The San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin, located at 640 N. 5th St, San Jose, CA 95112, holds a significant place in the history of the San Jose area. Established to serve the Japanese-American community, the temple has been a steadfast source of spiritual guidance, community support, and cultural activities.

Affiliated with the Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha school of Buddhism, the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin follows the Pure Land tradition, emphasizing mindfulness of the Buddha Amida, known as "Nembutsu," as a path to enlightenment.

The temple conducts regular religious services, educational programs, and cultural events to foster a sense of community and provide opportunities for spiritual growth. These activities contribute to the temple's mission of serving its members and promoting the teachings of Buddhism.

In addition to religious services, the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin is likely involved in hosting cultural events and festivals open to the public. These events encompass traditional Japanese celebrations, lectures, workshops, and activities celebrating and sharing aspects of Japanese culture.

Beyond its religious and cultural endeavors, the temple is actively engaged in community outreach and social service activities, reflecting a commitment to contributing to the well-being of the broader community. Through its multifaceted approach, the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin continues to play a vital role in the lives of its members and the surrounding community, fostering a sense of unity, understanding, and spiritual enrichment.

Detailed information:

• Address: 640 N 5th St, San Jose, CA 95112, United States
• Phone: +1 408-293-9292
• Website: https://www.sjbetsuin.org/

Directions

Founded and officially started in 1986 by Abbot Venerable Chum Choeum, the San Jose Cambodian Buddhist Society began in a small house at 1833 Luby Dr., San Jose, CA 95133. In 1988, it moved to 2751 Mervyns Way, San Jose, CA 95127, and began building the current Buddhist Society in 2008, completing it in 2010.

A covered arched structure surrounds the temple, including an inside gathering space, a monks' platform, and a giant Buddha statue protected by a seven-headed Naga. The outside and sloping roof are decorated with traditional lavish designs like spires, gilded wood carvings, panels, finials, and natural stone carvings. The temple is set back from the surroundings, surrounded by landscaping.

The community building has a main hall on the ground floor, with two wings containing a kitchen, meeting room, offices, storage, and a classroom with a library. The stairs lead to the second floor, five bedrooms for eight residents, a small kitchen, and a living room.

The main entrance for guests is the central courtyard. A covered walkway around the community building connects to three sides of the square, with a plinth and statue in the center facing the front of the Temple. Two more courtyards are on either side of the temple, each serving a different purpose. Near Norwood Avenue, one has a decorated stupa on a stone base. The other has a resting Buddha.

Venerable Khemacharo Chum Choeum, the former leader of Wat Khmer San Jose, has been essential to the spiritual needs of Cambodian Americans in the Bay Area. His legacy shows a solid commitment to Buddhism and the Cambodian community.

The San Jose Cambodian Buddhist Society aims to preserve Cambodian Buddhist Culture, help Cambodian people adjust to life in the United States, and protect their identity. It operates for educational, artistic, religious, and charitable purposes and is dedicated to serving its community.

Detailed information:

• Address: 2751 Mervyns Way, San Jose, CA 95127, United States
• Phone: +1 408-770-9171
• Website: https://watkhmer.org/

Directions

Wat Buddhanusorn is a significant place of worship for Thai Buddhists in Fremont, California. The temple was created to serve the spiritual needs of the local Thai community. People come here to pray, participate in cultural events, and join the community. The temple has a rich history, with stories about the people who started it and essential historical events.

At Wat Buddhanusorn, there are different activities for people to participate in. These include traditional Thai ceremonies, teachings about Buddhism, meditation, and celebrations of Buddhist festivals. The temple is open to everyone, and people from the local area are welcome to join in these events.

The temple is home to a group of monks who lead the religious activities. The prominent monk, the abbot, is an essential leader in the temple. Apart from spiritual activities, Wat Buddhanusorn is also involved in programs that help the local community. This includes classes to learn the Thai language, cultural events, and support programs. The temple wants to be a place where people can connect and share their culture.

Wat Buddhanusorn has different buildings for various activities. There is a main hall for ceremonies, spaces for meditation, living areas for the monks, and other facilities for community events. The temple's design reflects the traditional look of Thai Buddhist places of worship.

Detailed information:

• Address: 36054 Niles Blvd, Fremont, CA 94536, United States
• Phone: +1 510-790-2294
• Website: https://www.watbuddha.org/

Directions

In the middle of San Jose, California, you'll find the calm and beautiful Lien Hoa Tu Temple. It's a special place perfect for anyone who wants to feel more connected spiritually or enjoy the beauty of this fantastic spot.

