San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin / JapanTown (Obon)

The San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin is a significant cultural and religious landmark in San Jose's Japantown. As part of the Jodo Shinshu tradition, it serves as a center for Buddhist practice and community gatherings. The temple offers various services, including meditation sessions, Dharma talks, and ceremonies.

One of the notable events held at the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin is the Obon festival. Obon is a traditional Japanese Buddhist event that honors the spirits of ancestors. During this festival, the temple becomes vibrant with cultural activities, performances, food stalls, and traditional dances like Bon Odori. The atmosphere is one of celebration and remembrance, as people come together to pay their respects to departed loved ones and enjoy the festivities.

Japantown itself is a historic neighborhood in San Jose, characterized by its Japanese heritage and cultural influence. It's a hub for Japanese cuisine, shops, and community events. The combination of the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin and Japantown makes it a significant cultural and spiritual center in the San Jose area, attracting both locals and visitors alike.