Hsi Lai Temple
Hsi Lai Temple
4.5
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Hsi Lai Temple encompasses 15 acres and a floor area of 102,432 square feet. The temple's Ming (1268-1644 C. E.) and Ching (1644-1911 C.E.) dynasty architecture is faithful to the traditional style of buildings, gardens and statuary of traditional ancient Chinese monasteries. Hsi Lai means "coming to the West" and signifies the dedication of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order to spread the teachings of the Buddha to those in the West. The International Buddhist Progress Society, a nonprofit organization, is the chartered name for the temple. Hsi Lai Temple was built to serve as a spiritual and cultural center for those interested in learning more about Buddhism and the Chinese culture. It is the idea of Venerable Master Hsing Yun to propagate "Humanistic Buddhism" and to create a Pure Land here on earth. Hsi Lai Temple is built to fulfill these goals in the United States. The temple's objectives are to nurture Buddhist missionaries through education, to propagate Buddhism through cultural activities, to benefit society through charitable programs, and to edify the populace through Buddhist practices. Please visit our website for more details about visiting and booking tours if needed.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
80 reviews
Excellent
63
Very good
15
Average
1
Poor
0
Terrible
1
Amy M
Fayetteville, NC110 contributions
Feb 2024 • Couples
Very welcoming area. Chinese New Year decorations were nice. The views and meditation areas were very nice. It is definitely worth visiting during auspicious festivals.
A little difficult for parking. I think there was a shuttle and uber/lyft stop. There were enough people and limited parking to justify a public transit stop just that works with events, hopefully that happens. If learning about buddhism, this would be a good starting point.
A little difficult for parking. I think there was a shuttle and uber/lyft stop. There were enough people and limited parking to justify a public transit stop just that works with events, hopefully that happens. If learning about buddhism, this would be a good starting point.
Written 23 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DeeLee
Orange County, CA88 contributions
Jun 2023 • Friends
I’ve seen pictures of Hsi Lai Temple since 1988 when we lived in Texas, then in 2004 we planned to visit Hsi Lai Temple with my friends from France but unfortunately we couldn’t make it since the temple close at 5pm
And last month we were visiting Hsi Lai Temple for the first time since we moved to CA awhile ago and we were very happy that we did. We couldn’t take any picture inside but we got some good pictures outside
And last month we were visiting Hsi Lai Temple for the first time since we moved to CA awhile ago and we were very happy that we did. We couldn’t take any picture inside but we got some good pictures outside
Written 17 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Curious265314
New York City, NY834 contributions
Feb 2021
Disclosure: I am not Buddhist and did not visit for religious purposes so I can only attest to my experience as a tourist and visitor rather than a worshipper. I tried my best to be respectful of the signages and the many people who were there for prayers and worship. Which I think is important to keep in mind first and for most.
Hsi Lai Temple is one of my favorite places to take visitors. It’s also a place I love to visit when I’m itching to travel but can’t. When I’m here I feel like I’m transported to China. It’s absolutely beautiful here. I remember the first time I visited I felt like I was in one of my childhood wuxia movies. The structure is beautiful and grandiose as well as the views.
There use to be a vegetarian buffet but is is currently closed due to the pandemic. They have a small gift shop and cafe if you want some tea.
They also have exhibits throughout there year ranging from ancient artifacts to cookies! Yes cookies!!
Definitely worth a trip if you haven’t been. Make sure to donate while you’re there to support!
Hsi Lai Temple is one of my favorite places to take visitors. It’s also a place I love to visit when I’m itching to travel but can’t. When I’m here I feel like I’m transported to China. It’s absolutely beautiful here. I remember the first time I visited I felt like I was in one of my childhood wuxia movies. The structure is beautiful and grandiose as well as the views.
There use to be a vegetarian buffet but is is currently closed due to the pandemic. They have a small gift shop and cafe if you want some tea.
They also have exhibits throughout there year ranging from ancient artifacts to cookies! Yes cookies!!
Definitely worth a trip if you haven’t been. Make sure to donate while you’re there to support!
Written 11 January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
無名
World8,170 contributions
Oct 2021 • Solo
Yeah it was nice being here yesterday. Very few other people were around. It's a beautiful, ornate temple with more than its fair share of statues. They got a reservations system you have to use that can be accessed through Google Maps. It wasn't any problem getting a one for the next day. They seem to be very serious about their covid policies which is a great thing. You can spend an hour or so roaming the temple and get it all in. Its art gallery and museum weren't open when I visited. I really like their little garden waterfall with the Buddha statues - actually I think there were two. There was also a small round temple in the back that was also interesting to see. That's where I got to light some incense.
