The Japanese temple , Wat Paknam Japan , has a traditional Thai appearance , wide , with a classic Thai '' Ubosot '' hall . In 1957 , Luang Pu Sodh had already planned to found a temple in Japan , after a Japanese had ordained as a monk at Wat Paknam . Luang Pu Sodh died in 1959 , and was not able to finish his plans , building only the foundations of a temple in Japan . Several more Japanese ordained during the time Somdet Pun was abbot . Finally , under the guidance of Somdet Chuang , a full-fledged temple was started in Japan in 1997 , through the support of Thai and Japanese . Ceremonies at the temple are joined by 300 – 400 people , on average , and just like the main temple , people wanting to lead the yearly '' Kathina '' ceremonies are reserving many years in advance . Apart from traditional Buddhist ceremonies and meditation , the temple teaches Thai culture , arts and language . The Japan temple has engaged in several charity programs . During the Japanese tsunami in 2011 , the temple provided shelter and aid , and a medical center was established within the temple , staffed with medical personnel from Thailand . Moreover , the main temple of Wat Paknam in Thailand requested the Thai Sangha nationwide to provide aid to Japan through Wat Paknam Japan . The center has a good relation with the Shinnyo-en movement , and has run charity programs with the movement , such as aid for the victims of the flooding in South Thailand . In recognition of the temple 's importance , Wat Paknam Japan was selected as one of the seven temples of the Chiba Prefecture worth visiting , according to Thai newspapers
flooding in South Thailand
2011 Southern Thailand floods
Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen