Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, Kaohsiung

The temple and monastery are situated in a big area with major two parts, one part is dedicated to the Lord Buddha's temple with a museum, restaurants, and a park, while another part is a shrine, lodge for travelers, monastery, and a temple of lord Buddha. The temple and a monastery are good and spiritual places to visit free of cost. They have a vegetarian buffet which is well managed by the temple priest and it cost 150 per person. They also have Starbucks and many more stores. A big parking space is available. It is one of the tops tourists place in the city and highly recommend. But don't rely on public transportation, it is poorly managed by the government. It's better to rent or bring your transportation.

Good place to visit. You will get to know about the history of Buddha as well as this famous architecture. There is delicious vegetarian buffet which is unlimited, a good options for vegetarians. Also, I visited a tea house which is inside the temple. Staff is friendly here. But you have to take care of your own conveyance because public transportation sucks nowadays in Taiwan. It’s better to book a taxi or rent a scooter. Place is worth to visit.

Such an awesomely huge museum, and with free entrance ticket, definitely a must visit even if you're not Buddhist. The monks and the employees are all incredibly helpful and friendly, even if you understand nothing, they'll understand and guide you slowly. I'd suggest to spare a whole day, if not two days for this place. You will also need to bring your own snacks or food, or else the available restaurants are the ones provided inside only (and in my understanding, most are vegetarian but i might be wrong). Don't forget to check the website for more information, especially regarding special events. I was lucky to saw the lion dance and the parade, so much fun! This museum allows you to learn so much about Buddhism and who is Siddharta Gautama. The only downside is although there are public transportations, please don't forget to check the latest bus so you don't miss it. Once you miss it and you don't have any transportation, it'll be hard to go back as it is quite in a secluded area.

The size of this place is difficult to fathom from looking at the photos. Although I am told that it is often busy, when I was there it was almost empty - giving me the opportunity to talk with some of the very friendly workers and monks there - who all helped to create a feeling of inclusion and peace. Highly recommend visiting here when you can!

Such a memorable experience and I consider one of the highlights of our trip to Taiwan. I am extremely amazed how the modern day Buddhists made efforts in communicating their faith to humanity from the temple structures to its detailed museum. From the hardships in building this temple to its profound marvel now, truly a wonder! Do good deeds. Speak good words. Think good thoughts.