A Hidden Germ among Skyscrappers: Chi Lin Monastery

#hongkongtrip The Hong Kong Buddhist Monastery of Chilin (Chi-Ling) was founded in 1934, located in the Diamond Hill area on the Jiulong Peninsula. The buildings and structures that you see today were completely rebuilt in 1998. This is not an "ancient" monastery, in fact, there is a "novelty" in the temples, halls and courtyards, but despite this, the techniques and craftsmanship used correspond to the traditional traditions of ancient architecture of the Chinese Tang Dynasty. Following this tradition, only natural materials were used - wood, stone and clay, and not a single nail was used to hold the structures together. The complex consists of a number of gates, courtyards, corridors and terraces adjacent to the main halls of the temple, which are prominently located in the center. Statues and stone carvings are scattered everywhere, and there are many flowering bougainvilleas. Approximately 60 nuns live permanently in the monastery. The total area of the complex is 33,000 sq. m. m; it includes a monastery building, ceremonial rooms, well-kept landscaped Chinese gardens, a hotel for pilgrims. The temple of the complex is decorated with gold, stone, wooden and clay sculptures of the Buddha and several revered Bodhisattvas. Chi Lin Buddhist Convent is located right among the skyscrapers and serves as an oasis of peace and quiet among the hustle and bustle of the city. Although the monastery is not so old, it can rightfully be included in the list of attractions in Hong Kong that must be seen. This magnificent monastery complex in the style of the imperial Tang Dynasty keeps religious relics and valuable products within its walls, and a beautiful lotus pond is arranged in its large park full of greenery. But the most famous photo of this place, which adorns all the Hong Kong travel guides, is, of course, the red bridge over the picturesque Nan Lian garden. If tired, you can have a snack in a vegetarian restaurant or visit a tea house. The temple halls and the garden in front of the monastery are accessible to visitors daily. The entrance to the territory is free for everyone. It is very easy to get to the monastery by regular public transport to the Chi Lin Nunnery stop.