San Jose is home to a vibrant Vietnamese Buddhist community, with temples that have served as spiritual anchors and cultural gathering places for generations. From neighborhood chùa to historic pagodas, these spaces welcome visitors for meditation, prayer, and the celebration of Tết, Vesak, and other Buddhist holidays. Whether you are Vietnamese American reconnecting with your roots or a visitor curious about Vietnamese spirituality, you will find warm hospitality at every door.
Chua Duc Vien (Virtue Fulfilled Buddhist Temple) top-pick
Daily 7am to 8pm
One of the largest Vietnamese Buddhist temples in the Bay Area and one of the few run by nuns. Established in 1980, Duc Vien is rooted in Vietnamese culture and language, and operates the first Vietnamese language school for children in the San Jose area. A peaceful sanctuary with traditional Chinese-style architecture, the temple offers regular services, meditation, and cultural programs for the community.
Chua An Lac best-value
Weekend services and meditation
A Vietnamese Buddhist temple located in the heart of Little Saigon San Jose, dedicated to fostering community engagement and cultural education. The temple hosts weekly services in Vietnamese, meditation sessions, and serves as a gathering place for Tết and Vesak celebrations in the East San Jose Vietnamese community.
Quan The Am Temple hidden-gem
Weekend services
A small, intimate Vietnamese Buddhist temple dedicated to Quan Am (Goddess of Mercy) in the heart of San Jose Little Saigon. Known for its humble atmosphere, the temple serves vegetarian meals after Sunday services and is a beloved neighborhood gathering place for Vietnamese families in the area.
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Lien Hoa Tu Temple
Weekend services and meditation
A Vietnamese Buddhist temple in East San Jose serving the Alum Rock and East Foothills Vietnamese community. The temple is known for its spacious grounds, regular Sunday services, and meditation programs. It also hosts Vietnamese language classes and cultural events throughout the year.
Tam Tu Metta Buddhist Temple & Heritage Garden
Weekend services and meditation
A Vietnamese Theravada Buddhist temple and heritage garden located in Morgan Hill, just south of San Jose. Set on spacious grounds, the temple offers a peaceful retreat for meditation and reflection. The heritage garden showcases traditional Vietnamese landscaping and is open to the community for cultural events and Buddhist holidays.