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The London Peace Pagoda in Battersea Park

A serene Buddhist stupa in Battersea Park symbolizing peace, spirituality, and cultural harmony beside the River Thames in London.

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The London Peace Pagoda, located in Battersea Park on the south bank of the River Thames, is a striking Buddhist stupa built in 1985 by the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Order. Standing about 33.5 meters tall, it features gilded bronze statues representing key events in the life of Buddha. A symbol of peace and non-violence, the pagoda was a gift to London during the Greater London Council's 1984 Peace Year and remains a tranquil spiritual center amidst the urban landscape.

A brief summary to The London Peace Pagoda

  • Battersea Park, Carriage Dr N, London, SW11 4NJ, GB
  • +442088717530
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during quieter weekday mornings for a peaceful experience and unobstructed views of the Thames.
  • Respect the sacred statues by not climbing on them and maintain a quiet demeanor inside the pagoda area.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through Battersea Park to enjoy its gardens, river views, and other attractions.
  • Learn about the history of the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Order and Reverend Gyoro Nagase to deepen your appreciation.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the London Underground to Battersea Park station on the Northern Line, then enjoy a 10-15 minute walk through Battersea Park to reach the pagoda. Trains run frequently with fares typically between £2.50 and £4.50 depending on your travel card.

  • Bus

    Bus routes 137 and 344 serve Battersea Park Road, about a 10-minute walk from the pagoda. Buses run every 10-20 minutes with a single fare around £1.75 using contactless payment.

  • Taxi or Ride-Hailing

    A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London to Battersea Park takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares from £10 to £20.

The London Peace Pagoda location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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Discover more about The London Peace Pagoda

A Gift of Peace and Spiritual Significance

The London Peace Pagoda in Battersea Park was constructed in 1985 as a symbol of peace and non-violence, gifted to the people of London by the Japanese Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Order. This act was part of the Greater London Council's 1984 Peace Year, marking one of the council's final initiatives before its dissolution. The pagoda was inspired by the founder of the order, Nichidatsu Fujii, who, deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi, dedicated his life to promoting pacifism after witnessing the devastation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The Battersea Pagoda is one of 80 such Peace Pagodas worldwide, serving as spiritual beacons advocating world peace.

Architectural and Artistic Features

Rising approximately 33.5 meters, the pagoda combines wood and concrete in a traditional Japanese Buddhist stupa design. Its four faces are adorned with gilded bronze statues, each symbolizing a significant stage in the life of Buddha: his birth, contemplation and enlightenment, teaching, and death. These sacred statues invite reflection and reverence, underscoring the pagoda’s role as a spiritual sanctuary. The double-roofed structure stands gracefully near the River Thames, offering serene views of Chelsea Embankment and the surrounding park.

The Reverend Gyoro Nagase and the Pagoda's Community Role

A key figure in the pagoda’s history is Reverend Gyoro Nagase, who arrived in England from Japan in 1978. He was instrumental in the pagoda’s construction and continues to maintain it as a spiritual center. Reverend Nagase’s work extends beyond upkeep; he actively campaigns for nuclear disarmament and global peace, embodying the pagoda’s message. The site attracts followers not only from London and Japan but also from diverse countries including China, Sri Lanka, India, Burma, and Taiwan, reflecting its international spiritual significance.

Setting Within Battersea Park

The pagoda is situated on the north side of Battersea Park, a historic green space along the Thames. The park itself has a rich history, once the site of duels and common land, now a tranquil refuge within London. The pagoda’s location near the river enhances its peaceful atmosphere, making it a contemplative spot amid the city’s bustle. Visitors often find solace here, drawn by the pagoda’s calming presence and the panoramic views across the water.

Symbolism and Legacy

The Peace Pagoda stands as a powerful symbol of hope and reconciliation in a city historically rooted in Christian traditions. It represents a commitment to peace in a world often marked by conflict. The pagoda’s construction followed the example of earlier Peace Pagodas in Hiroshima, Nagasaki, and Milton Keynes, the latter being the first in the UK. Its presence in London serves as a reminder of the ongoing global pursuit of harmony and the importance of spiritual reflection in urban life.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Visitors to the London Peace Pagoda experience a unique blend of cultural heritage and spiritual calm. The site offers a quiet retreat where one can appreciate Buddhist art and architecture while enjoying the natural beauty of Battersea Park. The gentle sounds of the Thames and the park’s greenery complement the pagoda’s serene aura, inviting moments of mindfulness and contemplation. It remains a distinctive landmark, both visually striking and deeply meaningful.

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