6 Hour Buddhist Temple and Embu das Artes Tour – Art Galleries, Artisan Shops 1
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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

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São Paulo, Brazil
Day Trips & ExcursionsBus & Minivan ToursCultural ToursLuxuryPilgrimage Or Religion

About this activity

Escape São Paulo's urban core to explore Zu Lai, Latin America's largest Buddhist temple set across 150,000 m², then venture into the artistic colonial town of Embu das Artes with its galleries, craft studios, and bustling artisan markets. This 6-hour journey blends spiritual discovery with local creative culture, guided by an expert who contextualizes both the temple's Buddhist traditions and the region's artistic heritage.

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

  • ✓Tour Zu Lai temple, Latin America's largest Buddhist complex, in serene natural surroundings
  • ✓Learn Buddhist philosophy and practice from an informed local guide
  • ✓Browse art galleries, ceramics studios, and woodcarving workshops in Embu das Artes
  • ✓Shop authentic handcrafted goods—paintings, sculptures, jewelry, textiles—at local artisan prices
  • ✓Discover weekly arts and crafts fairs (weekends) featuring folk art and decorative pieces
  • ✓Sample regional gastronomy in a charming colonial hilltop setting

Insider tips

  • ★Visit on a weekend morning to catch Embu das Artes' famous weekly art fair, which offers the widest selection and most vibrant atmosphere
  • ★Wear comfortable walking shoes; the temple grounds are expansive and the town is built on slopes
  • ★Bring cash (Brazilian Real) for artisan purchases—many small vendors don't accept cards

Good to know

  • •6-hour total duration includes travel time, temple visit, and Embu das Artes exploration
  • •Dress respectfully for temple visit (covered shoulders and knees recommended out of respect)
  • •Tour departs from central São Paulo; confirm exact pickup location and time with supplier
  • •Suitable for all fitness levels, though colonial town has uneven cobblestone streets
  • •Guide provides cultural context for Buddhist practices; no religious participation required

Who it's for

Culture and spirituality seekers wanting authentic local experiences beyond tourist circuitsArt collectors and craft enthusiasts hunting for unique, affordable handmade piecesHistory buffs drawn to colonial Brazilian architecture and folk traditionsCouples or small groups seeking a peaceful half-day cultural immersion from the city

Best time to visit

Visit on a Saturday or Sunday morning to coincide with Embu das Artes' weekly artisan fair, which offers peak selection and energy. Mornings are cooler and less crowded than afternoons.

Frequently asked questions

From
€306
per person