The Buddhist Women's Association (BWA) was founded in Japan in the early 20th century by Takeko Kujo (1887 - 1928), a daughter of Koson Ohtani, the 21st monshu (head abbot) of the Nishi Hongwanji-ha. Takeko Kujo was in her early twenties at the time she founded the Fujinkai (women's organization).  BWA chapters began establishing in every Jodo Shinshu temple in Japan, and later in the United States and other overseas areas as many Japanese began emigrating in the late 19th century and early 20th century. BWA in the United States is an auxiliary organization of the Buddhist Churches of America (BCA), the mainland United States branch of the Nishi Hongwanji-ha.   BWA chapters sponsor Dharma lectures, conferences, and other enjoyable social activities for all temple members.

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Our Oregon Buddhist Women's Association (OBWA) members also visit members who are physically unable to attend temple services.  The BWA plays an important role in the practice and transmission of traditional Buddhist values such as compassion, community, and gratitude for others.