Sunny Fantasy

JIUHUASHAN 九华山

2011-12-17T21:54:00.003+08:00

I love travelling, especially to Mountains in Autumn season.
I like the majestic scenery, the beautiful nature, of trees, cliff, stones...
My recent visit to one of the four famous Buddhist mountains: Jiuhuashan 九华山 in China's Anhui province.

I always admire the Chinese's development of Infrastructure for their tourism, especially their cable-car system that aided in bringing us to great heights within minutes to enjoy the great view.

More info on Jiuhuashan can be found at: http://www.jiuhuashan.com.cn/jhsd/web_view.php?ty=2

Thank you to sister AW, PK, AK for contributing the pictures :-)

开福禅寺 Kai Fu Chan Si

2011-12-11T01:05:00.004+08:00

开福禅寺位于安徽省合肥市郊大蜀山南麓

Located at Anhui province's Hefei suburb, 开福禅寺 (Kaifuchansi) has a history of 1400 years since Tang Dynasty. It was destroyed in 1937 during the war times and finally completed restoration in 2009. And thereafter, a Majestic Monastery arises and we had the good karma to visit it as our last temple pilgrim stop this round to end our journey beautifully.

大雄宝殿 (Main Hall)

弥陀殿 (Hall of Amitabha Buddha)

It is a majestic monastery with many grand Halls such as the Hall of Amitabha Buddha, Hall of Medicine Buddha, Hall of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva (Guanyin) , Hall of Ksitigarbha Boddhisattva, Hall of Arhats, etc.

Majestic and serene, and one could see well organised volunteers taking care of the monastery, very orderly and so orderly that photo taking of the statures are not allowed in the Halls.

Personally, perhaps affinity, my favourite is the Hall of Amitabha Buddha, in it are majestic statures of the 3 Saints of Western Pureland.

Each Hall has its unique features and most Halls has either beautiful paintings or stone carvings that illustrates the Teachings/stories of related Buddha or Bodhisattva or Arhats. It also has a Prajna-Paramita bookstore near the entrance of the monastery that has a wise selection of free-distribution books and DVDs.
Certainly another good place to spend a peaceful day.

(fyi, unlike Spore, most temples in China do collect entrance fees (token as maintenance fee) unless you have their Triple Gem Refuge identification issued by China's temples)

Thank you to sister AW, PK, AK for contributing the pictures, Amituofo

庐山东林寺 LU SHAN DONGLINSI

2011-11-03T00:13:00.005+08:00

东林寺是中国净土宗的发祥地
Donglin Monastery located behind Mount Lu is the birthplace of the Pure Land School of Chinese Buddhism.

Majestic monastery with reflections of golden rays surrounding the main shrine via camera lens.

Majestic & Serene. Upon entering the premises, one feels the peacefulness surrounding the monastery. We arrived at the monastery during their afternoon chanting session timing (which they blocked entry to the main shrine) and enjoyed their serene chant while we toured around the premises.

I wish we could had stayed longer to enjoy more of the sereneness.

(Should there be an opportunity and conditions are right , I will be glad to revisit to attend a Fo3 here. Amituofo :-))

More Ref on Donglin Monastery: http://zt.donglin.org/dl/

Thank you to sister AW, PK, AK for contributing the pictures, Amituofo

Labrador Nature Reserve

2011-06-26T20:33:00.016+08:00

Went for a relaxing meditation outing at Labrador Park, a place of beautiful greenery & sea view besides its rich history. A great place to listen to the nature's Orchestra of birds, insects, swaying of tree leaves and waves of the sea.

In future, there is Labrador MRT at the very front entrance of the Park but there is quite a distance to walk as the Park is quite deep-in. Currently, may be accessible via SBS bus 408 from Harbour front Bus Interchange which operates only during weekend & Public Holidays.

Pulau Ubin

2011-06-20T20:36:00.037+08:00

A day of good weather that we had for our trip to Pulau Ubin.

We arrived at Changi Jetty near Changi Village to take a bumboat to the island. The boats operate from 6am-8pm and will only leave if it has 12 passengers ($2 per person) , so one either wait or pay the difference for the boat to start the journey.

It takes only around 15 minutes to reach the island.

Once onto the island, after the jetty board to welcome you to Pulau Ubin, one steps into the rare to see kampung days' scene in city. It is a recommended way to tour the island via cycling, hence there are a couple of bicycle shops with various types of bicycles suitable for families (with baby/child seat), dual extended version for couples and mountain bikes which is more recommended for the stony, forest path of the island. And the rental is very reasonable ranging from $6-$14 depending on the age of the bicycles for a WHOLE DAY!

For those who do not cycle, they can either take a slow stroll or take a taxi/van which charges about $6-8 per person per trip (to be negotiated in advance) to the island's popular places of interest.

The roads are already much well improved compared to many years ago when we had school excursions and we decided to explore Chek Jawa, the island's popular nature site. It is about 20minutes' bicycle ride from the jetty.

All car passengers or cyclists have to alight and park their bicycles just outside the reserve. A short walk to the right and one reaches the Information Kiosk manned by at least 2 friendly rangers where you can get information brochures on the Chek Jawa Wetland.

First sign of wildlife on land that we saw a mother wild boar with her kids near the kiosk.

We decided to begin with the rightmost path and a beautiful British colonial era cottage - House No 1- Chek Jawa Visitor Centre, appeared before us. The other side of the cottage has a fantastic sea view with a viewing jetty.

Beware, these are not beautiful greenland but green mosses floating above the water near the shore that one may mistaken.

A great place to watch planes flying low in the sky, a beautiful picture of technology and nature.

From the cottage, we walked back to the information kiosk and embarked on the 2nd path that leads us to what resembles the boardwalk concept at Macritchie Reservoir. There is a small adventurous sloppy path before one reaches the Coastal Boardwalk.

Near the end of the boardwalk, we reached the Seagrass Lagoon which we spotted the secretive crabs and mudskippers.

To be continued....

Views from Singapore Flyer

2011-02-13T18:40:00.031+08:00

Welcoming guests to Singapore Flyer in the Year of Rabbit

Sunrise !

Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resort

A reflection of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel from the flyer cabin

Wishing All a Prosperous Year from the God of Wealth while descending back to ground :-)

Nice garden at ground level

The 165m high Singapore Flyer is located at 30 Raffles avenue, #01-07, Singapore 039803.

Contact: 67348829.

More info of Singapore Flyers can be found from: http://www.singaporeflyer.com/en/visitor-guide/index.php

Bright Hill Temple 光明山普觉禅寺

2010-05-30T23:40:00.006+08:00

Hall of No Form of Bright Hill Temple

The galaxy feel. The indescribable atmosphere of peace is always the stop for most after a eventful temple visit to calm one's mind.

How to reach the temple:
If you are coming by MRT, pls alight at Bishan MRT station and take bus 410 (white plate) and bus 52 from the bus interchange. It will bring you to the temple front gate within 10 minutes.
Official website of Bright Hill Temple:
http://www.kmspks.org/

Sri Lankaramaya Buddhist Temple

2010-05-11T23:33:00.011+08:00

Located at 30-C St Michael's Road,Singapore 328002, built in 1952, this is the oldest Sri Lankan Theravada Buddhist Temple in Singapore.

After viewing hugh Stupas in open space in India & Sri Lanka, it is comparatively quite a unique feature to see a Stupa on a building's rooftop. :-)

Main Shrine & beautiful Wall Paintings

Bodhi Tree

Hugh Reclining Buddha, Colorful Wall paintings, Stupa and Bodhi Tree, what a representaion of Sri Lanka!

