Last Updated on November 2, 2024 by Jade and Deeshen

Kauai, known for its breathtaking landscapes, is also home to a collection of serene Buddhist temples. These spiritual sanctuaries offer a unique window into the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Each Kauai Buddhist temple has its own aura and historical significance. Step inside, and you’ll find that these are more than just places of worship. These temples are centers of community, reflection, and inner peace.

As locals and Hawaii travel writers, we’re sharing everything we know to help you find the right Kauai Buddhist temple to visit to experience its incredible auras.

Whether you’re seeking a deeper understanding of Buddhist practices or simply a quiet moment of meditation, each Kauai Buddhist temple is a special stop with a learning.

Readers also love our free Hawaii packing list (the one I wish I had when we first visited Hawaii)!

But first, here are the best tours for Kauai: (yes, you should book in advance!)

• ⭐Kauai: Na Pali Coast Full-Day Boat Tour – Seeing the Napali coast by boat is a must-do in Hawaii! (We LOVED this!) In this tour, you’ll visit see the most beautiful mountain ranges in Hawaii, explore caves by boat, and snorkeling at the Forbidden Isle of Niihau.
  
  
• ⭐Kauai: Best Luau with Buffet Dinner – Kauai’s award-winning luau with graceful hula dancers, traditional fire knife dancing, artisan craft fair, lei greeting, and a buffet!
  
  
• ⭐Kauai: Best Helicopter Tour – See the impressive Jurassic Falls, the expansive Waimea Canyon, and the dramatic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast.

Find a Kauai Buddhist Temple

All of these temples are free to visit, however we encourage you to make an optional donation to the temple out of generousity.

1. Kauai Soto Zen Temple – Zenshuji Buddhist Temple

Established in the early 1900s, Kauai Soto Zen Temple is a cornerstone of Zen practice on the island. The temple features traditional Japanese architecture, tranquil gardens, and a serene atmosphere conducive to meditation. Regular zazen (seated meditation) sessions, Dharma talks, and cultural events are held here, fostering a deep sense of community and spiritual growth.

Built in 1918 by Japanese camp residents of Kauai’s plantation era, this Kauai Buddhist temple has a unqiue history and hosts an annual Bon Dance festival in August. This 500-year-old tradition celebrates the spirits of ancestors with Taiko drum dances, summer kimonos, and festive activities including barbecue dinners and rummage sales. This is the first Zen Buddhist temple in the U.S. and has a famous Bodhi tree.

Address: 1-3500 Kaumualii Hwy, Hanapepe, HI 96716
Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Every Sunday at 9 AM, there is a sitting and sutra chanting tea and talk. Everyone is welcome.

Here’s how Kauai Soto Zen Temple’s Obon held annually looks like:

2. Lawai International Center Buddhist Temple

The Lawai International Center is a non-profit community project and an archaeological and cultural treasure in a valley that is recognized as a healing sanctuary.

In 1904 the first generation of Japanese immigrants built 88 shrines replicating an ancient pilgrimage of 88 temples in Shikoku, Japan. Today, it is the only such site existing outside of Japan and is one of the oldest Buddhist temple sites in the country.

This sacred site is nestled on 32 acres of lush greenery, and visitors can participate in guided tours, meditation sessions, and cultural festivals.

Address: 3381 Wawae Road, Kalaheo, HI 96741
Opening Hours: Sundays, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (or by appointment)

If you’re interested in spirituality, you may also be interested in our guides on what are Kahunas (Hawaii spiritual healers) and lessons we can learn from these masters.

3. Koloa Jodo Mission Buddhist Temple

The Koloa Jodo Mission temple was founded in 1910 by Rev. Muroyama and his supporters, who were Japanese immigrants. It’s located on the west side of Koloa Town, known for Kauai’s oldest sugar company and proximity to the island’s world-famous resorts.

The word “Jodo” means “Pure Land,” referring to the Western Paradise of the Buddha of Infinite Life and Light. The Kauai Buddhist temple, a fine example of early Japanese architecture, features a Japanese garden with lotus and water lily collections and a traditional rock garden. Visitors might witness dedication ceremonies with community dances.

Address: 3480 Waikomo Road, Koloa, HI 96756
Opening Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

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4. Kauai Hindu Monastery

On the banks of Kauai’s Wailua River, Kauai Hindu Temple is a traditional South Indian temple in Kauai, and is also refered to as Kauai Island Shiva temple. This Hindu temple was established in 1970 and encompasses 382 acres of gardens, ponds, temples, shrines and opportunities for deep personal reflection while immersed in nature. The grounds include two Saivite Hindu temples, Kadavul Temple and the San Marga Iraivan Temple, a rare granite temples carved in India.