When you arrive, you'll feel a peaceful and soothing atmosphere that helps you relax. The temple's surroundings are well cared for, with many green plants and colorful flowers. It's like a quiet place in the middle of a busy city.

Inside the temple, there's impressive architecture and detailed designs that will amaze you. The walls are decorated with lovely statues and art that each have a story and are essential in Buddhist culture. Visitors are encouraged to take their time and explore all the different parts of the temple to take in its beauty and spiritual vibes.

Lien Hoa Tu Temple is unique among other Buddhist temples because it has female monks. These inspiring women are dedicated to helping the community and sharing the teachings of Buddha. They show us how strong faith and commitment can make a difference. Their presence at the temple makes it even more special, adding to the feeling of peace and understanding.

Overall, Lien Hoa Tu Temple is a hidden treasure in San Jose. You should visit it if you want to break from the busy daily routine and experience this excellent spot's beauty and spiritual calm. Whether you're a devoted Buddhist or just someone looking for a quiet moment to think, Lien Hoa Tu Temple will stay in your heart and mind.

Detailed information:

• Address: 3301 McKee Rd, San Jose, CA 95127, United States
• Phone: +1 408-444-2868

Directions

Gold Sage Monastery (GSM) sits on top of San Jose, the central city in Silicon Valley, which is famous for its technology. Established in 1995, this quiet and private place has been dedicated to helping the community. Local followers deeply connect with the Venerable Master, admiring his goodness and teachings since 1985. In 1987, the community took a big step by inviting the Master to share wisdom at Mission College, starting events that led to the creation of the Buddhist Study Group for regular people in the South Bay Area.

After teaching and helping people in San Jose for years, the Master saw the chance to introduce more people through a local center for studying Buddha's teachings. Before the Master passed away, he bought the land where Gold Sage Monastery now stands, making the dreams of the South Bay followers come true. The ground used to be a school for people with disabilities, and the Master changed it into a spiritual place to help everyone overcome challenges in their bodies and minds.

GSM is open from 9 am to 5 pm, giving people a quiet place for thinking and exploring spirituality. Every day at 1 pm, there is a gathering called the Great Compassion Repentance assembly, except on Sundays when special events with talks and prayers are held. Alongside these activities, GSM actively encourages Buddhist learning and clearing the mind through programs like the Instilling Goodness Sunday School and the Elders' Dharma Study Group.

Detailed information:

• Address: 11455 Clayton Rd, San Jose, CA 95127, United States
• Phone: +1 408-923-7243
• Website: http://www.drbagsm.org/en/index.php

Directions

Duc Vien, also called Duc Vien Temple or Chua Duc Vien, is a Buddhist temple and former nunnery in California, USA. The temple's origin goes back to Venerable Dam Luu, who follows the Northern Pure Land path in his Buddhist practice. The temple is open to anyone interested in practicing Buddhism and has a shared goal of reciting Buddha's name to be reborn in the Pure Land. We focus on the Buddha's teachings and encourage everyone to participate actively in this spiritual journey.

Guided by Venerable Dam Luu, Duc Vien Pagoda highlights the significance of daily learning during a three-month retreat. There are two classes, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, that concentrate on understanding the teachings of the Pure Land Patriarchs. This is done to remind nuns and Buddhists to regularly "remember Buddha and recite Buddha's name" as a sincere and continuous practice, nurturing strong faith in the desire to be reborn in the Western Pure Land.

Since its inception, Duc Vien Pagoda has been committed to continuous innovation, striving to provide valuable spiritual resources for the Buddhists seeking solace here. We hope that Duc Vien Pagoda is perceived as a shared home for all Buddhists, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

The pagoda extends its spiritual offerings to two additional facilities: Duc Vien Tinh Uyen (Los Gatos) and Duc Vien Tinh Hai (Maui). These locations specifically organize Tinh Tu Courses and Buddhist retreats to support individuals in their dedicated practice. All with the shared goal of vowing to be reborn and demonstrating through prayer that their aspirations are fulfilled.

In addition to its spiritual endeavors, Duc Vien Pagoda is dedicated to preserving Vietnamese culture through Duc Vien Vietnamese Language School. The school conducts 12 sessions each session, led by 60 teachers, with 500 students attending two sessions every Sunday, contributing to the cultural and educational enrichment of the community.

Detailed information:

• Address: 2420 McLaughlin Ave, San Jose, CA 95121, United States
• Phone: +1-408-993-9158
• Website: https://chuaducvien.org/

Directions

The Mountain View Buddhist Temple, located in Mountain View, California, stands as a place of spiritual practice and community for those following the teachings of Buddhism. Rooted in a specific Buddhist tradition, the temple likely aligns with Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, or other Asian Buddhist schools.

