Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple

Lovely temple, ’try to visit when it’s not school holidays as there will be less crowd and not too noisy.

Wearing shorts is not allowed in, everyone, please pay attention (hehe, what about the equality of all living beings?)

Really calming place with traditional architecture. Trees makes the place more vibrant and cool.

Everything was perfect. The temples were great. Great place to visit and spend some time in during your south coast trip. Definitely would recommend.

Title: A Tranquil Oasis of Spirituality and Beauty: Nan Tien Temple in Berkeley, NSW

Rating: (5/5 stars)

Nestled amidst the serene landscape of Berkeley, NSW, Nan Tien Temple stands as a testament to spiritual devotion, cultural heritage, and architectural splendor. Embarking on a journey to this temple was an awe-inspiring experience that left an indelible mark on my soul. From the moment I set foot on its grounds, I was captivated by the harmonious ambiance that permeated every corner of this spiritual oasis.

As I approached the temple's entrance, the sight of the majestic gate, adorned with intricate traditional Chinese motifs, welcomed me into a world of ancient wisdom and tranquility. The meticulous attention to detail in the architecture instantly transported me to a realm where time seemed to stand still.

The sprawling temple complex is an architectural marvel, thoughtfully designed to harmonize with nature and embody the principles of Feng Shui. Lush gardens, carefully manicured trees, and reflective lotus ponds create a soothing atmosphere, inviting visitors to escape the bustling world outside and embark on a journey of self-discovery.

Inside the temple, the grandeur of the main hall left me breathless. Towering golden statues of Buddha and Bodhisattvas exude an aura of benevolence and compassion, inspiring a sense of profound reverence. The soothing aroma of incense filled the air, and the soft chants of devoted practitioners added to the ethereal atmosphere, creating a space that felt like a true sanctuary for the soul.

The temple's vibrant cultural center further enriched my experience, providing an opportunity to immerse myself in the depth of Buddhist teachings and ancient Eastern traditions. Knowledgeable guides eagerly shared the temple's history and philosophy, fostering a deeper appreciation for the wisdom that has been passed down through generations.

A highlight of my visit was the opportunity to engage in a meditation session led by a resident monk. Guided through the practice of mindfulness, I felt a sense of inner peace and clarity that was truly transformative. It was a valuable reminder that amidst our fast-paced lives, finding moments of stillness and introspection is vital for personal growth and well-being.

The temple's vegetarian restaurant, situated in a picturesque setting, offered a delightful culinary journey. The dishes, prepared with mindfulness and compassion, not only satisfied the taste buds but also nourished the body and soul. Each bite felt like an ode to the sanctity of life and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

Beyond its spiritual significance, Nan Tien Temple actively contributes to the local community, hosting various cultural events, seminars, and charitable initiatives. Their commitment to promoting interfaith dialogue and fostering mutual understanding is commendable and showcases the temple's dedication to spreading peace and harmony.

In conclusion, Nan Tien Temple is a true gem, not just for the residents of Berkeley, NSW, but for anyone seeking solace, enlightenment, and a deeper connection to their inner selves. The temple's holistic approach to spirituality, cultural richness, and breathtaking architecture make it a must-visit destination. Whether you are a devout practitioner, a curious explorer, or simply in search of a tranquil retreat, Nan Tien Temple will leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul. I cannot recommend this place highly enough; it is a haven of peace and an embodiment of the beauty of the human spirit.

It's good, but there is a strict dress code for the gift shop and shrines. Don't wear shorts or sleeveless clothing if you want to enter those places.
Some people are saying it's commercial, but you do not have to pay anything. You could even just go in there in the afternoon and just wander around.

Great Buddhist temple for meditation. Lots of different workshops available for the general public. It’s closed at the moment during the high COVID period. The grounds are vast with lots of lovely gardens in between temples and structures of Buddhist significance. It’s a quiet place good for self reflection or for sharing quiet space with a friend, while sitting in garden spaces. I enjoyed walking around the slopes and enjoyed viewing the pagoda. I’d like to go back and take part in a workshop or even a retreat in the future.

On a Saturday do a cultivation workshop with walking meditation, tai chi and a dharma talk. Afterwards, share a meal by donation with monks and your fellow classmates. Then a walk up to the gong to bang it and leave refreshed.