How to reach there?
Nearest MRT: Boon Keng , Potong Pasir
Nearest Bus Stop: Serangoon Rd - ST. Michael's PL
Bus No. SBS 13, 23, 26, 31, 64, 65, 66, 107, 133, 147, TIBSÂ 857, 985Â
From Bus stop, still a long walk in, so do wear comfortable walking shoes. :-)

Sri Lanka

2009-12-14T21:56:00.015+08:00

At the Arrival Hall of Sri Lanka Airport, one will be greeted by the very Serene looking image of Buddha welcoming you to Sri Lanka. :-)

Let's begin the journey of Sri Lanka by introducing the sacred mountain of Mihintale (located near the city of Anuradhapura) which is believed to be the location where Buddhism was first introduced to Sri Lanka.

Mihintale

Be mentally and physically prepared to climb the 1,840 stone steps to reach the summit of Mihintale.

A worthwhile climb, non-taxing with nature scenery along the way leading to beautiful white statue and stupas with beautiful blue sky as contrast.

Sri Lanka

2009-12-14T21:55:00.010+08:00

Sri Maha Bodhi Tree Temple

Looking deceivingly young, this Sri Maha Bodhi Tree of Anuradhapura, believed to being grown more than 2300 years ago from a cutting of the original Bodhi Tree in India is the most sacred tree in Sri Lanka.

This is a popular venue that attracts millions of worshippers.

Sri Lanka

2009-12-14T21:54:00.013+08:00

Golden Sand Stupa (Ruwanweliseya)

The hugh white stupa, at Anuradhapura, of north-central Sri Lanka is located near to the Bodhi Tree Temple. Standing at 300ft (92m) and with a circumference of 950ft (292m), Majestic against the beautiful sky in the day or night, this is also one of the places I like. :-)

A good picture of the hugh compound can be found here: http://www.asiaexplorers.com/srilanka/ruwanweliseya_dagoba.htm

Sri Lanka

2009-12-14T21:51:00.023+08:00

Dambulla Rock Temple

I like this place, a pity I didn't really took much pictures on it. It is certainly worth the climb (wonderful panoramic view of the surrounding forest, reservoirs & flat lands and oh many monkeys along the way again, if you zoom in, there are 2 sitting on the fencing:-)) and strongly recommended to visit this World Heritage site for its rich history & cultural heritage.

It is to me, like the Dun Huang of Sri Lanka.

History of the caves could trace back to 1st century BC.

Paintings and statues of the Buddha and his life are spread mainly over 5 caves. Although pretty well-preserved, you could still see signs of history in the caves.

2 Hugh Reclining Buddha from 2 different caves with paintings around the surrounding walls of the caves

If without a guide explaining, it will be just another place of interest but with the explanation of the history & rich culture, one better appreciates the art & place better, so always recommended to listen to the guide's explanation before wandering off to take pictures...

=============================================

The Samadhi Buddha

Well arranged offerings of flowers on a stone table before the Samadhi Buddha Image.

The Samadhi Buddha is located at a serene park in Anuradhapura. Sitting in a meditative posture, this Buddha image built within a Bodhi-Tree Shrine (belonging to the period between 5-6 centuries A.D.) is believed to be the most exquisite image found in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka

2009-12-04T23:32:00.020+08:00

The Temple of the Tooth Relic of the Buddha at Kandy

The interior compound of the temple buildings has a combination of richly carved beautiful inner shrine (left/topmost picture) and more modern (right/bottom picture) Sinhalese architecture. The Tooth Relic (left upper canine tooth) of the Buddha is believed to be housed in the 2 storey inner shrine.

The exterior, beautiful park with beautiful sky makes a wonderful view

At a connecting tower, one can see the oldest ola leaf book and many other precious leaf book.

There is also a museum in memory of the elephant whom had been carrying the sacred tooth relic during the past yearly festival parade and whom had lived to high age of over 80 years old.

It is a place worth visiting especially during Full-moon day (every full moon day of the month is their public holiday so they have at least 12 days of leave each year excluding other leave entitlement!) where at the garden compound you can see many locals observing the 8 Precepts (their culture to wear all white).

MacRitchie Reservoir Park

2009-10-19T00:11:00.022+08:00

The MacRitchie Reservoir Park is a place of fond memories for many family outings, school excursions, favourite training ground for 2.4km run & marathon participants.

The symbolic center stage with its zip-zag bridge

Now, even water-sport lovers can enjoy the water.

There are broadwalks along the edge of the Reservoir, allowing close contact with freshwater wildlife.

As you can see, before entering cooling MacRitchie Lornie Trail or Forest Trail on left, as shown on above immediate picture, it can be quite a sunny walk that a cap or hugh hat is recommended to accompany you on a relaxing walk.

For those who are gamed to explore further, you may try the HSBC TreeTop Walk which is a 250m aerial free standing suspension bridge, and at its highest height of 25m tall, one enjoys a panoramic view of the Reservoirs and surrounding rainforest. It is a long long walk, so please ensure you have a good breakfast or be equipped with simple snacks & drinks, especially so if you are bringing kids along on the excursion.

The Park is located off Lornie Road,

It is accessible by most buses along Thomson & Novena Bus Route.

According to the bus guide, following buses are available: 52,74,93,130,132,156,157, 162,162M,165,166, 167.

You may also request the bus driver to alert you when reaching nearest bus-stop to the MacRitchie Reservoir Park or simply take a cab for non-drivers. :-)

Singapore Art Museum

2009-05-24T11:11:00.004+08:00

The Singapore Art Museum (SAM) is housed at a restored 19th century mission school (the former premises of St Joseph’s Institution), a beautiful architecture.

Opened since 1996, it had housed numerous southeast asian as well as international exhibitions. A good place to visit when one's in a mood to be away from the hectic commercial life.

One's strongly encouraged to join their guided tour to have a quick introduction to the exhibits. One may think that what one already know or interpret what one sees as just a simple painting or artwork but with the explanations of an enthusiastic guide, then one knows the history or idea behind that painting or artwork and better appreciates it. You may then discover many more wonders as you make a tour around the museum.

SAM's Official link: http://www.singart.com/

Its address is 71 Bras Basah Road, Singapore 189555 (abt 10mins' walk from City Hall MRT)
Telephone: (65) 6332 3222
Monday to Sunday: 10am - 7pm
Friday: 10am - 9pm (Free admission on Friday night, 6pm – 9pm)

Bright Hill Temple 光明山普觉禅寺

2009-05-10T13:01:00.010+08:00

Revisited the temple on Vesak Day 9 May 2009...
It's a great place for families & friends... :-)

The "Mobile" Buddha seen at Vesak@Orchard who appears on special events.

How to reach the temple:
If you are coming by MRT, pls alight at Bishan MRT station and take bus 410 (white plate) and bus 52 from the bus interchange. It will bring you to the temple front gate within 10 minutes.
Official website of Bright Hill Temple:
http://www.kmspks.org/

Dharma Drum Mountain 法鼓山, JinShan, Taipei

2009-02-27T23:55:00.029+08:00

"Situated in an area resembling the shape of a drum lying on its side, Dharma Drum Mountain (DDM) was named after an analogy in the Lotus Sutra ─ ”beating the large Dharma drum” ─ in the hope that by beating the mind-purifying Dharma drum, people may obtain peace and harmony. " ~ from DDMweb

We arrived at DDM on 5th Feb 2009, after about 1.5 hour's coach ride from the airport at Taipei. However, it is until 9th, after the cremation ceremony that we had time to organise a mini-excursion of DDM. (If I recall correctly, it had been raining since our arrival and the weather only turned sunny on 9th, day after the Cremation ceremony of Master Sheng Yen. Then it started misty & rainy on the eve (14th) and day of Ash Burial ceremony.)

Surrounding are landscapes of mini water-falls and streams with hugh rocks whereby during good weather, you could find one to sit on to meditate just like in the movies...

