Putuo Village
Putuo Village is a 43-acre sanctuary situated near Kulai in Johor, Malaysia. The area is surrounded by a bamboo forest and is known for its roots in Buddhist culture. The village serves as a destination for visitors interested in religious practices, eco-tourism, and cultural experiences. Combining aspects of spirituality and environmental preservation, it has become a place in Malaysia for those seeking a retreat in a natural setting.[1][2][3]
History[edit]
Putuo Village was established in 2000 as a Buddhist temple in Kulai, Johor, Malaysia. Located within a bamboo-covered area, the site was selected in accordance with the teachings of Guanyin Bodhisattva, emphasizing "great compassion and mercy." Approximately five years ago, the village underwent renovations and expansion, reflecting its increasing popularity. Over time, it has evolved into a cultural tourism site, focusing on the integration of religious culture, eco-tourism, and nature conservation.[1][4]
Bamboo Cultivation and Uses[edit]
The bamboo forests at Putuo Village serve as both a natural retreat and a sustainable resource. The village emphasizes nature conservation and the efficient use of bamboo, aligning with Buddhist values. Due to its rapid growth and high cellulose content, bamboo, especially Dendrocalamus Asper, offers a viable alternative to wood in the pulp and paper industry.[5]
Bodhi Harbour (菩提港)[edit]
Bodhi Harbour is a central religious site within Putuo Village, featuring what is identified as the tallest indoor statue of Cundi Bodhisattva in Southeast Asia. The village practices and preserves various Buddhist traditions, including the turning of prayer wheels, making wishes at the Wishing Tree, and the ritual of receiving blessings from the "Great Compassion Water." The temple's architecture and the Cundi Bodhisattva statue serve as significant aspects of the village's cultural and spiritual environment.[1]
Purple Bamboo Valley (紫竹谷)[edit]
Purple Bamboo Valley (Zizhu Valley) is a leisure area within Putuo Village, characterized by its bamboo surroundings. The valley includes scenic installations, such as hanging nests and a rainbow-colored pathway. It offers visitors the opportunity to walk through the forest, experience bamboo-themed cuisine, and view the various installations.[1]
Floating Bamboo Dragon[edit]
One of the attractions at Putuo Village is a 200kg bamboo dragon installed at the Guanyin Temple. The dragon measures 12 meters in length and was designed by the village's committee in collaboration with an Indonesian artist. The creation process took approximately six months, and the dragon is suspended by steel wires, creating a floating effect. The installation has attracted visitors, especially during Chinese New Year celebrations.[6]
Architecture[edit]
The architecture of Putuo Village incorporates traditional Buddhist designs, utilizing bamboo as the primary building material. The Guanyin Hall is notable for being constructed primarily from bamboo, which, according to the village, makes it the first of its kind in the world. This architectural approach is intended to symbolize harmony with nature and reflect Buddhist values.[1]
Cultural Significance[edit]
Putuo Village functions as a center for Buddhist culture in Malaysia, focusing on the preservation of teachings and practices in a serene setting. The village hosts various cultural activities, such as Avalokitesvara Day celebrations, the bathing of the Buddha statue, and treasure sign tossing at the Wishing Tree. These activities offer visitors an opportunity to observe and learn about traditional Buddhist customs.[1]
Community Impact[edit]
Putuo Village has contributed to the local community in Kulai by creating employment opportunities and supporting regional economic development. Its cultural and tourism activities have also played a role in promoting the cultural identity of the area. Additionally, research initiatives, such as the study on Dendrocalamus Asper, highlight the village's involvement in sustainable resource management and its contribution to scientific research.[2][5]
Visitor Information[edit]
Putuo Village is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The village is located at:
1488, Jalan Kampung, Off Jalan Kota Tinggi – Kluang, Felda Taib Andak, 81000 Kulai, Johor.[1]
Getting There[edit]
Located in the countryside of Kulai, visitors can access Putuo Village via Jalan Kota Tinggi – Kluang.[1]
References[edit]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 "Generic". putuovillage.com.my (in 中文). Retrieved 2024-10-02.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 sgmytrips (2024-06-06). "Putuo Village Kulai Johor: Weekend Must-Visit Attractions". SGMYTRIPS.com. Retrieved 2024-10-02.
- ↑ Selan, Siva (2022-06-29). "Putuo Village, a scenic Buddhist sanctuary in Kulai, Johor". TheSmartLocal Malaysia - Travel, Lifestyle, Culture & Language Guide. Retrieved 2024-10-02.
- ↑ admin (2021-09-15). "Putuo Village, Kulai". Tourism Johor. Retrieved 2024-10-02.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 Khair, Fatin Nurina Mohamad; Masrol, Shaiful Rizal (2022-06-19). "The Characteristics of Pulp and Paper Made from Top Section of Betong (Dendrocalamus Asper) Bamboo by Soda Pulping Method". Progress in Engineering Application and Technology. 3 (1): 849–857. ISSN 2773-5303.
- ↑ "Kulai's 'floating dragon' a labour of love". The Star. Retrieved 2024-10-07.
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