6 Hour Buddhist Temple and Embu das Artes Tour – Art Galleries, Artisan Shops 1
6 Hour Buddhist Temple and Embu das Artes Tour – Art Galleries, Artisan Shops 2
6 Hour Buddhist Temple and Embu das Artes Tour – Art Galleries, Artisan Shops 3
6 Hour Buddhist Temple and Embu das Artes Tour – Art Galleries, Artisan Shops 4
6 Hour Buddhist Temple and Embu das Artes Tour – Art Galleries, Artisan Shops 5
6 Hour Buddhist Temple and Embu das Artes Tour – Art Galleries, Artisan Shops 6
6 Hour Buddhist Temple and Embu das Artes Tour – Art Galleries, Artisan Shops 7
6 Hour Buddhist Temple and Embu das Artes Tour – Art Galleries, Artisan Shops 8
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6 Hour Buddhist Temple and Embu das Artes Tour – Art Galleries, Artisan Shops 10
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6 Hour Buddhist Temple and Embu das Artes Tour – Art Galleries, Artisan Shops

(3)
São Paulo, Brazil
Day Trips & ExcursionsBus & Minivan ToursCultural ToursLuxuryPilgrimage Or Religion
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About this activity

Explore Latin America's largest Buddhist temple at Zu Lai, then wander the charming colonial streets of Embu das Artes, a centuries-old artistic hub filled with galleries, artisan workshops, and craft markets. This 6-hour tour combines spiritual discovery with hands-on cultural immersion, taking you beyond São Paulo's tourist core.

Did you know that the state of São Paulo is home to the largest Buddhist temple in Latin America? Get off the main touristic area and discover the Zu Lai temple.

Delve into Buddhism without leaving Brazil and learn the fundamentals of it. Accompanied by a well-informed guide, visit the temple that occupies a 150,000 M2 area and attracts not only faithful practitioners, but also people of any religion in search of tranquility and renew their spirituality.

Then visit the nearby charming colonial & historical town of Embu das Artes. Explore the art galleries, artisan shops, handicraft stalls and gastronomic delights.

The town is known for its weekly arts and crafts fairs. The fair and the shops offer a broad range of paintings small and large, home decorative objects, wood carvings, ceramics, religious goods, furniture, folk arts, art galleries, gems, old coins, tchotchkes, porcelains, sculptures, jewelry, tools, etc... The selection is outstanding and very reasonably priced.

Highlights

  • ✓Visit Zu Lai, Latin America's largest Buddhist temple set across 150,000 m²
  • ✓Learn Buddhist fundamentals from a knowledgeable local guide
  • ✓Browse independent art galleries and centuries-old artisan shops
  • ✓Shop for handcrafted ceramics, wood carvings, jewellery, and sculptures at fair prices
  • ✓Experience Embu das Artes' colonial architecture and village atmosphere

Insider tips

  • ★Visit on a weekend (Saturday or Sunday) to catch the weekly arts and crafts fair when the town is liveliest and vendors showcase their full range
  • ★The temple is peaceful early in the tour before crowds; bring respectful clothing (covered shoulders and knees) as a courtesy
  • ★Embu das Artes artisans price items fairly compared to Rio/São Paulo galleries—this is where to negotiate on larger pieces
  • ★Allow extra time in shops you love; many are one-person operations with unique, unrepeatable stock

Good to know

  • •Wear comfortable walking shoes; Embu das Artes involves 2–3 hours of exploring hillside streets and shop interiors
  • •Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and water, especially if visiting in warmer months
  • •Dress modestly at Zu Lai temple (covered shoulders, knees); this is both respectful and often required
  • •Tour includes transportation via bus/minivan; confirm pickup location with supplier on booking

Who it's for

Cultural explorers seeking authentic experiences beyond mainstream São Paulo attractionsSpiritual seekers and religion-curious travellers open to Buddhist philosophyArt collectors and craft enthusiasts hunting for handmade jewellery, ceramics, and sculpturesTravellers wanting to support local artisans and browse independent makers

Best time to visit

Weekends (Saturday–Sunday) are ideal to catch Embu das Artes' weekly arts fair and see the town in full creative swing. Early morning start helps you explore both the temple's serene atmosphere and the galleries before afternoon crowds.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€308
per person