Travel
Do not touch the Buddhist statues. If you’re travelling with children it’s best to make sure they don’t touch the statues too, as Buddhist monks may take offence.
- Top Things To Do On A Holiday In Thailand
It’s a land where colour, religion, history and excitement cross paths regularly, and as a result, has become one of the world’s most popular destinations for tourists seeking something a little less formulaic and humdrum. Thailand has plenty to offer...
- Cambodia. The Land Of The Temples Lost In The Jungle
The tree ridden structures lost to the jungles of Cambodia are some of the most amazing structures on earth, therefore there is no wonder many adventure travelers but not only, flock into the wild jungles of the ancient East to explore exotic temples...
- Xian's Hui
The city of Xi’an is famous for the Terracotta Army, Lantian Man and countless Buddhist relics, but centuries ago its fame had more to do with trade than archeological wonders. As part of the ancient Silk Road, Xi’an was a place where cultures mingled...
- Wat Rong Khun, The White Temple From Thailand
Wat Rong Khun or the White Temple near Chiang Rai is one hell of a temple. Its pure white color, with sparking reflections from mirrored glass mosaics embedded in white plaster, makes Wat Rong Khun a very elegant, yet unconventional Buddhist...
- Temples And Shrines In Japan: What Is The Difference?
One day I spoke to a japanese friend about a temple which I found in Shinjuku, Tokyo. But, she said there was no temple in there, so the only way to prove I was not crazy was taking her there. However, she explained that was not a temple, but a shrine....
Travel
Top 5 Tips for Visiting Buddhist Temples in China
If you are planning on visiting China then you will have absolutely loads to see, do and experience. From Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City in Beijing, to cycling around the city walls of Xi’an, experiencing the bustling nightlife and impressive skyscrapers of Shanghai and of course visiting the Great Wall of China – it’s a country with a multitude of things to see.
One aspect of China that you might not have considered are the Buddhist temples. More often associated with countries like Thailand, Buddhism accounts for around 18% of religions in China and there are many beautiful Buddhist temples to visit when you come here.
If you have any interest in the deeper, spiritual side of life, whether it’s wondering ‘what is psychic reflection’ to an interest in clairvoyance and other such practices, the Buddhist temples in China are a must-see. Even if you don’t have this interest in spiritualism, they are worth visiting for their architecture and aesthetics.
When you visit a Buddhist temple in China, there are some guidelines you should follow to make the most of your visit and to show respect for the temple:
Do not touch the Buddhist statues. If you’re travelling with children it’s best to make sure they don’t touch the statues too, as Buddhist monks may take offence.
Avoid taking photographs inside the building. Outside is fine, but if you’re taking photos inside it can look a little disrespectful. Some temples may let you take photographs inside if you ask for permission first, although this should never be done during worship.
Should you meet a Buddhist monk, the etiquette is to bow your head a little in way of a greeting. It isn’t socially acceptable to shake hands or hug a Buddhist monk if you meet one. You should also only use your right hand when giving or receiving anything from a monk.
There may be people meditating or praying when you walk around the temple so be careful to keep your voice low and remain respectful of the tranquillity of the temple. Although it may sound obvious, also make sure you’re mobile phone is switched off and to remove your headphones. You’re sure to get much more out of the experience this way as well.
Cover yourself up. Although the tendency is to wear as little as possible when you’re travelling in a hot climate, it’s advised to cover your shoulders and legs when entering a temple as a sign of respect, although temples in more tourist locations may be more lenient with this.
Visiting a Buddhist temple can be an awe-inspiring experience. They are a world away from the hustle and bustle of the busy tourist spots and are a great way to experience something a little different. If you fancy a little peace and tranquillity or have a penchant for architecture, it’s definitely worth taking a visit to a temple on your next trip.
- Top Things To Do On A Holiday In Thailand
It’s a land where colour, religion, history and excitement cross paths regularly, and as a result, has become one of the world’s most popular destinations for tourists seeking something a little less formulaic and humdrum. Thailand has plenty to offer...
- Cambodia. The Land Of The Temples Lost In The Jungle
The tree ridden structures lost to the jungles of Cambodia are some of the most amazing structures on earth, therefore there is no wonder many adventure travelers but not only, flock into the wild jungles of the ancient East to explore exotic temples...
- Xian's Hui
The city of Xi’an is famous for the Terracotta Army, Lantian Man and countless Buddhist relics, but centuries ago its fame had more to do with trade than archeological wonders. As part of the ancient Silk Road, Xi’an was a place where cultures mingled...
- Wat Rong Khun, The White Temple From Thailand
Wat Rong Khun or the White Temple near Chiang Rai is one hell of a temple. Its pure white color, with sparking reflections from mirrored glass mosaics embedded in white plaster, makes Wat Rong Khun a very elegant, yet unconventional Buddhist...
- Temples And Shrines In Japan: What Is The Difference?
One day I spoke to a japanese friend about a temple which I found in Shinjuku, Tokyo. But, she said there was no temple in there, so the only way to prove I was not crazy was taking her there. However, she explained that was not a temple, but a shrine....