, meditation sessions, and ceremonies, providing a dedicated space for Thai Buddhists to practice their faith and for others to gain insights into Theravada Buddhism.

Wat Thai Temple is renowned for its lively cultural celebrations. The temple organizes events and festivals annually, including the festive Songkran (Thai New Year) celebrations and the Loy Krathong festival. These cultural festivities serve as a source of joy for the Thai community and attract individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Wat Thai Temple is actively engaged in community outreach. It serves as a cultural bridge, offering educational programs on Buddhism and Thai culture to the Thai community and the broader Los Angeles community. The temple welcomes visitors and encourages cultural exchange.

Detailed information:

• Address: 8225 Coldwater Canyon Ave, North Hollywood, CA 91605
• Phone: +1 818-780-4200
• Website: https://www.watthailosangeles.com/
  

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The West Los Angeles Buddhist Temple in Los Angeles, California, serves as a center for Buddhist worship and community activities. Affiliated with a specific Buddhist denomination or school, such as Theravada, Mahayana, or Vajrayana, the temple provides a space for spiritual practices and cultural events.

Typically led by a resident monk or priest, the temple offers a range of activities and services. These include meditation sessions, religious teachings, and cultural events to foster spiritual growth and community cohesion. The leadership structure may vary based on the specific Buddhist tradition and the temple's affiliation.

In addition to religious practices, Buddhist temples like the one in West Los Angeles engage in community involvement. This often includes charity work, educational programs, and collaborations with other religious or community organizations. Temples may also host classes and workshops on Buddhism, meditation, and related subjects, open to temple members and the broader community.

Detailed information:

• Address: 2003 Corinth Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90025, United States
• Phone: +1 310-477-7274
• Website: https://www.wlabt.org/

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Zenshuji Soto Mission, situated in the heart of the Little Tokyo district in Los Angeles, stands as one of the oldest Soto Zen Buddhist temples in the United States. Established in 1922 by Rev. Hosen Isobe, the temple has been a cornerstone for the Japanese-American community in Southern California and has played a pivotal role in the propagation of Soto Zen Buddhism in the region.

The architectural design of Zenshuji is a testament to traditional Japanese aesthetics, featuring a distinctive pagoda and a meditation hall that collectively create a serene and contemplative atmosphere for practitioners. Zenshuji Soto Mission emphasizes Soto Zen meditation, particularly "shikantaza" or "just sitting." The temple offers regular meditation sessions and services, catering to individuals at various experience levels, from beginners to seasoned practitioners.

In addition to its spiritual pursuits, Zenshuji actively engages in cultural and educational programs. It hosts events, workshops, and lectures on Zen Buddhism, Japanese culture, and spirituality. These activities are open to the Buddhist community and extend a welcoming embrace to the broader Los Angeles community.

Beyond its spiritual and cultural endeavors, Zenshuji Soto Mission is committed to community outreach. By fostering connections with the broader community, the temple serves as a bridge between individuals interested in exploring Zen Buddhism and Japanese traditions. As a hub for both spiritual seekers and those curious about Japanese culture, Zenshuji continues to contribute to the rich tapestry of religious and cultural diversity in Los Angeles.

Detailed information:

• Address: 123 S Hewitt St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
• Phone: +1 213-624-8658
• Website: http://www.zenshuji.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Zenshuji/

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Established on April 20, 1980, Dharma Vijaya Buddhist Vihara owes its start to a dedicated group of Sri Lankan Buddhists. Since it began, this Vihara has thrived with the steady support of Sri Lankan, Asian, and Western Buddhists and non-Buddhist individuals from different countries and cultures. Both local American and Asian communities actively contribute to keeping the Vihara running, where respected monks from Sri Lanka oversee daily activities and guide those seeking its services.

Dharma Vijaya Buddhist Vihara is committed to promoting the Theravada tradition of Buddhism, mainly practiced in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia. As the oldest and most genuine version of the Buddha's teachings, the Theravada tradition preserves the original ideas and practices explained by the Buddha 2600 years ago.

Each day starts at 6 AM, with monks leading services in the shrine room. This routine includes offering things to the Buddha, reading a sutta for blessings to the world, and meditating on loving-kindness. On Tuesdays and Fridays from 7 to 8 PM, meditation instruction is provided for both beginners and experienced practitioners, followed by a talk based on the Buddha's teachings. Occasionally, weekend intensive retreats are organized.

