Backyard Tourist: Visiting temples north of the Gold Coast in Logan and Brisbane

I’ve always loved East Asia and sometimes miss what temples and shrines bring to their bustling cities. So, here’s some hidden temples residents can visit within driving distance from the Gold Coast.

IT’S been less than two years but already I’m dreaming of jetsetting back to East Asia for a culture hit.

While my favourite destination is indeed Japan, affording tickets to get there every year is a struggle.

Fo Guang Shan Chung Tian Temple in Priestdale, Logan. Picture: Logan City Council

Ven. Chueh-Shan at Fo Guang Shan Chung Tian Temple in Priestdale, Logan. Picture: Logan City Council

So I figured maybe I could instead set up a day trip for culture enthusiasts like myself.

I particularly like temples and shrines, so I’ve found a few that locals can readily visit.

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You’ll need an early start to get to these three interesting temples, all from different religions, for a full-day trip.

We’ll start off with the Fo Guang Shan Chung Tian Temple, located in Priestdale, Logan.

At the Evergreen Taoist Church. Picture: Chris Higgins

The Evergreen Taoist Church even has guardian lions. Picture: Michelle Smith

This building was constructed in 1992 using traditional Chinese architecture and offers a glimpse into the world of multi-faith harmony through Humanistic Buddhism.

Apart from stunning traditional Chinese gardens surrounding the temple, the area also boasts a blessing bell, a Lotus Treasury Room, Bodhisattva Hall, an art gallery, museum, meditation hall, sutra transcript room and a teahouse.

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Sri Selva Vinayakar. Picture: Facebook

When the temple was under construction. Photo: Russell Shakespeare

One of its most interesting features is the large temple pagoda. The site is open Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 5pm.

Our second stop is in north Brisbane at the Evergreen Taoist Church of Australia.

This complex, celebrating Taoism, was built in 1991 at Deagon and features interesting architecture as well as numerous deities to view. It’s open from 9am to 4pm.

Finally, we wind our way back down south again to view the impressive yellow and blue Sri Selva Vinayakar Temple on the Mount Lindesay Highway, Maclean.

This Hindu temple was completed in 1995 and features traditional Indian towers and ornamental icons. The temple is open from 7.30am to 11am and again at 5pm until 8.30pm.

DISCOVER

Alexander Clark Dog Agility Park. Picture: Logan City Council

FOR those who are also interested in doing something a little outdoorsy, it’s worthwhile stopping off at Daisy Hill Conservation Park.

Hike around the trails if that’s your thing, or perhaps check out the adorable koalas at the little sanctuary there.

Another option is the Alexander Clark Agility Dog Park.

You don’t have to have a dog to explore this green space, as there’s a few pathways winding their way through the area and along the Logan River.

EAT AND DRINK

Delicious Chanoyu Cafe fare.

START your day at a Japanese infused cafe in Southport in keeping with our day of culture.

Chanoyu have a delicious array of options ranging from matcha green tea pancakes, to a “katsu sando”, that is, a crumbed pork-fillet sandwich with Japanese barbecue sauce, cabbage and mustard.

There are a number of vegetarian options as well, including an acai bowl, beetroot hummus toast and smashed avocado on toast.

For those who venture in later, the cafe’s lunch menu explores the Japanese cuisine further with a yuzu chicken burger, Japanese curry rice, karaage chicken rice and omurice.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE … DO

Ven. Chueh-Shan at Fo Guang Shan Chung Tian Temple in Priestdale, Logan. Picture: Logan City Council

IF you prefer to simply quell your mind from everyday stress, a one-day meditation retreat at the Fo Guang Shan Chung Tian Temple in Priestdale might be up your alley.

Costing $40 per person, those who join can expect to adhere to the Noble Silence, where you are expected to “concentrate mindfully” by not talking.

A vegetarian lunch will be provided and they can cater for allergies.

You just need to bring your own water bottle, sunglasses, hat and sunscreen.