Buddhism is one of the largest religions in the world by number of adherents. It is mainly present in Southeast Asia and India. In this way, Buddhist temples present significant beauty and it is worth creating a tour of these buildings to visit.
With that intention, we made this article. Good reading!
8 Iconics Buddhist Temples
These are the Buddhist temples you must visit:
- 1. Kinkaku-ji, Japan;
- 2. Tōdai-ji – Nara, Japan;
- 3. Borobudur, Indonesia;
- 4. Jokhang – Lhasa, China;
- 5. Shwedagon – Yangon, Myanmar;
- 6. Mahabodhi – Bodh Gaya, India;
- 7. Wat Arun – Bangkok, Thailand;
- 8. Wat Rong Khun – Chiang Rai, Thailand.
1. Kinkaku-ji, Japan
This temple was built in the 8th century. Thus, it is one of the most important in Japan in the feudal period and also one of the symbols of Japanese Buddhism, a very important aspect.
The building features exterior walls clad with gold leaf.
2. Tōdai-ji – Nara, Japan
This temple was built in the 8th century. Thus, it is one of the most important in Japan in the feudal period and also one of the symbols of Japanese Buddhism, a very important aspect.
3. Borobudur, Indonesia
This is the biggest Buddhist temple in the world and it was built around 1200 years ago. Thus, it has been the target of a number of volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and even terrorist attacks. The temple was abandoned in the 15th century, but was rediscovered in the 19th century.
4. Jokhang – Lhasa, China
Tibet has one of the most unique and rich Buddhist traditions in the world, which remains despite China’s domination of the country. In Lhasa, capital of Tibet, the Jokhang temple is one of the most beautiful temples. Built in the 7th century, this temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5. Shwedagon – Yangon, Myanmar
Myanmar is yet another country in Southeast Asia with a great tradition in Buddhism. In this way, it could not fail to have many Buddhist temples as an attraction. The main one is the Shwedagon, marked by its golden color. In addition, it is adorned with gold, diamonds and other precious stones.
6. Mahabodhi – Bodh Gaya, India
Despite being a country with a large Hindu majority, India has temples of several other religions. Thus, one of these is Buddhist temples, as Buddhism has its roots in India. This temple is considered a world heritage site by UNESCO. According to reports, in Mahabodhi a monk would have reached nirvana, which is why the temple is so important to Buddhists.
7. Wat Arun – Bangkok, Thailand
This temple is located in the capital of Thailand and is also one of the most beautiful in the country. Thus, it is located on the banks of the Phraya and the great spectacle of the temple takes place at night, when the artificial lights of the temple reflect on the waters of the river.
In addition, it is worth noting that the temple was built in the 18th century and is over 80 meters high.
8. Wat Rong Khun – Chiang Rai, Thailand
This temple is located in the region known as the “golden triangle”, where Thailand, Myammar and Laos meet. The building was designed by one of Thailand’s greatest artists, with the aim of highlighting the Buddha’s purity.
Therefore, throughout the text, we point out 8 Buddhist temples that you must visit. But don’t limit yourself to them. In the mentioned countries (China, Japan, India, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar), there are many other attractions linked to this religion, way of life, or even homage to the Buddha.
When visiting Buddhist temples, remember to respect local customs and religion, as well as different aspects. Tibetan Buddhism is a little different from Japanese Buddhism, and so on. And you, what are you waiting for to visit these monuments?
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