2025 Berkeley Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

My spouse and I grew up in families that practiced Buddhism and Taoism, and we have always appreciated the serene and cohesive atmosphere of temples. During our travels in Australia, visiting Nan Tien Temple in Wollongong naturally became part of our itinerary. Fortunately, while in Brisbane, we also discovered Chung Tian Temple. Although it is less renowned than Nan Tien Temple, it is equally a place that purifies the soul. Here’s a detailed introduction to both temples for those interested in visiting: Nan Tien Temple (Wollongong) Located in Wollongong, New South Wales, Nan Tien Temple is the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. Established by Fo Guang Shan in 1995, it is often referred to as the "Southern Paradise of Buddhism." Accommodation: Pilgrim Lodge is situated next to the temple and serves as a lodging facility for visitors, pilgrims, and meditation practitioners. The rooms prohibit alcohol, smoking, and television to create a tranquil environment. Guests can enjoy views of the temple and Wollongong’s scenic beauty from their rooms, making it a peaceful retreat. Chung Tian Temple (Brisbane) Located in the southern suburbs of Brisbane, Queensland, Chung Tian Temple was established by Fo Guang Shan in 1992 and serves as a significant Buddhist cultural center in the area. Though smaller in scale compared to Nan Tien Temple, it features exquisite architecture and a solemn atmosphere. Surrounded by woodland, it offers a serene escape amidst the urban setting. The temple includes Buddha halls, meditation rooms, cultural classrooms, and art exhibition spaces. It also provides courses in calligraphy, Tai Chi, meditation, and Buddhist studies, making it ideal for local residents and visitors seeking short-term activities or weekend relaxation. Comparison: Nan Tien Temple vs. Chung Tian Temple Nan Tien Temple (Wollongong): The largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. Chung Tian Temple (Brisbane): A medium-sized Buddhist temple. Architectural Style: Nan Tien Temple combines traditional Chinese and modern designs, showcasing grandeur and magnificence. Chung Tian Temple is elegant and dignified. Accommodation: Nan Tien Temple offers Pilgrim Lodge for visitors. Chung Tian Temple does not have on-site accommodation, but nearby guesthouses and hotels are available. Activities: Nan Tien Temple hosts more frequent and larger-scale events, including annual grand ceremonies and cultural festivals. Chung Tian Temple focuses on local community engagement and cultural promotion. Recommendations: - For travelers or those seeking a retreat: Nan Tien Temple is ideal for a 1-2 day visit, offering a tranquil environment and cultural experiences. - For Brisbane residents or those nearby: Chung Tian Temple is perfect for weekend relaxation, Buddhist courses, or cultural activities. Both temples are significant Fo Guang Shan establishments in Australia, promoting Humanistic Buddhism and cultural exchange, each with its unique charm.

｜Chasing waves and sunsets. 🌊 Adventure + healing, double the happiness! Stunning coastline + Zen temple in the morning ✨ Lighthouse secret place + romantic beach in the afternoon 🌞 Morning itinerary: Cliff wonders & Buddhist time 1. 🌉 Sea Cliff Bridge | 8:30-9:30 ✨ Must-Play: Filming on the cliff road! 📸 The background of waves and cliffs is super stunning~ Hidden trail beside the bridge (search "Sea Cliff Bridge Lookout" on Google Maps) for a panoramic view! 💡 Tips: If you leave early, there will be fewer people, and it’s super convenient to charter a car and park it directly at the bridge head! 2. 🏯 Nan Tien Temple | 10:00-11:30 ✨ Must-Play: The largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere! Copying sutras 📜, feeding koi 🎏, taking photos against the red wall is super healing~ The vegetarian dim sum at the temple cafe is surprisingly delicious! 💡 Tips: Wear comfortable shoes (you need to climb stairs) and bring coins to put in the wishing fountain~ 🌤️ Afternoon itinerary: Lighthouse, secret place, and beach 3. ⚓ Kiama Blowhole | 12:30-13:30 ✨ Must-Play: See the natural "fountain"🌊! Good luck to see the rainbow ~ The ice cream truck under the lighthouse 🍦 is highly recommended! 4. 🗿 Heaven’s Gate (Cathedral Rocks) | 14:00-14:45 ✨ Must-Play: Walking into the cave at low tide 🕳️ is like traveling to another world! There are little crabs hiding in the cracks of the rocks🦀, bring a waterproof case for your phone! 💡 Tip: Check the tide table (search "Kiama Tide Times") Safety first! 5. 💖 Love Bay | 15:00-16:30 ✨ Must-Play: Few people and beautiful scenery! Write your name on the beach❤️, the waves will help you "stamp" it~ Picking up shells in the reef area🐚, super romantic at sunset! 📌 Tips for chartering a car 🎒 Essentials: Sunscreen🧴, slippers🩴, camera📷, jacket (it’s windy at the beach!) 🐶 Pet-friendly: Some attractions allow dogs, please ask the driver in advance~ 🌟 Experience the wildness and gentleness of Wollongong in one day, and you will have so much material to share with your friends! 💥