Negligent about food allergies

I bought a voucher for a two-day retreat for my mum's birthday. She has a severe food allergy and I contacted the office twice to make sure they had processed the note I had written on the order form, including two days before the retreat. Both times I was assured that the kitchen had been notified and there would be food provided that my mum could eat.
At lunch on the first day of the retreat the kitchen staff told my mum that they had not been told about her allergy and she could only eat the plain boiled rice. When this was investigated further, a note about her allergy had been written in the office but never delivered to the kitchen. My mum was told that there would be dishes she could eat at dinner, and was called up to serve herself first. She only took the dishes she was specifically told that she could eat, but as soon as she started eating she began to have a severe reaction. She was escorted to her room and the support she received from the retreat staff should be commended.
However, after a sleepless night she was still too unwell to attend the activities on the second morning, and felt too anxious about the prospect of attending breakfast and lunch to stay for the rest of the retreat. She was told when leaving that a refund or voucher for meditation would be provided. She was exceptionally disappointed to miss out on the planned day but did not feel like she could stay.
I contacted the office to give respectful feedback on my mum's experience in the hope that no other retreat guests would be put at risk of hospitalisation or even death as a direct result of their negligence. I am appalled that after almost a month I am yet to receive a response, an explanation or apology, let alone the reimbursement my mum was promised.
Although my family has visited numerous times over the years and we have attended many one-day retreats, we will never be returning and will advise everyone I come across to do the same.

Truly a place with full of vibration. Nature and human united in peace. A place one can find peace, calmness, meditate, or simply spend time with family. Big parks that we can walk and indulge with nature.
Definitely a beautiful weekend getaway for those who want to claim peace and serene away from busy life.

How good is this place? The gardens are meticulously maintained and the bowls of noodles delicious, though I have been told that is changing with the noodle Shop moving out and the monks taking over. I really hope they keep doing the vegetarian curry laksa and other noodles as that was one of the reasons that kept me coming back.

Well put together. Enjoyable and enlightening experience. Sets you on a good path. I do feel like you should get into meditation a little before doing the retreat. Great experience though!

Great place to go and explore and experience the religion and culture of the temple. Interesting things to see there and lots of statues and great views of the surrounding areas.

A great place to reflect, meditate and pray for the blessings of the new year. Also a great insight to culture on our door step.

Beautiful place for visit. Peaceful and quiet. Nice temple. Garden. Pond with lotuses. There are two cafes with vegetarian food. Good access for wheelchair and pram (lifts and pandus). Big parking.

I love the temple and it is beautiful. I went on the opening day back in the 1990s. I had been back quite a few times. After a 16 year break I went back. I am VERY DISAPPOINTED, it is now a money making machine.

The "food", is terrible and tasteless. It made us feel sick. Compared to the many visits in the past, the portions are small, it is expensive as I said tasteless. Friends had warned me.

This is not the way of the Buddha.

Only after money. They tail you around and keep on pestering you to buy things. They took us for cookie decorating without asking for parents and then our parents had to pay. Rude people in museum let Asian women in with sleeveless tops soon as my sister went in the old lady shouted and chased her out
For a spiritual place as they claim to be in they aren’t anything close to spiritual. They need to go back to Tibet and learn about Buddha again.

It will take a bit of time to explore there. Get a map on your mobile to visit their certain visit able halls. The wall full of Buddha and the Main Shrine is wonderful. Beyond the Shrine also there are other areas to visit and Nearby Art Gallery and Nan Tien Institute, a buffet restaurant is best place to eat. Try them.

Buddhist temple with big area to go around and relax in nature Parking spots available inside and outside the gates but can get crowded on public holidays. Vegeterian food is available inside the premises both on ground floor and 2nd floor, there is another one near the uni but I didn't check it out, but is expensive (especially on ground floor) and less quantity but great quality, so better to eat before going there.

Amazing place to visit. The atmosphere is so peaceful and calm. The temples are extremely well maintained and clean.

The restaurant they have is excellent. They offer a variety of vegan/ vegetarian dishes that are all very tasty. No meat options though.

Tip: if you are visiting while covid restrictions are still in place, bring a mark as it is mandatory indoors. Also have some change with you for offerings and donations.