Japanese Buddhist Temple
Beacons for world peace
This is a Nipponzan Myohoji Temple. Nipponzan Myohoji is a Buddhist order founded in Japan in 1917 by the Most Venerable Nichidatsu Fujii. After Japan experienced the nuclear holocaust of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Ven. Fujii led the construction of Peace Pagodas in Japan and then throughout the whole world. They were to stand as beacons for world peace.
The Peace Pagoda to the north of the this Temple at Willen Lake was the first to be built in the West. It symbolised the presence of Buddha and represents the efforts the Nipponzan Myohoji order continue to make towards a peaceful world. The monks and nuns walk the world giving witness for peace, making their presence known at regional conflict points and continuously supporting the peace efforts of others.
In 1980, the Ven. Fujii was asked by a sceptical journalist whether the Peace Pagoda in Milton Keynes could possibly help end the Cold War. He said: "Of course it will." Ten years later, the Iron Curtain collapsed.
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| pic by Jane Brown |
Design and Construction
This Temple is unique, a testament to the commitment of the Nipponzan Myohoji order to Milton Keynes and its people. It was designed by the lateProfessor Ohka in association with Tom Hancock FRIBA, and is loosely based on the traditional form of Fudo Hall, Kongobu-ji at Mount Koya, Japan. The building also serves as a small monastery with residential accommodation.
Nipponzan Myohoji monks and nuns began their construction here in the 1980s supported by volunteers from all over the world. Work continued until the Temple's inauguration on June 20, 2004, the entire effort being underwritten by Milton Keynes Development Corporation and later The Parks Trust. Today, volunteers from the local community help maintain the grounds and assist with a host of other activities within the Temple. The Parks Trust have now granted the monks and nuns of the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist order a 1000 year lease on the land.
There is a long tradition in Japan of buildings and gardens being designed in harmony. The result is a setting which encourages peaceful feelings and contemplation. This Temple is no exception: you are most welcome to visit the gardens and look inside the Temple.
Prayers take place daily at 5-6.30am and 5-6.30pm. All are welcome to attend.