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What should I wear to the service?

While for formal ceremonies and special occasions, we will dress up in respect and celebration of the event, at regular services, one may dress casually but in a tasteful manner. Since many Sangha members prefer to sit on the floor, comfortable clothing can be necessary. Avoid clothing that binds, such as tight jeans or tight slacks; these will tend to cut off circulation and make for a very uncomfortable experience! If you are wearing dresses or skirts, consider what will happen when you get up or down from the floor.

We do ask that clothes be modest, so please do not wear tube tops or short shorts. Please do not wear t-shirts which may be considered offensive to others, either in pictures or words. For holiday services, some members may dress a little more formally. Of course special holiday events and observances, weddings, funerals and memorials are usually more formal. If you are not sure about a particular outfit, then it might be a sign to try something else for coming to a service. When in doubt however, please feel free to ask. We are always here to help in anyway we can.

What about my shoes?

At most Buddhist temples and meeting places, shoes are not worn into the hall. Please remove your shoes at the door and place them in the shoe rack provided. As people are sitting on the floor, this keeps the floor cleaner by keeping outside contaminants which may be tracked in by shoes, out of the hall and off the floor.

In the case of Renkoji Temple, our floors are neither tatami straw mats as in Japan, wooden parquet nor carpeted, but instead either tiled or made of marble. Therefore, the floors, especially during the winter period, can be quite cold. We suggest you bring a pair of slippers to wear inside the temple during your stay. As explained earlier, shoes are not permitted inside the temple.