Enmanji Buddhist Temple

The Enmanji Buddhist Temple is a fascinating place with a fascinating history. It was originally built for the Chicago International Exposition in 1933 and it was shipped westward in pieces. The temple is in the Kamakura style. The interior has a blend of Tibetan, Japanese, and Western motifs. The pictures of Buddha’s life look like they were made by a Christian Sunday School illustrator.
The Buddhist Temple belongs to the Buddhist Church in America (BCA), so it’s Pure Land Buddhism, with a liturgical style that’s like Catholicism, Western-​style hymns, the chanting sounds Gregorian (though it’s in Japanese), and even the incense isn’t Eastern (probably frankincense instead of sandalwood) The congregation is predominantly Japanese. It’s sad that the congregation at the Family Service is mostly elderly.
Enmanji is definitely a destination. It’s like going to Kyoto in the North Bay.

I’ve been going here since forever. Lately, I haven’t been able to attend service as much (work & school) but I always go to special events and (of course) Teriyaki and Obon. New members are always welcome. Rev. Himaka’s sermons are pretty engaging and relevant and there’s always food after in the hall. They also have a scholarship for members graduating from high school. There’s so much history to the temple; I’m still learning bits and pieces of it. If you haven’t been here yet, definitely come check it out with an open mind. The temple is really beautiful, as well as the people :)

Started going here in the 9^th grade. Met some great people from here from attending the Sunday services and Sunday school and from joining the youth group. Lots of great Volleyball practices and tournaments with Dennis and Debbie, Mr. Ito and Marcus. Rev. Hamashita did my older brother’s wedding. She also did the funeral services and 49 day service when my dad passed. Lots of great memories here. Oh the mochi pounding days! Watch out for your fingers. That’s something everyone should experience.
The Teriyaki Bizarre in July is always a great fun event for families and check out the Obon festival right after that if you’re interested in the traditional Japanese style of dancing to honor the ancestors and those that have passed. The Sunday services are open to all and it’s good to have new blood. It is sad to see the elder Japanese that helped mold the temple for so long thin out.