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  • Chanting Ceremony - Often performed for weddings and other auspicious occasions as a part of the Buddhist tradition in Laos.  Lao Buddhism is a unique version of Theravada Buddhism and is at the basis of Lao culture. Buddhism in Laos is often closely tied to animist beliefs and belief in ancestral spirits, particularly in rural areas.
    buddhist-chanting.jpg
  • Marking the beginning of the three month Buddhist Lent,  monks go on retreat during this time to practice meditation.  To mark the beginning of this period, many temples organize offerings of giant candles to the monks, while other temples have processions where worshippers offer flowers. The classic flower offered is "dancing lady ginger" globba winitti.
    buddhist-lent-12.jpg
  • Marking the beginning of the three month Buddhist Lent,  monks go on retreat during this time to practice meditation.  To mark the beginning of this period, many temples organize offerings of giant candles to the monks, while other temples have processions where worshippers offer flowers. The classic flower offered is "dancing lady ginger" globba winitti.
    buddhist-lent-11.jpg
  • Marking the beginning of the three month Buddhist Lent,  monks go on retreat during this time to practice meditation.  To mark the beginning of this period, many temples organize offerings of giant candles to the monks, while other temples have processions where worshippers offer flowers. The classic flower offered is "dancing lady ginger" globba winitti.
    buddhist-lent-05.jpg
  • Playful Novice Monks - emple School Novice Monks - Buddhism is the primary religion of Laos. The Buddhism practiced in Laos is of the Theravada tradition. Lao Buddhism is a unique version of Theravada Buddhism and is at the basis of Lao culture. Buddhism in Laos is often closely tied to animist beliefs and belief in ancestral spirits, particularly in rural areas
    lao-monks-4.jpg
  • Playful Novice Monks - emple School Novice Monks - Buddhism is the primary religion of Laos. The Buddhism practiced in Laos is of the Theravada tradition. Lao Buddhism is a unique version of Theravada Buddhism and is at the basis of Lao culture. Buddhism in Laos is often closely tied to animist beliefs and belief in ancestral spirits, particularly in rural areas
    lao-monks-3.jpg
  • Monks at Khao Wang - Thai Monks climbing Khao Wang Hill - Phra Nakhon Khiri is a historical park in Phetchaburi located on a hill overlooking the city. Phra Nakhon Khiri means "Holy City Hill" but locals know it better as Khao Wang, meaning hill with palace.  The park consists of three building groups, located on the three peaks of the 92 meter high hill. On the western peak is the actual palace with adjoining structures. The middle or central peak is a big chedi named Phra That Chom Phet. The eastern peak houses the Wat Phra Kaeo, the royal temple, built in similar fashion to the Wat Phra Kaeo in Bangkok. The whole complex was built as a summer palace by King Mongkut, with construction finished in 1860. The site was registered as a historical park on August 27, 1979, with two of the palace buildings now housing a branch of the Thai National Museum.Ho Chatchawan Wiang Chai was used as an observatory.
    khao-wang-monks.jpg
  • Tibetan Novice Monks taking a break from their kora circumnavigation at Barkhor Square.
    tibetan-monks-3.jpg
  • Tibetan Monks having a chat on the streets of Lhasa at Barkhor Square
    tibetan-monks-1.jpg
  • Monks at Khao Wang - Phra Nakhon Khiri is a historical park in Phetchaburi located on a hill overlooking the city. The name Phra Nakhon Khiri means Holy City Hill, but locals know it better as Khao Wang, meaning hill with palace.  The park consists of three building groups, located on the three peaks of the 92 meter high hill. On the western peak is the actual palace with adjoining structures. The middle or central peak is a big chedi named Phra That Chom Phet. The eastern peak houses the Wat Phra Kaeo, the royal temple, built in similar fashion to the Wat Phra Kaeo in Bangkok. The whole complex was built as a summer palace by King Mongkut, with construction finished in 1860. The site was registered as a historical park on August 27, 1979, with two of the palace buildings now housing a branch of the Thai National Museum.Ho Chatchawan Wiang Chai was used as an observatory.
    khao-wang-monks-1.jpg
  • Monks Collecting Alms - the respect given by a lay Buddhist to a Buddhist monk or nun is not charity as presumed by Western eyes but closer to a symbolic connection to the spiritual showing humility and respect.  The presence of so many Buddhist monks is a stabilizing influence in Lao society and the act of alms-giving helps connects lay people to the monk.
    luang-prabang-alms-1.jpg
  • Monks Collecting Alms - the respect given by a lay Buddhist to a Buddhist monk or nun is not charity as presumed by Western eyes but it is closer to a symbolic connection to the spiritual showing humility and respect.  The presence of so many Buddhist monks is a stabilizing influence in Lao society and the act of alms giving assists in connecting lay people to the monk and what he represents.
    vientiane-alms-1.jpg
  • Monks Collecting Alms - the respect given by a lay Buddhist to a Buddhist monk or nun is not charity as presumed by Western eyes but it is closer to a symbolic connection to the spiritual showing humility and respect.  The presence of so many Buddhist monks is a stabilizing influence in Lao society and the act of alms giving assists in connecting lay people to the monk and what he represents.
    vientiane-alms-2.jpg
  • In Buddhism, alms or giving alms is the respect given by a lay Buddhist to a Buddhist monk or nun. It is not charity as presumed by Western eyes. It is closer to a symbolic connection to the spiritual and to show humility and respect.  The visible presence of monks and nuns is a stabilizing influence in Lao society. The act of alms giving assists in connects lay people to the monk and what he represents.
