Tranquil spiritual retreat echoing Japanese Zen in the land of Buddha
Located just a few minutes from the revered Mahabodhi Temple, the Japanese Temple & Meditation Centre in Bodhgaya is a peaceful destination that offers a serene experience to spiritual seekers and tourists. The temple showcases classic Japanese architectural design—minimalist, symmetrical, and calming—with a beautiful Zen garden and a stunning Buddha statue brought from Japan. Run by the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist order, this center emphasizes world peace through prayer and meditation. Visitors are welcomed with open arms and can participate in chanting sessions and walking meditation. The rhythmic beating of the drum and soft chanting create a peaceful aura that immediately calms the mind. Whether you seek silence, prayer, or a moment of reflection, this temple offers a unique glimpse into Japanese Buddhism while being deeply rooted in the spirit of Bodhgaya.
Important Timings
Temple Visiting Hours |
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2–5 PM |
Chanting Sessions |
Morning & Evening |
Meditation Availability |
With prior permission |
Booking and Entry Fees
Entry Fee |
Free |
Group Meditation (if allowed) |
Free (with prior booking) |
Photography |
Allowed (respectfully) |
History and Legacy
The Japanese Temple & Meditation Centre in Bodhgaya was established by the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist order, a Japan-based peace-promoting organization founded by Nichidatsu Fujii. Deeply inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, Fujii sought to spread global harmony through chanting and non-violence. His disciples built peace pagodas and temples around the world, including this tranquil shrine in Bodhgaya.
The temple's structure reflects the Japanese Zen tradition, emphasizing simplicity and harmony with nature. The centerpiece is a peaceful wooden prayer hall with a large statue of Buddha gifted by Japanese followers. Chanting sessions held here are unique—visitors often find the sound of drums and chants deeply moving and meditative. The temple has become a quiet haven for those seeking inner calm, and a symbol of the spiritual connection between India and Japan.
Nearby Destinations
Mahabodhi Temple |
800 m |
3–5 mins |
Walk / Auto |
Thai Monastery |
1.1 km |
6 mins |
Walk / Auto |
Great Buddha Statue |
1.4 km |
7 mins |
Auto / Rickshaw |
Royal Bhutan Monastery |
1.6 km |
8 mins |
Auto / Rickshaw |
Bodhgaya Bus Station |
2.3 km |
10 mins |
Auto / Cab |
Tourist Guidelines & Tips
- Maintain silence and turn phones off inside the temple
- Dress conservatively (no sleeveless or short outfits)
- Participate respectfully in meditation or chanting sessions
- Remove footwear before entering prayer halls
- Avoid loud talking and photography with flash
- Carry water during summer months
Top Things to Buy Near Gaya / Bodhgaya
- Japanese incense and Buddhist scrolls
- Zen art souvenirs
- Mini Buddha statues
- Meditation beads (japa mala)
Handcrafted prayer drums
Top Things and Places to Eat Nearby
- Tibetan Om Café – Light vegetarian meals and herbal teas
- Nirvana Café – Great for smoothies and Indian-continental fusion
- Maya Heritage Restaurant – Calm ambiance with multi-cuisine options
- Be Happy Café – Good coffee, pancakes, and rice bowls
- Local food carts – Try samosas, momos, litti-chokha, and kulhad tea