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Being one of the famous temples in Pleiku City, Gia Lai Province, Minh Thanh Pagoda boasts a distinctive Japanese architectural style. It's not only a place for Buddhist worship and ceremonies but also a magnet for tourists.
Minh Thanh Pagoda – A unique architectural complex amidst the mountainous streets of Pleiku
Situated at 348 Nguyen Viet Xuan Street, Hoi Phu Ward, Minh Thanh Pagoda is influenced by both Chinese and Japanese architectural styles. Built in 1964 by Venerable Thich Giac Dao, it has become a place of worship and offering for Buddhists in the region.
The highlight of the pagoda that attracts many is its Japanese-inspired architecture. All these architectural features contribute to the pagoda's ancient and impressive appearance. From a distance, it resembles a miniature palace amidst the misty mountain streets of Pleiku.
Within the pagoda's premises, the statue of Bodhisattva Quan Yin is prominently placed amidst rows of trees and stone columns. On the way to the main hall, visitors will encounter large paintings depicting the teachings of Buddhist scriptures for devotees and sentient beings.
The temple courtyard is spacious and airy, adorned with charming landscapes, complemented by a serene pond, lush greenery, and blooming flowers, creating a harmonious and peaceful space amidst the solemn atmosphere of the temple.
In front of the main hall stands a stone statue of 18 Arhats. To the right of the main hall is a nine-story octagonal pagoda, alongside other structures such as ceremonial walkways, guest halls, and several construction projects underway. The Tu An Tower, dedicated to the founding patriarch, stands to the left of the main hall, boasting three tiers of ornate tiled roofs adorned with stylized dragons and lotus motifs. The finely crafted stone statue of Amitabha Buddha, standing 7.5 meters tall and weighing 40 tons, is revered amidst the Lotus Pond, surrounded by weeping willows.
Additionally, Minh Thanh Temple houses the largest bronze incense burner, standing 4 meters tall and weighing a hefty 4 tons, situated in front of the Lotus Pond.
Adjacent to the main hall is the 72-meter-tall nine-story octagonal pagoda, located to the left. Inside the pagoda are four statues of Celestial Guardians, towering 8 meters in height and 3.5 meters in width, intricately carved from Mitre wood. The first floor and subsequent tiers serve as places of worship for the Seven Buddhas and the Treasure of the Dharma, dedicated to the Buddha Shakyamuni. The pagoda's predominant color scheme of red and gold is vibrant and eye-catching.
Source: Mytour
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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour
MytourSeptember 30, 2022