    luang-prabang-alms-3.jpg
  • In Buddhism, alms or giving alms is the respect given by a lay Buddhist to a Buddhist monk or nun. It is not charity as presumed by Western eyes. It is closer to a symbolic connection to the spiritual and to show humility and respect.  The visible presence of monks and nuns is a stabilizing influence in Lao society. The act of alms giving assists in connects lay people to the monk and what he represents.
    luang-prabang-alms-2.jpg
  • Japanese Zen Monks at Daitokuji Temple.  The schools of Zen that currently exist in Japan are the Soto, Rinzai, and Obaku. Of these, Soto is the largest and Obaku the smallest. Rinzai is itself divided into several subschools based on temple affiliation, including Myoshin-ji, Nanzen-ji, Tenryu-ji, Daitoku-ji, and Tofuku-ji.  These monks are entering Daitoku-ji Temple in Kyoto.
    zen-monk-3.jpg
  • Monks chanting at Daikakuji - an Esoteric Buddhism temple in Saga, Kyoto that was once the villa of Emperor Saga. Monks encircle the pond and temple precincts, chanting at each respective stage.  The temple inherited the beliefs of the monk Kukai also known as Kobo-Daishi.  Also, a school of ikebana, the Saga Goryu, maintains its headquarters in the temple.
    daikakuji-3.jpg
  • Chanting Monks at Daikakuji - Daikakuji is an Esoteric Buddhism temple in Saga, Kyoto. It was once a villa of Emperor Saga.  The temple inherited the doctrine of the monk Kukai, also known as Kobo-Daishi, whose faith Emperor Saga embraced.  A school of ikebana, the Saga Goryu, maintains its headquarters in the temple.
    daikakuji-5.jpg
  • Ninnaji Temple Monks - Ninnaji is one of Kyoto's most interesting temples with a large variety of extraordinary buildings & gardens on its spacious grounds. Among the numerous buildings on the grounds are elegant palace style buildings surrounded by beautiful Japanese gardens, a five storied pagoda, various temple halls, a massive entrance gate, bell tower and tea houses.  It was the first imperial temple in Kyoto and  now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    ninnaji-3.jpg
  • Monks on Chao Phrya River Ferry - n Bangkok, the Chao Phraya is a major transportation artery for a vast network of ferries and water taxis, also known as longtails. More than 15 boat lines operate on the river and canals of the city, including commuter ferry lines.
    chao-phrya-river-8.jpg
  • Many Japanese Buddhist monks make their pilgrimage to Koyasan as well as the many other "henro" or white-clad pilgrims making their way from temple to temple.  Though the most famous trail in Japan is around Shikoku Island's 88 temples, for many pilgrims Koya-san is the final stop.
    japanese-monks-1.jpg
  • Many Japanese Buddhist monks make their pilgrimage to Koyasan as well as the many other "henro" or white-clad pilgrims making their way from temple to temple.  Though the most famous trail in Japan is around Shikoku Island's 88 temples, Koya-san is another hot spot.
    japanese-monks-1.jpg
  • Young Novice Collecting Alms - In Buddhism, giving alms is a show of respect given by a lay Buddhist to a Buddhist monk. It is not charity as presumed by Western eyes. It is closer to a symbolic connection to the spiritual and to show humility and respect.  The visible presence of monks is a stabilizing influence in Lao society. The act of alms giving connects lay people to monks, what he represents and to Buddhism itself.
    lao-monk-6.jpg
  • Monk Attending Buddhist Alter - Buddhism is the primary religion of Laos. The Buddhism practiced in Laos is of the Theravada tradition. Lao Buddhism is a unique version of Theravada Buddhism and is at the basis of Lao culture. Buddhism in Laos is often closely tied to animist beliefs and belief in ancestral spirits, particularly in rural areas
    lao-monk-9.jpg
  • Alms Bowl - In Buddhism, alms is a part of the respect given by a lay Buddhist to a Buddhist monk or nun. It is not charity as presumed by Western eyes. It is closer to a symbolic connection to the spiritual and to show humility and respect.  The visible presence of monks and nuns is a stabilizing influence in Lao society. The act of alms giving assists in connects lay people to the monk and what he represents.
    alms-bowl.jpg
  • Monk Going Online - Even the clergy has to keep in touch with the rest of the world and Laotian monks are certainly no exception, especially when most temples usually double as schools in Laos.
    lao-monk-2.jpg
  • Young Lao novice monk adjusting his cap - Buddhism is the primary religion of Laos.  Lao Buddhism is a unique version of Theravada Buddhism and is at the basis of Lao culture. Buddhism in Laos is often closely tied to animist beliefs and belief in ancestral spirits, particularly in rural areas
    lao-monk-5.jpg
  • Temple School Novice Monks at Wat Siphoutthabat - Most male Lao youths spend time in a temple or monastery, before becoming adults.   The Buddhism practiced in Laos is of the Theravada tradition,  a  version of Theravada Buddhism and the foundation of Lao culture.
    lao-monk-1.jpg
  • Chanting at morning prayers - Koya-san is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Ekoin is one of the most popular temples for this for foreign visitors.  One reason is that most of the young monks speak English, and Ekoin is well accustomed to foreign visitors.  Also Ekoin has morning prayer services and fire burning ceremonies that visitors can observe.
