About Us

The temple has resumed in-person services, which will still also be broadcast via Zoom

Welcome Message

Welcome to the Northern California Koyasan Temple (Keigenji) where you can study Shingon esoteric Buddhism. Shingon is a form of Japanese Esoteric Buddhism, it is also called Shingon Mikkyo. This school was founded in 804 AD by Kukai (Kobo Daishi) in Japan. The teachings of Shingon are based on the Mahavairocana Sutra and the Vajrasekhara Sutra, the fundamental sutras of Shingon. Through the cultivation of three secrets, the actions of body, speech and mind, we are able to attain enlightenment in this very body. When we can sustain this state of mind, we can become one with the life force of the Universe, known as Mahavairocana Buddha. The symbolic activities are present anywhere in the universe. Natural phenomena such as mountains and oceans and even humans express the truth described in the sutras.

Fujinkai

Members share learned skills and work on projects and crafts that can be sold at Temple fundraisers or donated to notable charitable organizations

Meditation Sessions

The third or fourth Saturday of every month, starting at 2:00 p.m. in the Temple’s sanctuary. See calendar for exact dates.

Odori Dance

The temple holds an annual Obon Odori dance following the Aoba Matsuri Service. Odori dances are being taught by Mrs. Toshiye Kawamura and members from her Sakura Minyo Dokoka. Practice sessions are held for anyone who wishes to participate; both men and women are invited.

Taiko

Koyasan Spirit of Children Taiko Group Instructor Kaori Kubota-Sakauye teaches both both children (minimum age is seven years old) and adults the art of Japanese Taiko Drumming. Classes are held on Thursdays and Fridays in the Temple Social Hall.
Contact
koyasan.taiko@gmail.com
(916) 444-0111

Karate

Instructor Gary Matsumoto teaches the Okinawan Shorin Ryu style of karate. Classes are held every Saturday from 10:00 am to noon. While he accepts students of all ages, he recommends that the minimum age for a student be six years old.
Contact
koyasan.karate@gmail.com
(916) 444-0111

Toro Nagashi Lantern Workshop

Since 2015, the Temple had held an annual Toro Nagashi Lantern Workshop in July. Hatsubon families are encouraged to attend, but anyone may attend to make hand-painted lantern shades that will be used in the annual Toro Nagashi Rituals held at William Land Park.