Dharma Vijaya Buddhist Vihara also hosts talks for the public to share fundamental knowledge of the Buddha's teachings found in the Tripitaka texts, often called the "Pali Canon" because they are written in Pali—an ancient Indian language spoken by the Buddha. Weekly evening classes at the Vihara offer chances to study and discuss the basic ideas and practices of Theravada Buddhism. These classes are open to those looking for a broad overview or a deep understanding of Buddhism, with current schedules available at the Vihara.

Detailed information:

• Address: 1847 Crenshaw Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019, United States
• Phone: +1 323-737-5084
• Website: https://www.dharmavijaya.org/

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Myogyoji Temple is a Buddhist temple in West Chicago, IL, following the Nichiren Shoshu tradition. People from all backgrounds gather here to chant and learn about Buddhism based on the 750-year tradition of Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism, rooted in teachings from their main temple, Taisekijed, at the foot of Mt. Fuji in Japan. They welcome you to visit Myogyoji Temple and explore the essence of true Buddhism.

Their form of Buddhism is called Nichiren Shoshu, often known as True Buddhism, because it follows the teachings of ultimate truth. This truth was first explained 3000 years ago by Shakyamuni Buddha in his highest teaching, the Lotus Sutra. In this sutra, Shakyamuni said that his teachings would benefit people for 2000 years after his death, but people wouldn't gain merit from his teachings.

On February 16, 1222, Nichiren Daishonin, recognized as the True Buddha of this time (Latter Day of the Law), appeared in Japan. He fulfilled predictions made in the Lotus Sutra and established True Buddhism to bring happiness to people. On October 12, 1279, he wrote the fundamental Object of Worship, the Dai-Gohonzon. This object is a copy of the Dai-Gohonzon, written by the High Priest of Nichiren Shoshu.

Detailed information:

• Address: 1401 N Crescent Heights Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046, United States
• Phone: +1 323-656-2888
• Website: https://www.nst.org/

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The Koyasan Buddhist Temple, also known as Koyasan Beikoku Betsuin, is at 342 E 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Established in 1912, it is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Los Angeles. Founded by Reverend Junyu Kuroda, the temple has been a spiritual anchor for the local Japanese-American community for over a century.

The temple follows the Shingon school of Buddhism, a form of Esoteric Buddhism with roots in Japan. Architecturally, it embodies traditional Japanese Buddhist design, potentially featuring elements like a pagoda, meditation halls, and spaces dedicated to rituals and ceremonies.

Regular Buddhist services, meditation sessions, chanting, and ceremonies are integral to the temple's practices. These activities contribute to the spiritual well-being of its members and visitors. The Koyasan Buddhist Temple is not just a place of worship; it actively engages with the community, offering educational programs, cultural events, and opportunities for communal gatherings.

Throughout the year, the temple likely hosts various cultural events and festivals, celebrating Buddhist holidays and Japanese traditions. This involvement in cultural activities underscores its role as a cultural and spiritual hub for the community.

Detailed information:

• Address: 342 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
• Phone: +1 213-624-1267
• Website: http://www.koyasanbetsuin.org/
  

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Los Angeles Hompa Hongwanji Buddhist Temple, also known as LAHHBT or "Nishi," has been a vital part of Southern California since 1905. It follows the Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha, a significant branch of Pure Land Buddhism. The temple conducts regular services where people come together to chant, recite sutras, and listen to talks about Buddhist teachings. These activities are open to temple members and visitors interested in learning about Jodo Shinshu Buddhism.

The main hall of the LAHHBT is called the Hondo. It's where people gather to learn about the teachings of the Buddha. Trained ministers guide the community through various religious activities, such as services, seminars, workshops, special events, and observances. These activities help individuals study and understand Buddhist teachings more deeply.

The LAHHBT also has a broader mission, reaching beyond its immediate community. It aims to support the well-being of the larger community, not just the temple members. The temple sees itself as a central point for the community's welfare and takes on responsibilities for the betterment of society. Additionally, the temple is a cultural center, organizing events and programs that contribute to understanding Jodo Shinshu's teachings and Japanese culture.

Throughout the year, the temple hosts cultural events and festivals. These celebrations mark important Buddhist holidays and Japanese cultural traditions. They play a role in preserving Japanese heritage and allow the wider community to participate in and enjoy cultural festivities.

In summary, Los Angeles Hompa Hongwanji Buddhist Temple is not only a place for spiritual growth but also a community hub that fosters cultural exchange, societal responsibility, and a solid connection to the teachings of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism.

Detailed information:

• Address: 815 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
• Phone: +1 213-680-9130
• Website: https://www.nishihongwanji-la.org/

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