    koyasan-morning-prayers-1.jpg
  • Japanese Monk at Daitokuji  - The schools of Zen that currently exist in Japan are the Soto, Rinzai, and Obaku. In the year 1410 a Zen Buddhist monk from Nanzenji, a large temple complex in Kyoto wrote out a landscape poem and had a painting done of the scene described by the poem. Then, following the prevailing custom of his day, he gathered responses to the images by asking prominent fellow monks and government officials to inscribe it, thereby creating a shigajiku poem and painting scroll. Such scrolls emerged as a preeminent form of elite Japanese culture in the last two decades of the fourteenth century, a golden age in the phenomenon now known as Japanese Zen culture
    zen-monk-1.jpg
  • Buddhism is the primary religion of Laos. The Buddhism practiced in Laos is of the Theravada tradition. Lao Buddhism is a unique version of Theravada Buddhism and is at the basis of Lao culture. Buddhism in Laos is often closely tied to animist beliefs and belief in ancestral spirits, particularly in rural areas
    lao-monk-8.jpg
  • Lao novice monk adjusting his robes at Wat That Noi in Luang Prabang. Buddhism practiced in Laos is a unique version of Theravada Buddhism and is at the root of Lao culture. Buddhism in Laos is often closely tied to animist beliefs and belief in ancestral spirits, particularly in rural areas.
    lao-monk-3.jpg
  • Morning Prayer Drums -  Koyasan is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Ekoin is one of the most suitable temples for this for foreign visitors as the young monks speak English, and due to the high cost, guests can opt out of meals as a way to save on their bill.
    koyasan-morning-prayers-4.jpg
  • Cambodian Buddhist monks taking in the fresh air along Sisowath Quay in Phnom Penh.  The riverfront road is lined with dozens of restaurants and bars offering curbside seating and a range of hotels and guesthouses, some with riverside views.
    sisowath-quay-1.jpg
  • Morning Prayer Drums -  Koyasan is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Ekoin is one of the most popular temples for this for foreign visitors.  One reason is that most of the young monks speak English, and Ekoin is well accustomed to foreign visitors.  Also Ekoin has morning prayer services and fire burning ceremonies that visitors can observe.
    koyasan-morning-prayers-4.jpg
  • Temple School at Wat Siphoutthabat -  Lao Buddhism is a unique version of Theravada Buddhism and is at the basis of Laotian culture. Buddhism in Laos is often closely tied to animistic beliefs as well as ancestral spirits, particularly in rural areas.  Nearlly all Lao young men become novice monks for a short period in their lives as a part of their upbringing and coming-of-age. Many temples in Laos serve as schools, such as this one.
    temple-school.jpg
  • Ninnaji is one of Kyoto's most interesting temples, with a large variety of extraordinary buildings and gardens on its spacious grounds. Among the numerous buildings on the temple grounds, are elegant palace style buildings surrounded by beautiful Japanese gardens, a five storied pagoda, various temple halls, a massive entrance gate, bell tower and tea houses.  It was the first imperial temple in Kyoto, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    ninnaji-2.jpg
  • Fire ceremony at Ekoin in Koya-san. There are temples and shrines that have accommodation facilities called shukubo in Japan that attract attention not only as places to stay, but as places that let you experience Japanese culture.  Koya-san is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Ekoin is one of the most popular temples for this for foreign visitors.  One reason is that most of the young monks speak English, and Ekoin is well accustomed to foreign visitors.  Also Ekoin has morning prayer services and fire burning ceremonies that visitors can observe.
    koyasan-fire-ceremony-2.jpg
  • Fire ceremony at Ekoin in Koya-san. Goma taki involves burning wooden plaques with prayers written on them as monks chant. Guests are asked to write their wishes on wooden plaques to be burned in the fire to burn away  excess desires; and to achieve a simple life. Fire destroys negative energies and purifies the mind, body and spirit. The fire burning ceremony is unique to the Shingon sect of Buddhism.
    koyasan-fire-ceremony-2.jpg
  • Banging the temple drums -  Lao Buddhism is a unique version of Theravada Buddhism and is at the very basis of Lao culture. Buddhism in Laos is often closely tied to animist beliefs and belief in ancestral spirits, particularly in rural areas.
    lao-monks-1.jpg
  • Marking the beginning of the three month Buddhist Lent,  monks go on retreat during this time to practice meditation.  To mark the beginning of this period, many temples organize offerings of giant candles to the monks, while other temples have processions where worshippers offer flowers. The classic flower offered is "dancing lady ginger" globba winitti.
    buddhist-lent-02.jpg
  • Marking the beginning of the three month Buddhist Lent,  monks go on retreat during this time to practice meditation.  To mark the beginning of this period, many temples organize offerings of giant candles to the monks, while other temples have processions where worshippers offer flowers. The classic flower offered is "dancing lady ginger" globba winitti.
    buddhist-lent-03.jpg
  • Thai Monk Collecting Alms -  Most activities are carried out on the Mae Klong River or the connecting canals in the Amphawa area. This includes monks traveling from temple to temple, and collecting alms on the morning rounds. The respect given by a lay Buddhist to a Buddhist monk or nun is not charity as presumed by Westerners but it is closer to a symbolic connection showing humility and respect. The presence of so Buddhist monks is a stabilizing influence in Thai society and the act of alms giving assists in connecting lay people to the monk and what he represents.
    amphawa-alms-1.jpg
  • Thai Monk Collecting Alms -  Most activities are carried out on the Mae Klong River or the connecting canals in the Amphawa area. This includes monks traveling from temple to temple, and collecting alms on the morning rounds. The respect given by a lay Buddhist to a Buddhist monk or nun is not charity as presumed by Westerners but it is closer to a symbolic connection showing humility and respect. The presence of so Buddhist monks is a stabilizing influence in Thai society and the act of alms giving assists in connecting lay people to the monk and what he represents.
    amphawa-alms-4.jpg
  • Thai Monk Collecting Alms - Most activities are carried out on the Mae Klong River or the connecting canals in the Amphawa area. This includes monks traveling from temple to temple, and collecting alms on the morning rounds. The respect given by a lay Buddhist to a Buddhist monk or nun is not charity as presumed by Westerners but it is closer to a symbolic connection showing humility and respect. The presence of so Buddhist monks is a stabilizing influence in Thai society and the act of alms giving assists in connecting lay people to the monk and what he represents.
