Nittai-ji, Buddhist temple in Chikusa-ku, Japan
Nittai-ji is a Buddhist temple in Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, housing a 15-meter granite stupa built in Gandhara style. The stone structure contains ashes of Buddha and stands within grounds that include traditional buildings and maintained gardens.
The complex was established in 1904 after King Chulalongkorn of Thailand sent sacred Buddha relics to Japan, aiming to strengthen Buddhist ties between the two nations. This gift marked an important moment in diplomatic relations between Thailand and Japan at the beginning of the 20th century.
The name comes from Sanskrit and means "temple of daily offering", reflecting its original purpose as a repository for sacred relics. Visitors can observe followers from different Buddhist schools practicing together, as no single denomination holds permanent leadership.
A monthly market takes place on the 21st of each month, when over 100 vendors set up on the grounds to sell their wares. The grounds are accessible year-round, with early morning hours often quieter than the afternoon.
The Thai ambassador traditionally visits this site on his birthday, honoring the ongoing connection between the two countries. This personal gesture keeps the diplomatic significance of the place alive more than a century after the original gift.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
