Nan Lian Garden: An Oasis of Silence in the Heart of Hong Kong

Welcome to Nan Lian Garden. Today, I’m taking you to discover not only one of the most beautiful parks in Asia, but a masterpiece of architecture and philosophy that seems suspended in time.

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Opened in 2006, Nan Lian Garden spans over three and a half hectares. But don’t let its recent construction date fool you: everything here is meticulously designed according to the Tang Dynasty style, the golden age of Chinese culture between the 7th and 10th centuries.

Every element from the rocks arranged with millimeter precision to the wooden structures built without the use of a single metal nail follows the ancient rules of Feng Shui. The goal is not just aesthetic, but spiritual: to create perfect harmony between man and nature. As you walk along the circular path, you will notice that the landscape changes with every step, offering views specifically designed to induce contemplation.

The beating heart, and arguably the garden’s most iconic image, is the Pavilion of Absolute Perfection. This octagonal structure, entirely gilded, glows under the Hong Kong sun, reflecting in the tranquil waters of the lotus pond.

It is connected to the land by two vermilion-red wooden bridges: the Zi Wu Bridges. The choice of colors and shapes is not accidental. The contrast between the shimmering gold, the vibrant red, and the deep green of the surrounding trees creates an almost hypnotic visual impact. It is the perfect spot to stop and breathe, watching the Koi carp swim lazily in the water below.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Nan Lian Garden is the use of rocks. Many of these come from various provinces in China and were chosen for their bizarre shapes that resemble miniature mountains or mythological creatures.

Water is the other fundamental element. The man-made waterfalls, such as the one at the Rockery Gallery, do more than just cool the air; they act as a natural acoustic barrier. The white noise of the falling water effectively masks the sounds of the modern city pressing just outside the garden walls. Here, the dichotomy between the ancient and the modern is tangible: looking up above the curved temple roofs, you will always see the skyscrapers of Diamond Hill looming in the background.

Nan Lian Garden is directly connected via a pedestrian bridge to the Chi Lin Nunnery, a Buddhist monastic complex that is equally breathtaking. I highly recommend visiting them together to complete this peaceful experience.

Before you leave, take a moment to visit the teahouse or the vegetarian restaurant located beneath the waterfall. Dining here, immersed in the greenery, is the perfect way to conclude your journey.

Nan Lian Garden teaches us that even in the world’s most chaotic metropolises, it is possible to find a permanent center of gravity. It is a reminder of the importance of slowness and attention to detail.


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