Phap Vuong Monastery

Quaint and spacious temple tucked in Escondido. My parents and I dropped by for a visit but the main room was closed so we explored the outside. There are many statues and lots of open space. Parking lot is a tad small so I am not sure how parking would work when the temple holds events and ceremonies. It is odd that a temple is closed since all the temples in Orange County are always open and monks/​nuns live in the temple. So I would suggest going on Sunday is your best luck to see the temple being completely open.

This temple is big, new, quiet and so peaceful here. There’s lots of space, trees for shades and places to sit. Good place to come and meditate.

If you can get pass the crowd (it was like new year in Santa Ana) and the crazy parking (people in the neighborhood was selling their private driveway and empty space in their yard as parking … $ 5) when you can actually park for free along the sidewalk … This could have saved a lot of people money if there were some signs posted.
We went here to see the Jade Buddha and it was quite impressive… specially for someone who’s not Budhist… The sculpture was surrounded by beautiful flowers and guarded by two dragons made out of fruits. considering it’s the last day of the showing… everything was pretty fresh and alive. I liked how everything is based on donations and people didn’t take advantage of the crowd to make money… I mean come on when you donate. they even give you a little gift! Yes they did sale drinks for $ 3 bucks but no big deal.
Two thumbs up for all the available seating on the grounds… and the dragon dance was super fun especially for all the little kids.

Ok, so maybe I’m a bit biased about this place because it’s kind of like my home temple… kind of. I mean, it’s not like I grew up with this place as it’s only been around for a few years, but my parents have definitely become a staple here within the last few years. So, like I said, take this review with a grain of salt because I have an «in’ here. My mom’s one of those cute ladies who runs around helping out, and my dad’s the guy that takes care of the plants there and runs errands for them.
Anyhow, I was home for Lunar New Year and of course the Jade Buddha. The Jade Buddha was gorgeous, and it was a great experience to see. Overall though, everyone here is really generous and kind. The monk here is super nice (although, I suppose I haven’t met a mean monk or anything). It’s a great community and I’m glad that my empty-​nest syndrome parents have found a place to go to and occupy their time and energy (so they’re not spending it worrying about me all the time!).

The Jade Buddha will be leaving Escondido very soon. If you’re interested in seeing this grand four ton sculpture carved out of one piece of jade, it will be leaving San Diego County on February 16^th. It’s ultimate destination will be Australia. That’s great if you’re in for a vacation, but it’s in our midst for a few more hours… go see it! I can’t say that the scene was very peaceful but the sculpture is still impressive.
Parking and circulation during the middle of the day is a circus so come earlier in the morning. There is a dedicated parking lot on the monastery grounds but I wouldn’t count on spaces there. If you come from the west via Vista Ave., drive north towards a school on Ash Ave. You can find additional parking at the school or along the roads.

I read about the Jade Buddha For Universal Peace arrival at this Escondido monastery and knew that I needed to go see it. This Buddha is very beautiful and awe inspiring at 4 tons of flawless brilliant dark green jade that stands at over 9 feet tall and sits on an enormous alabaster throne. It is only here for a limited time before leaving on a world tour, I definitely recommend that if you are able to make the time to stop by and see it for yourself. There is a tranquil atmosphere at this place that lends to an inner peace.