We’ve been away three times since March that we didn’t have much time to blog. So today’s blog will still be about Hong Kong (yes, we did a lot of things in HK!), focusing on the charming and old-fashioned Po Lin Monastery, which is a must-visit for anyone who wishes to see the other side–the more laid back side–of Hong Kong. In fact, this monastery may catch you by surprise.
Lantau Island is where people go for a restful weekend trip–oftentimes a wise decision to escape the usual weekday hoo-has in the city. Lantau has so much to offer to those who want to experience nature and be awed by majestic sights along meandering mountainsides. The island bursts with color and culture of ancient China that it was impossible for us not to take as many pictures as we possibly could.
A beautiful flower inside the Po Lin courtyard
The Historic Po Lin Monastery
One of the highlights of going to Lantau is our visit to the colorful Po Lin Monastery, which literally translates to Precious Lotus Zen Temple. It is a working Buddhist monastery located at Ngong Ping Plateau, so we were quite amazed to see monks mingling with the locals. The redolence of incense wafted through the air as we explored intricately decorated temples that house smaller Buddhas statues. Note that the Giant Buddha is just several meters away, so most visitors flock to the monastery for some vegetarian lunch.
Pond inside the monastery compound
At the courtyard of Po Lin Monastery
The facade of Po Lin
The monastery
The Wisdom Path
Located at the foot of Lantau Peak is the Wisdom Path. It was quite a stunning sight—38 wooden columns or obelisks stand in their mighty glory for everyone to see. We were told that if an aerial photo were taken, the obelisks actually form the number 8, symbolizing infinity. A heart sutra prayer was also carved into each of the wooden columns, and we felt that this place was as spiritual as it could get.
Photo credit: mikemcd
A hearty meal
After visiting the Giant Buddha, exploring the Po Lin Monastery, and saying a little prayer at the Wisdom Path, we found ourselves in a room where we were served a traditional Buddhist meal (vegetarian, of course). The food was absolutely delicious, and everyone around our table loved it. It was a great way to end our visit to this wonderful part of Hong Kong.
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About Althea Tan
Hi, Nice to meet you guys! Thanks for commenting on my blog. Agreeing that Po Lin is one of my favorite gastro destination in HK, too. Have a good day in the PH. – Oh
I like this post. couldn’t agree more. indeed.