Mountain View Buddhist Temple offers various religious services and activities like many Buddhist temples. Regular worship services, meditation sessions, Dharma talks, and educational programs contribute to the community's spiritual development. These activities are guided by resident monks, nuns, or priests, and the leadership structure adheres to the principles of the specific Buddhist tradition.

In addition to its religious activities, the temple is probably engaged with the community. This could mean participating in activities that involve different faiths, cultural events, and programs to help the community. Temples often act as cultural centers, organizing festivals, ceremonies, and events to celebrate and share aspects of Asian culture.

The temple's facilities are designed to accommodate various aspects of community life. This includes a main hall for ceremonies, spaces dedicated to meditation and reflection, and areas for educational endeavors. The presence of outdoor spaces or gardens enhances the overall environment for contemplation and communal gatherings.

Detailed information:

• Address: 575 N Shoreline Blvd, Mountain View, CA 94043, United States
• Phone: +1 650-964-9426
• Website: https://mvbuddhisttemple.org/

Directions

Lieu Quan Buddhist Cultural Center, started in 2000 by Venerable Thich Phap Chon, is a place for Buddhists to follow Vietnamese traditions. The center wants people to live a life of kindness and thoughtfulness. This is the base for a spiritual and wise life. Lieu Quan works to keep Vietnamese culture and good behavior. They care about both Vietnamese and American ways of living.

Lieu Quan Buddhist Cultural Center tells people to follow five rules: don't harm, steal, act wrongly in relationships, or use harmful substances. This helps bring happiness and peace to people, families, and society.

Lieu Quan Buddhist Cultural Center loves celebrating special events like the Lunar New Year (Tet). They welcome everyone, especially those connected to Vietnam, to join the fun. Lieu Quan included groups and Buddhists for worship and vegetarian meals during these times.

Every year, they have a giant Buddha's Birthday Ceremony. They invite Buddhists of different kinds and friends. There are talks, chanting, and entertaining programs. Another meaningful ceremony is the Ullambana Ceremony, which occurs in the year's seventh month. Buddhists come to listen to discussions and pray for their parents and others. They also pray for the souls of unknown ghosts and people who died in accidents or disasters.

Lieu Quan also participates in Renew Precepts ceremonies with other monks in Northern California. Monks and Buddhists join together to renew their promises and follow a good tradition. Since 2003, they have been organizing eight precept seminars every month. About 50 to 60 people come to each workshop. They spend a day living like Buddhist monks. They do precept ceremonies, listen to teachings, meditate, worship Buddha, and have lunch mindfully.

Lieu Quan offers Dharma classes every Sunday morning to keep Vietnamese Buddhist traditions. People can read and learn about Buddhism, listen to teachings, and ask questions. Sundays are a time to be mindful, relax, and find peace together.

Detailed information:

• Address: 1425 Clayton Rd, San Jose, CA 95127, United States
• Phone: +1 408-272-5765
• Website: https://lieuquan.org/english/index.htm

Directions

Pao Hua Buddhist Temple is one of the best Buddhist temples in San Jose. It was founded by Master Ling-Chun in 1976. The Chinese name "Pao-Hua" means nurturing the growth of the Lotus of Buddhism. Since it opened in 1988, the temple has become a place for local communities to learn about Buddha's teachings. It's also an important cultural center where people can share and understand the differences between Western and Eastern cultures.

Master Ling-Chun came from Hong Kong to New York in 1976 and later settled in California. 1980, he started Pao-Hua Temple in a three-bedroom house in downtown San Jose. In 1984, he bought a piece of land in San Jose (now 2946 McKee Road) and built two small temporary buildings for worship and residence while constructing the main hall and the rest of the temple. In 1988, after four years of hard work by volunteers and construction workers, Pao-Hua Temple celebrated its grand opening. Since 1999, Nun Chi-Fa has managed the temple, following in the footsteps of Master Ling-Chun.

The statues of Buddha in the temple represent harmony, prosperity, compassion, and stability. They remind us that every person can achieve the same enlightenment as Buddha. Buddha's teachings help us understand the purpose of life and the reasons behind happiness and suffering.

Believing that all beings are the same, the Buddhist community works for global brotherhood and peace with high standards of selfless morals and inner peace. The goal is for everyone to learn how to cultivate wisdom and understand the true nature of all things for the benefit of all.

Detailed information:

• Address: 2946 McKee Rd, San Jose, CA 95127, United States
• Phone: +1 408-259-8888
• Website: http://paohua.org/

Directions