The Founding Guanyin Park 开山观音公园

The Founding Guanyin (开山观音), placed at the highest point of the center, witnessed the difficult process in founding DDM.

Medicine Buddha Loop & Medicine Buddha 药王园与古佛

Amidst the Medicine Buddha Loop, sits a mind calming Medicine Buddha in front of a bamboo forest.

We passed by this part of path which we later found out to be the Life Memorial Garden where the ashes are buried. Vey serene place.

Dharma Drum Mountain 法鼓山, JinShan, Taipei

2009-02-27T23:54:00.029+08:00

This is the Main Entrance of Dharma Drum Mountain.

This is the Main Shrine - Grand Buddha Hall where statues of Amitabha Buddha, Shakyamuni Buddha , and Medicine Buddha are enshrined.

Building I where the Main shrine (6th level) is, also houses the Founding History Memorial Hall (3rd level) and Auxiliary Hall (4th level). All worth visiting!

Memorial flights of stairs that we have to climb everyday. (Lift usage is strongly discouraged for the abled as an energy conservation effort)

Above is the Meditation Centre or Chan Hall which is generally not open to public except during meditation retreat to the participants. Its interior and accommodation quarters has a Zen touch. In it, there is also a carefully planned outdoor area for meditation. No photography is allowed after the main entrance. (According to a volunteer, if you listen carefully to the birds singing around the Meditation centre, they are are singing "Guanyin Pusa" , so do pay attention when you are around the area:-))

Wish Fulfilling Guanyin Hall where people can pray and make wishes and vows is located at 3rd level of Building II. The building's 1st level is where the bus terminal is, its 2nd level houses the Visitor Service Centre, Briefing room (for watching short film introducing DDM) , a Light Refreshment Cafe and Dharma Shop .

Exterior Platform walk to Main Shrine, see the 2nd visible tree from left? What did you notice?

The platform with design to cater to the tree trunks in a way not to hinder their growth.

Besides Building I, is the Dharma Drum Buddhist College and the library that is open to public with Internet access stations provided.
Guess how old are these fig trees in front of the library ? Known as the "Seven Buddhas", these 7 trees have been the natural habitants at the mountain for more than 100years.

Dharma Drum Mountain 法鼓山, JinShan, Taipei

2009-02-26T23:36:00.037+08:00

Lotus Bell Park 法华公园

I think this is my favourite spot at Dharma Drum Mountain, hence I would like to dedicate one whole section to it and with pictures from different angles.
Somehow, I like the ambience there... (which may not be reflected in the pictures)

(View of Big Bell from the smaller bell)

The Hugh Lotus Bell (法华钟) (height: 4.5m, weight: 25 tons) modelled in Tang style, is inscribed with the whole Lotus Sutra (法华经), the Great Compassion Mantra (大悲咒), and a painting titled “The Buddhas Sitting in the Many Jeweled Pagoda”. It needs the help of 4 to 6 persons to sound the bell. It is believed that with each sounding of the bell, the Dharma is being carried throughout the cosmos nurturing sentient beings in the universe.

I think the bell is sounded only on special occasions like the New Year, however, on normal days, around noon time, a recording of it would be played. Sitting near the bell, listening to the sound, one feels very peaceful...

(Sounding of the bell on 15th Feb 2009, day of Ash Burial ceremony of Master Sheng Yen)

Some pictures courtesy from AW & NS.

For more info on DDM, I would recommend one to watch this documentary, please click here!

The official web of DDM is : http://www.dharmadrum.org/index.aspx

Address ： No. 14-5, Lin 7, Sanjie Village, Jinshan, Taipei County 208, Taiwan

Tel ： 886-2-2498-7171 #1350, 1351, 1353

Visiting hours: 9am-4pm. (For group visit, please make an appointment in advance to ensure a complete tour experience)

There are buses from the Taipei Intercity Bus Terminal (at the intersection of Chongqing N Road and Civic Boulevard) may refer to Guoguang Bus Schedule .

More info on how to get there: http://www.ddm.org.tw/event/2007/ddm_map/index.asp

Nung Chan Monastery 农禅寺

2009-02-23T16:46:00.014+08:00

Having heard much about the Nung Chan Monastery (农禅寺) where Master Sheng Yen used to host his earlier Dharma talks and meditation retreats, we were excited to embark on the journey to visit it on our last day in Taipei . We alighted at "Qiyan" (奇岩) MRT station and after walking about 10minutes and opposite what's looks like an automobile mart, we saw the signboard of the monastery at a road junction.

Finally, we caught a glimpse of the monastery at the end of the Daye road.
It looks unlike a traditional temple building from the gate entrance...
Photos are not allowed beyond this wall but a glimpse of the main hall could be viewed from old photos here . It is a simple hall but maybe because of many past Dharma events conducted, one could sense the positive energy when one enters it.:-) If one is able to spend some time meditating there, it may be a blissful experience.

The monastery is located at : 89, Lane 65, Daye Road
Beitou, Taipei, 112
Taiwan. ROC (Tel: 886-2-2893-3163)

Chung-Hwa Institute of Buddhist Culture 中华佛教文化馆, Bei Tou

2009-02-21T21:59:00.036+08:00

We were encouraged to visit Chung-Hwa Institute of Buddhist Culture (中华佛教文化馆) located at Bei Tou (北投) before departure for the airport. Thanks to Bro LH from local DDMY who guided us there, we alighted at "Xin Bei Tou" (新北投) MRT station and on our way to the Institute, delightful beautiful sights at this district well-known for hot springs welcomed us.

Bei Tou Hot Springs Museum

Bei Tou public library, resembling a ship

We finally reached our destination, a building beside the small park, about 15minutes' walk from the MRT.

We were welcomed by this standing statute of Guanyin at the side of the main entrance of the Chung-Hwa Institute of Buddhist Culture (中华佛教文化馆). This is where Ven. Master Dongchu started his propagation of Buddhism. A place worth visiting when you are around the area...

After visiting the Lotus Bell at DDM which we can only admire, the bell here is available for us to sound it personally and caused some excitement among us and of course, we didn't miss the opportunity to sound it, following the wordings on the right.

"On hearing the sounds of the bell, Worries lightens, Wisdom grows, Bodhicitta arises, Away from hell, Out of fire (samsara?), Aspires to become Buddha, Helps guide sentient beings" followed by mantra

(sorry for poor translation:P Welcome better translation...:-))

It is located at 276, Guangming Road, Beitou, Taipei, 112 Taiwan. ROC (Tel: 886-2-2891-2550)

Juming Museum 朱銘美術館

2009-02-21T19:46:00.020+08:00

Ever since noticing the signboard near the Dharma Drum Emblem Rock, a few of us had planned to visit this famous neigbhour of DDM, Juming Museum (朱銘美術館).

When LZ asked for directions, Venerable overheard and kindly volunteered to bring us there and it became our mini-overseas group excursion.

The entrance may look normal but after entering, that's beginning of a big venue tour expected!

You are welcomed into his art world via 2 stretches of wall paintings with wordings which reveals his thoughts before embarking on tour of his hugh sculpture art.
This caught my attention. A calligraphy of his state of realisation on hugh lantern exhibit?
The Living World Series- Parachutes under a mini pyramid to create reflection sensation...
Start of our outdoor tour of his hugh sculpture

The Army, Navy and Pilot series

His famous Taichi series

Just what we need, a big umbrella...what a sunny day!:-)

Indoor exhibits on painted wood

This is really a enriching experience to be able to see hugh exhibits of different themes using different materials. Above shown is just a fraction of its exhibits. The museum also has a creative section planned for children. I would say we greatly benefited from their professional guided tour to better appreciate how the art pieces are created and not lost in the hugh garden, hence I would strongly encouraged 1st-timers to follow their guided tour before venturing on your own. It's a great place where you could easily spend a relaxing half day there.:-)

They are closed on Mondays except on their national holidays and

their official web at : http://www.juming.org.tw/opencms/juming/.

