Mu-Ryang-Sa Buddhist Temple

You’d never guess that on an island of palm trees, pineapples, beaches and spontaneous, rainbows there would sit this beautiful Buddhist Temple in the hills of Palolo Valley! This temple is probably not as popular as the other temple in temple valley but what it lacks in popularity it gains in the absolute zen-​like, peace and tranquility.
I was lulled into finding this place from all the beautiful pictures I’ve seen on Instagram and it was a journey trying to figure out what and where this place was. Mu-​Ryang-​Sa has been on my radar for quite some time and has been one of Hawaii’s best kept secret for the longest time (I’m hopeful it remains a secret after this review but if not, it’ll be ok because something this beautiful is meant to be shared).
So given one free day to play I sought to find this place. GPS directions did not fail me and you’ll wonder as you go through residential streets if you are indeed headed to the correct place. Trek on and keep listening to that voice. Once you get there, do not be afraid to turn «into the temple,» believe it or not there are free parking spaces behind the entrance. There is a posted fee to roam the temple which you place in the donation box. Give from the heart and you’ll take away more than you give. The temple is open everyday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
When we visited, the temple grounds was empty. It seemed almost sinful to be there without instructions or directions so we carefully and quietly explored the entire temple grounds. Time seems to stop here and all the while we were exploring there was such a sense of spirituality, peace and love. It was so quiet and beautiful that I had forgotten how much I love the sound of silence. This temple is not big at all and you’ll find yourself sitting forever in one place just admiring the architecture, colors and placement of every meaningful statue and item. From the second floor you will see a panoramic view of town and all of the chaos below but from my viewpoint, that’s all but a world away.
I’m not Buddhist by any means but you don’t have to be to enjoy this temple. Just be respectful of the practice and the journey other people take to reach nirvana and/​or peace. I hadn’t read much about this place prior to coming here and as we were leaving I noticed that the temple «top» was broken. It looks as if it was partially torn down or broken and it really made me sad. Once we got home I decided to read up on the temple itself and learned that the builders had to shave off the top of the temple to comply with the City and County ordinances for building heights — hence the shaved/​broken temple top and temple name.
The temple meaning of Mu-​Ryang-​Sa means «broken ridge temple,» and has come to signify an ah-​ha moment for many buddhist practitioners.
This place is magical and pure blissful for those seeking a moment of respite and peace. Mu-​Ryang-​Sa has a few significant «pieces» that stand out to me at this: The Bodhisattva Garden which houses an impressive 1080 stone statues — I’m not quite sure what it all means but it’s a sight to behold. There is also the Lotus Pond Pagoda which is accessed by a footbridge, The World Peace Pagoda which is central at this temple as well as the Bell Tower. Also of notable significance is the Burning Tower. It would be interesting to go back knowing the meaning of each of these structures the second time around. Like aforementioned, even if you weren’t Buddhist you can still appreciate the symbolism and beauty of such a tranquil place.
Mu-​Ryang-​Sa offers a meditation class every Saturday afternoon at 4:00 PM that is open to the public and free of charge. This is «must see» and «must go» place if you are seeking some peace and quiet in your life.

This place is amazing and hidden gem! It’s in Paololo valley and you can get here by taking 10^th Ave all the way in. When you get here there is suggested $ 3 donation for adults and they have donation boxes around the premises. The colors are so vibrant here and I’ve never seen a temple quite like this. There’s also a Kuan Yin Goddess of Mercy and Compassion here on the premises. It’s so peaceful here too and I love the smell of incense! If you’re lucky you will even hear the Buddhist monks chant. This is such a beautiful place to escape to and I will definitely be back!

Had to go to a buddhist temple for a paper and decided to come here with a friend of mine. I am not connected to this religion, but I was blown away by the colors and the details of the buildings. Also dropped in for a free meditation class, and was nothing I’ve ever done before.

We were the only ones visiting this temple. We were blown away by all of the vibrant colors and the details on the buildings. There is parking on the premises but it’s on a hill and steep.
If you have time, I highly recommend stopping by here. It felt very serene.

