When we talk about the Chinese area in Brisbane, Chinatown, the street in Fortitude Valley, comes first in mind. Sunnybank, for great food and a less touristy experience, comes second. But no one mentions the Chung Tian Temple. Hidden in the forest between Brisbane and Logan, we felt like we travelled to Asia for a couple of hours. How surprising!

garden - buddhist temple brisbane

I had no idea such a temple existed near Brisbane. Considering the diversity of cultures and the Asian influence in Brisbane, it doesn’t come out of the blue to find interesting places of worship like this.

For those who never had the chance to travel to Asia, it is a peaceful place where you can get the opportunity to learn more about the Buddhist culture.

The seven-level Temple Pagoda is an excellent example of traditional Chinese design. The gardens are also typical with many small statues and beautiful bonsai. Bonus: you also get the kangaroos, as a reminder that you are still in Australia!

We went there the day before Chinese New Year’s Eve. That’s most probably what caused the photo of the temple to appear in my social media timeline. They were preparing the place for the festivities on the next day. It was good to experience the temple in a quiet atmosphere, as Buddhism is so focused on meditation.

brisbane buddhist temple

The temples are fascinating to visit, but, unfortunately, there is not much information available during the tour. They organise guided tours, but for large groups only. Check their website to learn more about the place.

You can try Chinese Calligraphy in the Temple Pagoda. They also have a tea room for degustation or the Tea Ceremony.

We decided to go back on the next day for the event.

It felt like we were far away from Brisbane, from Australia.

orchestra

I loved the sensation; it was perfect for the occasion. The temple was a lot more lively, of course. They decorated the temple and prepared food and some activities to celebrate the New Year of the Monkey. We made a wish for “good health and longevity” and rang the Blessing Bell. The other options we had for the wish: Excel in Studies, Harmonious Family, Blissful Marriage, and High Achievement. I just thought that without the good health, we’d enjoy all the others a bit less.

We also participated in writing the Chinese word “Auspiciousness” using different Chinese Calligraphy styles of the word “Monkey”. We left after a concert by an orchestra playing only traditional Chinese instruments.

I like how welcome we felt there. They have great plans to develop the temple and although they do promote fundraising with boxes here and there and opportunities to “buy a wish”, you never feel that you have to give. It makes it such a better experience.

It is also great to see how much they try to promote an environmental-friendly lifestyle. Little flaw: the plastic cutlery and plates during the event, and the air-con in a room with opened doors… this is not very well aligned!

Visitors are welcome from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 am to 5 pm. Tips: you must take off your shoes to enter the temples, so thongs will make your visit easier! They have a tea house where you can have light food, tea and coffee. Picnics are not allowed in the gardens but, if you want to have your own food, there is a nice park not too far from the temple.

Do you know other places of interest around Brisbane to discover another culture? I’d love to hear about it! Please give me some ideas in the comments below!

Where is Chung Tian Temple?

The temple is about half an hour’s drive from the centre of Brisbane in Queensland. It is not far from Logan, in Priestdale.

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Buddhist temple brisbane

Eloise

Eloise is the creator and writer of MyFavouriteEscapes.com. She writes about her experiences exploring exotic destinations and finding hidden gems closer to home. Her goal is to share tips and stories to inspire and encourage others to go on their own adventures. She loves outdoor and nature-based activities like scuba diving, hiking, kayaking, and sailing. She grew up in France and has lived in England and Turkey before calling Australia home for the past decade. So let's get ready for another adventure!

This Post Has 7 Comments

  1. Marge Gavan

    If you didn’t mention Brisbane, I’d think that this place is somewhere in Asia. I’d definitely want to check out this temple. Ever since I visited one in Vietnam, I’ve started growing a fascination with Buddhism.

  2. Paul

    How awesome! We loved visiting as many temples as we could in Japan, this looks just as impressive! Would definitely love to go see this when we get to Brisbane.

    1. Eloise

      Hi Paul, If you are/were able to visit Buddhist Temples in Asia, I don’t know if it is worth coming all the way to Logan for this one. I would recommend doing activities that are unique to Australia – there are plenty of choices in the Brisbane region. But if you are looking for a place to relax, meditate and connect with the Buddhist culture during your Australian trip… Go for it!!!

  3. Jo

    As Buddhism is being practiced almost all across the globe and the followers are on the rise, there is no dearth of Buddhist monuments and temples in different parts of the world. I have seen a Buddhist temple or monument all along my travels so it’s really no surprise. Its great to have diversity of cultures and religions, isn’t it ?
    Thanks for sharing this great post.

    1. Eloise

      Thank you, Jo. I wasn’t actually surprised to see a Buddhist monument but more by the size of the monument and how it made us disconnect with Australia (apart from the wallabies ;). It is indeed amazing to have such a diversity, and really great to be able to experience them at home… It can inspire to travel further, and it’s a good learning opportunity for those who unfortunately cannot travel far 🙂

  4. Fran OC

    I would not expect this in Australia!!!!!! Amazing pics by the way…

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