Buddhism in Costa Rica

Buddhism was introduced in the country for the first time by Chinese immigrants during the early 19th and 20th century, but an important part of these migrants later became --at least nominally-- Roman Catholics due to the then very Conservative Catholic-lead society.

It is these latter groups, especially if already interested or practicing some form of meditation, that can become influenced or inspired by "exotic religions" (in Costa Rica) such as Buddhism and therefore convert to it, or adopt it as a philosophy.

The Dalai Lama's third visit planned for 2008 was cancelled after the Costa Rican government under Oscar Arias Sánchez renewed relations with the People's Republic of China over Taiwan, resulting in soured relationships with the Buddhist community and criticism from the opposition.

Opposition leader Ottón Solís publicly supported the Dalai Lama and promise to name the National Stadium in his honor in case he won the presidency.

[7] The ACTC runs the Thousand Eyes Compassive Buddha Dharma Center located in Barrio Amón, San José City.