Temples: questions and Band 8 answers

Yes, quite a few, actually. My hometown has a rich history, so there is an ancient pagoda near the riverbank and several smaller shrines dotted around the old quarter. People frequently pop in on festival days to light incense and pray.

Not especially often, to be honest. I usually only go once or twice a year, mostly during the spring holiday with my family. I am not overly religious, but I really appreciate the peaceful atmosphere away from the bustling city traffic.

Well, most people go for spiritual reasons, like seeking good fortune or paying respect to their ancestors. However, a lot of tourists also visit just to admire the intricate wood carvings and traditional architecture, which can be absolutely stunning.

I did, yes. My grandmother used to take me along whenever there was a full moon. I remember finding the chanting slightly dull at the time, but I always looked forward to the sweet rice cakes we bought from stalls outside.

Definitely. I would love to go on holiday to Japan or Thailand to explore their historic Buddhist sites. I have seen photographs of ancient stone temples surrounded by dense forest, and seeing them in person would be an unforgettable experience.