A Buddhist temple compound is far more than just a collection of buildings--it is a microcosm: a home to the ordained members of the Buddhist community, a shelter for people in trouble, a place for orphans and the old, as well as somewhere for stu-dents who want to do intensive studies. Built at different times under different circumstances, temples vary enormously, each one having its own special features. They do, however, follow a basic pattern.

First of all, the land is chosen according to the ancient science of geomancy which considers the shape of the mountains, position of water and the cardinal directions. Next the Main Hall is built, accompanied by special ceremonies. The other religious buildings (like shrines) follow, set out so that the visi-tor is carried from the mundane world of human beings, through three progressive gates, to the spiritual world of the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. The whole arrangement, if seen from the air, forms a mandala, a cosmic pattern. Last of all the buildings necessary for the ordained members who live there are built. These include kitchens, eating areas, living places, bathing facilities and so on.