Written 16 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Surveyor47
Havant, UK1,935 contributions
Apr 2019
I am not religious, but consider myself to be very spiritual. I was totally lost in myself as I walked around the grounds here. I had politely declined the audio tour, as I like to look, see, read and ingest. The atmosphere was calm, serene and peaceful.
There are a lot of stairs, but after taking them on, I felt good in myself (there is a lift / elevator for the less able) the architecture and statues were simply stunning, and the view is one that money could not buy.
They offer a simpe vegetarian lunch (only $8) so you can sit and rest for a while, before carrying on your journey of discovery.
Words will fail me as I try to describe the pictures, I hope I can be forgiven for this. No matter your race, creed, colour, orientation or religion, go visit, take time out of your life, and relax, enjoy the beauty.
a life changing experience....
There are a lot of stairs, but after taking them on, I felt good in myself (there is a lift / elevator for the less able) the architecture and statues were simply stunning, and the view is one that money could not buy.
They offer a simpe vegetarian lunch (only $8) so you can sit and rest for a while, before carrying on your journey of discovery.
Words will fail me as I try to describe the pictures, I hope I can be forgiven for this. No matter your race, creed, colour, orientation or religion, go visit, take time out of your life, and relax, enjoy the beauty.
a life changing experience....
Written 29 October 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Johnny
3 contributions
Oct 2019 • Friends
Nice and huge temple. On the weekend many people come to the temple. Parking lots are always full. Parked on the street.
Written 27 October 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kate Radford Travels
Hebden Bridge, UK122 contributions
Jul 2019 • Friends
Visited Hsi Lai on a double day of temples. Its a beautiful temple, in a beautiful spot. I was incredibly grateful to have visited. I wish i'd timed it better to join a meditation, but alas. Everything was exactly as it was meant to be. 🌸
Written 8 July 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bonniet733
Huntington Beach, CA6 contributions
Apr 2019
I remember when this temple was being built, but this was my first visit. A wonderful experience. You don't need to leave the country to get an unique experience. Docent-led tour was informative and enjoyable.
Written 2 July 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael T
Los Angeles, CA871 contributions
Apr 2019 • Family
Our visit to His Lai Temple was somewhat of an afterthought. We took a day trip from LA to visit The Workman and Temple Family Homestead museum. We then stopped off at the Puente Hills Mall, which is "Twin Pines Mall" from Back to the Future. Looking at what else was around us, we decided to check out the His Lai Temple and am SO glad we did! It is breathtaking! The view up there is amazing and the first structure you get to is UNREAL! I thought that was it... but nope! You walk around the corner and then there is ANOTHER temple that dwarfs the first one! I'm as atheist as they come, so this wasn't a religious experience for me, but the beauty here is such that anyone can appreciate. There is plenty to do for all ages, and we didn't come close to taking advantage of all of it. We basically walked around to see what there is to see. The largest temple is unreal. They halve multiple cool fountains. There is a tea room and gift shop.
I think it's important to know that they are open for the public and visitors are TOTALLY welcome. I've been a bit hesitant to visit some of the cool temples around at the risk of seeming like an intruder or outsider, but this place is TOTALLY welcoming and I think the tourist really help them out. Don't be afraid... check it out! They are kid friendly (within reason... we prepped our 4 year old, telling him that this whole place was a like a library and you need to be quiet and respectful - and it worked)! Check it out!
I think it's important to know that they are open for the public and visitors are TOTALLY welcome. I've been a bit hesitant to visit some of the cool temples around at the risk of seeming like an intruder or outsider, but this place is TOTALLY welcoming and I think the tourist really help them out. Don't be afraid... check it out! They are kid friendly (within reason... we prepped our 4 year old, telling him that this whole place was a like a library and you need to be quiet and respectful - and it worked)! Check it out!
Written 20 April 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anandha Bharathi
Los Angeles, CA116 contributions
Mar 2019 • Family
A nice and clean buddha temple with a small museum (entry $1)!!
Astonishing big buddha statue! Sorry no photographs!!
Very cute little monks statues!!
Have library too!!
