Amsterdam, the Guan Yin Shrine

The temple, completed in 2000, is dedicated to Guan Yin (aka Kannon), the Bodhisattva (Buddhist prophet). The building itself is unique in the city. The main gate is called the 'mountain gate', referring to the traditional mountain setting of Buddhist monasteries. It occupies several lots, and the sections on either end seem to echo the neighbouring row houses. The section in the middle is set back from the street and was designed along principles of feng shui.