This hidden gem on Oahu is one of the most tranquil places I’ve ever been to on the island. With a beautiful backdrop of the city and lush greenery surrounding you, you really feel like this is a beautfiul getaway from the city and the stress that comes with it.
When I first arrived to the temple, we actually drove past the temple and didn’t realize it was right in front of our eyes. This temple is nestled within the houses of Palolo Valley — you really have to look up to figure out where the temple is because it really blends in — you’ll see the architecture if you look up — can’t miss it.
We found parking on the side of the road and walked through the entrance to huge figurines/​statues that looked like 2 rulers with an array of colors painted on them. You’re able to explore the temple and the courtyard area — we went up and saw the city of Honolulu from afar. It was really quiet and barely had anyone there. Walking around the premises, we barely spoke and when we did, we whispered to each other, afraid to make a sound.
You really feel the spiritual calmness of the temple when you enter the inside of these Buddhist structures. The smell of incense, the view of the mini white buddha statues, and the beauty of your surroundings really make you feel like you’re in another country.
Be aware of the signs — some say to take off your shoes before entering certain areas. There are also donation boxes around the temple — It’s $ 3.00 for adults — I gave $ 10.00 for good karma.
There’s a few things to see so keep your eyes open, your mind free and your breathing calm. Compared to the Japanese Byodo-​In Temple on the Windward side, this temple is a bit smaller but I felt was more interesting and more detailed compared to it’s Japanese counterpart.
I’ve never been to a Korean Buddhist temple, so this was a sight to see and an experience to learn. I encourage anyone to see this place whether it’s to clear your mind or to get more cultured, this is a place you really don’t want to miss.
«Each morning we are born again. What we do today is what matters most.» –Buddha

I don’t really want this place DISCOVERED! so why am I writing about it?
Because it is not that easy to navigate your way there, you have to be determined to find it BUT once you do, it is tranquil and peaceful.
Just remember to bring small bills $ 1 or $ 5 to make donations, AND
be quiet, respectful if there are meditations going on (there weren’t any at the time I went)
REMOVE your shoes upon entering the room, seems there are quite a few rooms, but only one was open at the time, but it was very large, perhaps the second largest.

Love this place. It has some breath-​taking scenery and some very fascinating decorations. We were the only visitors there (we visited on a Tuesday around noon time).
Definitely a good recommendation for anyone who’s interested in visiting a peaceful temple in Oahu.

The Mu-​Ryang-​Sa Buddhist Temple is a fantastic and gracious piece of Korean architecture. The temple is in the middle/​back of a complex of 5 colorful buildings designed in the same style. The dominant color in the decorations is a bright green. They is also plenty of hanzi and some hangul. When you walk in the complex you cannot see the temple right away because it’s hidden. Once you get to the garden you can make an offer. In front of the garden you’ll see the temple. You can enter it if you take off your shoes. You are not allowed to take photos inside the temple but you can see photos of the inside of the temple here (
). The place is very relaxing and quiet, definitely conducing to great meditation. It’s located in the Palolo Valley, away from busy and noisy streets. I loved it. Go see it for yourself.

language barrier

This place is very, very special. It’s worth finding it. Incredibly inspiring and moving. There are so many wonderful aspects to the temple. We’ve been here a bunch of times and will keep coming back. Bring cash for donations.

Such a beautiful, peaceful spot. Highly recommend this place for a relaxing stroll and serene atmosphere. We were the only visitors at about 3pm on a Wednesday.

Ugh this place is absolutely breath-​taking! When I first arrived all we could see were parts of the building and the rooftop and it was already impressive. It’s so colorful and the property is huge but somehow it’s overwhelmingly calming. You can take your own tour of the place for a donation of your discretion, just put how much ever cash you please in one of the boxes placed around the vicinity.
They have free meditation classes on Saturdays. I fell asleep during it regardless of the crowded room and found it to be really relaxing. I believe they also have free prayer-​services. It seems like you can pretty much come and go as you please.

Beautiful temple and grounds. Would have loved to had a tour and hear the history. A lot of interesting and intricate detail every inch of the grounds. You pay a donation to tour the grounds on your own, just place your cash in any of the donation boxes.

I recently had a day off during the week and decided to take a drive off the beaten path. Honolulu Magazine had a blurb (Aug 2014 edition, page 109) about 23 hidden gems to explore on Oahu and this temple was featured. Google maps took me past the turn off on 10^th avenue a few times, but when I finally found it, it was well worth the drive. So peaceful! The view is gorgeous and there was not a soul in site. I took some photos, sat and meditated for a few minutes and left a donation. So rejuvenating. If you need some peace and quiet and a place to clear your head this is perfect.