    amphawa-alms-3.jpg
  • Thai Monk Collecting Alms - Most activities are carried out on the Mae Klong River or the connecting canals in the Amphawa area. This includes monks traveling from temple to temple, and collecting alms on the morning rounds. The respect given by a lay Buddhist to a Buddhist monk or nun is not charity as presumed by Westerners but it is closer to a symbolic connection showing humility and respect. The presence of so Buddhist monks is a stabilizing influence in Thai society and the act of alms giving assists in connecting lay people to the monk and what he represents.
    amphawa-alms-5.jpg
  • 22.1 Enryakuji Marathon Monks 回峰行 Monks 'circling the mountain’ is a tradition at Mt Hiei and Enryakuji and goes back to the practice of the warrior monks of old.  Enryakuji has always been known for its esoteric and austere mountain practices. Devotion and selflessness are what’s important in the Tendai Sect of Buddhist and it is thought that this can be achieved by circling the mountain on foot as the ultimate expression of devotion. These practices include a twelve year course of circling Mt Heiei before dawn, and finally fasting for ten days without water or sleep.  Very few monks have ever completed this goal in the temple's history, yet many still make the attempt.
    22..KYOTO-ENRYAKUJI-03.jpg
  • Novice Banging the Temple Bell at Wat Siphoutthabat - Buddhism is the primary religion of Laos. The Buddhism practiced in Laos is of the Theravada tradition. Lao Buddhism is a unique version of Theravada Buddhism and is at the basis of Lao culture. Buddhism in Laos is often closely tied to animist beliefs and belief in ancestral spirits, particularly in rural areas
    lao-monk-4.jpg
  • Angkor Wat Monks - Angkor was built for the king Suryavarman II in the early 12th century as his state temple and capital city. As the best preserved temple at Angkor Archeological Park, it is the only one to have remained a significant religious centre since its foundation - first Hindu dedicated to the god Vishnu, then Buddhist. It is the world's largest religious building. The temple is admired for the grandeur and harmony of the architecture, its extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous guardian spirits adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "City Temple"; Angkor which comes from the Sanskrit word meaning capital or city. Wat is the Khmer word for temple. Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder, Suryavarman II.
    Angkor-Wat-2.jpg
  • Monks at Wat Phra Pathom  -  At 120 meters this massive brick stupa is the largest in the world. It also claims to being Thailand's oldest Buddhist temple, dating back to the 6th century, although the present structure is mostly the handiwork of King Mongkut and his successors. The stupa is said to house a relic of the Buddha, but you can circumambulate the chedi in the inner courtyard.  The temple is officially called Phra Pathommachedi and is located in the town of Nakhon Pathom. The name Phra Pathommachedi means Holy Chedi of the Beginning.
    wat-phra-nakhon-10.jpg
  • Monks at Wat Phra Pathom - At 120 meters this massive brick stupa is the largest in the world. It also claims to being Thailand's oldest Buddhist temple, dating back to the 6th century, although the present structure is mostly the handiwork of King Mongkut and his successors. The stupa is said to house a relic of the Buddha, but you can circumambulate the chedi in the inner courtyard. The temple is officially called Phra Pathommachedi and is located in the town of Nakhon Pathom. The name Phra Pathommachedi means Holy Chedi of the Beginning.
    wat-phra-nakhon-08.jpg
  • Cambodian Monks at Neak Pean - Neak Pean "The entwined serpents" is built on an artificial island with a Buddhist temple on a circular island and was constructed during the reign of King Jayavarman VII.  The temple and lake represent Anavatapta - a mythical lake in the Himalayas - with waters that are believe to cure illnesses. Neak Pean was set up for medical purposes.  The ancients believed that going into the pools would cure diseases based on the ancient Hindu belief of balance. Four connected pools represent Water, Earth, Fire and Wind. The stone statues in pavilions are meant to represent the heads of the Four Great Animals.
    neak-pean-7.jpg
  • Cambodian Monks at Neak Pean "The entwined serpents" -  built on an artificial island with a Buddhist temple on a circular island and was constructed during the reign of King Jayavarman VII.  The temple and lake represent Anavatapta - a mythical lake in the Himalayas - with waters that are believe to cure illnesses. Neak Pean was set up for medical purposes.  The ancients believed that going into the pools would cure diseases based on the ancient Hindu belief of balance. Four connected pools represent Water, Earth, Fire and Wind. The stone statues in pavilions are meant to represent the heads of the Four Great Animals.
    neak-pean-2.jpg
  • Young Japanese novice monk with cymbols during morning prayers at Ekoin, where visitors can observe and experience Zen Buddhism at Koyasan.
    koyasan-morning-prayers-2.jpg
  • Young Japanese novice monk with cymbols during morning prayers at Ekoin, where visitors can observe and experience Zen Buddhism at Koyasan.
    koyasan-morning-prayers-2.jpg
  • Buddhism originated in India and spread worldwide. Today there are many different sects that have evolved from the two main branches of Buddhism. Koyasan Shingon Buddhism is one of the eighteen schools in Shingon Sect of Japanese Buddhism..Koyasan holds two major holy areas that essential to the doctrines of Shingon Buddhism. One is Okunoin, the heart of the faith, where the Mausoleum of Kobo Daishi is enshrined. The other is Danjo Garan, the precinct for religious practices. The doctrines and the tradition of Koyasan Shingon Buddhism are still carried on in this sacred mountain in the same ways that they did since 816.