At least need to spend half day to enjoy the Chinese temple architecture and get the blessings of buddha !!
Veg lunch is 8$.. but i did not had it.. as i was full..
Parking is free!!
Rejuvenate yourself!!
Return to yourself!!
Astonishing big buddha statue! Sorry no photographs!!
Very cute little monks statues!!
Have library too!!
At least need to spend half day to enjoy the Chinese temple architecture and get the blessings of buddha !!
Veg lunch is 8$.. but i did not had it.. as i was full..
Parking is free!!
Rejuvenate yourself!!
Return to yourself!!
Written 15 March 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Can we buy vegetarian food at the temple?
Maria2628
Los Angeles, CA580 contributions
They offer vegetarian lunch the last time I was there. I think it cost $8.00.
Uni02
Concord ca1 contribution
Are pets allowed
HsiLaiTemple
Hacienda Heights, CA
Pets aren't allowed in the temple. Thank you.
You may find more visiting 101 information here
Dr Lopamudra Behera
Bhubaneswar, India12 contributions
Is the baby stroller allowed inside the temple
Makkitje
Ieper (Ypres), Belgium180 contributions
No problem !
But remember that you have to take a lot of steps before you reach the temple.
Elizabeth S
Redlands, CA
I would like to know the visiting hours.
HsiLaiTemple
Hacienda Heights, CA
Temple is opening 9-5 everyday except the Museum is closed on Mondays.
lizprimary
Los Angeles, CA3 contributions
Is there a dress code that we should follow when visiting the temple?
Flamenquera
San Diego, CA231 contributions
On their website, it states that one must dress appropriately, i.e., no sleeveless shirts or no short shorts or cut-offs. However, when I was there I saw a few women wearing shorts and tank tops. I even saw one woman wearing see-through top. So, I suppose it all depends on the discretion of the person at the front of the temple when you get there.
In other words, wear a pair of jeans and short sleeved tee just to be safe (depending on California weather).
Pat D
San Lorenzo, CA
Can I order from the gift shop on line? Years ago I was there and bought several stretchy bracelets with a glow in the dark bead with a lovely buddha of compassion on it. I can no longer travel and would like to get a few more in different colors. They were very precious to me.
Flamenquera
San Diego, CA231 contributions
I'm pretty sure that if you go on their website and call them, you would be able to obtain the detailed answer to your question. I only visited it once and I don't know what their gift shop carries nor am I familiar with their store policy.
Yoli18
Los Angeles2 contributions
Hi, I would like to know when is the day that is going to take place the bath of Buda celebration?
Flamenquera
San Diego, CA231 contributions
I am do not live in California, so I am pretty sure that if you go on google search for Hsi Lai Temple's website, you will find all the answers to any of your questions and you can even call them directly. The phone number can also be found on their website.
xsteves
so cal406 contributions
Hi, xsteves. What would you like to know about this attraction?
Are there many steps to climb at the Temple?
HsiLaiTemple
Hacienda Heights, CA
There are stairs and steps in the temple but most of the temple grounds are wheelchair accessible with minor slopes to avoid the steps/stairs.
DamePeg
Sierra Madre, CA65 contributions
besides doing a tour, i would like to enjoy your vegetarian buffet during the week. what time is it, days, cost please
caliiitrav
71 contributions
$8, opens around 11:30am
hrkdesign
Palm Desert, CA
Do they have tours?
Flamenquera
San Diego, CA231 contributions
Yes, they do offer tours for a big group but you must make a reservation in advance. Please visit their website for reservation and details.
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Claim your listingHsi Lai Temple - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Frequently Asked Questions about Hsi Lai Temple
- Hsi Lai Temple is open:
- Tue - Sun 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Hotels near Hsi Lai Temple:
- (0.90 km) Family-friendly 4 bedrooms, mountain view townhouse located in Hacienda Heights
- (13.02 km) Ayres Suites Diamond Bar
- (13.55 km) Good Nite Inn Buena Park
- (15.77 km) Hotel Pepper Tree Boutique Kitchen Studios - Anaheim
- (12.53 km) Chase Suite Hotel Brea - North Orange County
- Restaurants near Hsi Lai Temple:
- (0.00 km) Hsi Lai Temple Boutique And Coffee Shop
- (0.76 km) Sushi Umi
- (0.79 km) McDonald's
- (0.82 km) World's Best Pizza
- (0.89 km) Wazabi Sushi Restaurant