Nice Temple

Built by Taiwanese Australians, this temple is said to be the largest in the southern hemisphere. The Japanese-style garden, the magnificent Chinese pagoda, and the multi-story buildings that seem to follow Tibetan architectural styles are rare sights in Australia. It's definitely worth a visit. Since Australia is not a Buddhist country, even Australians come to see Nan Tien Temple as a tourist attraction. It is closed every Monday, and there is no entrance fee.

On the way from Sydney to Wollongong, there is Nanten Monastery. I heard from a Chinese friend that a Chinese person bought a mountain and built it here. When you go there, it feels really well-built. It's just like China. They also sell temple food. There's a Buddhist university. If you're looking for a temple in Australia, it's a place worth visiting. There are also many Buddhists, including Indians.

Wollongong is a city on the east coast of New South Wales, Australia. Here is some information about it: 1. Overview: - Location: Located 82 km south of Sydney, in the Illawarra region of New South Wales. The city covers an area of 684 square kilometers. - Population and city size: With a population of about 202,000, it is the third largest city in New South Wales and the ninth largest city in Australia. 2. City features: - Industrial history: Wollongong has a long history of mining and industry, with coal mines, steel mills, and industrial ports in the city. It once attracted heavy industry development due to its rich coal resources. - Educational resources: Home to the renowned University of Wollongong. The university is world-famous, focusing on education, engineering, technology, business, and natural sciences. Its information technology, computer science, and engineering fields are among the best in Australia. - Natural scenery and tourism resources: - Beautiful coastline: With rainforest-covered cliffs and charming golden beaches, it is a paradise for surfing and other water sports enthusiasts. - Numerous attractions: Including lookout points with breathtaking views and scenic botanical gardens. - Unique architecture: Home to the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, Nan Tien Temple, known for its magnificent Buddhist architecture and beautiful gardens. There are also two regional cathedrals. 3. Climate: Wollongong has an oceanic climate, with average maximum temperatures ranging from 17°C in winter to 26°C in summer. Sea breezes help regulate the temperature, and rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year. 4. Transportation: Wollongong is conveniently located, just a 90-minute drive from Sydney. In addition to the M1 highway, you can also take the scenic Grand Pacific Drive from Sydney to Wollongong, passing through the Royal National Park, Stanwell Park, and more.

🏞Wollongong, located on the east coast of New South Wales, is the backyard of Sydney and the ideal destination for your next trip. With its stunning coastline and rich cultural and historical heritage, it awaits your exploration. 🍀 1⃣- **Bald Hill Lookout**: Here, you can overlook the cliffside sea view and enjoy the spectacular view of the Sea Cliff Bridge. It is a paradise for hang gliding enthusiasts and a perfect spot for taking photos. 🌿 2⃣- **Sea Cliff Bridge**: This bridge, built along the mountains and the sea, is a landmark of the Grand Pacific Drive. You can walk on the pedestrian path to enjoy the view or climb to a higher point for a different perspective. 🌿 3⃣- **Nan Tien Temple**: As the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, it is not only a sacred place of religious belief but also a cultural and tranquil haven. Here, you can taste vegetarian meals and experience the tranquility and profundity of Buddhist culture. 🌿 4⃣- **Flagstaff Point Lighthouse**: Built in 1936, this lighthouse is one of the iconic buildings in Wollongong. Here, you can relax and have a picnic or play in the water and swim on the beach, enjoying the fun of the seaside. 🌿 5⃣**Extra Experience:** - **Skydiving**: If you are seeking excitement, try skydiving from 15,000 feet and experience the thrill of free fall while overlooking the stunning coastline of Wollongong. 🌿 6⃣**Accommodation Recommendations:** 🌱- **The Boat Harbour Motel**: Offers sea views and is just a 10-minute walk to the lighthouse. 🌱- **Best Western City Sands**: Sea view apartments for a comfortable stay. 🌱- **Novotel Wollongong Northbeach**: A sea view hotel with high-quality services and facilities. 🌿 🌲🌲Wollongong, a city where vibrancy and tranquility coexist, awaits your exploration. Whether it's cultural exploration, natural experiences, or extreme sports, it has everything you desire. Plan your trip to Wollongong now and embark on an unforgettable journey in Australia. 🌹🌹