    japanese-monks-2.jpg
  • Buddhism originated in India and spread worldwide. Today there are many different sects that have evolved from the two main branches of Buddhism. Koyasan Shingon Buddhism is one of the eighteen schools in Shingon Sect of Japanese Buddhism..Koyasan holds two major holy areas that essential to the doctrines of Shingon Buddhism. One is Okunoin, the heart of the faith, where the Mausoleum of Kobo Daishi is enshrined. The other is Danjo Garan, the precinct for religious practices. The doctrines and the tradition of Koyasan Shingon Buddhism are still carried on in this sacred mountain in the same ways that they did since 816.
    japanese-monks-2.jpg
  • Wat Siphoutthabat, Banging a Gong -   Buddhism  in Laos is a unique version of Theravada Buddhism and is at the very basis of Lao culture. Buddhism in Laos is often closely tied to animist beliefs and belief in ancestral spirits, particularly in rural areas.
    lao-monks-2.jpg
  • Novice Ringing the Temple Bell -  The type of Buddhism practiced in Laos is a unique version of Theravada Buddhism which is at the basis of Lao culture. Buddhism in Laos is often tied to animist beliefs and in ancestral spirits.  It is usual for most Lao boys to go into a temple for a period of time, usually a month or six weeks at least, before adulthood.
    lao-monk-7.jpg
  • Luang Prabang Palace official name "Haw Kham" in Luang Prabang was built in 1904 during the French colonial era for King Sisavang Vong and his family.  After the death of King Sisavang Vong, the Crown Prince Savang Vatthana and his family were the last to occupy the grounds. In 1975, the monarchy was overthrown by the communist government and the Royal Family were taken to reeducation camps. The palace was then converted into a national museum.
    royal-palace-luang-prabang.jpg
  • 15. Ninnaji 仁和寺 has always had strong imperial and aristocratic connections, as it was founded by Emperor Uda.  Since the time of Uda the temple has been headed by an imperial prince, which endowed Ninnaji with many buildings and gardens on its spacious grounds. Among the buildings on the temple grounds that have survived to the present day are elegant palace-style buildings surrounded by Japanese gardens, various temple halls, a massive entrance gate, belltower and tea houses.  Its five story pagoda dominates the entire scene. Ninnaji was the first imperial temple in Kyoto and it is still an active temple rather than a mere tourist attraction.
    15.KYOTO.NINNAJI-01.jpg
  • Monk at Wat Phra Pathom - At 120 meters this massive brick stupa is the largest in the world. It also claims to being Thailand's oldest Buddhist temple, dating back to the 6th century, although the present structure is mostly the handiwork of King Mongkut and his successors. The stupa is said to house a relic of the Buddha, but you can circumambulate the chedi in the inner courtyard. The temple is officially called Phra Pathommachedi and is located in the town of Nakhon Pathom. The name Phra Pathommachedi means Holy Chedi of the Beginning.
    wat-phra-nakhon-11.jpg
  • 52.5 Ceremonies at Ekoin 恵光院 a temple with accommodation facilities called shukubo for pilgrims and visitors.  Such temples encourage guests to experience Japanese culture.  Koyasan is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Ekoin has morning prayer services and fire burning ceremonies that visitors can observe.
    52.5.KII-KOYASAN-06.jpg
  • Kobo Daishi is the posthumous name of Kukai one of Japan’s most renowned Buddhist monks.  He was known for being a poet, calligrapher, engineerscholar, artist and perhaps most importantly the master who propagated Buddhist teaching and education in general in Japan. He standardized, developed and popularized kana scipt so that the masses could learn to read without having to known thousands of kanji or Chinese characters.  His family were members of the artistocracy of the Saeki family a branch of the ancient Otomo clan. At the age of 15 his studies in Chinese classics began, then went on to study at Nara, at the time the capital of Japan. In Nara he became disillustioned with Confucianism and devoted himself to Buddhist studies, the temples in Nara possessed libraries though he needed more and so embarked for Chines to study under Master Huiguo in Xian at Xi Ming Temple.
    kobo-daishi-statue.jpg
  • Kobo Daishi is the posthumous name of Kukai one of Japan’s most renowned Buddhist monks.  He was known for being a poet, calligrapher, engineerscholar, artist and perhaps most importantly the master who propagated Buddhist teaching and education in general in Japan. He standardized, developed and popularized kana scipt so that the masses could learn to read without having to known thousands of kanji or Chinese characters.  His family were members of the artistocracy of the Saeki family a branch of the ancient Otomo clan. At the age of 15 his studies in Chinese classics began, then went on to study at Nara, at the time the capital of Japan. In Nara he became disillustioned with Confucianism and devoted himself to Buddhist studies, the temples in Nara possessed libraries though he needed more and so embarked for Chines to study under Master Huiguo in Xian at Xi Ming Temple.
    kobo-daishi-statue-2.jpg
  • 52.5 Ceremonies at Ekoin 恵光院 a temple with accommodation facilities called shukubo for pilgrims and visitors.  Such temples encourage guests to experience Japanese culture.  Koyasan is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Ekoin has morning prayer services and fire burning ceremonies that visitors can observe.
