Category: Misc.

At 10:00 pm on December 31, 2023, an intruder broke into the temple and sought refuge in the basement. Shortly after, the individual committed arson, resulting in considerable fire and water damage to the basement area. The smoke and water damage extended throughout the entire temple, prompting its closure to all.

Efforts are underway to assess the costs of repairing the damage caused. Fortunately, no one was injured. The Hondo (main hall) and the Nokotsudo (columbarium) managed to be unscathed from the fire.

In light of this unfortunate situation, we see an opportunity for renewal, rebuilding, and reaffirming our mission to share the message of the Buddha. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the community for the outpouring of support.

As we navigate our restoration journey, you may stay connected with us by visiting the Seattle Betsuin webpage for updates. For those who would like to make a donation to our Arson Restoration Fund, please visit the link below or find that link on the website: SeattleBetsuin.com.

Contributions can also be made via check – please make checks payable to “SEATTLE BUDDHIST CHURCH” and include “Arson Restoration Fund” in the memo line.

Your kindness and concern are deeply appreciated, and we invite you to share in the successes fueled by your generosity. Thank you for contributing to a collective effort that transcends bricks and mortar.

Seattle Betsuin Buddhist Temple – 1427 S. Main Street, Seattle, WA 98144

Seattle Betsuin Arson Restoration Fund link:

Seattle Times article link:

A Buddhist New Year’s Eve gathering, with a Buddhist service, Japanese food for sale and sales of Japanese items (dolls, prints, dishes and more!). Food: traditional plain mochi, mochi desserts & inari sushi ($8). Reserve the traditional mochi via email.

If you are looking for a spiritual way to literally ring in the new year, come to the Joya-E “Bell of the Last Night” Service (6:30 pm) to Ring Out 2023! and Ring In 2024! This is a short, family-friendly Buddhist service, where attendees will join in to ring the large Kansho Bell a total of 108 times, to symbolically ring away the 108 passions which inflict people. The proceeds support our Minister’s education.

See the home page of this website.

Do you have questions about Buddhism? Are you new to the Spokane Buddhist Temple?

Join Ministers Assistant Eric Kerkove for a brief introductory lecture about general Buddhism on the 5th and Jodo Shinshu Buddhism on the 12th. The lectures are followed by an opportunity for discussion – bring your questions. All Are Welcome!

Cozy up with an authentic bowl of Ramen from the Spokane Buddhist Temple’s “RAMEN FEST” on Oct. 22nd – Take-Out-Only. Chefs Jun & Dave are cooking up Ramen again with their recipe for tasty broth, noodles and chicken or tofu ($15).  Add some Mochi Desserts ($7) and Inari Sushi ($7).  Cash Preferred – Accepting Cards – Come early before we sell out. See the Temple at the Open House 11am-2pm. All proceeds support the Temple.

Come to the 10th Annual Buddhist Obon Festival on 8/6 – 11a-6:30p. This Japanese cultural event honors our ancestors. Free entrance~free kids games~charge for food.  Our building has Air Conditioning.

Obon Schedule

11 am – 4 pm

    Japanese Artist Displays & Sales

    Kids games

    Japanese Bento Boxes, Sushi & Dessert

Brief Buddhist Service 4 pm

Bon Odori dancing 5 pm in the park

Featuring Japanese Peanut Butter Noodle Salad with Sunomono (Pork or Tofu) $15 & Inari Sushi & Mochi Desserts $7

Come dance for joy for your ancestors. These dances are easy to follow and led by Izumi and the Spokane Buddhist Temple Bon Odori Dancers.