It is located at Jinshan of Taipei, you could find directions to get there by clicking here

Cheers :-)

Skate Park

2009-01-25T14:13:00.005+08:00

Skate Park is just located outside exit of Somerset MRT.

If you like to watch, or practise a few moves of skating or cycling stunts, this is where you can consider. A popular spot for the youth until 10pm when lights are off. It's another project by the National Youth Council, besides the Youth Park (near Cineleisure) amidst the busy Orchard Road. So, even in a very small scale, it had demonstrated some lively aspects of Singapore.:-)

National Museum of Singapore

2008-09-28T22:52:00.014+08:00

The National Museum of Singapore, located at 93 Stamford Road, is Singapore's biggest and oldest museum, with history dating back to 1887.

With its official opening in Dec 2006 after major redevelopment, it aims to redefine conventional museum experience. One innovation is the use of a multimedia handheld device, the Companion, at the Singapore History Gallery.
You may also like to find out more about its architecture via its official web: http://www.nationalmuseum.sg/ , select About the Museum/Architecture and Design. One decoration that caught my attention during last visit is the swinging lamps near the Canyon. (I felt like I had walked into Harry Potter's movie plot :-) )

The Museum is accessible via Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut or City Hall
or via Bus: to alight before YMCA or along Stamford Road.
Bus No.17, 14E, 16, 36, 111, 124, 162, 174, 174E, 502, 77, 106, 167, 171, 190, 700, 700A

Admission fees: $10
Opening hours:
Singapore History Gallery 10am-6pm,
Singapore Living Galleries 10am-8pm.
Tel: 6332 5642
Web: http://www.nationalmuseum.sg/

Seu Teck Sean Tong Yiang Sin Sia 修德善堂

2008-08-17T11:49:00.021+08:00

Located at 335 Bedok North Avenue 3, which is just opposite Red Swastika school, the temple mainly worships Reverend Song Ta-Fung who left behind a noble chapter of his legendary works and teachings in Teochew history.

The main structure of the monastery is the two halls (left hall, which is the main Prayer Hall, and right hall, which is commonly known as the Ancestral Hall) linked to 'Zuo Zhuah' Tower (a four storey tower).
In between the two halls is the al frésca garden with a grand arc spelt "Shan Ren" - Benevolence and Endurance at its entrance. Within the garden, look out for Chinese Bonsai of rare breeds and the trimmed Bonsai of Chinese characters of "Seu Teck Sean Tong Yiang Sin Sia".

The Main Prayer Hall

For more information on the temple, one may visit its well created web: http://www.seuteck.org/index_eng.html

On its architecture: http://www.seuteck.org/grand_temple_frameset.html

On the story of Reverend Song Ta-Fung: http://www.seuteck.org/tafung_frameset.html

General Opening Hours:

Monday - Sunday : 7.00 am - 6.00 pm.

Dharma Drum Singapore 法鼓山新加坡护法会

2008-07-04T15:21:00.014+08:00

Currently residing at its new premises at 100A Duxton Road, Dharma Drum Singapore is a centre of cultivation to promote Master Sheng Yen’s vision to "uplift the character of humanity and build a pure land on earth". 秉持着推广圣严师父的理念「提升人的品质，建设人间净土」.

It organises weekly chanting and meditation sessions.
More info can be found at http://www.ddsingapore.org/introduction_eng.htm
It also has a small library that has a good collection of books by Master Sheng Yen.

It is located at 100A Duxton Road, 2nd storey along 2nd row of 2nd stretch of shophouses from EZ50. From traffic light opposite empty plot of land beside Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, you will see EZ50. While walking down the stretch, you will passby Tea Chapter, then before beginning of 2nd stretch, ps turn left & it is 2nd level above a music lounge.

Fo Guang Shan (Singapore) 新加坡佛光山

2008-07-04T14:35:00.008+08:00

Another visit to Fo Guang Shan, more pictures...

Buddha at Main Shrine ("Diamond Sutra " Lapis Lazuli Wall behind the Buddha)

Compassionate look from the Buddha touches one...

You may find out more about FGS (S) from their web: http://www.blia.sg/BLIAtest/ENG/default.asp
It's 5-10mins walk from Punggol MRT.

Kong Hiap Memorial Museum 广洽纪念馆

2008-06-05T16:32:00.019+08:00

The art museum, located near Aljunied MRT is opened only on Saturday, Sunday, Public Holidays, and every 1st & 8th of the Lunar Month (10am to 5pm). Free Admission. It houses the prized collection of the respectable late Venerable Kong Hiap.

The collection includes Chinese paintings and calligraphy works of Venerable Ying Guang (印光大师), Venerable Hong Yi (弘一大师), Feng Zi Kai (丰子恺), Qi Baishi (齐白石), Yu Dafu (郁达夫) and many others of internationally accomplished arts and literary figures of his generation.
Within the building, there is also a simple yet elegant shrine. Dharma talk & chanting sessions are also conducted by a Venerable from Amitabha Buddhist Society in Mandarin as per timetable indicated below. Time-table as per informed by the volunteers :

1st day of Lunar Month: 10am-11.30am Chanting session 大悲忏

8th day of Lunar Month: 2pm-3pm Dharma Talk, 3pm-4pm Chanting session 佛说阿弥陀经

All are Welcome to join in above sessions. :-)

The museum is located at 8 Geylang East Ave 1, S'pore 389780 (Tel: 6846 7491).

It is near main road before HDB block of the famous Kwan Inn Vegn Food, and opposite main entrance of Central Grove Condo.

Nearest MRT: Aljunied station

By bus: SBS - 2, 13, 21, 26, 40, 51, SMRT - 67, 853C (You may alight at Aljunied MRT or walk back if alight 1 stop after)

Foo Hai Ch'an Monastery 福海禅寺

2008-06-05T14:25:00.016+08:00

Located at 87 Geylang East Ave 2, look out for the monastery on your left if you are on a train ride from Aljunied to Paya Lebar MRT.

The temple hosts the Buddha's relics at the top level of the Buddha Relics Pagoda.

A Serene area behind the Pagoda Main Shrine

Looking at the Bodhisattva, one may be able to feel Lights of Compassion radiates from the Bodhisattva...

You can find out more about the history and activities of the temple from their web: http://www.foohai.org/

Oh, just found out from the web the Abbot also has a blog...

Located at 87 Geylang East Ave 2, Singapore 389753. (Tel: 6748 6676).

It is between Aljunied & Paya Lebar MRT and diagonally opposite the Sims Ville Condo. But with construction around Paya Lebar area, it may be more convenient to alight at Aljunied MRT, and take any bus down 1 bus stop, then turn left to Blk 129 Geylang East Ave 1, where you will passby Rice House 粥大王 .

Fo Guang Shan (Singapore) 新加坡佛光山

2008-05-28T21:11:00.011+08:00

Fo Guang Shan (Singapore) had moved to its new building at 1 Punggol Place, a 5-10 minutes walk from Punggol MRT. Recently, I made a quick visit to it before its official opening ceremony on 8th Jun 2008.
You can find these mini garden design & small stone sculptures of monks in different postures around the building. At level 4, wall paintings of Venerable Hsing Yun and calligraphy. Hmm, I wonder what are some of the artistic characters & meaning about...

At level 3, you can find its tea house cum bookshop, Fo Guang Yuan.

At level 2, there is its Sutra Calligraphy Hall & Library.

