Ever heard of a replica that holds a tearful tale? That’s Taman Doa Our Lady of Akita in PIK 2 Jakarta. It is more than just a garden. This is a unique religious site. It offers a slice of Japan in Indonesia.
Taman Doa Our Lady of Akita is inspired by a miraculous event. It relates to the Our Lady of Akita statue in Japan. This statue reportedly wept 101 times. The tears occurred between 1975 and 1981. The Vatican investigated this phenomenon. In 1984, it was permitted to be honored.
This Jakarta garden is a replica of the Japanese site. The statue is a copy of the original weeping Maria. Ichiro Urano San, a witness to the weeping statue, created it. He is a wood expert.
The chapel can accommodate about 100 people. Its design features Japanese woodwork. Inside lies the replica of Our Lady of Akita. There are also statues of St. Joseph, St. Peregrinus, and St. Antonius Padua.
The Garden of the Lamb offers a unique Stations of the Cross. It features 14 stations. Each station is uniquely arranged. The Garden of Mary is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It showcases a statue of Our Lady of Akita. A small lake adorns its front. Local Muntilan stone experts crafted this statue.
The front of Taman Doa Our Lady of Akita mirrors Japan. The chapel and its surroundings evoke a Japanese atmosphere. At night, the lights enhance the beauty and serenity.
Romo Adi Prasojo hopes visitors will pray and remember God. He said this during the dedication mass. The garden provides a closer pilgrimage site for Indonesian Catholics. They no longer need to travel to Japan.
Taman Doa Our Lady of Akita is open to everyone. People can visit to admire the Japanese architecture. The chapel is open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM. The gift shop operates from 10 AM to 8 PM.
Visitors must remove their shoes before entering the chapel. This custom mirrors Japanese tradition. Respect and order are expected. Especially towards those who are worshiping. Touching the statues is prohibited. You can only look at them.
Taman Doa Our Lady of Akita offers more than just religious significance. It provides a tranquil escape. The site is a blend of cultures. It combines Japanese aesthetics with Indonesian devotion. It serves as a reminder of faith. It is a call to prayer.