Museum of World Religions Introduction
The Chung Tai World Museum is located in the Lotus Basin beneath the Hehuan Mountains in central Taiwan, seamlessly integrated with the mountainous terrain. It is adjacent to the Chung Tai Chan Monastery, surrounded by lush mountains and clear blue skies, overlooking the Puli mountain town from a high vantage point. The Tang-style architecture, which combines traditional Chinese and Western elements, has a magnificent appearance reminiscent of the ancient city of Chang'an, symbolizing the concept of a "protective city" in Buddhism dedicated to safeguarding Buddhist teachings and historical artifacts. Over the past 30 years, treasures donated by devotees have been meticulously crafted by disciples under the guidance of the founder, Venerable Wei-Jue, who had the vision of "artistic cultivation of the world." It has become a new landmark for culture, spirituality, and recreation in central Taiwan. Entering the nine-meter-tall lobby on the first floor is like stepping into a serene and brilliant realm of Buddhist teachings. The ceiling above the central Buddha features a design inspired by the square rotating domes of stone caves, presenting the Buddhist concept of time and space—"the ten directions and three times." As light filters through the stained glass featuring a lotus flower pattern onto the three-tiered statues arranged in a circular formation, it creates the illusion of being in the world of the Huazang, where Buddhas and Bodhisattvas gather. This immersive experience leads visitors into the realm of Buddhist art. Additionally, the Chung Tai World Museum is the only museum in Taiwan with a complete collection of rubbing stone inscriptions, showcasing the unique calligraphic styles of different historical masters. Visitors can fully appreciate the timeless artistic charm of renowned calligraphers such as Wang Xizhi, Yan Zhenqing, Zhang Xu, and Su Dongpo. The museum also features an interactive woodcraft zone where both children and adults can engage in digital interactive carving, allowing them to learn how to create their own wooden sculptures.