At level 1, its main shrine and you can view the lighting of "Diamond Sutra " Lapis Lazuli Wall on 8th Jun...
You may find out more about FGS (S) from their web: http://www.blia.sg/BLIAtest/ENG/default.asp

Forest Walk

2008-05-25T12:51:00.013+08:00

The Henderson Waves is just a 10minutes walk hence we move on towards the Alexandra Arch that links from Forest Walk of Telok Blangah Hill Park to Alexandra road. This is a much longer walk so please make sure you do not go on an empty stomach.:-)

Guess who we met on the way......

We are rather lucky to experience a good weather that day, if it rains, it could be quite slippery on the metal bridge walk and there is no shelter except at 1 point (real shelter there:-)) near the residential area.

It is a nice walk though to be near the canopy of secondary forest and along the way we also saw some fruit trees: durian trees !!! and at least 4 monkeys !!!

But please do not feed the monkeys when you next meet them in case they attack future trailers for food.

For more information on the Southern Ridges, you may visit http://www.nparks.gov.sg/southernridges.html#cc

Henderson Waves

2008-05-25T11:22:00.005+08:00

Much had been heard about regarding the Southern Ridges hence on a fine morning, we decided to embark on our adventure tour. We started from Telok Blangah Hill with the Henderson Waves.

Henderson Waves is currently the highest pedestrian bridge in S'pore, at 36metres above Henderson rd. It connects Mt Faber Park to Telok Blangah Hill Park.

Along the way, it has a number of wave shelter that you can rest & be sheltered from the sun. However, not from the rain:P Personally I find it strange that why they did not include a rain shelter design. They only expect people to use the bridge when it is sunny weather? But there could be sudden storms along the way....:P

Just a thought...Always find Spore such a sunny country but the solar energy aspect is not well explored. They could add the rain shelter by building solar energy receptive cover? That will reap 2 benefits at 1 go...

National Library Singapore

2008-04-17T13:51:00.009+08:00

If you have not yet been to the National Library at 100 Victoria Street, located between the Bras Basah Complex & Bugis Junction, do dropby one of these days for its hugh collection of books as well as to experience the "new library" concept.
Reference Library - Lee Kong Chian Reference Library occupies 7 levels of the National Library Building.

Gardens in the Library (Free guided tour on every 1st & 3rd saturaday of the month, Time: 4pm-5.30pm, Tour duration: 1.5hrs, meeting pt: main lobby, level 1, Information counter)

Permanent exhibitions: The Singapore Literary Pioneers Gallery at level 11

Children's Section at Basement 1 - What a great reading environment:-)

Beautiful city scenaries from higher floors of the library building (A good location to watch fireworks:-))

The building has won several awards to date for its environment-friendly features including its 14 gardens and vegetation forming 35% of total site area which helped lower the temperature.

There are many spots to explore at the library and to aid the public, they have now published a guide map : HOT SPOTS! ...at National Library Singapore which you could just pick up a copy near the escalators.

Strongly encouraged to join its educational tour conducted every 1st & 3rd Sat of Month conducted by Volunteers of plant lovers. You will learn how to distinguish a tree from a palm & ferns. Are banana trees really trees? You will be surprised with the stories & species of plants found in just a small garden. Know where to search for books in relation to plants in Spore? Join the tour 4pm at level 1 of their information counter.:-)

Do dropby when you are around the area. Cheers:-)

Located at 100, Victoria Street, Nearest MRT: Bugis Station

Queenstown Community Library

2008-04-17T13:15:00.004+08:00

Wow, such nice ambience in the Library!!!
Would you have known it would turn 38 years old come 2nd May? It was the 1st full time branch library and where I used to spend my happy hours during my early school days. I really must applaud for the efforts by National Library Board (NLB) to constantly provide a conducive environment for its readers.
Below are pictures taken from its 2nd floor, when I am tired from my reading, I would just look out to the nature & relax my eyes. I recall that sometime ago, I saw those white heron-like birds resting in the surrounding.

The library is located at 53 Margaret Drive, Singapore 149297.
Nearest MRT is Queenstown MRT.

Singapore Botanical Gardens

2008-03-30T15:39:00.021+08:00

Here is my favourite garden again but today we decided to explore the Bt Timah side of the garden, which is known as the Eco-Garden.

At this lake, you can see turtles sun-tanning around the wooden bridge & hardly any fishes. Koi & other fishes can easily be found in Symphony lake instead.

I love these wooden benches, I think they add a feeling of 'classics' to the scenery.

Up the slope on way back to the visitor centre & along the way, if you look down the slope, you can see many fruit trees like Jackfruits, Durians, Mangosteens, Starfruits etc. Should you decide to to go nearer the trees, be careful of the flys/mosquitoes there, they bite painfully:-(

What a good start for a day to begin with, enjoying the fresh air & scenery.:-)

Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery

2008-03-28T16:31:00.018+08:00

莲山双林寺 commonly known as Shuang Lin Monastery, has its history dated back to 1898, 79 years after the British founding of Singapore.

It is the oldest Buddhist monastery in Singapore & its gazette as a National Monument, symbolizes its historical and architectural value.
It has a unique blend of architectural styles from Fuzhou, Quanzhou and Zhangzhou Counties of Fujian province, and Chaozhou County of Guangdong province in southern China.

As you can see from below location map, you could spend some time exploring & appreciating the temple's history & architecture.

Hall of Three Saints

Dragon Light Pagoda

Did you notice this before you take a walk round the Dragon Light Pagoda?

On certain days (if I recall correctly, is 1st & 15th of lunar month & special occasion like celebration days of GuanYin where a crowd is expected), you would be able to sample nice vegetarian dishes which the volunteers prepare for sale to public during lunch hours as part of their fund-raising effort for the temple at the canteen beside their Hall of Guanyin.

The temple is located at the Toa Payoh estate (184 Jalan Toa Payoh) so you may take MRT to Toa Payoh then take bus 238 from the Interchange & alight at Blk 27 Toa Payoh Lor 6.

ps. If you would like a guided tour, you may consider contacting Cultural Compass.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

2008-03-21T17:44:00.008+08:00

The temple and museum always hosts different exhibits on its level 2 exhibition hall. Today, the Sand Mandala was completed & on display.

Completed Sand Mandala displayed on the 1st level main shrine which will be dismantled on the 26th March.

On its 2nd level of museum, a section of the hall has been devoted to a brief introduction on Tibetan Buddhism, Sand Mandala and the makers of the Sand Mandala from Kopan Nunnery (Nepal) while another section displayed different representations of Avalokitesvara (Guanyin) with brief explainations.

If you are tired after viewing the exhibition, you may drop-by its well-hidden tea house at the left end corner of the hall, Lotus Heart Tea House for a relaxing tea-break.

I am glad to know that with the completion of its theatre at Basement one, they had started a series of weekend Dharma Talk programmes.

For those interested in the making of the Sand Mandala, you may like to attend this coming Sunday (23 Mar)'s talk at 3-5pm.

Please always refer to their official website: http://www.btrts.org.sg/Eng_Index.html for latest activities.

East Coast Park

2008-03-20T18:37:00.011+08:00

It's been ages since we last went to East Coast Park for cycling & breathe in the sea breeze. It's been raining for the whole week of school holidays but thank goodness the rain finally stopped & welcome us to the park with a bright sun last Friday.

Beautiful trees provided us with nice shade and scenery along the way.

Was surprised to find a new Water-skiing centre on where the old swimming lagoon used to be. But that's a nice change.:-)

I sure miss the days when we used to spend our holidays with family & friends at the shalets when we were younger.

Guess what, a mini merry-go-round at the small amusement park near the McDonald site. I would sure like to sit on a bigger version of merry-go-round again. Wonder where it would be available in Spore:-)

Chengdu Chunxi Road, China

2008-02-27T23:16:00.009+08:00

At the central of the famous shopping street of Chengdu: 春熙路 Chunxi Road, is a sitting statute of the famous father of revolution: Mr Sun Wen or also more well-known as 孙中山先生, Mr Sun Zhong Shan.

