Fagushan - Nongchan Monastery

Fagushan originated from the 'Chinese Buddhist Cultural Center' and 'Nongchan Monastery,' both founded by Master Dongchu. In 1955, Master Dongchu established the Chinese Buddhist Cultural Center in Beitou to promote Buddhist culture and organize winter relief efforts. In 1971, he led his disciples to clear and cultivate land on Guandu Plain, and by 1975, a farmhouse was completed and put into use. Master Dongchu named this place 'Nongchan Monastery,' emphasizing 'Zen meditation as the primary focus, and farming for livelihood.' In 1977, Master Dongchu passed away peacefully without illness, entrusting Master Sheng Yen to inherit his Dharma lineage and assume the abbacy of both the Chinese Buddhist Cultural Center and Nongchan Monastery, dedicating himself to promoting Buddhism and Zen meditation. As the number of followers grew, and in search of a long-term, stable, and future-oriented site for a monastery, Master Sheng Yen officially announced in July 1989 that the new monastery in Jinshan would be named 'Fagushan.' He also outlined a clear blueprint for the monastery's future development: to fulfill educational, cultural, and Dharma propagation functions, providing a good environment for practitioners to cultivate Buddhism and purify body and mind, and utilizing Buddhist principles to bring peace to people's hearts and stability to society. (Source: Fagushan Nongchan Monastery Official Website) Architectural Features: The architecture of Fagushan Nongchan Monastery blends elements of traditional Zen temples with modern design, subtly integrating with the surrounding natural environment. The overall architectural style is simple and understated, emphasizing open spaces and the introduction of natural light, aiming to create a harmonious and tranquil space for spiritual practice and daily life.