Just two hours north of San Francisco, hidden in the vineyards of Ukiah, lies a place that feels like a different continent. The City of Ten Thousand Buddhas is one of the largest Buddhist communities in the Western Hemisphere. Yet, many Californians drive right past it without knowing it exists.
It isn’t just a monastery; it is a fully functioning city with schools, a university, and an organic farm. The vibe is peaceful, slightly surreal, and incredibly welcoming. If you are looking for a day trip that resets your soul, this is it. Let’s explore the surprising facts about this hidden gem.
It Was Once a State Hospital
Walking the grounds, you might notice the institutional architecture. That is because the site was originally a state mental hospital. The Buddhist association bought the massive property in the 1970s and transformed a place of suffering into a sanctuary of peace. The transformation is palpable.
The Peacocks Run the Place
You will hear them before you see them. Dozens of wild peacocks roam the grounds freely. They are beautiful, loud, and completely unafraid of visitors. They are essentially the guardians of the property, adding a splash of iridescent color to the serene landscape.
The Vegetarian Food is Legendary
The on-site restaurant, Jyun Kang, serves some of the best vegetarian food in California. It is simple, affordable, and mostly grown right there on the monastery’s organic farm. People drive from hours away just for the imitation meat dishes that taste shockingly real.
There Are Actually More Than 10,000 Buddhas
Inside the main hall, the walls are lined floor-to-ceiling with small golden Buddha statues. While the name says ten thousand, the actual count is likely higher. Standing in the center of that hall, surrounded by thousands of golden faces, is a breathtaking experience.
It Has Its Own University
Dharma Realm Buddhist University is located right on campus. It is a fully accredited liberal arts college that focuses on the Great Books and Buddhist classics. Students live and study in this quiet environment, focusing on wisdom rather than just career prep.
Strict Gender Separation for Monastics
While visitors can mix freely, the monks and nuns live in strictly separate areas. They have their own schedules, living quarters, and study halls. This separation helps them maintain their vows and focus entirely on their spiritual cultivation.
No Meat, No Alcohol, No Smoking
The entire 488-acre campus follows strict precepts. You cannot bring meat, alcohol, or cigarettes onto the grounds. It creates a pure atmosphere that feels physically lighter than the outside world.
It Is Open to the Public
Despite being a serious religious site, they love visitors. You can walk the grounds, visit the temple, and eat at the restaurant. They simply ask that you dress modestly and respect the silence. It is a rare glimpse into monastic life that is accessible to everyone.
The Organic Farm is Massive
They take stewardship of the land seriously. The CTTB organic farm supplies the kitchen and the local community. They practice sustainable farming that honors the earth, resulting in produce that tastes the way vegetables are supposed to taste.
A Place for Global Peace
The founder, Master Hsuan Hua, built this place with a vision of bringing Eastern and Western thought together. It serves as a bridge between cultures, promoting peace through education and ethical living.
A Day of Zen
Visiting the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas is a reminder to slow down. It is a unique slice of California history that offers a quiet refuge from the chaos of modern life.
Have you ever visited a monastery or a spiritual retreat? Tell me about your experience in the comments!
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