Beautiful flowers had been arranged along the street. The white & purple cabbage-like flowers are unique. I wonder what they are called. I had forgotten to ask my local guide.:P

Although it's always sad to be end of my holidays but I am always glad after each tour, no matter how beautiful or advanced the tour city, to be back home to my country, Singapore.:-)

Panda Land, China

2008-02-27T22:23:00.009+08:00

Our visit to National Treasure of China, Pandas at Chengdu: 成都大熊猫繁育研究基地 Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
Could you imagine that the new born panda is pink in color & only size of a finger?
The research centre has quite good environment. I would have mistaken it as entering S'pore Zoo as they created a very cosy playground environment for the pandas.

I didn't know that Pandas can actually climb high trees until this visit, did you spot one at above picture?

They are forever busy munching their bamboo shoots.

I think the centre had done a great job in creating an environment that had made it easy for tourists to view the lifestyle of Pandas. They deserve a recommendation. It's certainly worth visiting. :-)

九寨沟, Jiu Zhai Gou, China

2008-02-27T17:15:00.008+08:00

Another attraction: 树正瀑布 Shu Zheng Waterfall.

Does above resemble shape of a flower?

From waterfall to rapids to lake, a good geography lesson

Tibetan houses & shops along the lake, did you notice something familar on the door for those been to the "Om" retreat?

Stupas in front of a cultural village

It's a pity we don't have much time to explore further as our tour is only a day here at Jiuzhaigou.

九寨沟, Jiu Zhai Gou, China

2008-02-27T16:49:00.008+08:00

Amazingly, here is another lake: 熊猫海 Panda Lake whose surface is still covered with snow.

珍珠滩瀑布 Pearl Shoals Falls Does the ice on the right resemble many piglets drinking milk and a small elephant?

Can you identify LingZhi in the picture?

九寨沟, Jiu Zhai Gou, China

2008-02-27T16:17:00.009+08:00

Another of its beautiful lakes: 五花海 Five -colored Lake or Peacock Lake features a color spectrum from pale blue to emerald green.
In Chinese, the locals called the lakes as 海instead of 湖 as they admired/long for the vast sea.

We can see at least 2 kinds of birds singing around us.

Beautiful lakes they are, it is really worth our effort to travel all the way to admire the beauty of Jiuzhaigou fairyland.

九寨沟, Jiu Zhai Gou, China

2008-02-27T14:59:00.007+08:00

Finally, we reached the famous 九寨沟, Jiuzhaigou Fairyland that lies about 2,500m above sea level . It welcomes us with a nice, beautiful sun that warms our soul. 九寨沟 got its name bec of 9 tribal villages occupying the valley. Its unparalleled natural beauty: transparent & multi-coloured water in its 108 lakes that is surrounded by abundant forests and snow-capped mountains helped it won two World Heritage titles - 世界自然遗产, 世界生物圈保护区.

Our 1st destination is this 诺日朗瀑布 NuoRiLang Waterfall where we took many beautiful shots. If you look carefully, the water in the waterfall had actually frozen to ice. So, you can see different natural ice scuplture according to your imagination.

Our tour guide went in search of our missing tour mates who could not bear to leave the beautiful place:P
Actually, the place is even more beautiful in Autumn. I recall snapping more than 1000 shots in Jiuzhaigou with my friends 10 years ago using film cameras. If Digital camera was available then, we could have snapped more:P

On Way to & from 九寨沟 Jiu Zhai Gou, China

2008-02-26T22:41:00.013+08:00

Along the journey to Jiu Zhai Gou, we visited a Taoping Qiang Village, 羌寨.

The village has history about 2000 years, with only about 98 families left staying in these traditional Qiang style houses made of solid stones.
It is like taking geography lesson travelling to Jiu Zhai Gou via buses. Along the route, it is like revising my secondary geography lessons, seeing the mountain valleys, river meanders, all the nature's works that we used to learn in our textbooks coming alive. I would strongly encourage geography students to travel this route to practically experience what is being taught. It will surely leave deep impression in their mind and help them score As in their Geo exam.

I could still recall 10 years ago when we 1st visited Jiu Zhai Gou when its tourism just started to develop. The roads were still bumpy stone roads & they were narrow, barely enough for 2 buses. 1 wrong judgement, off you go down the cliff to the rivers. I could recall praying hard then while travelling:P. Now, with the emphasis & development of tourism, the roads are well-developed roads that we see in city area & the tunnels are also well-built. Really must salute to the Chinese for their development.:-)

Thick snow as we travelled higher up the mountain and our bus had to stop to put chains on its wheels to create fiction to travel on the slippery snowy roads. We also took the opportunity to take some snow pictures during the break.

On our way back, we stopped at this spot to take some pictures with the beautiful white mountain ox. With RMB5, you could take pictures with the ox & even ride on it under the supervision of its owner.
It is common to see the skeleton of the Ox's head :-( as a decor in front of houses etc. To them, it is an auspicious decor.
Beautiful scene it is, some parts of the river started to defrost as the weather got warmer on our return journey.
It is certainly a different experience to travel in winter. Personally, I would still prefer Autumn weather & scenery.

峨嵋山 Er Mei Shan, China

2008-02-20T11:49:00.019+08:00

We finally reached the JinDing Scenic Region: 2000-3099ms above sea level with the help of cable car. The climate there is as cold as in winter all year around and especially so in this winter season. The snow was thick & we had to be careful with our steps. That had also brought about business opportunities for the locals. With the thick snow & the slippery surface with ice on it, we had been offered a simple equipment: nail shoe stacks at RMB10. Without it, we could hardly move around, especially on the slippery stairs where most of us had a good fall. (A pity I forgotten to take a picture of it:P)
The pond was covered with snow & people are using umbrella to shelter slight rain of snow. It is really cold when wind is blowing. Though the distance is not far, it appears quite a distance in this snow especially to all of us who 1st encountered such thick snow.

Finally, after climbling the long stairs, we reached where the famous JinDing temple & where the large statute of PuXian Pusa are.

Most of us surrendered after coming down from the JinDing and decided to take the "sedan" at RMB60 as the route down the hill is even more difficult & time is running short for us to meet our guide.

I wish we had more time to explore the place, maybe I will return at a warmer season then.

乐山 Le Shan, China

2008-02-19T22:58:00.011+08:00

Located at east of Leshan City of China, and with a height of 71 metres, it is known to be the largest stone Buddha statute in the world. It's a pity that in this tour, we could only take pictures from the river cruise. The colorful dots on the left centre of picture are actually lines of people climbing up the hill taking a closer look at the Buddha.

The tourism of Le Shan Buddha has brought about economic development for the city as you can see from the picture.
Our sweet local guide, Xiao Mei told us that the Le Shan city citizens believe that the Buddha is watching over them & that although people generally like to buy high height accomodation, the local developers will not build any buildings higher than 71metres as the locals will generally not buy accomodation built higher than the height of the Buddha. A unique feature in Leshan city.

Tai Pei Buddhist Centre

2008-02-01T22:55:00.000+08:00

Thanks to J who gave us a free ride to Lavender MRT & since I had some time before my next appointment, I decided to pay a quick visit to Tai Pei Buddhist Centre which is just near Lavender MRT, at the Road Junction opposite the new condo project: Citylights. It's easy to identify the building as you can see a Buddha statute on top of its building.

Tai Pei Buddhist Centre is a non-profitable Buddhist Organization with objective to disseminate the Buddha's Teachings as well as to promote and develop Buddhist activites in Singapore. According to its web introduction, the hall on its ground floor can accomodate 600 people and the centre always welcome other registered Buddhist organisations to hold events at its premises.

