vertical image collage - temple, Project Dana, ministers, scouts, BWA generations, Obon

A Jodo Shinshu Buddhist Temple

The Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin in Honolulu is the main temple of the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii (Hawaii Kyodan). The Betsuin and Hawaii Kyodan belong to the Jodo Shinshu (Shin Buddhism) school and maintain close ties with the Nishi Hongwanji head temple in Kyoto. Hawaii Kyodan currently comprises 34 temples in Hawaii.

The mission of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii is to share the living Teachings of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism so that all beings may enjoy lives of harmony, peace, and gratitude.

Sunday Services and Buddhism Classes

The Hawaii Betsuin offers Sunday services in both English and Japanese as well as associated opportunities for meditation, fellowship, and discussion of the dharma (Buddhist teachings). The Dharma Light Program provides an extensive program of Buddhist education for adult learners of every level of knowledge and understanding. Classes are available throughout the year and include courses in basic Buddhism and Jodo Shinshu as well as advanced topics.

Education for Children and Teens

For children and families, Hawaii Betsuin’s Dharma School provides wonderful Sunday morning services and classes designed to educate the young (pre-school to 12th grade) in the basics of dharma teachings and values. Just across the Pali Highway is the Betsuin’s Hongwanji Mission School, offering accredited education for pre-K through eighth grade. Sharing the Betsuin campus is Pacific Buddhist Academy (PBA), an accredited, college-preparatory high school for students of all faiths. Established by Hawaii Kyodan, PBA is independently administered by its own Board of Directors. The Fort Gakuen Japanese School continues to offer instruction in Japanese reading, writing, and speaking to all interested K-8 students.

Organizations and Cultural Activities

The Betsuin is sponsor and/or host to many temple and affiliated organizations including the Betsuin Choir, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, the Buddhist Women’s Association, service groups, as well cultural, dance, and exercise classes. The temple community (sangha) often comes together to organize and participate in events such as craft fairs, choral fests, and of course, Bon Odori!

Welcome to Hawaii Betsuin. We hope you will visit our temple and join the sangha in whatever way works best for you!