Built in 1909, the Thorsen House is located in the Southside neighborhood in Berkeley. It is also known as The William R. Thorsen House and this mansion was incorporated in the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1978. The house is currently owned by the Sigma Phi Society, who conduct tours of the house a regular basis with special focus on the architectural aspect. One of the salient features of the house is that it is the last of houses designed by eminent architecture firm Greene & Greene, and its deeply gorgeous interiors are awe-inspiring. Visitors who wish to gain entry simply need to knock on the door.
The existing building of the Higashi Honganji Temple at Berkeley was built in the late 1930s and has been serving the city's Buddhist community, as a sanctuary of spirituality, peace and togetherness, ever since. Although the temple may not be a marvelous feat of architectural finesse, it is certainly beautiful in its simplicity. You will find yourself enveloped in a sense of calm from the moment you step through the doors. The temple is surrounded by a serene Japanese garden that has adapted and grown over the years. The pine tree by the fence is over 100 years old and lends its cool shade to the garden beyond. Following the tradition of Buddha Dharma, the temple teaches its followers to seek the wisdom that is attained through the inevitable suffering that life brings and fosters community spirit in each of its many members. Services are held every Sunday between 10a and 11:30a, alongside Dharma classes for children and teens. Check the temple's calender for information regarding special services.