Dharma Drum Mountain

Dharma Drum Mountain is a Buddhist monastery in Jinshan District, New Taipei City, set across gently rolling hills with pavilions, study halls, and a grand Buddha hall. The buildings follow the natural topography and are connected by paths that wind between trees and planted terraces.

Master Sheng-yen founded the site in 1989 as a center for Chan meditation and expanded it over the years into an international educational and social foundation. The complex evolved from an earlier institute for Buddhist culture into a comprehensive center for spiritual practice.

The site carries a name that refers to a Buddhist metaphor for spreading teachings and embodies the practice of Chan Buddhism in everyday life. Visitors encounter principles of simplicity and mindfulness in every space, from the bell tower to the monks' living quarters.

The monastery is open daily for visitors who wish to join guided tours, meditation sessions, and talks. The paths between buildings rise steeply in places, so wear comfortable shoes and allow enough time to explore.

The Lotus Bell Park houses a bell inscribed with the complete Lotus Sutra and the Great Compassion Mantra on its surface. This bell body ranks among the largest specimens with such extensive scripture engraving worldwide.