High up in the hills of Hacienda Heights, Hsi Lai Temple sits just off the 60 freeway but feels an entire world away from Los Angeles. The enormous Chinese Buddhist monastery sprawls across 15 acres, filled with ornate traditional architecture and peaceful gardens.
Visitors are welcome to explore the grounds for free, learn about Humanistic Buddhism, and enjoy a hearty vegetarian lunch at the dining hall buffet.
Here’s a closer look…
One of the largest Buddhist temples in North America
Hsi Lai Temple, whose name means “coming west,” was completed in 1988 as the North American headquarters of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist order. It serves as a major spiritual and cultural center, designed to bring Buddhist teachings and Chinese culture to the Western world.
The architecture reflects elements of a traditional Chinese temple from the Ming and Qing dynasties, with yellow tiled roofs, carved gates, and symmetrical courtyards. Visitors can grab a brochure and quietly explore the grand Main Shrine, Bodhisattva Hall, meditation rooms, library, art displays, and statues tucked into manicured gardens and terraces.
The on-site dining hall serves a fresh buffet lunch every day in accordance with Chinese Buddhist vegetarianism. The all-you-can-eat meal costs $10 and is served from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm on weekdays, and 11:30 am to 2 pm on weekends.
Visiting Hsi Lai Temple
Hsi Lai Temple makes for a lovely half-day trip from most parts of L.A. Make sure you check the temple’s calendar so you can time your visit around Dharma talks, guided tours, meditation sessions, youth programs, and seasonal celebrations like Lunar New Year and Buddha’s Birthday.
🎟️ Admission: Admission to Hsi Lai Temple is free, though donations are welcome.
👚 Modest clothing: No tank tops, shorts, short skirts/dresses, flip-flops, or slippers. In the Main Shrine, you may be offered a shawl to cover bare shoulders or lengthen your hemline.
📸 Photography: Photos and videos are only permitted outdoors and for personal use.
🕜 Hours: Hsi Lai Temple is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. The Art Gallery and Memorial Pagoda are closed on Mondays.
🅿️ Parking: On-site parking is available near the Main Gate. Follow directions from the Traffic Control staff.
📍 Location: 3456 Glenmark Dr, Hacienda Heights, CA 91745
🌐 Website: HsiLai.org