On its 2nd floor, they have a child care centre and it's an interesting sight to see some young children paying respect to the Buddha at the ground floor hall before leaving for their home. :-)

You may find out more about the centre from their official website: http://www.dabei.org.sg/00home.html

It is located at 2, Lavender Street, Singapore 338823

Tel: 62983343

Nearest MRT: Lavender MRT

Singapore Botanical Gardens

2008-01-27T12:31:00.002+08:00

Another refreshing morning at the garden!!! I love its Symphony Lake greenery & nature.

The bandstand, built in 1930s, though no longer used to stage musical performances, is still one of the best known features of the Gardens.

Passing of Knowledge Sculpture at the Cactus landscape area

It is also easily accessible.
By Bus:Get to the Gardens by Public Bus via Holland Road or Bukit Timah Road. Via Holland Road
SBS Transit 7, 105, 123, 174
SMRT 75, 77, 106
Via Bukit Timah Road
SBS Transit 66, 151, 153, 154
SMRT 67, 171
Its official website is http://www.sbg.org.sg/

Bright Hill Temple 光明山普觉禅寺

2008-01-03T00:10:00.003+08:00

Just want to share more photos of the temple with all...

(Guan Ming Dian with statures of the 3 Buddhas)

Not sure why this is not in the official temple tour map, but this is my favourite shrine/hall. One will just feel peaceful entering the hall.

(The Hall of Great Compassion)

(The Hall of Amrta Vinaya (Precepts) fronted by Rocana Buddha)

I think it is not often that we can see the 2 halls lighted up at night except during special occasions (e.g. the New year eve) when the opening hours extend to the night. I am glad to be able to visit then & hope to share with more people through these photos. :-)

Its official temple tour map: http://www.kmspks.org/kmspks/templetour/

Bright Hill Temple 光明山普觉禅寺

2008-01-01T02:37:00.002+08:00

Welcome to 2008!!! May All Be Well & Happy!!!

(31st Dec 2007, lights to welcome 2008 )

(1 Jan 2008, 108 rings of bell to welcome 2008)

This year Abbot welcomes 2008 with 108 rings of bell again. The sound of the bell strikes to our heart, refreshes our soul & prepares us for a new year.

Bright Hill Temple 光明山普觉禅寺

2007-12-31T13:38:00.002+08:00

(Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas with main stature of Medicine Buddha)

From 26 Dec 07 to 2 Jan 08, all are welcome to join in "THE 100 MILLION MANI RECITATION RETREAT" anytime you are free from 8.30am to 10pm.

Full-timers will be reciting at Hall of No Form while part-timers can join anytime you are available at Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas, level 2.
Besides having Venerables in the hall with us, audio & screens of activities at Hall of No Form are also shown. As part-timers, you can also experience the positive energy generated by all.:-)
It is really touching to see so many supporters, young & old for the event.
For more information, you may refer to http://www.kmspks.org/events/evt_om.htm

If you are looking for special way of welcoming 2008, do join in the celebration events organised by the temple on New Year Eve (31 Dec 2007) to welcome 2008 (my favourite includes their 108 Bell Resonances at mid-nite to welcome 2008).(http://www.kmspks.org/youth/countdown.htm#)
Do come for a different countdown experience :-) How to reach the temple:
If you are coming by MRT, pls alight at Bishan MRT station and take bus 410 (white plate) and bus 52 from the bus interchange. It will bring you to the temple front gate within 10 minutes.
Official website of Bright Hill Temple:
http://www.kmspks.org/

Poh Ern Shih (Temple of Thanksgiving)

2007-12-12T20:49:00.002+08:00

I was introduced to this temple of history, Poh Ern Shih (PES) by my tour-mates who are volunteers there. Located off Pasir Panjang Road, behind Banyan Condo, it made news this year as being pioneer temple to utilise solar energy.
Reading further to the history from their website, http://www.pohernshih.org/History(E).htm & reasons for the rebuild, http://www.pohernshih.org/PESRebuild(E).htm, I gained a better understanding of the new mission of the temple.

(Half of the temple is still under rebuilding)

(Solar energy facilities at its Rooftop)

(Existing Main Shrine at 3rd level)

For those looking for English chanting session, please feel free to join in every Sunday morning, from 8am - 12.30pm.:-) You may refer to http://www.pohernshih.org/WeeklyActivities(E).htm) for latest updates.

(Buddhist Fellowship centre at 2nd level)

Since August 2007, the temple becomes more lively with Buddhist Fellowship (BF) moving in to its 2nd level. Its weekly activities include Wednesday Dhamma Talks at 7..45pm & Sunday Services at 11am. For latest activities, pls refer to http://www.buddhistfellowship.org

I believe once the construction of the rebuilding of PES is complete, it will attract more followers :-) Let us pray for its smooth completion :-)

How to get to PES?

Address: 9 Chwee Chian Road, Singapore 117488
Tel: 6474 3926 (PES) 6278 0900 (BF)

PES can be accessed by buses: SBS 10, 30, 51, 143, 175, TIBS 176, 188

Alighting before/after Banyan Condo from the direction of Clementi & After Pasir Panjang Wharves Gate 3 from the direction of Telok Blangah Rd (may refer to http://www.pohernshih.org/Contact(E).htm for more details)

Free shuttle bus services are also available from ViVo City to PES during days of BF activities. Pls refer to http://www.buddhistfellowship.org/bf_new/pages/get_in_touch/contact_us.html#ShuttleBus

Asian Civilisations Museum-On The Nalanda Trail: Buddhism in India, China and Southeast Asia

2007-11-19T12:20:00.002+08:00

(Sir Stamford Raffles (black statute) in front of Victoria Concert Hall) (Sir Stamford Raffles (white statute) opp Boat Quay)

In the recent Deepavali holiday, I visited ACM at Empress place with my friend.Our main target is to visit its new exhibition theme: On The Nalanda Trail: Buddhism in India, China and Southeast Asia. (2 Nov 2007 to 23 March 2008).
To be frank, this is the 1st time I visited ACM ever since its opening at Empress place & years ago since I saw & took pictures of the Black & White Sir Stamford Raffles statutes. (Do really bring back memories when we were on primary school excursions when we always visit the area. Cldn't recall if it was also the old museum site that we had visited)

(This is where the real exhibition entrance starts,. They will ask you to surrender your bags & handphone & goes thru the security scan gantry.)

Upon arrival, we headed straight to the 2nd level of ACM where we were told the theme begins. After reading some history & appreciating a few artefacts & near what we thought was the end of the hall, we thought that's the end of exhibition & when I was just going to brand it as of an average standard, we discovered that what we had seen earlier was just a starter, the main course begins from where we thought was the end of the exhibition hall.

At the real entrance of the exhibition, we were told to surrender all our bags & handphones before entering the hall. :P that means no photography is allowed.

After exiting from the exhibition, both of us were impressed by the effort put in by the museum. Apart from some small hiccups whereby the English & Chinese translation of Buddha & Bodhisattva name does not match & the staff has been notified (shall check if that's rectified in my next visit :P), we feel that the standard of Spore museum had certainly seen much improvement.

As to what's inside the exhibition, that's for you to find out. :-)

But so far feedback has been positive from friends who visited and they find it worth visiting. I intend to visit it again & spend at least half a day there as the last visit I just covered the Nalanda trail quickly & there are other sections of the ACM holding different themes that I did not explore further. It will be good to start from 12pm (Tue-Fri) as there is guided tour at that timing.

After being in the darkness for a few hours, we are glad to be out in the open & enjoy the scenery while we stroll along the Singapore river. :-)

ACM is easily accessible, you can alight from Raffles MRT & walk towards Fullerton hotel (across the cavenagh bridge) or take TIBS 75 & alight at bus-stop near Victoria Theatre & Concert Hall.

