Fo Guang Shan

Fo Guang Shan (佛光山), as the largest Buddhist architectural complex and the largest Buddhist monastery in Taiwan, has been honored with the ""National Golden Award for Architecture"". It is considered the most representative architectural structure for foreigners who want to explore different religious and cultural experiences in Taiwan. Even for those who do not visit for religious reasons, the restaurants, art galleries, international museums, and the grandeur of the architecture, along with the spacious grounds, make it a perfect place to spend half a day or a full day, walking around and relaxing.

There are many unique features within the complex, with the most notable being the 480 small golden Buddha statues surrounding the Great Buddha Land, creating a solemn and magnificent sight. Additionally, the mission of the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum includes the preservation of ancient and contemporary artifacts from various countries, with a collection of thousands of precious items. Exploring the center promises to be a fulfilling experience. The main attraction, the ""Path to Buddhahood,"" is adorned with eight golden pagodas, each of which is open for visitors. The space is designed with a focus on people, and visitors need not worry about the depth and breadth of religion and culture, as each area within the center is connected with digital services such as audio guides and AR tours, making the visit both educational and enjoyable. Even children will not be bored, as there are attractions such as the dinosaur area and the San Hao Children's Museum.

One might assume that the religious site is always solemn and serious, but during the Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival, Fo Guang Shan (佛光山) becomes the liveliest, with lantern displays and cultural performances creating a festive atmosphere. For several years, the celebrations have included aerial performances using 500 drones, along with splendid fireworks and beautiful lanterns, celebrating these significant Chinese festivals.

If visitors are unsure of where to start exploring the vast grounds, Fo Guang Shan (佛光山) has thoughtfully planned different themed itineraries:

- Religious Journey: Admire world-class collections such as the precious the ""buddha's tooth relic"", the world's largest copper-cast Fo Guang Big Buddha in Asia, a replica of the underground palace of the Famen Temple in Shaanxi, a golden Buddha presented by the king of Thailand, a white jade reclining Buddha from Myanmar, a golden robe from South Korea, and the Thousand-Armed, Thousand-Eyed Guanyin.

- Romantic Journey: The ""Five Harmonies Pagoda"" as a place of celebration, and the Zhusu Forest's Qiyuan as a wedding photography location.

- Treasure Hunt Journey: The world's only three Buddha's relics, and the precious ancient painted ceilings.

- Family Journey: Tea meditation experience at the Twin Pavilion Tea House, Little Tea Master, and the Two Assemblies Pagoda｜Children's Gallery.

- Art Journey: The fusion of ancient Indian, Central Indian, and architectural aesthetics of Buddhist statues and pagodas from the Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties.

- Culinary Journey: Explore the ""Drip Water House"" restaurant brand at Fo Guang Shan (佛光山), known for its specialty vegetarian cuisine.

- Ecological Journey: The original ecology preserved during the construction of the center, home to many precious species such as the purple crow butterfly, the mallard duck, and the white goose.

Throughout the year, with various themed itineraries and different types of travel companions, Fo Guang Shan (佛光山) promises to offer unique memories and experiences for all visitors.