Near Varanasi, in Sarnath, the Japanese Temple is a beautiful and peaceful Buddhist site that attracts both pilgrims and tourists. Locally, it is known as the “Japanese Temple,” but its real name is Nichigai Suzan Horinji Temple.
The temple was built by the Japanese Buddhist community to promote peace, spirituality, and cultural exchange between Japan and India — especially in a holy place like Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Let’s explore this special place together!
History of the Japanese Temple in Sarnath
The Japanese Temple was built in 1989 by Nichigai Suzan, a Japanese Buddhist organization dedicated to spreading peace and Buddhist teachings. The temple is managed by the Dharma Chakra Indo-Japan Buddhist Cultural Society, which aims to strengthen cultural ties between India and Japan.
Sarnath was chosen because it is one of the four most sacred Buddhist places, along with Lumbini, Bodh Gaya, and Kushinagar.
Buddhism, which started in India, spread to Japan centuries ago. This temple symbolizes the deep connection between the two countries. It also shows Japan’s commitment to preserving India’s Buddhist heritage, where Buddha’s teachings first began.
Location and Architecture
The temple is located next to the World Peace Stupa in Sarnath, close to the main market and behind the government tourist bungalow.
It is built in traditional Japanese style, with a two-storey structure that has a sloping roof with upturned edges, reminding visitors of famous temples in Kyoto, Japan.
At the entrance, you’ll see a statue of Buddha under a tree and a pillar with Japanese inscriptions on the other side. Inside, the temple is beautifully decorated with sandalwood furniture and statues. In the center, there is a large wooden statue of Buddha lying down, with intricate designs on his head.
Near the statue, the Buddhist mantra “Na Mu Myo Ho Ren Ge Kyo” is displayed, which adds to the spiritual feel. The smell of sandalwood fills the air, making it a perfect place for meditation and reflection.
Visitor Information
Location: Beside World Peace Stupa, Baraipur, Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221007
Timings: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free for all visitors
Nearby Attractions
Sarnath is full of Buddhist sites, and the Japanese Temple is one of them. Here are some other nearby places you can visit:
Dhamek Stupa (500 meters away): A massive stupa built by Emperor Ashoka, where Buddha gave his first sermon.
Chaukhandi Stupa (1 km away): A historical stupa where Buddha met his first disciples, featuring an octagonal Mughal-era tower.
Mulagandha Kuti Vihar (1 km away): A modern Buddhist temple with beautiful murals by Japanese artist Kosetsu Nosu and a golden Buddha statue.
Sarnath Archaeological Museum (1 km away): Home to ancient Buddhist relics, including the Lion Capital of Ashoka, which is India’s national emblem.
Deer Park (1 km away): A peaceful park with deer and a small zoo, where Buddha preached.
Thai Temple and Monastery (1.5 km away): A beautiful temple featuring an 80-foot-tall Buddha statue.
Chinese Temple (1 km away): A colorful temple showcasing Chinese Buddhist architecture.
Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi: Although it’s in Varanasi city, this famous ghat on the Ganges River is worth visiting. It is known for the beautiful Ganga Aarti performed every evening with lamps, flowers, and prayers.
You can visit all these places in a single day, as most are close to each other and within walking distance.
It is a good idea to hire a guide because they can explain the history and importance of the temples and stupas.
Final Thoughts
The Japanese Temple in Sarnath is a wonderful example of cultural exchange and shared spiritual values between India and Japan. Built on sacred ground where Buddha first taught, this temple continues the tradition of spreading peace and mindfulness.
For Buddhists, Sarnath is a holy pilgrimage site. For others, it is a chance to learn about Buddha’s teachings and admire the beauty of ancient and modern monuments.
The Japanese Temple especially reminds us how Buddhism has connected people from India to Japan and beyond.
Have you visited Sarnath or the Japanese Temple before? Share your experience in the comments and tell us what your favorite moment was!