Newport Beach Higashi Honganji Temple

Since the time of Sakyamuni Buddha, his teachings have evolved over the years to meet the spiritual needs of the people for over 2,500 years. Our Newport Beach Higashi Honganji Temple is an affiliate of one of the oldest and largest denominations in Japan, the Shinshu Otani-ha (Higashi Honganji), with approximately 9,000 temples and 10,000,000 members. It espouses the teaching of Jodo Shinshu (also known as Shin Buddhism or True Pure Land Buddhism). The Honganji tradition traces its beginning to Shinran Shonin (1173-1262), a Buddhist teacher of the Kamakura Period (c. 1183-1333) and a student of Honen Shonin (1133-1212), the founder of the Jodo sect. The central practice of listening to the Buddhadharma (teachings) was Shinran's conviction in opening a path to enlightenment to all.

The Jodo Shinshu movement in the United States has its beginning just over 100 years ago and has grown rapidly with many temples throughout North America. We invite you to visit our temple and take part in our services finding the serenity to not only enjoy living, but to contribute to the general well being of all living beings.

Our temple offers a spiritual environment which cultivates individual exploration based on the Buddhadharma. Through self-reflection, we are encouraged to strive for harmony with respect for the differences in our diverse community. Hopefully you will find here a respite from the concerns of the outside world and join us to seek a deeper understanding that will lead to more meaningful and rewarding experiences as we continue on the path of life. With this in mind for those new to Buddhism or those seeking to learn more, we have reintroduced Dharma Classes as a part of regular Temple activities.