Truly a hidden gem in the crosshairs of Palolo Valley.
I’m an explorer and of course every weekend I’m looking through the nooks and crannies of our beautiful Hawaii, until I find something to adventure through.
This weekend happened to be the temple and man, it was absolutely gorgeous! The architecture is nothing shy of the tempes in Korea.
The temple also houses halls where you can go in and meditate or pray to buddha. You can choose to make a small donation but it’s not mandatory. Also, free to visit and take pictures, just don’t snap any photos in the halls.
It’s extremely quiet and peaceful; the perfect place to escape the crazy and reflect over the week!
If you’re open minded and down for something new, go!

After exploring temples in Japan while I studied abroad, I came back home wanting to explore Hawaii’s temples!!! The words «hidden gem» really define a place like this. There’s parking under the temple, but my bf and I parked outside in the neighborhood. Walking through the front gate was amazing! The four huge statues staring down at you is really impressive and kind of disturbing. The intricate detail on each building (there’s 5) made us want to take a picture of everything.
We went on a Saturday afternoon, so they had that free meditation class going on. There were people in the garden looking really at peace with the world, so we felt self-​conscious about our cameras. Besides that awkwardness, we really enjoyed studying the paintings’ stories on the walls and those little Buddha statues. It’s different from a Japanese temple with the flashiness, but not quite as flashy as a Chinese temple (maybe because of the colors?).
You can go in three of the buildings, but make sure to take your shoes off on the carpet. Also, I think you’re not supposed to take pictures on the inside. There’s a suggested donation of $ 3, so if you remember, do it to help preserve the art and culture of this place! I forgot, but I’ll go again and donate then! It’s the kind of place you want to show to everyone because it’s so cool.

On the road less traveled there are always places to discover here in Hawaii. Places many tourists and vacationers continue to blindly walk by. This again is one of those places few visitors ever see. If you follow me you know it’s the Mana (spirit of the islands) that I have always seek out, where money has little or no value when it comes to ones soul. This is one of Oahu’s hidden gems where if you are looking for a spiritually awakening while in Hawaii this place me just awaken something in you.
The MU-​RYANG-​SA KOREAN BUDDHIST TEMPLE is an ACTIVE temple with caregivers and dedicated people from the community that come here and meditate at all times of the day. There are many places to Meditate on the grounds of the temple and MANY, MANY points of interest. If you don’t fully venture throughout the entire temple grounds you will miss something.
When it comes to respecting the grounds and the people who meditate here:
I only filmed inside one of the temples because no meditation was being performed in group. NEVER film or photograph INSIDE a Temple performing Group Meditation. PLEASE always remember if you choose to meditate inside one of the temples you are WELCOME to do so, either in a room alone you may meditate or with group in meditation. PLEASE always remove your shoes before you enter one of the temples. Last, please bring some dollar bills and donate to the monks and Priests. There are Donation Boxes throughout the Temple grounds.
I have known about this Buddhist temple for many years at the back of Palolo Valley. Being only 15 mins from my home in Hawaii Kai you would think I went here every day or at least once a week. Following the Buddhist way of life myself I so badly wanted to go and meditate here, yet for some reason I chose to stay away. I waited for some reason that would bring me there. Today was that day… I needed this day at the temple more then most could ever understand for personal reasons and it was well worth the wait to finally come here.
Does Buddhism interest you?
Buddhism for me has never been about religion… Only about a way one lives their life. My self expression of Buddhism is my interpretation, no one else’s. I have never been concerned about what others choose to see my interpretation of Buddhism as. Buddhism to me is what Buddhism is to me. No one can tell me if there is a higher consciousness or not, If there is a God or not, nor can one tell me how to get to God. No one can give me a step plan or tell me that’s not how it’s done or that’s not the way it is. My path consists of a higher self consciousness, a God like path to self awareness.
For everyone Buddhism is what it is and what it is… is exactly what it should be… for you.
I am well aware of the stricter paths Buddhism takes with no personal God, there is nothing wrong with that if it’s your chosen path. I choose my own path through Buddhism. To live in the moment, the now, to live as one with God in bliss, in Zen, to the point where I walk in meditation where actual meditation is no longer necessary. I know what nirvana is, I walked it once. Finding it again has been an on going challenge in today’s society for me, for others. Spending 5 hours at the Temple, filming and photographing these tranquil grounds allowed me to reach for a new plain of spirituality and rejuvenation.
At the heart of Buddhism for me it’s always been about NON-​JUDGMENT. I entered this spiritual field and was able to see things more clearly again. Once you remove judgment, you remove pressure, you remove stress from ones life which is feed by ones ego, ones perceptions.
Buddhism allows you to live in the moment that God has only truly given you, the present moment. In that moment if you find God, you find yourself. If you find yourself you find which has been lost. I did today.

