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Sofukuji Temple

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One of the most vivid sights we encountered in Nagasaki was the Sofukuji, a Buddhist temple built in the Chinese style.  It was constructed in 1629 by Chinese residents of Nagasaki, and still functions as a place of worship for those of Chinese descent.  It is located adjacent to Chinatown, up a hill quite a ways and set back into the forest.  What separates it from Japanese-style temples is the color: the Chinese-style buildings are very bright, as you can see.  The reds, blues, and greens simply jumped off the structures.  As our posts of Japanese-style temples can show, the color template there is often muted and subdued.  Another difference deals with the statues of the Gods and Goddesses, as are shown in some pictures below.


First, here's the second gate, up a steep flight of stairs from the main entrance shown above.

Note the bright blue, green, and orange!  This was unlike anything I had seen on a temple before.  Matt and I enjoyed seeing it because it was so beautiful and we felt it would prime us nicely for the short stop we'd make in Beijing on our way to Europe.


More examples of the rich design: to the left, a stunning altar display, featuring the reds, oranges, and yellows that are so prominent in Chinese design.  To the right, an example of the exquisite lanterns that lined the temple walkways.  This one shows delicate designs of Chinese flora and fauna.  Below, the ceiling beams covered in flowers and dragons.


This final picture is a good example of the different kinds of statues found in Chinese-style temples.  They are a little difficult to see, but the two figures on the sides of the picture below may be related to "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil."  You can see the one on the left holding a hand up over his eyes, and the one on the right is holding a hand up to his ear.  Chinese scholars, any information is greatly appreciated!

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