Bush Street Temple: A Japantown Landmark
Discover the Bush Street Temple in San Francisco's Japantown: a historic landmark blending Moorish and Venetian architecture with a rich legacy of Jewish and Buddhist heritage.
The Bush Street Temple, also known as the Soto Mission, stands as a unique landmark in San Francisco's Japantown, bearing witness to the neighborhood's diverse history. Originally built in 1895 as a synagogue for the Ohabai Shalome congregation, it later became the home of the Soto Zen Mission in 1934. The building's distinctive Moorish Revival and Venetian Gothic Revival architecture, designed by Moses J. Lyon, features arches reminiscent of the Doge's Palace in Venice. Today, the building serves as an assisted living facility, a testament to its enduring presence and evolving role within the community. While no longer functioning as a religious institution, its facade remains a striking reminder of Japantown's layered past, attracting history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. The temple embodies the neighborhood's spirit of cultural exchange and adaptation, making it a worthwhile stop for those exploring Japantown's rich heritage.
A brief summary to Bush Street Temple (Soto Mission)
- 1881 Bush St, San Francisco, Japantown, California, 94109, US
Local tips
- Observe the unique blend of Moorish Revival and Venetian Gothic Revival architecture on the temple's facade, a rare combination in San Francisco.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through Japantown to experience the neighborhood's cultural offerings, including traditional shops, restaurants, and the Peace Plaza.
- Learn about the temple's history as both a synagogue and a Buddhist temple, reflecting the diverse communities that have shaped Japantown.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From anywhere in San Francisco, the Bush Street Temple is easily accessible via public transportation. Several Muni bus lines serve Japantown, including the 2, 3, 38, and 38R. The closest bus stops are located on Geary Boulevard at either Webster or Laguna Streets, a short walk to the temple on Bush Street. A single Muni fare is $3.00, payable with Clipper card or the MuniMobile app.
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Walking
If you are already in Japantown or nearby neighborhoods like Fillmore or Pacific Heights, walking to the Bush Street Temple is a pleasant option. From the Japan Center Malls, head north on Buchanan Street, then turn right onto Bush Street. The temple is a few blocks east. From Fillmore Street, walk west on Bush Street. Allow approximately 10-15 minutes from most points in Japantown.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. A ride from Union Square to the Bush Street Temple typically costs between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand. Simply provide the address, 1881 Bush Street, San Francisco, CA 94109, to your driver.
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Driving
If driving, be aware that parking in Japantown can be challenging. Street parking is limited and often metered. Several parking garages are located nearby, including the Japan Center Garage (1610 Geary Blvd) and the Polk Bush Garage (1399 Bush Street). Expect to pay between $3 to $5 per hour, with daily maximum rates ranging from $25 to $40. Consider using a parking app like SpotHero to reserve a spot in advance.
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