Chi Lin Nunnery

sk 1★★★★★★★★★★5.02 months ago

Best peaceful experience of a life time ! The Chi Lin Nunnery in Diamond Hill is a remarkable Buddhist complex that serves as a tranquil escape from the high-rises of Kowloon. Rebuilt in 1998, it is celebrated for its faithful adherence to Tang Dynasty architectural principles. The complex is a rare example of traditional Chinese timber construction in modern Hong Kong. It was designed according to the "Sukhavati" (Pure Land) drawing found in the Mogao Caves and follows strict feng shui principles.Nail-less Construction: The entire wooden structure was built using ancient interlocking systems of brackets and dowels without a single iron nail or screw.Material Harmony: It is constructed primarily of yellow cedar (cypress) and uses only natural materials like clay, stone, and wood to symbolize the harmony between humanity and nature. The nunnery features a "three-entrance, three-courtyard" design. The outer courtyard is famous for its four lotus ponds fed by dragon-shaped water spouts. Artistic Details: The halls house magnificent statues of Sakyamuni Buddha, the goddess of mercy Guanyin, and other bodhisattvas made from gold, clay, and wood. The nunnery is inextricably linked to the Nan Lian Garden, which lies directly to the south and is connected by a pedestrian bridge. Nan Lian Garden: This 3.5-hectare classical Chinese garden features the iconic golden Pavilion of Absolute Perfection and a circular walking path through meticulously manicured bonsai trees and rockeries. Vegetarian Dining: Within the garden at Long Men Lou, there is a popular vegetarian restaurant. It is known for serving refined Chinese vegetarian dishes—such as enoki dumplings and wonton soup—behind a large glass window overlooking a waterfall. Pine Teahouse: Visitors often stop at the Song Cha Xie (The Pine Teahouse) for a traditional tea ceremony experience in a quiet, timber-framed setting.

steven lim★★★★★★★★★★4.04 months ago

Though we lived in Hong Kong island for two years a while back, we never did visit this place or the gardens next door. We were glad we had the chance to do so this time. It is really a quiet, beautiful and serene spot in the middle of the city, with lovely statues and working prayer halls. Do please drop off a donation into the various boxes at the halls. Visiting is free. There are signs prohibiting filming around the main courtyard but we saw many tourists taking photos, and the guard did not stop them.

Dan Pieloch★★★★★★★★★★5.03 months ago

This place is impressive. It's sad that there are signs posted all over the worship area saying not to take pictures (I took pictures outside only). Because this place has many beautiful statues that I'd love to share with family and friends, and here on Google reviews. It exerts a calming aura, and I was stunned by the detailed artistry on display here. There are many lovely statues, with many other pieces of artwork that are combined with phrases containing wisdom. This is a must-see attraction in Hong Kong, and I feel lucky we were able to visit. Free to enter.

Mind Set On Travel★★★★★★★★★★5.04 months ago

Breathtaking is all I can really say about this visit. Having seen multiple temples, this one has been the best. Such amazing beauty in all the buildings. No pictures allowed so you will need to see it for yourself. They do have a souvenir shop to allow you to purchase a keepsake of your favorite memory of your trip. We chose a crystal lotus flower. Can’t wait to display back home.

Map Roy★★★★★★★★★★5.04 months ago

I absolutely loved visiting Chi Lin Nunnery! It is a spacious and tranquil area which I found very relaxing and calming amid the fast paced city. I was surprised by how quiet it was in there. I was so fascinated by the buildings, gardens and prayer sites and spent a lot more time there than I expected to. There is a lot of history at the site and it is immaculately clean and well taken care of. I would highly recommend visiting here.