Zen gardens development set to target boomer market
MELBOURNE: A semi-tropical site is set to be transformed into a giant Japanese Zen-themed resort facility.
A development application was filed this week for the project which is set to feature everything from cabins to workshops and a meditation hall.
The Sakya development has been proposed for a 33,150 sqm site on Estelle Road in the remote Currumbin Valley.
Put forward by developer Sakya, it has been described as a nature-based tourist attraction which will be “deeply entrenched in Zen culture”.
It will be a traditional Japanese-style retreat which will offer accommodation, dining, meditation, and arts and crafts.
Sakya is headed by Jin Xu and Mi Li, described in planning documents as “a young couple who have chosen to make a lifestyle choice with the intention to teach Zen principles”.
“One of our core missions is to act as a cultural exchange envoy, fostering a bridge between cultures. We believe that in this way, traditional culture will never be lost,” the couple said in the planning report.
“With high-quality spiritual enjoyment, we lead the new era of cultural tourism and create a brand new homestay concept.
“Compared with the traditional homestay, when appreciating the natural beauty, we not only relax our guests physically but also improve them spiritually by combining humanistic and artistic cultivation. As an important way of learning, tourism can promote cultural exchange and communication.”
