In the midst of the spectacular mountain scenery, atop the 520-meter high Ngong Ping Plateau, sits the Lantau Po Lin Monastery overlooked by the massive bronze Tian Tan Buddha sitting serenely on his graceful lotus throne.

Po Lin Monastery

Po Lin Monastery

The monastery is regarded as a major cener of Buddhism in Hong Kong, while the Buddha is one of the five largest Buddha statues in China.

Completed in 1993, Tian Tan Buddha (天坛大佛: Tiān Tán Dà Fó) is a 34 meter high, 250 ton, bronze statue. The statue is named Tian Tan Buddha because its altar is a model of the Altar of Heaven or Earthly Mount of Tian Tan, the Temple of Heaven in Beijing.Surrounded by six smaller bronze statues of gods, the Buddha statue sits prominently on top of the three-platform altar. Visitors must climb 268 steps and circle the three platforms to reach the statue.

Tian Tan Buddha

Tian Tan Buddha

The three levels below are named; The Hall of Universe, The Hall of Benevolent Merit, and The Hall of Remembrance. The most renowned and worshiped features inside is a relic of Gautama Buddha. There is also a huge bell engraved with images of Buddha and Buddhist sutras. The bell is designed to ring once every seven minutes, 108 times a day, to symbolize the cure of 108 kinds of people vexations.

Po Lin Monastery

Po Lin Monastery

The Po Lin Monastery was founded in 1924, it is known as the “Buddhist Kingdom in the South”. Sculptures of Chinese Gods as well as Dragons and other mythical creatures may be found within the main building’s vermillion painted interior.
Also on offer is a vegetarian meal prepared by the monks.

Opening Hours:

Statues of gods

Statues of gods

•    Monastery Opening Hours: 09:00 to 18:00
•    Big Buddha Opening Hours: 10:00 to 18:00
•    Vegetarian Meals Serving Hours: 11:30 to 17:00

For more information:
Po Lin Monastery
Ngong Ping, Lantau, Hong Kong
Tel: (852)2985 5248

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