The Buddhist Temple of Salinas was founded in 1924 by Issei (first generation) Japanese immigrants in the Jodo Shinshu tradition.  The organization is an affiliated member of the Buddhist Churches of America (BCA) and part of the mother temple of the Nishi Hongwanji in Japan.  In addition to the Jodo Shinshu Buddhist teachings, the Buddhist Temple of Salinas offers a variety of activities throughout the year that promote Japanese cultural and religious teachings.

The Temple is located in the historic Chinatown District in downtown Salinas on 14 California Street.  The area is a historical center for Asian American immigrants to the agriculturally rich California Central Valley.  Established in 1893, the Chinatown District is the third largest of its kind in California next to Los Angeles and San Francisco.  There is parking available on the premises and on the street in front of the Temple.  The area is very walkable and surrounded by historic buildings, a cultural center, and a museum.