The Buddhist Temple in Foz do Iguaçu sits on the banks of the Paraná River and presents a spectacular display of Asian and Buddhist architecture. Set in a 42-acre (17-hectare) area of well-kept gardens, it is one of the largest Buddhist temples in Latin America. Built by the city’s Asian community in 1996, the temple is a place of peace and tranquility that honours Brazil’s cultural diversity.
The major highlight of the temple is its collection of over 120 statues. The most impressive is the 23-foot-tall (7-metre) sitting Buddha, which overlooks the river. Check out the 108 7-foot-tall (2-metre) identical yellow statues that stand in a courtyard in front of the temple. Each one represents a reincarnation of Buddha on earth. Note how they are positioned to face west toward the setting sun.
Other pieces worth investigating include four colourful bodhisattva statues supported by elephant and dragon replicas. These statues serve to protect the 108 Buddha reincarnations their hand gestures represent hospitality and positive energy. The temple building itself is a wonderful example of Buddhist architecture and is used as a place of meditation. It houses five sculptures that represent happiness and health. After admiring the statues, relax amid the peaceful confines of the temple’s landscaped gardens. The site offers uninterrupted views over the city and across the Paraná River to Ciudad del Este in Paraguay.
The temple is about a 15-minute drive north from the city centre of Foz do Iguaçu. Public buses travel to the temple from Foz do Iguaçu’s bus terminal. Alternatively, many hotels operate day tours of Foz do Iguaçu, including visits to the temple and Itaipu Dam.
Foz do Iguaçu’s Buddhist Temple is open from Tuesday through Sunday. The opening hours on Sundays are shorter than on other days. Admission to the temple is free. Access inside the temple is restricted, so ask upon arrival if you will be allowed to enter.
