Did you know that the largest Buddhist temple in Latin America is in the state of São Paulo, just 30 kilometers from the capital? We’re talking about the Zu Lai Temple located in Cotia, in the metropolitan region. With an area of more than 150,000 square meters, the temple is a reference in the Buddhist religion, passing on the knowledge of the religion to followers and the curious.
In addition, the temple holds free cultural events from time to time, introducing Chinese traditions to São Paulo residents. Soon, for example, the space will celebrate the Lunar New Year with a party full of typical attractions, and the best part: it will be open to anyone who wants to enjoy it.
If you’re looking for a different and enriching cultural attraction, you’ve come to the right place!
Zu Lai Temple: a place of peace and spirituality
The largest Buddhist temple in Latin America was inaugurated in 2003 and is a space for celebrations and rites of the Asian religion. Its history, however, began much earlier: in 1992, when the venerable master Hsing Yün came to visit Brazil.
At the time, Buddhism was not such a widespread religion here. The master then left one of the nuns in his entourage in Brazil to pass on the teachings. Over time, the number of followers increased and it became necessary to build a large temple in São Paulo, which was structured along the lines of ancient Chinese architecture.
Today, the Zu Lai Temple welcomes followers of Buddhism and the curious who want to see a temple up close. In addition to Buddhist ceremonies and studies, the place is also open to visitors. It offers free meditation classes, spiritual retreats, martial arts and Chinese language courses.
Celebrate Chinese New Year in a Buddhist temple!
Here in Brazil, the New Year is always celebrated on December 31st. In several Asian countries, however, the lunar calendar is used, so the date varies each year. In 2025, for example, the Lunar New Year will fall on a Sunday, February 9, which will mark the beginning of the Year of the Snake.
On this day, therefore, the Zu Lai Temple will hold a Chinese New Year celebration, with free attractions.
Check out the full program, which promises an immersion in ancient Chinese tradition:
- 09:30: Workshops in Chinese calligraphy, origami, paper records
- 10am: Ceremony of the Thousand Buddhas
- 13:30: Dragon and Lion Dance
You can also sample typical Chinese cuisine from the stalls on site.
The Zu Lai Temple is located at Estrada Fernando Nobre, 1461 (access via km 28.5 of the Raposo Tavares highway), in Cotia. Admission is free. Don’t miss the chance to experience this unique cultural experience!