Robert Frost wrote The Road Not Taken in the early 1900’s.
«Two roads diverged in a wood, and I,.
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.»
I say travel to Palolo Valley and you’ll find yourself a hidden jewel, you’ll find that difference. You’ll also find a big wow coming out of your mouth. You may even scratch your head like a perturb child wondering how in the world is this place here! In Palolo Valley of all places?! Wow!
I came across this little treasure like most treasures are found when I wasn’t looking for it. I’m training for the Honolulu marathon and was bored of my route and wanted more uphill runs. I went up 10^th Ave. and reach a fork on the road. I’ve gone to the left and found Palolo Chinese Homecare just a few months back. This time I went right on Waiomao Road and kept going until I looked up and found this amazing temple popping out of the dense valley surround by houses and narrow streets.
Mu-​Ryang-​Sa formerly known as Dae Won Sa Temple and erected in 1980. After 10+ years of legal battles and appeals with the City for building their temple over the legal limitation, the roof was lowered to the proper height 2001. The temple was renamed to Mu-​Ryang-​Sa, which translate to Broken Ridge Buddhist Temple to reflect what went down. The temple was finally completed in 2005.
As I exited my vehicle, my mouth dropped. I was so excited to run around this enormous playground as a teenager would during Black Friday at the mall. As I walked in I’m still stunned of the architecture and this temple being here.
Be sure to check out two of my favorite parts of temple. On the far right hand corner are hundreds of miniature monk statues and on the far lower left corner are these 4 feet tall ceramic container filled with kimchee.
This is a must see site if you’re into temples, old churches and historic buildings as much as I am.
Cheers!

Oopsie. Thanks Christopher H for letting me know that I put my review on the wrong Mu-​Ryang-​Sa Temple. There’s two listings for some reason.
We went on a field trip to this temple… for my intercultural communications class. It was a real treat. The various rooms were beautifully decorated. I uploaded photos, so you can take a look. They have classes and workshops, and they also have tea ceremonies. Learning about the Korean culture was awesome. The lilies were beautiful, and the statues were majestic. When you walk into the «gate,» the painting inside is so elaborate, and everything has meaning.
We were able to participate in a mini tea ceremony. That was definitely my favorite part. The lady who was giving us the tour went through all the motions, and played the different types of tea ceremony music for different seasons. It was really amazing.
Not too fond of the tea sweets though… –_–

Along with Byodo-​In Temple (in Kaneohe), this is my favorite place to take visitors when they come stay with me. It is absolutely stunning. The temple is located somewhat far within the Palolo Valley area and can be difficult to find. I would recommend making sure you are familiar with the location before heading out or having a GPS system, because the back roads in the area are long and winding with many small side streets.
Once you get on the right road, you can almost take it straight to the top of the mountain. You will see the tops of the temple when you are close. The colors are so vibrant you can’t miss it!
When you get there, the drive way is pretty steep, but if you turn left there is ample parking on the side. I would park outside as a visitor (though there is covered parking). I have never seen a sign, but assumed indoor parking was for the monks that lived there, and those who worked at the temple.
Directly in front of the outdoor parking you can see huge pots of kimchi on the roof of the building, and it’s just a beautiful view of the Valley, all the way out to the ocean. Still, if you want the best view, find the small stone Buddha figurines (far back on the grounds, past the pond, over the bridge and up the side stairs).
The landscape and flowers are amazing. I spent hours at the temple just taking pictures outdoors. You can explore in the buildings, but be mindful and respectful to those who are there to worship and the monks who live there. The whole area is so peaceful, it’s wonderfully relaxing.
I have been there several times and had been taking lots of pictures, but on one visit, a woman asked me not to photograph the insides of the temple. She said it was against their belief, so be aware you should only take photographs outside.
If you get the chance, check the fountain for small tadpoles or tiny black frogs that live throughout the grounds. I would also make sure you don’t miss the small building at the entrance. It’s easy to miss if you park, so walk back to the drive way after parking and enter the first building from the front. Some research I did said you are supposed to pray or acknowledge the statues that represent negative things you would want to leave at the door and not bring in the temple.
They also have some donate boxes throughout and, considering it is free to park and visit, I would strongly suggest you donate. I once encountered monks gathering mangos from the trees and others worship there and everyone is very open and friendly, as long as you are willing to learn and be respectful.
With every building hand painted inside and out, and all the intricate details that went into designing every room of every building, it is by far one of the most beautiful places on the island.