At the foot of the Manhattan Bridge in what once was an adult movie theater is now the Mahayana Buddhist Temple, the oldest Chinese Buddhist temple on the East Coast, founded in 1962. Beyond the entrance is a simply decorated room with a little temple, but follow the hallway to the main chamber and you will see an awe-inspiring sight. Behind a banquet table laden with offerings of flowers,oranges and apples sits a 16 foot golden Buddha backlit by a neon-blue halo. Here on one of the busiest streets in Chinatown you can find peace and relaxation, sit and meditate for awhile and savor this unique experience, all are welcome.
Mahayana Buddhist Temple 133 Canal Street( between Bowery & Chrystie Street )