Foz do Iguaçu is a city with stunning scenery! Certainly an excellent option for those who do not dispense with contact with nature. In addition, there is a special place that is worth your visit: the Chen Tien Buddhist Temple.
Check it out in the article:
1- The history of Chen Tien Temple
2- main attractions
3- Visitation Rules
4- How to get to Chen Tien Buddhist Temple
5- Tips for Zen tours in Foz do Iguaçu
Chen Tien: A cultural immersion!
Foz do Iguaçu is made up of different ethnic groups and the legacy of each of them is spread throughout the city. Above all, the Temple preserves the eastern heritage of the region, combining the peace of Buddhist teachings and the beauty of the local sceneries.
Visiting the Buddhism temple is certainly the perfect decision for anyone who loves a good cultural tour and wants to experience a more zen day, and later, disconnect a little from the day-to-day rush.
Want to know more details about Chen Tien? Check here our tips to make your trip to Foz do Iguaçu even more special, with a tourist itinerary single! Let's go?
The History of Chen Tien Temple
First, the temple is located in a privileged region, on the banks of the Paraná River, Chen Tien was built in 1996 in a 50-hectare park by the Chinese community of Foz do Iguaçu.
By staying in a high place, it is possible to have a view of part of the center of the city of Foz do Iguaçu and also of Ciudad Del Este, in Paraguay.
Look how curious: the Chen Tien Buddhist Temple in Foz is the second largest in Latin America and houses an important center for Buddhist studies and meditation. Adherents follow the Buddhism of Pure Land and are devotees of Amitabha Buddha, the Buddha of Infinite Light.
Simplicity that delights!
Another curious fact about Chen Tien Buddhist Temple is its simple architecture.
Most Buddhist temples are built in the Dzong architectural style, for example, with stupas, pagodas, various details and colors. On the other hand, the Temple of Foz, has an architecture that refers to Buddhism, however, a little more minimalist. However, even this simplicity does not take away from Chen Tien's charm.
main attractions
First, upon arriving at the temple, the well-tended gardens are a highlight, as well as the collection of over 120 colorful statues scattered throughout them. As soon as you arrive at the Temple, you are greeted by the Smiling Buddha, also known as Buddha MilaPusa, standing 7 meters tall.
Buddha Amitabha
Second, in the center of the main square is Amitabha Buddha, the Buddha of Infinite Light. His statue is 10 meters high. O Temple is dedicated to his figure given his importance.
Amitabha's Mantra
Access to the statue is not allowed, on the other hand, there is a tradition that says that, reciting the mantra “Namo Amituofo” to Amitabha Buddha, it is possible to eliminate your sufferings, afflictions, attract wealth, longevity, health and harmony.
In this same square is the entrance to the Ksitigarbha Shrine, a two-story building that is a space consecrated to the Buddhas and serves as a residence for the Buddhist master.
Later, inside the sanctuary, there are 18 statues of Arahants: a term designated for those who have reached a state of enlightenment. These figures are considered the guardians of the Buddhist temple and are scattered throughout the main hall.
Beside the building is Shakyamuni Buddha — Siddhartha Gautama, the young Indian prince who abandoned everything he had in search of eternal happiness and is certainly considered the great master of Buddhism.
He is represented in his reclining form, a position that indicates Nirvana, in other words, a state of peace and tranquility achieved through wisdom.
Learn more about the Images Worshiped by Buddhism:
The Bodhisattvas
In the garden, there are still four statues of Bodhisattvas, enlightened beings who represent a spiritual awakening and present the main qualities of a Buddha.
Sitting on an elephant is the Bodhisattva statue of Samantabhadra, representing the great virtue of love and perfect activity. The statue of Manjushri is seated on a lion and represents great wisdom.
In addition, there is also the statue of Ksitigarbha, the stories tell that Ksitigarbha was on the path to becoming a Buddha, however he would not accept himself as long as there is a single soul on earth without the benefit of enlightenment.
And finally, the Bodhisattva, Avalokiteshvara, better known by her Chinese name Kwan Yin and represents great compassion.