To find out more information on exhibition themes of ACM, you may visit their website at : http://www.acm.org.sg/home/home.asp

Singapore Botanic Gardens

2007-11-08T12:43:00.001+08:00

Located at 1 Cluny Road, the Spore Botanical garden is easily accessible via public transport. It is my family's favourite garden for Sunday morning walk. The best time to take a walk is between 7am -8.30am for the fresh relaxing cool air and not so hurting sunshine.

( Swan Lake )

(Symphony Lake)

Remember to bring bread to feed the fishes & turtles. There is a hugh population of them at the Symphony lake. You can find big Koi, catfishes & many types of fishes there. They look ever hungry.

Wild ducks will come by when they see you feeding the fishes

(Ginger flower)

As you approach the Ginger garden section near the waterfall, you can hear classic Chinese songs being sung by a group of song lovers

(Swordsman& women practising Taiji Sword movements)

It is really a good place to visit especially if you can wake up early in the morning. By walking in the garden & enjoying the beautiful landscape & hearing natural sound of birds singing, you will find that life is beautiful & has the revitalised will to live on.

It is also easily accessible.

By Bus:Get to the Gardens by Public Bus via Holland Road or Bukit Timah Road.
Via Holland Road

SBS Transit 7, 105, 123, 174

SMRT 75, 77, 106

Via Bukit Timah Road

SBS Transit 66, 151, 153, 154

SMRT 67, 171

Its official website is http://www.sbg.org.sg/

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

2007-11-07T22:21:00.002+08:00

The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple (Singapore) (BTRTS) was founded in 2002 by Venerable Shi Fa Zhao. With the official opening of its new building at Chinatown (located at 288 South Bridge Rd, off Sago street or opposite the famous Maxwell food centre), it has attracted both local & foreign visitors & devotees.

(Avalokitesvara Hall)

(Embroidery Lotus Painting)
(Maitreya Hall)

Maitreya Buddha, also called 'The Future Buddha' is being worshipped by the temple & in here you see a different image of Maitreya Buddha which is different from traditional temples.

Walking up from 4th flr to the Roof, you could see paintings of 4 Buddhas of the 4 Cardinal Points at the corners. Shown below is Aksobhya Buddha of the Eastern Realm of Fragrance. It is believed that when a pregnant woman recites the name of “南無阿閦如来”, she will have a smooth and happy pregnancy

The Roof has beautiful landscape of Orchid garden & in its centre is a large, tall Ten Thousand Buddhas Pagoda housing the large Vairocana Buddha Prayer Wheel.

The Prayer wheel in motion and at its top is a bell that will ring when moved with a certain frequency.

Pictures not available but very important to visit is the 4th storey (no photo-taking) where many devotees prostrate themselves to venerate the Sacred Buddha Tooth in the serene chamber.

While music of "Buddam Saranam Gacchami" (Three Refuge) is played, you can't help but feel touched and I really don't know how to describe the feeling. The atmosphere is very serene, just like revisiting the holy places in India. (I tried playing the same Cd which can be purchased at counter outside the chamber at home but the feeling and atmosphere is different)
However, pls take note that to fully view the inner chamber when curtains are not drawn down to reveal the Stupa and the blessing ceremony by the Sangha, it is advisable to visit during the following hours: 9am-12pm, 3pm-6pm.
(pardon me if time is wrong/changed).
I am not sure if it is the blessing ritual but on a few visit with my mum during the above hours, she likes the part when the Sangha will do some chanting & sprinkle "blessed" water to the devotees. She feels blessed & happy abt it.

Besides that, not to forget the museum at 2nd/3rd floor that explains history of Buddhism as well as display of Buddhist culture artifacts.

It is really a place worth visiting and I will always recommend my friends to visit it if they hadn't.

The opening hours of the temple is from 7am- 7pm everyday including public holidays. (there may be some changes if they have any special events so please always check their website to get latest info)

Their official website is: http://www.btrts.org.sg/Eng_Index.html

Bright Hill Temple 光明山普觉禅寺

2007-11-06T22:56:00.003+08:00

光明山普觉禅寺 Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery (KMSPKS) or commonly known as Bright Hill Temple founded in 1920 by Venerable Zhuan Dao is located at 88 Bright Hill Road.

(Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas with large stature of Medicine Buddha in it)

(Hall of No Form)

On the Lunar 15th of each month (7.30pm-9.30pm), the temple usually holds its Group recitation practice of "Om Mani Padme Hum" that attracts hundreds of devotees in the Hall of No Form. Very positive energy, do join in if you can. (Note: The practice had stopped for a while, we do hope it could be resumed soon)

How to reach the temple:

If you are coming by MRT, pls alight at Bishan MRT station and take bus 410 (white plate) and bus 52 from the bus interchange. It will bring you to the temple front gate within 10 minutes.

Official website of Bright Hill Temple:

http://www.kmspks.org/

The Spore Buddhist Lodge

2007-11-06T21:17:00.003+08:00

The Spore Buddhist Lodge (新加坡佛教居士林) established since 1934 is currently located at Kim Yam Road, along River Valley Road.

( Statue of Amitabha Buddha)

(Statue of Amitabha Buddha at side of Dining Hall)

(Statue of Shakyamuni Buddha in resting position)

(Main Shrine) (Qian Shou Guan Yin at 4th Floor)

Singapore Buddhist Lodge is accessible by buses along River Valley Road before/after AA centre: 32, 33, 54, 139, 195

Its Official website is http://www.sbl.org.sg/

Sunny Fantasy

JIUHUASHAN 九华山

开福禅寺 Kai Fu Chan Si

庐山东林寺 LU SHAN DONGLINSI

Labrador Nature Reserve

Pulau Ubin

Views from Singapore Flyer

Bright Hill Temple 光明山普觉禅寺

Sri Lankaramaya Buddhist Temple

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka

MacRitchie Reservoir Park

Singapore Art Museum

Bright Hill Temple 光明山普觉禅寺

Dharma Drum Mountain 法鼓山, JinShan, Taipei

Dharma Drum Mountain 法鼓山, JinShan, Taipei

Dharma Drum Mountain 法鼓山, JinShan, Taipei

Nung Chan Monastery 农 禅 寺

Chung-Hwa Institute of Buddhist Culture 中华佛教文化馆, Bei Tou

Juming Museum 朱銘美術館

Skate Park

National Museum of Singapore

Seu Teck Sean Tong Yiang Sin Sia 修德善堂

Dharma Drum Singapore 法鼓山新加坡护法会

Fo Guang Shan (Singapore) 新加坡佛光山

Kong Hiap Memorial Museum 广洽纪念馆

Foo Hai Ch'an Monastery 福海禅寺

Fo Guang Shan (Singapore) 新加坡佛光山

Forest Walk

Henderson Waves

National Library Singapore

Queenstown Community Library

Singapore Botanical Gardens

Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

East Coast Park

Chengdu Chunxi Road, China

Panda Land, China

九寨沟, Jiu Zhai Gou, China

九寨沟, Jiu Zhai Gou, China

九寨沟, Jiu Zhai Gou, China

九寨沟, Jiu Zhai Gou, China

On Way to & from 九寨沟 Jiu Zhai Gou, China

峨嵋山 Er Mei Shan, China

乐山 Le Shan, China

Tai Pei Buddhist Centre

Singapore Botanical Gardens

Bright Hill Temple 光明山普觉禅寺

Bright Hill Temple 光明山普觉禅寺

Bright Hill Temple 光明山普觉禅寺

Poh Ern Shih (Temple of Thanksgiving)

Asian Civilisations Museum-On The Nalanda Trail: Buddhism in India, China and Southeast Asia

Singapore Botanic Gardens

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

Bright Hill Temple 光明山普觉禅寺

The Spore Buddhist Lodge

Nung Chan Monastery 农禅寺