A Zen-like haven in the city #🌿 Bodhisattva Temple - Dali District, Taichung City

#November Destinations 2025 IBS Temple, located in Dali District, Taichung City, differs from the ornate exteriors of traditional temples. With its unique exposed concrete architecture, lush greenery, and profound Zen Buddhist atmosphere, it is hailed as one of "Taiwan's most beautiful temples," more like a modern art gallery brimming with philosophical thought and vitality. Completed at the end of 2004, the temple's design concept is to achieve harmonious coexistence between Buddhism and life, architecture and nature: * **Minimalist Exterior:** The temple's exterior uses simple exposed concrete as its primary element, with walls covered in ivy and other plants that grow naturally from the earth, creating the image of a "green building." * **Humble Design:** The main entrance is intentionally "humbled," leaving space for a vigorous old plum tree and a stone bench, inscribed "Anju" (Peaceful Retreat), inviting passersby to pause and rest, symbolizing the tranquility of "returning to the Bodhisattva's home is like returning to one's own home." Light and Water: The architect skillfully incorporates wind, light, and water. Water lilies and swimming fish fill the pond in the courtyard, with the gentle flow of water complementing the swaying shadows of the trees, creating a dreamlike and ethereal Buddhist atmosphere while also regulating the microclimate. The internal layout of the Bodhisattva Temple is designed according to the concept of the "path to enlightenment." Each turn carries its own meaning, guiding visitors through layers of understanding: First Floor: The Worldly World and Aspiration The first floor houses the reception hall and exhibition area. The walls are decorated with murals displaying the Buddhist saying, "Rely on yourself, rely on the Dharma, rely on nothing else." The Buddha statues by the pond, the ubiquitous alms bowls and sculptures, all embody the idea that "life is practice" in their simplicity. Second Floor: Bodhisattva Hall and Aspiration Crossing the small bridge and ascending the stairs, one sees a hanging bell and a statue of a novice monk with hands clasped in prayer, symbolizing reverence for the Dharma. Inside the Bodhisattva Hall, ancient and elegant Bodhisattva statues are enshrined. Behind the hall, large glass windows overlook ancient elm trees, bringing natural greenery into the hall and allowing worshippers to connect with nature. The temple does not burn traditional incense sticks; instead, candles are used to express wishes, minimizing environmental impact. Third Floor: Sutra Copying Room and Meditation The third floor features a sutra copying room equipped with the Heart Sutra and pens, open to visitors for quiet copying. This space allows people to "slow down and calm their breathing," experiencing the practice of "cultivating blessings through sutra copying" by writing each stroke. Abbot Huiguang of Bodhisattva Temple hopes that Buddhism can enter the daily lives of the public through this simple and accessible approach. Through architecture, art, and daily rituals, the temple conveys the simple yet profound Zen meaning of "returning to the home of the Bodhisattva." No Donation Required: The temple does not solicit donations; donations are entirely voluntary, reflecting a spirit of acceptance and freedom. Integrating Buddhist teachings into daily life: From the selection of building materials and courtyard design to the copying of scriptures and the burning of fragrant herbs (replacing traditional incense), every aspect showcases the delicate ingenuity of integrating Buddhist principles into modern life. Bodhisattva Temple is more than just a temple; it is an urban sanctuary that guides modern people to slow down, become aware of their inner selves, and connect with nature.