    52.5.KII-KOYASAN-05.jpg
  • Wat Umong or its complete name Wat Umong Suan Puthatham is a 700 year old temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand located against the mountains of Doi Suthep. Wat Umong is unique in that the resident monks live in a very natural setting, and even feed the deer that live in the area. There are tunnels with Buddhist images which can be explored. The tunnels were supposedly painted with bush scenes so they could keep a famous, but mentally deranged monk, within the grounds of the monastery as he had a habit of wandering off into the bush for days on end.   Adjacent to the temple compound is a Buddhist image "cemetery" where unused, damaged Buddhist images can be thrown away, believe to be the best method of disposing of them.
    wat-u-mong-5.jpg
  • Wat Umong or its complete name Wat Umong Suan Puthatham is a 700 year old temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand located against the mountains of Doi Suthep. Wat Umong is unique in that the resident monks live in a very natural setting, and even feed the deer that live in the area. There are tunnels with Buddhist images which can be explored. The tunnels were supposedly painted with bush scenes so they could keep a famous, but mentally deranged monk, within the grounds of the monastery as he had a habit of wandering off into the bush for days on end.   Adjacent to the temple compound is a Buddhist image "cemetery" where unused, damaged Buddhist images can be thrown away, believe to be the best method of disposing of them.
    wat-u-mong-4.jpg
  • A thangka is a painted or embroidered Buddhist banner which is hung in a monastery or a family altar and occasionally carried by monks in ceremonial processions. Sometimes a thangka is called a scroll painting.  Originally, thangka painting became popular among traveling monks because the scroll paintings were easily rolled and transported from monastery to monastery. These thangka served as important teaching tools depicting the life of the Buddha, various influential lamas and other deities and bodhisattvas. One popular subject is The Wheel of Life.
    thangka-lhasa.jpg
  • Wat Pan Tao meaning "to increase 1,000 times." The temple was built in the late fourteenth century and was one of four monastic temples serving the royal temple next door: Wat  Chedi Luang.. The temple's most interesting feature is its teak  wooden wiharn, which was formerly a royal residence but the practice in Lanna was for each new king to built a new palace. The old palaces were often 'recycled' into other uses, especially in temples. Over the main entry door on the east end of the chapel is a large gilded wood carving depicting a peacock flanked by several other animals, some of which are mythical. The peacock was the symbol of the kings of Chiang Mai; this carving has appeared on stamps and other materials celebrating Chiang Mai's 700th anniversary.
    wat-pan-tao-5.jpg
  • Like most temples in Thailand, Wat Pantao also serves as a school for novice monks.  Not only do temples in Thailand offer school instruction, but serve as neighborhood community centers as well.
    wat-pan-tao-1.jpg
  • Monk Clothing and Accessories shop - Barkhor Square is an area of narrow streets and a public square located around Jokhang Monastery in Lhasa. <br />
Barkor Square has been the most important devotional place for a circumabulation or "kora" for Tibetan pilgrims for centuries.  Most of the alleys have been demolished in recent years and replaced with wider streets by the Chinese government.
    barkhor-square-2.jpg
  • Gandantegchinlen Monastery is a Tibetan-style monastery in the Mongolian capital of Ulaan Baatar restored and revitalized since 1990. The Tibetan name translates to the "Great Place of Complete Joy". It currently has over 150 monks in residence.  Gandantegchinlen Khiid monastery was closed in 1938, but reopened in 1944 and was allowed to continue as the only functioning Buddhist monastery as a token to traditional Mongolian culture and religion. With the end of Marxism in Mongolia in 1990 restrictions on worship were lifted.
    gandan-monastery-2.jpg
  • Chanting Novice Monks at Wat Pan Tao - meaning "to increase 1,000 times." The temple was built in the late fourteenth century and was one of four monastic temples serving the royal temple next door: Wat  Chedi Luang.. The temple's most interesting feature is its teak  wooden wiharn, which was formerly a royal residence but the practice in Lanna was for each new king to built a new palace. The old palaces were often 'recycled' into other uses, especially in temples. Over the main entry door on the east end of the chapel is a large gilded wood carving depicting a peacock flanked by several other animals, some of which are mythical. The peacock was the symbol of the kings of Chiang Mai; this carving has appeared on stamps and other materials celebrating Chiang Mai's 700th anniversary.
    wat-pan-tao-3.jpg
  • Wat Doi Suthep - or its official name Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep is a Theravada Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The temple is often referred to as simply "Doi Suthep" although this is actually the name of the mountain it is located on. The temple is a sacred site to many Thai people.
    doi-suthep-3.jpg
  • Friendly Buddhist monk playing with his dog on the grounds of Bayon, Angkor Thom.
    cambodian-monk-1.jpg
  • Friendly Buddhist monk playing with his dog on the grounds of Bayon, Angkor Thom.
    cambodian-monk-2.jpg
  • In almost all Japanese homes, temples and restaurants, one can find fusuma, which slide from side to side to redefine spaces within a room, and also act as doors. They typically measure about the same size as a tatami mat, and are two or three centimeters thick. They consist of a wooden frame, covered in cardboard and a layer of paper. They typically have a black lacquer border and an indented door handle. Historically, fusuma were painted, often with scenes from nature such as mountains, forests or animals.
    fusuma-5.jpg
  • Novice monk serving temple food or Shojin Ryori, vegetarian cuisine at its finest consisting of pickled, seasonal vegetables, a variety of tofu dishes artfully arranged on lacquerware.  Staying in a temple overnight, especially in Koyasan, is one of the best ways to get to know Japanese culture.  Part of this is experiencing "shojin ryori"
    shojin-ryori-4.jpg
  • Novice monk serving temple food or Shojin Ryori, vegetarian cuisine at its finest consisting of pickled, seasonal vegetables, a variety of tofu dishes artfully arranged on lacquerware.  Staying in a temple overnight, especially in Koyasan, is one of the best ways to get to know Japanese culture.  Part of this is experiencing "shojin ryori"
    shojin-ryori-4.jpg
  • The magnificent statue of Hase Kannon is housed here for all to see and worship. It is 9 meters pr 30 feet tall and has eleven heads in addition to its main one - three in front, three to the left and three to the right, plus one at the top and another on the back. Each face has a different expression, signifying that the deity listens to the wishes of all types of people. Gold leaf was applied to the statue in 1342 and in 1392 the halo was added. Although Kannon is usually described in English as "the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy" strictly speaking it is neither masculine nor feminine and represents compassion, mercy, and love.
