ESP Join Us for a Special Visit to Chua Nam Quang Temple – April 13th @2:00 PM

Join Us for a Special Visit to Nam Quang Temple – April 13th @2:00 PM

Dear Fraters and Sorores, bring your family and friends,

We are pleased to invite you to a special tour of Chua Nam Quang Temple in Portland, Oregon, on April 13th at 2:00 PM.

This beautiful Buddhist temple, nestled in a 3.5-acre garden sanctuary, is a place of tranquility and connection with nature. We will have the opportunity to experience the transformative space that has been lovingly cultivated over the past four years, from a bare landscape to its current log covered paths and lush edible vegetation.

What to Expect:

A Guided Tour: After the temple’s Sunday service, we’ll be guided through the grounds, exploring the 4 Holy Places, four spaces thoughtfully designed to represent significant Buddhist sites. The garden, rich with diverse flora and a growing network of mycelium beneath the mulch, also features rare mushrooms and abundant birdlife, which are cherished daily by the caretaker, Lynn.
Beautiful Pagodas & Rest Areas: We will have time to pause at one of three pagodas on the property, where we can relax on hammocks or chairs and take in the peaceful surroundings.

Location: Chua Nam-Quang Temple, 3337 NE 148th Ave, Portland, OR 97230
Images: Visit a gallery of the temple on Yelp photos here
Duration: The tour will last approximately 1 hour
Dress Code: We will ask that you remove your shoes when entering the temple itself.
Photos: Feel free to take photos during the tour, but please be respectful of the sacredness of the space.
Early attendees: We have been invited to enjoy a vegetarian lunch cooked by Lynn the caretaker. Master Kevin Pham has invited all of our members to join after their service which commences at 12:00 noon (lunch begins). I have had the opportunity to enjoy several lunches after service and throughout the week. You won’t be disappointed! With seating indoors as well as outdoor options, you can find yourself at a table within or outdoors at a hand crafted log table. Enjoy the craftsmanship of the members.
After the Tour: We’ll conclude our visit by enjoying a meal at your choice of the local food trucks nearby for those that did not join the lunch at the temple. You can choose from a variety of cuisines to suit your taste. Some suggestions are listed below. The food trucks are within a very short drive from the temple down Sandy Blvd.

Accessible Restrooms are available on-site.

Although there is no entrance fee, the temple graciously accepts donations.

Accessibility Notes:

The walking paths are made from logs, providing solid footing but are not completely level. While elderly visitors regularly navigate these paths, please use caution if you have any mobility challenges.

For more information about the temple, visit their website: Nam Quang Temple

Agenda for the Visit

1. 12:00 PM noon: Early arrival (optional lunch)

Vegetarian lunch in the temple with the masters and members

2:00 PM: Arrival and Welcome
- Meet at the temple entrance beneath the large Buddha Statue
- Brief introduction to Chua Nam Quang Temple and its history
2:10 PM: Guided Tour of the Garden Sanctuary
- Exploration of the 4 Holy Places and exposure to the Noble Eightfold Path teaching via strategically place plaques at each of the 4 Holy Places displays
- Insights into the collaboration with the city and volunteer efforts in garden maintenance
- Overview of the mycelium network and unique mushrooms (you might see some rare species)
2:40 PM: Rest and Reflection at Pagodas
- Time to sit, relax, and reflect in the pagodas on the property
2:50 PM: Return to the Temple for a Q&A (if applicable)
- Optional conversation with the garden master or temple elder (if available)
3:00 PM: Wrap-Up and Departure
- End of formal tour
- Group meal at local food trucks (optional, at your discretion)

1. El Yucateco Food Cart

Address: 11807 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, OR 97220
Description: Specializes in Yucatan-style cuisine, offering dishes like panuchos, tacos, tortas, bowls, burritos, and burgers.
Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Website: El Yucateco Food Cart

2. Rose City Food Park

Address: 5235 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, OR 97213
Description: A vibrant food cart pod featuring a variety of local food trucks, offering diverse cuisines in a communal outdoor setting.
Atmosphere: Family-friendly, with covered and heated seating options, making it suitable for various weather conditions.
Website – https://www.rosecityfoodpark.com/

3. Tidal Boar Foods

Address: 5211 NE 148th Ave, Portland, OR
Description: Offers sustainable and locally sourced seafood, including oysters and Dory-caught options.
Note: Located very close to Chua Nam Quang Temple, making it a convenient choice for our group.
Website – https://www.tidalboarfoods.com/

4. Grant’s Philly Cheese Steaks PDX

Address: 15350 NE Sandy Blvd. Portland Or 97230
Description: Authentic Philly flavors with perfectly seasoned steak and melted cheese. Serving Portland over 20 years!
Note: Many variations of delicious!
Website – https://www.grantsphillycheesesteakspdx.com/contact

We look forward to sharing this peaceful and inspiring experience with you! Fraternally,
Aaron Howard