In the same vein, symbolizing protection, there are also Fu Lions or Lions of Buddha. These guardians always have their eyes wide open and are supported by a sphere.
In addition, his two statues are positioned at the entrance to the Temple, as it is believed that these scare away evil spirits.
The 108 Amitabha
In addition to all the beauty of the large statues, there are 108 of them that draw a lot of attention with their 2.5 in height: They are the Amitabha.
Lined up towards the sunset, each represents a reincarnation of the Buddha on Earth. His hands are placed in gestures that symbolize meditation and welcome.
Visitation Rules
Firstly, because it is a religious place dedicated to contemplation and prayer. Therefore, regardless of your beliefs, you must respect this sacred territory for Buddhists when visiting.
It is recommended that the tour, which lasts about an hour, be done in silence.
Check below some requirements of the Temple to enjoy your visit:
What not to do:
One must not climb onto platforms, touch the statues, enter with bicycles, motorcycles, skates and animals, consume alcoholic beverages, have picnics in the gardens and finally, don't photograph the interior of the Temple.
In addition, for souvenirs or gifts, there is a shop selling souvenirs and handicrafts about Buddhism and Chen Tien Temple. There are also candles and papers to write your requests to the Buddhas.
Certainly, the Chen Tien Buddhist Temple is an excellent tour and an alternative to learn a little more about the Asian influence in our country.
Finally, it is a great place to relax and explore the spectacular views of Foz do Iguaçu from its gardens after venturing through the waterfalls of Iguaçu.
How to get to Chen Tien Buddhist Temple
Firstly, Chen Tien Temple is located far from the center of Foz do Iguacu, in the Porto Belo neighborhood, and it is possible to go by car, bus and City Tour packages.
By bus, take line 103 – Jardim das Flores – Porto Belo – at the Urban Transport Terminal and get off at a stop just a few meters from the entrance to the Temple. As it is a well-known tourist spot, collectors and drivers can let you know when you arrive.
Tourist agencies also offer packages, both for groups and private, with a city tour that includes a visit to the Temple.
If you go by car, Uber or Taxi, for example, the address is Rua Josivalter Vila Nova nº 99 and the contact number is (45) 3524-5566. Finally, visitation to the Sanctuary is allowed from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, with free admission.
If you liked the Chen Tien temple, see other options to include in your more Zen itinerary for your trip to Foz do Iguaçu. To help, here are some for you:
Tips for Zen tours in Foz do Iguaçu
Now that you know a little more about the charms of the Chen Tien Temple, see the tips for other tours Zen and cultural things to do in Foz do Iguaçu!
1- Sunset at Marco das 3 Fronteiras
First on the list: Marco das 3 Fronteiras is located in Foz do Iguaçu, on the triple border between Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina, but far beyond this incredible geographic experience, it still has a special touch, a splendid sunset!
O Sunset at Marco das 3 Fronteiras, in addition to being very grand, you experience applause in the sun, which for many can be a very important moment of gratitude, peace and good vibes.
Photo: Rafael Guimarães – @ofotografodefoz
2- Omar Ibn Al-Khatab Mosque
Secondly, following the itinerary of cultural and Zen tours in Foz do Iguaçu, we head to the Omar Ibn Al-Khatab Mosque, opened on March 23, 1983.
The Islamic Mosque has a Visitor Reception Center, which demonstrates the hospitality of the Islamic culture towards the other nations of the planet, in addition to having a beautiful architecture. It is worth checking!
3- Bird Park
And last but not least, another tourist spot that cannot be missing from your travel itinerary is certainly the visit to the Bird Park.
The Park is the only institution in the world focused on the conservation of the exuberant birds of the Atlantic Forest.
Offering an experience of interaction close, immersive and enchantingThe with birds, it is the perfect itinerary for those who love being in contact with nature and looking for an incredible destination!
Now that you know different cultural and zen itineraries to do in Foz do Iguacu, it's time to dive into this enchanting journey! Come with us?