    hase-dera-kannon-1.jpg
  • The magnificent statue of Hase Kannon is housed here for all to see and worship. It is 9 meters pr 30 feet tall and has eleven heads in addition to its main one - three in front, three to the left and three to the right, plus one at the top and another on the back. Each face has a different expression, signifying that the deity listens to the wishes of all types of people. Gold leaf was applied to the statue in 1342 and in 1392 the halo was added. Although Kannon is usually described in English as "the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy" strictly speaking it is neither masculine nor feminine and represents compassion, mercy, and love.
    hase-dera-kannon-2.jpg
  • Wat Pan Tao meaning "to increase 1,000 times." The temple was built in the late fourteenth century and was one of four monastic temples serving the royal temple next door: Wat  Chedi Luang.. The temple's most interesting feature is its teak  wooden wiharn, which was formerly a royal residence but the practice in Lanna was for each new king to built a new palace. The old palaces were often 'recycled' into other uses, especially in temples. Over the main entry door on the east end of the chapel is a large gilded wood carving depicting a peacock flanked by several other animals, some of which are mythical. The peacock was the symbol of the kings of Chiang Mai; this carving has appeared on stamps and other materials celebrating Chiang Mai's 700th anniversary.
    wat-pan-tao-6.jpg
  • Adjacent to Wat Mahathat is Bangkok's biggest amulet market, where a fantastic array of religious amulets, charms, talismans and traditional medicine is sold..Here hundreds buyers and sellers squat on the ground, studying tiny images of the Buddha with magnifying glasses, hoping to find one that will bring good fortune or ward off evil. Each type of amulet brings a specific kind of luck: to get the girl, to pass your exams, to keep bugs out of your rice stock, or to ward off diseases or even your mother-in-law.
    bangkok-amulet-market-2.jpg
  • Sri Lankan Buddhist Monk - Buddhism in Sri Lanka is primarily of the Theravada school, and constitutes the religious faith of about 70% of the population.  According to traditional Sri Lankan chronicles Buddhism was introduced into Sri Lanka in the 2nd century BCE by Venerable Mahinda, the son of the Emperor Ashoka, during the reign of Sri Lanka's King Devanampiyatissa. During this time, a sapling of the Bodhi Tree was brought to Sri Lanka and the first monasteries were established under the sponsorship of the Sri Lankan king.
    sri-lankan-monk.jpg
  • Taizo-in, one of the many sub-temples at Miyoshinji Temple, is well-known for its spectacular Japanese gardens but also for opening its doors to visitors and casual tourists in order to teaching Zen Buddhism, including "Zen Experience" visits which include calligraphy sessions, tea ceremony, and a vegetarian lunch called shojin ryori - a special gourmet assortment of vegetarian dishes.
    taizo-in-19.jpg
  • Horagai are large conch shells, ordinarily using shells of Charonia tritonis, that are used as trumpets in Japan. The instrument has been used for several purposes throughout Japanese history, and consequently been given a number of Japanese names depending on its function. Special schools still teach students to play the traditional music associated with the conch. The conch shell is a spiritual symbol that has been used in many cultures throughout history including Buddhism. Together with the circle and the spiral, it is perhaps one of the oldest symbols used for esoteric wisdom. The ancients associated the conch shell with spiritual awakening in symbolism. Used as a horn in ancient times, it is typically associated with the sound used to wake people up, in a religious sense to awaken the senses and enlightenment.
    horagai-conch-03.jpg
  • Horagai are large conch shells, ordinarily using shells of Charonia tritonis, that are used as trumpets in Japan. The instrument has been used for several purposes throughout Japanese history, and consequently been given a number of Japanese names depending on its function. Special schools still teach students to play the traditional music associated with the conch. The conch shell is a spiritual symbol that has been used in many cultures throughout history including Buddhism. Together with the circle and the spiral, it is perhaps one of the oldest symbols used for esoteric wisdom. The ancients associated the conch shell with spiritual awakening in symbolism. Used as a horn in ancient times, it is typically associated with the sound used to wake people up, in a religious sense to awaken the senses and enlightenment.
    horagai-conch-02.jpg
  • Horagai are large conch shells, ordinarily using shells of Charonia tritonis, that are used as trumpets in Japan. The instrument has been used for several purposes throughout Japanese history, and consequently been given a number of Japanese names depending on its function. Special schools still teach students to play the traditional music associated with the conch. The conch shell is a spiritual symbol that has been used in many cultures throughout history including Buddhism. Together with the circle and the spiral, it is perhaps one of the oldest symbols used for esoteric wisdom. The ancients associated the conch shell with spiritual awakening in symbolism. Used as a horn in ancient times, it is typically associated with the sound used to wake people up, in a religious sense to awaken the senses and enlightenment.
    horagai-conch-01.jpg
  • Monk at Angkor Wat - built for the king Suryavarman II in the early 12th century.  Angkor is the only one to have remained a significant religious centre since its foundation.  First it was Hindu dedicated to the god Vishnu, then becoming Buddhist under other kings. The temple is admired for its grandeur and harmony  of architecture.
    angkor-monk-1.jpg
  • Although Vientiane is not known for its  temples and hundreds of monks wandering around like Luang Prabang, it still has more than its share of temples and monks, coming and going from schools, temples, chanting ceremonies and early morning alms visits.
