Saishin Dojo 2026
What is Saishin Dojo?
Since 1987, Saishin Dojo has been a place where children gather at the temple during the summer to learn, grow, and build lasting friendships. Rooted in the spirit of Jodo Shinshu teachings, our program nurtures both heart and mind through Buddhist lessons and joyful learning. The 2026 program is for children who are entering 1st- 6th grade in Fall 2026 "Dōjō (道場)" refers to a Buddhist temple, a place where awakening is cultivated. "Sai (西)" means "nishi" or "west", from Nishi Hongwanji (西本願寺), and "Shin (心)" meaning kokoro, "mind/body," comes from Senshin Temple (洗心寺), forming the name Saishin Dōjō.
Program Overview
Dates: June 15 – July 10, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Aftercare: Available until 6:00 PM
Location: Senshin Buddhist Temple
Full daily participation is strongly encouraged so children may fully experience the integrated curriculum.
6th Grade Camp: July 12–16, 2026 at San Luis Obispo Buddhist Temple
Daily Schedule:
8:00 am – Temple facility opens
8:30-9:15 am – Assembly, Rajio Taso, Obon Dance, Meditation
9:20-9:45 am – Omairi
9:45-10:45 am – Session 1
10:45-11:15 am – Break
11:15-12:15 pm – Session 2
12:15-1:15 pm – Lunch
1:15-2:15 pm – Session 3
2:15-3:15 pm – Session 4
3:15-3:30 pm – Soji (Cleanup)
3:30-6:00 pm – Supervised After-School Play
Daily Activities & Curriculum
- Morning Omairi Service
- Meditation, chanting, reciting the Nembutsu, and listening to the Dharma to learn the teachings of Buddhism.
- Japanese Culture, Bon Odori, Taiko, Calligraphy, Ikebana and other cultural activities.
- Japanese Cooking (basic food preparation, gratitude for meals, kitchen safety)
- Academic Enrichment (Reading, Writing, Math)
- Field Trips
- Soji (Cleaning Together)
- And more
Registration & Payment Information
Program Fees:
- Nishi Betsuin / Senshin Members: $750
- Other Buddhist Temple Members: $800
- 6th Grade Camp: $700
Payment Options:
1. Full payment by April 30, 2026
2. An installment plan is available upon request
Payments may be made by check (payable to The Saishin Dojo) or via Zelle to [email protected] : Include the student’s name and event name (Saishin Dojo) in the memo section.
Fees become non-refundable after April 30, 2026.
A late fee of $100 applies beginning May 1, 2026.
Required Documentation
1. Completed Registration Form
(Includes Emergency Contact Information, Medical Authorization, and Photo/Media Consent)
2. Temple Membership Verification
3. T-Shirt Order Form
4. Registration Fees
5. Medication Authorization Form (if applicable)
