Standing on a hilltop at Air Itam, near Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. The temple began construction in the early 1890’s and is still going on today. The complex is divided into three zones while the temple grounds comprise the hill entrance, souvenir, food and drinks stalls and the turtle liberation pond. The mid section of the temple houses temples, gardens, the pagoda and the four heavenly kings pavilion; meanwhile the hilltop plays host to an enormous statue of the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin as well as more gardens and temples. The temple’s enclave including a pagoda and a huge statue of the Goddess Kuan Yin is prominent. Besides the monastery, a seven-storey pagoda of 10,000 Buddha images displays the essence of an eclectic mix of Chinese, Thai and Burmese architecture.

credit: Marufish

The Washington State Chinese Lantern Festival dazzled thousands of visitors. The event is located in Riverfront Park and celebrating traditional Chinese performances and activities. Beautiful lanterns illuminated Spokane’s Riverfront Park. The main attraction is a pagoda located toward the end of the venue and is a sight to behold. The pagoda, entitled the Porcelain Tower, is made entirely of china — cups, bowls, bottles and spoons.

credit: TooFarNorth