Set beside the River Thames in Battersea Park, the London Peace Pagoda is a Japanese Buddhist monument dedicated to peace. The Nipponzan-Myohoji order gave it to London, and volunteers built it in 1984. Look for gilded figures on its four sides, each showing a stage in the Buddha’s life, and take in the river and Prince Albert Bridge from the park. Displays share information about the Buddha’s life. Benches nearby make this a calm place to pause during a walk through the park.
A gift dedicated to peace
The London Peace Pagoda stands in Battersea Park on the south bank of the Thames. The Nipponzan-Myohoji order of Japanese Buddhism gave the monument to London, and members of the order built it with volunteer help in 1984.
The pagoda belongs to a wider group of peace monuments inspired by structures built in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Its setting in a public park places a site of Buddhist significance beside the river and among Battersea Park’s paths and greenery.
The figures on the pagoda
Four sides of the structure carry gilded statues that represent different stages in the Buddha’s life. Walk around it to see the figures from each direction. Informative displays at the site provide further details about the Buddha’s life.
Stairs make access to the structure difficult for some visitors, but the pagoda’s details can also be viewed from the ground. Benches sit nearby, and the paved path makes it possible to pause beside the monument.
Riverside walks and an August ceremony
The pagoda looks out towards the River Thames and Prince Albert Bridge. Battersea Park’s old English garden is another place to include on a walk through the grounds. The park also has a fountain along the route towards the monument.
A floating lantern ceremony is held at the pagoda each August to remember the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The event connects the monument’s message of peace with its Japanese Buddhist origins.
FAQ
Is the London Peace Pagoda free to visit?
Yes. There is no charge to visit the pagoda.
What do the statues on the pagoda represent?
The gilded statues on its four sides depict different stages in the Buddha’s life.
Is the pagoda accessible without using stairs?
Stairs limit access to the structure, but you can view its details from ground level.
When is the floating lantern ceremony?
The ceremony takes place each August to remember the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
