🛕 Po Lin Monastery: A Spiritual and Scenic Journey in Lantau Island, Hong Kong

🙏 Po Lin Monastery: Serenity After the Summit

A visit to Ngong Ping 360 isn’t complete without exploring Po Lin Monastery—a peaceful sanctuary nestled in the mountains of Lantau Island, right beside the towering Tian Tan Buddha.

Back in the day, this now-renowned monastery was once just the “Big Thatched Hut” built by a monk who stumbled upon this remote, overgrown paradise. Despite its thorny terrain and isolation, the area’s serenity made it an ideal site for spiritual reflection.

🧘 TIP: Visit early in the day to enjoy quiet moments before the crowds arrive.

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🧱 From Humble Hut to Sacred Haven

Before the massive Buddha statue was built in 1993, the monastery had already attracted monks and pilgrims. But it was the unveiling of Tian Tan Buddha that truly transformed it into a key spiritual landmark, dubbed the “Buddhist World in the South.”

Today, it’s become tradition for visitors to go from Big Buddha to Po Lin, or the other way around. Both sites are spiritually linked and offer a rich cultural experience.

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🏯 Architectural Wonders and Sacred Sites

Let me take you through some of the highlights:

🔲 The Mountain Gate

Coming from the Buddha, you’ll pass through the majestic Mountain Gate (Pai Lau)—a triple arch gateway with pagoda statues and lion carvings. It's nearly identical to the one at Ngong Ping Piazza, creating a harmonious entry into the sacred grounds.

🌸 Fun Fact: The path here is lined with Bauhinia, the national flower of Hong Kong.

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🔥 The Reunification Cauldron

In the middle of the walkway stands the imposing Reunification Cauldron—measuring 4.1 meters and engraved with Bauhinia motifs. It commemorates the 1997 handover of Hong Kong from British to Chinese rule.

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🛕 Hall of Skanda Bodhisattva

Before reaching the main complex, you’ll pass through the Hall of Skanda, which guards the temple grounds. A vibrant courtyard separates it from the main shrine. This was our entry point to the monastery's inner sanctum.

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🏵️ The Main Shrine Hall

This temple was completed in 1970 and is protected by two stone lions. I loved the flower decorations along the stairs—especially beautiful during celebrations. Inside are three large Buddha statues representing:

• 🧘‍♂️ Present – Sakyamuni Buddha
• 🧘‍♀️ Past – Bhaisajyaguru (Medicine Buddha)
• 🌟 Future – Amitabha Buddha, flanked by two revered disciples

📸 TIP: Photography is prohibited inside—though I may have snapped one or two 😅

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🌟 Grand Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas

Behind the main shrine lies the newly built Grand Hall, home to thousands of miniature Buddhas lining the walls and a dazzling, ornate ceiling.

The hall enshrines the Five Dhyani Buddhas—symbolizing the five qualities of enlightenment. While some older temples were replaced to make way for this grand hall, its beauty is truly captivating.

🐉 The walls feature detailed carvings of dragons, Buddhas, and double-eave gables with traditional Chinese color schemes.

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🌿 Things We Missed (Next Time, Definitely!)

Sadly, we didn’t have time to explore everything. We missed:

• 🧘‍♂️ Wisdom Path – a trail lined with wooden pillars inscribed with Buddhist verses
• 🌺 Lotus ponds and gardens – perfect for peaceful walks

⏳ TIP: Allocate at least 2–3 hours to explore the monastery grounds thoroughly.

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🥬 Where to Eat: Deli Vegetarian Café & Delicate Vegetarian Snacks

After the climb and exploration, you can grab a meal or snack at:

• 🍱 Deli Vegetarian Café
• 🍡 Delicate Vegetarian Dessert & Snacks

Both are on the left side of the Main Shrine Hall. Sadly, we didn’t get to try them—so I’m adding this to my "must-do" list for next time.

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🕯️ Worship Ground & Souvenirs

Before entering the temples, you can light incense and say a prayer at the Worship Ground, located before the Hall of Skanda Bodhisattva.

🛍️ Nearby, you'll find Souvenir Shops selling incense, prayer beads, and keepsakes. I’m not big on souvenirs—but I always get a fridge magnet as a personal token.

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🌌 I’d Love to See It at Night

I can only imagine how magical the monastery looks when lit up at night. ✨

And always remember—no matter your beliefs, when visiting religious sites, respect is essential.

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📍 How to Get There

🚶‍♀️ From Ngong Ping Village, walk toward Ngong Ping Piazza. Clear signs will lead you all the way to Po Lin Monastery—it’s at the far end, so just follow the path and enjoy the views.

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🗓️ Opening Hours

• Po Lin Monastery: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Buddhist Relics Exhibition: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

🔗 Plan ahead and follow their suggested route here:
http://www.plm.org.hk/eng/tour.php
🌐 Official website: http://www.plm.org.hk/eng/home.php

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💬 What Did You Love About Po Lin?

Have you visited Po Lin Monastery? What part stood out the most for you—the temples, the food, or the peaceful energy?

Share your thoughts or tips in the comments below!

📌 Don’t forget to read about my visit to Ngong Ping Village and Cable Car experience for the full Lantau adventure.