    vientiane-monks-1.jpg
  • Henro on the Shikoku Pilgrimage - the Pilgrimage is a trail of 88 temples on Shikoku and is believed that all 88 temples were visited by the famous Buddhist monk Kukai, founder of the Shingon school, who was born at Zentsuji Temple in 774.  To complete the pilgrimage, it is not necessary to visit the temples in order.  The pilgrimage is traditionally completed on foot, but modern pilgrims use cars, taxis, buses, bicycles or motorcycles. The walking course is approximately 1200km long and can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days to complete. "Henro" is the Japanese word for pilgrim - they are recognizable by their white clothing,  special walking sticks with bells and sedge hats.
    henro-coast-10.jpg
  • Henro on the Shikoku Pilgrimage - the Pilgrimage is a trail of 88 temples on Shikoku and is believed that all 88 temples were visited by the famous Buddhist monk Kukai, founder of the Shingon school, who was born at Zentsuji Temple in 774.  To complete the pilgrimage, it is not necessary to visit the temples in order.  The pilgrimage is traditionally completed on foot, but modern pilgrims use cars, taxis, buses, bicycles or motorcycles. The walking course is approximately 1200km long and can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days to complete. "Henro" is the Japanese word for pilgrim - they are recognizable by their white clothing,  special walking sticks with bells and sedge hats.
    henro-coast-09.jpg
  • Henro on the Shikoku Pilgrimage - the Pilgrimage is a trail of 88 temples on Shikoku and is believed that all 88 temples were visited by the famous Buddhist monk Kukai, founder of the Shingon school, who was born at Zentsuji Temple in 774.  To complete the pilgrimage, it is not necessary to visit the temples in order.  The pilgrimage is traditionally completed on foot, but modern pilgrims use cars, taxis, buses, bicycles or motorcycles. The walking course is approximately 1200km long and can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days to complete. "Henro" is the Japanese word for pilgrim - they are recognizable by their white clothing,  special walking sticks with bells and sedge hats.
    henro-coast-07.jpg
  • Henro on the Shikoku Pilgrimage - the Pilgrimage is a trail of 88 temples on Shikoku and is believed that all 88 temples were visited by the famous Buddhist monk Kukai, founder of the Shingon school, who was born at Zentsuji Temple in 774.  To complete the pilgrimage, it is not necessary to visit the temples in order.  The pilgrimage is traditionally completed on foot, but modern pilgrims use cars, taxis, buses, bicycles or motorcycles. The walking course is approximately 1200km long and can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days to complete. "Henro" is the Japanese word for pilgrim - they are recognizable by their white clothing,  special walking sticks with bells and sedge hats.
    henro-trail-06.jpg
  • Henro on the Shikoku Pilgrimage - the Pilgrimage is a trail of 88 temples on Shikoku and is believed that all 88 temples were visited by the famous Buddhist monk Kukai, founder of the Shingon school, who was born at Zentsuji Temple in 774.  To complete the pilgrimage, it is not necessary to visit the temples in order.  The pilgrimage is traditionally completed on foot, but modern pilgrims use cars, taxis, buses, bicycles or motorcycles. The walking course is approximately 1200km long and can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days to complete. "Henro" is the Japanese word for pilgrim - they are recognizable by their white clothing,  special walking sticks with bells and sedge hats.
    henro-trail-01.jpg
  • Henro on the Shikoku Pilgrimage - the Pilgrimage is a trail of 88 temples on Shikoku and is believed that all 88 temples were visited by the famous Buddhist monk Kukai, founder of the Shingon school, who was born at Zentsuji Temple in 774.  To complete the pilgrimage, it is not necessary to visit the temples in order.  The pilgrimage is traditionally completed on foot, but modern pilgrims use cars, taxis, buses, bicycles or motorcycles. The walking course is approximately 1200km long and can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days to complete. "Henro" is the Japanese word for pilgrim - they are recognizable by their white clothing,  special walking sticks with bells and sedge hats.
    henro-trail-05.jpg
  • The Shikoku Pilgrimage is a trail of 88 temples on the island of Shikoku. It is believed all 88 temples were visited by the famous Buddhist monk Kukai, founder of the Shingon school, who was born in Zentsuji Temple in 774.  To complete the pilgrimage, it is not necessary to visit the temples in order.  The pilgrimage is traditionally completed on foot, but modern pilgrims use cars, taxis, buses, bicycles or motorcycles. The walking course is approximately 1200km long and can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days to complete. "Henro" is the Japanese word for pilgrim - they are recognizable by their white clothing, sedge hats, and walking sticks.
    henro-9.jpg
  • The Shikoku Pilgrimage is a trail of 88 temples on the island of Shikoku. It is believed all 88 temples were visited by the famous Buddhist monk Kukai, founder of the Shingon school, who was born in Zentsuji Temple in 774. To complete the pilgrimage, it is not necessary to visit the temples in order. The pilgrimage is traditionally completed on foot, but modern pilgrims use cars, taxis, buses, bicycles or motorcycles. The walking course is approximately 1200km long and can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days to complete. "Henro" is the Japanese word for pilgrim - they are recognizable by their white clothing, sedge hats, and walking sticks.
    o-settai-03.jpg
  • The Shikoku Pilgrimage is a trail of 88 temples on the island of Shikoku. It is believed all 88 temples were visited by the famous Buddhist monk Kukai, founder of the Shingon school, who was born in Zentsuji Temple in 774. To complete the pilgrimage, it is not necessary to visit the temples in order. The pilgrimage is traditionally completed on foot, but modern pilgrims use cars, taxis, buses, bicycles or motorcycles. The walking course is approximately 1200km long and can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days to complete. "Henro" is the Japanese word for pilgrim - they are recognizable by their white clothing, sedge hats, and walking sticks.
    shikoku-henro-10.jpg
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