十普寺

Over a century ago, this very ground bore witness to the aspirations of Japanese Buddhists. The Shipu Temple, originally known as the Liaojue Temple, stands as a testament to the passage of time and spiritual transformation. Founded in 1905, it served as a prominent center for the Japanese Jodo Shinshu Buddhism during the Japanese colonial period. However, after World War II, Chinese Buddhist practitioners took over the temple, renaming it Shipu Temple and shaping its identity anew. Today, it stands as a captivating blend of Chinese and Japanese architectural styles. The main temple building, a six-story structure, is still under construction. But the first floor is complete, showcasing the grandeur of the Three Saints of the West: Amitabha Buddha flanked by Guanyin Bodhisattva and Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva. You can almost feel the tranquility emanating from the golden-hued statues and intricate woodwork. As you gaze upon the temple, imagine the hands that laid each brick, fueled by devotion and a vision of peace in a turbulent world. Notice the statue of the temple’s founder, Venerable Baisheng, standing between the newer, grander main building and the older, five-story structure. He seems to watch over his creation, a silent testament to the enduring power of faith that transcends borders and time.