The monastery is home to a small band of (under 20) monks who have pledged their lives to the principles of Hinduism. The monastery’s monks follow a strict regimen of worship, yoga, and service. Visitors, encouraged to wear traditional or modest clothing, can enjoy the lush gardens and serene environment for meditation and reflection.

Address: 107 Kaholalele Road, Kapaa, HI 96746
Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

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5. Sacred Rudraksha Forest

The Sacred Rudraksha Forest, located in Wailua, is an enchanting ancient forest where visitors can reflect and meditate. Althought it’s not a temple, it is a peaceful visit after exploring the Hindu monastry and Iraivan Temple Kauai.

The Rudraksha is a seed used as a prayer bead in Hinduism, produced by several species of large evergreen trees. The word rudraksha means the eye or tear of Siva.This forest, the only one in America, offers a serene setting for meditation, picnics, and storytelling, providing a sacred space for locals and visitors alike.

Remember, visiting a Buddhist temple in Kauai is not the only way to connect spiritually, you can also connect inward to your divine energy through meditation and with the abundance animals such as the Honu. Read our guide on what does Honu mean in Hawaiian and its spiritual meaning.

Address: Wailua, HI 96746
Opening Hours: Open to the public at all times

6. West Kauai Hongwanji Mission Buddhist Temple

West Kauai Hongwanji Buddhist Temple is part of the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii. The Buddhist temple offers regular services, educational programs, and community events. It is a vibrant center for spiritual practice and cultural exchange, providing opportunities for meditation, Dharma learning, and community involvement.

This mission serves as a cultural and spiritual hub, offering traditional Buddhist services and community events. It emphasizes the Pure Land teachings and hosts various educational and cultural programs, making it a cornerstone of the local Buddhist community.

Address: 1-3800 Kaumualii Hwy, Waimea, HI 96796
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)

7. Kauai Buddhist Sangha Temple

Kauai Buddhist Sangha is a community-centered temple that offers weekly Dharma talks, meditation sessions, and cultural events. The Kauai Buddhist temple emphasizes inclusivity and community engagement, providing a space for both spiritual practice and social connection. Visitors can participate in meditation, attend lectures on Buddhist philosophy, and join in community service projects.

The Sangha is actively involved in community service and cultural events, fostering a strong sense of fellowship. It regularly hosts educational programs and cultural exchanges, enriching the spiritual and social lives of its members and visitors.

Address: 3-3580 Kuhio Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766
Opening Hours: Sundays, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM (or by appointment)

8. Kapaa Hongwanji Mission – Kauai Buddhist Temple

Kapaa Hongwanji Mission, serving Kauai since 1922, is a significant center for Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, one of the Pure Land streams of Mahayana Buddhism. As one of 33 temples affiliated with the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii, it provides a welcoming space for spiritual practice and community engagement. The Buddhist temple offers regular services, chanting sessions, and educational programs that explore Buddhist teachings in a serene and supportive environment.

Established by Japanese immigrants, the Buddhist temple features traditional Japanese architecture and includes a beautiful Japanese garden with lotus and water lily collections. The tranquil rock garden and picturesque surroundings enhance the temple’s serene atmosphere, making it an ideal location for reflection and spiritual growth.

Address: 4-1170 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa, HI 96746
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Closed on Sundays and Mondays)

9. Lihue Hongwanji Mission

Lihue Hongwanji Mission is part of the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii and provides a range of spiritual and community services. The Buddhist temple hosts regular services, Buddhist study classes, and cultural events, focusing on the Jodo Shinshu tradition. Its community activities support both spiritual growth and cultural heritage.

The Buddhist temple is well-known for its dedication to maintaining traditional Buddhist practices while engaging actively with the local community. It provides a welcoming space for both worship and educational opportunities, contributing to the vibrant Buddhist presence in Lihue.

On your last day in Kauai, you can squeeze in a visit to this temple it’s less than 15 minutes from the airport. The volunteers are so friendly here!

Address: 1040 Kress St, Lihue, HI 96766
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)

Kauai Buddhist Temple Final Insights

We hope you found this list of helpful and discovered a Kauai Buddhist temple you may want to visit or medidate at. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant community festivals, the serene meditation spaces, or the rich architectural heritage, these temples offer something for everyone seeking a meaningful experience on the beautiful island of Kauai.

If we missed any Kauai Buddhist temples, please let us know and we’ll add it to this list!

If you’re visiting the island of Oahu (Honolulu) after Kauai, you may be interesed in our guides on sunrise in Oahu and best spots to see turtles in Oahu.