
SERVICES
Sokoji offers a variety of Buddhist services and ceremonies, including private and semi-private services, monthly memorials, and annual observances. In addition, several cultural events and services rooted in Japanese tradition are held throughout the year. Services are offered in both English and Japanese, and are open to all — not limited to temple members. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Sokoji for more information.
Buddhist Services
Sokoji offers a wide range of Buddhist services grounded in the teachings of Soto Zen. These services provide opportunities for reflection, remembrance, and connection with the Dharma. Throughout the year, we observe traditional services that honor the Buddha’s life and teachings, express gratitude to ancestors, and mark the changing seasons.
In addition to annual observances, we also provide private and semi-private ceremonies such as funerals, memorials, and blessings, which can be arranged upon request. Monthly memorial services are held to honor loved ones who have passed, creating space for remembrance and spiritual support.
All services are conducted in both English and Japanese, and are open to anyone regardless of background or temple membership. Whether you are seeking a place for quiet reflection, community connection, or spiritual guidance, we welcome you to join us.
Nirvana Day (Nehan-e – February)
Spring O-Higan (March)
Hanamatsuri (Buddha’s Birthday – April)
Obon (Ancestor Memorial – July or August)
Fall O-Higan (September)
Jodo-e (Buddha’s Enlightenment Day – December)
Monthly Memorial Services (Shotsuki Hoyo – held every month)
Private services such as funerals and memorials (scheduled upon request)
Cultural Services
In addition to Buddhist services, Sokoji offers a number of cultural events and ceremonies rooted in Japanese tradition. These include New Year’s celebrations (Shogatsu), mochi-tsuki (rice cake making), Setsubun, Hatsumatsuri (baby blessing), Shichi-Go-San, Toro Nagashi (lantern floating), and the year-end bell ringing ceremony, Joya-no-Kane. Each of these observances reflects a deep cultural heritage and offers an opportunity to come together as a community to mark the passing of time, celebrate life events, and share in seasonal customs.
As one of the oldest Japanese temples in San Francisco, Sokoji continues to play an important role in preserving and passing on Japanese culture and values, especially within the Japanese American community. These events are open to everyone, regardless of background, and often include traditional rituals, food, music, and activities for all ages.
By participating in these gatherings, we hope to foster a sense of connection—not only to tradition, but also to one another. Whether you are familiar with Japanese culture or experiencing it for the first time, you are warmly invited to join us in these celebrations that blend spirituality, culture, and community.
New Year’s Celebrations (Shogatsu – January)
Setsubun (Bean-Throwing Ceremony – February)
Hatsumatsuri (Baby Blessing – April)
Toro Nagashi (Lantern Floating Ceremony – Summer)
Shichi-Go-San (Seven-Five-Three Celebration – November)
Mochi-tsuki (Rice Cake Making – December)
Joya-no-Kane (New Year’s Bell Ringing – December 31)
Other seasonal and community events (held throughout the year)

Event Calendar
Our event calendar includes current schedules for Buddhist services, cultural events, and community gatherings throughout the year.
Hall Rentals
Sokoji offers its hall for gatherings, ceremonies, and community events in a peaceful and welcoming setting, providing a space that reflects the spirit of connection and respect central to our temple community.