Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center Introduction
The Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center, located in the Dashu District of Kaohsiung City, is an important landmark that integrates Buddhist culture, historical heritage, and modern architectural art. Since its completion in 2011, it has become a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhist believers and culture enthusiasts worldwide. It is an official member of the International Council of Museums (ICOM) and has won the TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Award for six consecutive years starting in 2014, earning a place in the "Hall of Fame." The construction of the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center originated from Master Hsing Yun's vow to invite the "true relics of the Buddha" from India back to Taiwan, hoping that this solemn Buddhist temple would disseminate the wisdom of Buddhism to the world. This place is not only a religious sanctuary but also a diverse venue for promoting Buddhist culture, art, and education, where everyone can experience spiritual tranquility and inspiration. Entering the memorial center via the Road to Buddhahood and the Fo Guang Buddha, visitors are greeted by the 240-meter-long Road to Buddhahood, flanked by eight pagodas symbolizing the "Noble Eightfold Path," guiding travelers into the path of practice, calming their minds, and experiencing the wisdom and compassion of Buddhism. Standing behind the memorial center is a bronze Buddha statue that is 50 meters tall, with a total height of 108 meters including the base, equivalent to a 36-story building, making it the largest bronze seated Buddha in Asia. The Buddha's compassionate and dignified gaze symbolizes the boundless love of Buddhism, protecting humanity and inspiring goodwill and wisdom in people. The treasure of the memorial center—the true relics of the Buddha, is one of only three remaining in the world, making it extremely precious. This relic was invited back to Taiwan by Master Hsing Yun in 1998 and was enshrined in the memorial center in 2011 for pilgrims to pay their respects. The relic enshrined at Fo Guang Shan is not only a treasure of the Buddhist community but also an invaluable cultural heritage. The Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center aims not only to promote Buddhist teachings but also to help the public find inner peace and wisdom in a serene and solemn space. Master Hsing Yun advocates the philosophy of Humanistic Buddhism and promotes the "Three Good Deeds Movement"—doing good deeds, speaking good words, and maintaining good thoughts, encouraging people to embody the spirit of Buddhism in their daily lives to make the world a more harmonious and beautiful place. Whether one seeks spiritual calm or wishes to explore the profound depth of Buddhist culture, the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center is a precious place worth visiting in person. ▶Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center Transportation Information