Gunma Project | Japan

by smarthitect studio

Gunma Meditation Center is an architectural marvel that seamlessly blends traditional Buddhist design elements with modern functionality. The complex is meticulously designed to support a variety of activities, including meditation, spiritual retreats, and daily communal living. Each of the three distinct buildings within the complex serves a specific purpose, catering to the spiritual and residential needs of its occupants. The thoughtful use of space and materials reflects a commitment to creating a serene, respectful, and spiritually enriching environment for all visitors and residents.

Location: Gunma | Japan

Services: architecture, engineering, interiors, landscape design, planning, project management

Size: 11,833 m² 

Year of completion: 2012

Gunma Meditation Center, located in Japan, features three principal edifices: the meditation hall, the ordination hall, and the laywomen’s residence. The complex is spread over a total land area of 11,833 square meters (approximately 7 rai). The temple complex is composed of three distinct buildings, each serving a specific function to support the spiritual and residential needs of its occupants.

1. Main Building: Meditation building 

The two-storey main building, with a total usable area of 1,060 square meters, is designed to accommodate various functions:

First Floor:

  •  Male staff quarters
  •  Equipment storage rooms
  •  Shower rooms
  •  Separate male and female toilets

Second Floor: 

  •  A meditation room with a capacity for 80 people
  •  A multipurpose hall
  •  A dining hall for monks
  •  A public dining room
  •   A kitchen
  •  Separate male and female restrooms

2. Meditation Village

The meditation village within the temple grounds provides tranquil lodging for practitioners:

Individual Bungalows: 

  •  15 small bungalows, each designed for single occupancy to facilitate solitary meditation and retreat experiences.

Shared Accommodation Building:

  • Contains 9 rooms with integrated bathrooms
  • Can accommodate approximately 35 people, providing a communal living space for meditation practitioners.

3. Female Staff Residence

A separate residence for female staff, covering an area of 145 square meters, serves as a home for Thai-Japanese staff members and female relatives who visit for short-term Dhamma practice.

Parking Facilities: The temple is equipped with extensive parking facilities to accommodate visitors and staff:

  • Bus Parking: Space for 3 large buses
  • Private Car Parking: The first floor can park 92 cars
  • The second floor has capacity for 10 cars

Gallery

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