At the Japanese Temple in Darjeeling!

"Better than a thousand hollow words, is one word that brings peace" - Buddha.

Yes, universal peace is one of the main teachings of Buddha. In the religion of Buddhism, peace is an important ideology which brings everyone together irrespective of caste and creed. Here is the Japanese Temple in Darjeeling which promotes the preachings of Lord Buddha and follows Nippozan Myohoji Buddhist order.

Entrance of Japanese Temple
Photo Courtesy: Shahnoor Habib Munmun

Japanese Temple is a Buddhist temple which is built in the Japanese style of architecture. This elegant two-storey structure fits well with lush green landscapes of the hill station of Darjeeling.

Japanese Temple, also known as Nippozan Myohoji Buddhist Temple, was established by Fujii Guruji (Nichidatsu Fujii).

What is Nippozan Myohoji?

Nippozan Myohoji Daisanga was a Japanese religious movement which gave birth to a sub-religion called Nichren Buddhism. This form of Buddhism believes that the Lotus Sutra is the highest order of Buddhist expression. Nippozan Myohoji Daisanga was founded by Nichidatsu Fujii (Fujii Guruji) in 1917.

The Japanese Temple and the neighbouring Peace Pagoda follows this sect of Buddhism!

Side View of Japanese Temple
Photo Courtesy: Shahnoor Habib Munmun

Japanese Temple

The white colour building of Japanese Temple looks simple in the pristine surroundings. Tourists have to climb up a few stairs to reach the entrance. Two statues of Golden Lions at the entrance invite the visitors to explore inside the shrine. A large prayer hall with the Buddhist gods can be seen as you enter the shrine.

The vibrant premises of the temple with pictures and deities of Buddhist Gods attract the visitors. You can also take part in the prayer which is conducted twice a day. A Buddhist priest or guru can be seen beating the drums during the prayer.

As a traveller, you will get a glimpse of Buddhist worship at the Japanese Temple.

Peace Pagoda
Photo Courtesy: Chaitanya khemani

Heading to Peace Pagoda!

Let us head to the nearby Peace Pagoda after a visit to the Japanese Temple.

Darjeeling Peace Pagoda is a Buddhist stupa which holds the sculptures of Lord Buddha. It also promotes the idea of universal peace and unity. The Peace Pagoda has 4 statues of Buddha depicting his different avatars (forms). Darjeeling Peace Pagoda was constructed under the guidance of Fujii Guruji and it is one of the tallest structures in Darjeeling.

Just take a walk around the Pagoda to see the carvings depicting the tales of Buddha's life. The white structure of the Peace Pagoda stands for the equality, world peace and non-violence.

Buddha Statue
Photo Courtesy: Mpmanoj

So, don't miss out on a visit to these beautiful and unique structures on your trip to Darjeeling in West Bengal. Amidst the serene landscapes, it is interesting to explore these unique Buddhist shrines.

How to Reach Japanese Temple and the Peace Pagoda?

Japanese Temple and the Peace Pagoda is in the town of Darjeeling. It is located at a hillock named Jalapahar.

Click: How to Reach Darjeeling

Click: To Book Darjeeling Hotels