Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center Introduction
Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center, located in Dashi District, 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 global Buddhist believers and culture enthusiasts. It is an official member of the International Council of Museums (ICOM) and has won the TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Award for six consecutive years since 2014, earning a place in the "Hall of Fame." The construction of the Buddha Memorial Center was inspired by Master Hsing Yun's vow to invite the "true relics of the Buddha" from India back to Taiwan, hoping to spread the wisdom of Buddhism through this solemn Buddhist hall. This place is not only a religious sanctuary but also a diverse venue for promoting Buddhist culture, art, and education, allowing everyone to experience tranquility and inspiration for the soul. As you enter the memorial center along the 240-meter-long Avenue of Enlightenment, flanked by eight pagodas symbolizing the "Noble Eightfold Path," travelers are guided into the path of practice, allowing them to settle their minds and experience the wisdom and compassion of Buddhism. Standing at the back of the memorial center is a bronze Buddha statue, towering 50 meters tall with a combined height of 108 meters, equivalent to a typical 36-story building, making it the largest seated bronze Buddha in Asia. The Buddha's compassionate and solemn gaze symbolizes the boundless love of Buddhism, protecting humanity and inspiring good thoughts and wisdom. The treasure of the memorial center—the true relic of the Buddha—held at the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center, is one of only three remaining in the world, making it extremely precious. This relic was brought 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 worshiped at Fo Guang Shan is not only a treasure for 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 solemn and tranquil environment. Master Hsing Yun advocates for the idea of Humanistic Buddhism and promotes the "Three Good Deeds Movement"—doing good deeds, speaking good words, and holding good thoughts—encouraging people to apply the spirit of Buddhism in their daily lives, making the world more harmonious and beautiful through good intentions. Whether you seek spiritual tranquility or wish to explore the rich heritage of Buddhist culture, the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center is a treasure worth visiting in person.
