Spring temple buddha

The Spring Temple Buddha is one of the tallest statues in the world, located in Lushan, Henan, China, standing at 128 meters tall.

About this subject

The Spring Temple Buddha, also known as Vairochana Buddha, is a colossal statue located in Lushan District, Henan Province, China. Construction began in 1997 and was completed in 2008, with an estimated cost of US$55 million. The statue depicts Vairochana, the primordial Buddha in Vajrayana and Chinese esoteric Buddhism. Its total height is 128 meters, including a 20-meter lotus and a 25-meter pedestal, making it the second tallest statue in the world after the Buddha of the Temple of the Spring in Tibet.

The location was chosen for its spiritual significance. The temple complex includes the Foquan Monastery, which was also expanded during construction. The statue is made of copper and steel, with 1,100 cast copper pieces weighing about 1,000 tons. The design merges styles from various Chinese Buddhist schools, reflecting the diversity of the country's religious art.

Culturally, the Spring Temple Buddha attracts pilgrims and tourists worldwide. It symbolizes peace and harmony, core values of Buddhism. In 2010, the statue was damaged by an earthquake but was quickly restored. The surrounding area features gardens, fountains, and stairways leading to the top, offering panoramic views of the Yangtze River valley.

Interestingly, the name "Spring Temple" derives from a hot spring at the site that flows at 60°C year-round. The statue was engineered to resist earthquakes and strong winds, with a flexible structure allowing up to 2 meters of movement. The project involved engineers from China, Japan, and the United States, demonstrating international collaboration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Spring Temple Buddha located?

It is located in Lushan District, Henan Province, China, within the Foquan Monastery complex.

How tall is the Spring Temple Buddha?

The statue is 128 meters tall, including the lotus base and pedestal.

When was the Spring Temple Buddha built?

Construction started in 1997 and was completed in 2008.