The Daijokyo Buddhist Temple in Bodhgaya is a beautiful symbol of Japanese Buddhist devotion and international peace. Established in 1983 by a Japanese Buddhist organization founded by Reverend Tatsuko Sugiyama, the temple reflects the Mahayana tradition of Buddhism. Inaugurated by the then President of India, Giani Zail Singh, the temple was built to promote harmony, spiritual practice, and cultural exchange. Its architecture features a stunning two-storey structure topped with a unique three-tiered pagoda. The main prayer hall, known as the Shakado, houses a bronze statue of Lord Buddha brought from Japan, surrounded by peaceful interiors perfect for meditation. Behind the temple stands the world-famous Great Buddha Statue—an 80-foot tall seated image of Buddha, consecrated by the 14th Dalai Lama in 1989. The temple complex also includes gardens, a reliquary hall, and accommodation for pilgrims. The Daijokyo Temple continues to serve as a serene and spiritual destination for visitors from across the globe.
The Daijokyo Buddhist Temple in Bodhgaya has a rich and inspiring history that reflects a deep spiritual connection between Japan and India. It was established in 1983 by the Japanese Buddhist organization Daijokyo, founded in 1914 by Reverend Tatsuko Sugiyama, a devoted follower of the Lotus Sutra. The temple’s construction aimed to honor the sacred land of Lord Buddha’s enlightenment and to promote peace, harmony, and Buddhist teachings across cultures. The temple's main prayer hall, known as the Shakado, was inaugurated by the then President of India, Giani Zail Singh, marking a significant moment in Indo-Japanese spiritual collaboration. One of the most iconic contributions of Daijokyo to Bodhgaya is the Great Buddha Statue, an 80-foot-tall sandstone structure completed in 1989 and consecrated by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. Over the years, other features were added, including statues of Buddha’s ten main disciples, a statue of the founder, meditation halls, and community welfare centers. This temple continues to serve as a place of devotion, learning, and international Buddhist unity.
Inside the Daijokyo Buddhist Temple in Bodhgaya, one is immediately embraced by a sense of peace and spiritual elegance. The main prayer hall, known as the Shakadō, features a serene bronze statue of the Eternal Shakyamuni Buddha, brought from Japan, and surrounded by other important figures of Mahayana Buddhism like Visistacaritra and Anantacaritra. The interior reflects traditional Japanese design, with polished wooden floors, carved columns, and a gentle glow of natural light that fills the space. A distinctive three-tiered pagoda structure rises above the hall, and on the upper floor is the Founder’s Hall, which houses a bronze bust of Reverend Tatsuko Sugiyama and sacred Buddhist relics. The temple is designed to promote quiet meditation, with rows of cushions, soft incense, and educational displays that guide visitors through Buddhist teachings and chants. The calm setting, complemented by surrounding gardens, makes this temple a perfect space for inner reflection, learning, and devotion.
The area around the Daijokyo Buddhist Temple in Bodhgaya is filled with several remarkable attractions that enhance the spiritual and cultural experience for visitors. One of the most iconic is the Great Buddha Statue, an 80-foot tall sandstone and red granite image of Lord Buddha in a meditative pose, located within the same complex and consecrated by the 14th Dalai Lama in 1989. Just a short walk away is the Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple, a peaceful place known for its Japanese architecture and serene atmosphere. Other nearby monasteries include the Chinese Temple, which features antique Buddha statues, and the Thai Monastery, known for its ornate golden roof and beautiful interior. Visitors can also explore the Tibetan Refugee Market, which offers traditional Tibetan handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. Additionally, the Archaeological Museum of Bodhgaya showcases ancient Buddhist and Hindu artifacts, offering historical insights into the region’s sacred heritage.
The distance from Gaya Railway Station to Daijokyo Buddhist Temple is approx 16.6 km.
The distance from Gaya Airport to Daijokyo Buddhist Temple is around 10.4 km.
The distance from Gaya Bus Stand to Daijokyo Buddhist Temple is about 16 km.
The 80-feet Buddha Statue in Bodhgaya is a magnificent symbol of peace and spirituality. Unveiled on 18th November 1989 by the 14th Dalai Lama, the statue was constructed over seven years by the Daijokyo Buddhist sect of Japan. Made from red granite and sandstone, it depicts Lord Buddha in a meditative posture seated on a grand lotus pedestal. Surrounded by a peaceful garden and ten smaller statues representing Buddha’s disciples, the site offers a calm and reflective atmosphere for visitors. Located close to the Mahabodhi Temple, this statue has become a major attraction and spiritual landmark. Visitors consistently praise its serene environment, well-maintained surroundings, and the powerful sense of devotion it inspires. The overall experience leaves a lasting impression on those who visit, making it not just a place to see, but a place to feel peace, reflection, and connection with the timeless teachings of Buddha.
