The New England Peace Pagoda is a Buddhist monument dedicated to world peace. Peace Pagodas were built as a symbol of peace in Japanese cities that were affected by nuclear warfare during World War II. This monument, or stupa, was built in 1985, under the guidance of Nichidatsu Fuji, a Buddhist monk from the Nipponzan-Myohoji Order. Nipponzan-Myohoji is a small branch of Nichiren Buddhism and consists of about 1500 lay and monastic members. The primary practice of this pacifist group is to chant Namu Myoho Renge Kyo, which translates to Devotion to the Mystic Law of the Lotus Sutra.

Situated in Leverett, MA, the Peace Pagoda is one of 80 Nipponzan pagodas around the world. Built entirely by volunteer labor, the Peace Pagoda is a place for people of all faiths to unite together in harmony. Next to the Pagoda is a Buddhist Temple, where morning and evening prayers are held, in addition to ceremonies, interfaith gatherings, and many other events. Of these events, the most notable are the large Walks for Peace.

Annual walks are organized at various times throughout the year in order to address current world issues. The New England Peace Pagoda’s walk is one of three walks that involve the monks of the Nipponzan order in addressing the elimination of nuclear weapons in the world.

http://newenglandpeacepagoda.org/