CHI LIN NUNNERY AND NAN LIAN GARDEN

Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden, located in Diamond Hill, are among Hong Kong's most serene gems.

Chi Lin Nunnery, founded in 1934 and rebuilt in 1998, is inspired by the architecture of the Tang dynasty (618-907). Built entirely of wood (without nails!), it is considered the world's largest handcrafted wooden building. The finials, symbolizing the dragon in the water, are traditional features designed to protect the site from fire. The pavilions house statues of Buddha and the goddess Guanyin in gold, wood and stone. In the main chapel, you'll notice the absence of incense sticks, an invitation to pure spiritual practice devoid of material distractions.

Nan Lian Garden. Next door, designed according to the principles of feng shui and Tang traditions. Every element of the garden is positioned to optimize energy balance: boulders symbolize stability, ponds are placed to encourage the flow of positive energy, and red bridges symbolically direct harmony towards visitors. Centuries-old bonsai trees and aligned pavilions maximize symmetry.

The adjacent handsomemuseum features a fine collection of Buddhist sculptures, ancient pottery and Chinese artifacts.

The vegetarian restaurant in the garden offers a menu prepared according to Buddhist principles, perfect for prolonging immersion in this world of serenity.