International Buddhist Temple Vancouver
A majestic sanctuary of peace, featuring stunning Chinese imperial architecture and serene gardens.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
International Buddhist Temple Vancouver
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic sanctuary of peace, featuring stunning Chinese imperial architecture and serene gardens.
"An amazing and peaceful place to visit with stunning architecture and serene gardens."
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees to show respect. Renting sarongs is an option if needed .
👟 Remove Your Shoes
Always take off shoes before entering buildings. Kneel and tuck feet respectfully .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Architecture
Main Hall
Marvel at the stunning traditional Chinese imperial-style architecture, a true masterpiece.

Serene Gardens
Temple Grounds
Wander through meticulously maintained gardens, offering a peaceful escape and beautiful photo opportunities.

Shakyamuni Buddha Statue
Main Hall
Be awestruck by the largest statue of Shakyamuni Buddha on the continent.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Respectful Attire and Conduct
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees to show respect. Renting sarongs is an option if needed.
👟 Remove Your Shoes
Always take off shoes before entering buildings. Kneel and tuck feet respectfully.
🤫 Speak Softly
Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor throughout your visit.
🗓️ Book Group Tours
Group tours are available by appointment, offering in-depth insights.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees to show respect. Renting sarongs is an option if needed.
👟 Remove Your Shoes
Always take off shoes before entering buildings. Kneel and tuck feet respectfully.
🤫 Speak Softly
Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor throughout your visit.
🗓️ Book Group Tours
Group tours are available by appointment, offering in-depth insights.
🧘♀️ Meditation Sessions
Saturday mornings offer free guided meditation and lunch.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The architecture and gardens are incredibly photogenic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the International Buddhist Temple for its profound sense of peace, stunning architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Many highlight the serene atmosphere and the welcoming nature of the staff, making it a highly recommended destination for quiet reflection and cultural appreciation, even for non-religious individuals. Some minor points of feedback relate to the need for booking group tours and the potential for weekend crowds.
"Such an amazing and peaceful place to visit. The temple grounds are beautifully designed, with stunning architecture, serene ponds, and lovely gardens. Everything is very well maintained.
When we went, it was unfortunately rainy, but there were still other visitors, which shows how special this place is. A great spot for quiet reflection and to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings, rain or shine."
Thu L.
"First time visiting a Buddhist Temple. It was amazing, majestic, rich, and peaceful all at the same time. Incredible work behind the scenes to maintain such a wonderful place in very tidy and organized conditions. I loved the calm and the sense of gratitude and respect that is everywhere. The quotes on the screens and signage are so true, and they make you think the meaning of life. Great experience that I highly recommend to everyone, even if not religious. Kudos to the organizers and the volunteers taking care of this wonderful place. You all did a fantastic job for everyone to enjoy. And it's FREE!! Thank you. 👏 👏🙏🙏🏼"
Alessandro Salaris
"Such a peaceful and beautiful place! 🪷 The architecture is stunning, and the gardens are so calming and well maintained. You really feel a sense of serenity here. Definitely worth visiting if you want a quiet escape from the city — I highly recommend it!"
Mehdi Rahimi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The International Buddhist Temple is located in Richmond, BC. You can reach it by car via Steveston Highway. Public transportation options include bus routes that serve the area. Check TransLink for the most up-to-date bus schedules and routes.
Yes, there is convenient parking available for visitors at the International Buddhist Temple. This is often mentioned as a positive aspect by visitors.
While specific accessibility details can vary, many visitors find the grounds well-maintained. It's advisable to contact the temple directly for detailed information regarding accessibility for specific areas.
From downtown Vancouver, you can take a Canada Line train towards Richmond-Brighouse and then transfer to a bus route that goes to Steveston Highway. Driving is also a straightforward option.
Consider using ride-sharing services if you prefer not to drive or navigate public transport. Many visitors find it a hassle-free way to reach the temple, especially if coming from further afield.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to the temple grounds is free. Visitors can explore the open areas and gardens without purchasing tickets. However, group tours may require advance booking.
The temple is generally open to visitors, but specific hours can vary. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current opening times, especially for accessing interior halls.
Yes, the temple is open on weekends, but it can be more crowded. For a more peaceful experience, consider visiting on a weekday if your schedule allows.
The serene gardens are part of the temple complex and are generally accessible to visitors free of charge as part of the overall experience.
For individual visits, booking is usually not required. However, if you plan to visit as a group or wish to arrange a specific tour, it's recommended to book in advance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the stunning traditional Chinese architecture, wander through the peaceful gardens, and see the large Shakyamuni Buddha statue. The temple also offers a sense of calm and reflection.
Photography is generally permitted in outdoor areas and gardens. However, always be mindful of others and check for any signage regarding photography restrictions inside specific buildings or prayer halls.
Group tours are available by appointment. These tours can provide deeper insights into the temple's history, architecture, and Buddhist practices.
Arrive during off-peak hours, dress respectfully, speak softly, and take time to wander through the gardens. Engaging in quiet reflection can greatly enhance your visit.
Yes, it's important to dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees), remove shoes before entering buildings, and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Some visitors have mentioned a cafe on-site, with options like cake available.
It's a good place to grab a light refreshment after exploring the grounds.While there isn't explicit information about picnics, it's generally best to consume food in designated areas if available, or outside the main temple complex, to maintain the sanctity of the site.
The temple is located in Richmond, which offers a wide array of dining options, from local eateries to international cuisine. You'll find many choices a short drive away.
Yes, on Saturday mornings, after the guided meditation, a free lunch is often provided for attendees.
The cafe typically offers light snacks and beverages. Based on one visitor's experience, cake options were available.
📸 📸 Photography
The stunning architecture, intricate details of the halls, and the beautifully landscaped gardens are prime photography locations.
Photography is generally allowed in outdoor areas. Always be respectful and check for any signs indicating restrictions within interior prayer halls or sensitive areas.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide architectural shots and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the grand halls and expansive gardens.
Drone usage is typically not permitted at religious sites like temples due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to assume drones are not allowed.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful, soft light for photography, enhancing the temple's serene atmosphere. Midday sun can be harsh.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a Saturday morning to take advantage of the guided meditation and free lunch, which can be a unique cultural experience for the whole family. Remember to emphasize the importance of respectful behavior and quiet voices to children to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone.
🧘♀️ Meditation & Mindfulness Seekers
These sessions, often followed by a complimentary lunch, provide a structured way to engage with mindfulness practices in a supportive environment. The temple's commitment to offering programs in English makes it particularly accessible for those seeking to connect with Buddhist teachings and meditation techniques.
📸 Photographers & Culture Enthusiasts
The meticulously maintained gardens provide a softer, more natural aesthetic, perfect for landscape and detail photography. Visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset can yield particularly dramatic and beautiful lighting. The temple's cultural significance as one of the largest Buddhist temples in North America also adds a layer of depth to the photographic experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels and Cultural Significance
The temple complex is not just visually stunning; it's a living center for Buddhist practice and cultural exchange. It serves multiple language groups, offering services in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese, reflecting the diverse community it supports. This inclusivity makes it a welcoming space for people from various backgrounds to learn about and engage with Buddhist traditions.
Visitors often remark on the sense of peace and gratitude that permeates the grounds. The temple's design, from the imposing main hall to the tranquil gardens, is intended to foster contemplation and spiritual connection. It's a place where one can step away from the everyday hustle and immerse themselves in a serene and culturally rich environment.
Exploring the Serene Gardens
Wandering through the gardens offers a different kind of beauty compared to the temple's structures. The gentle sounds of water features and the rustling leaves create a calming ambiance, perfect for a leisurely stroll or quiet reflection. It's a space where visitors can connect with nature and find a moment of stillness.
Many visitors, even those not religious, find the gardens to be incredibly peaceful and well-maintained. They provide a beautiful backdrop for photography and a refreshing contrast to the more formal temple buildings. The thoughtful design of the gardens contributes significantly to the overall tranquil experience of visiting the temple.
Engaging with Buddhist Practices
Specifically, on Saturday mornings, the temple hosts guided walking and seated meditation sessions led by the abbot. These sessions are conducted in English and are often followed by a free lunch, making them an accessible entry point for newcomers. This is a fantastic way to experience mindfulness and connect with the temple community.
For individuals seeking to deepen their understanding or practice, the temple provides a welcoming environment. The community is described as kind and the monks and nuns are often willing to share their knowledge, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in Buddhism.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit