Tonarigumi

Tonarigumi. Alameda’s Historic Japantown. Life That Connects Us All , We strive to practice gratitude and compassion and to understand the interdependence of life that connects us., Buddhist Temple of Alameda , In 1916, the Buddhist Temple of Alameda became an independent temple under the name A-shi- Bukkyokai. It marked the official establishment of the Buddhist Temple of Alameda under the auspices of the Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha. This storefront was rented and used for services., In 1919, a Victorian mansion was purchased from a former mayor of Alameda. With the addition of a social hall in 1926 and periodic remodeling since then, the original structure has served the members well over the many years., Prior to World War II, the Japanese community was concentrated in the block around the Temple. During the wat, the U.S. Navy took over the Temple to use as a training facility for employees and enlisted personnel. After the war, the Temple became a temporary hostel for the displaced families. In 2016, the Buddhist Temple of Alameda celebrated its 100th anniversary., Inset Image: , This storefront in Alameda was the first rented space for out services., Our mission is to experience and share the teachings of the Buddha with others in a welcoming and supportive community., In 1929, the Temple bell was installed. Embossed on the bell are the names of our Issei pioneer members and a poem written by Bishop Koyu Uchida, the 4th Socho of the Buddhist Churches of America. The bell is still in use at the Temple to this day., Inset Images: , Bon Odori , A dance of joy for benefits received from the efforts and lives of generations before us., Women’s Association , The Alameda Buddhist Women’s Association supports and participates in various activities for the Temple and the community., Dharma School , Family values, guided by Buddhist principles of gratitude and compassion, are taught to our children., Hanamatsuri , A colorful Flower Festival celebrating the birth of the historical Buddha touching our lives today., Tonarigumi depicts a close-knit neighborhood, with its strength and resiliency symbolized by the bamboo and quiet determination in the rippling waves that surround our isle city., The four historic markers tell the story of the spirit and resolve of Japanese immigrants settling and adjusting to a new land in Alameda., Tonarigumi, Alameda’s Historic Japantown , A collaboration of the Alameda Free Library, Buddhist Temple of Alameda, Buena Vista United Methodist Church, City of Alameda and Rhythmix Cultural Works. Kazumu Julia Cesor Naganuma, Creative Direction and Design, Grace Horikiri, Designer