Race To The Chi Lin Nunnery

    My Tita (Aunt) Linda Tanchico who was a school teacher, once told H and me that when you travel you should not be so desperate about seeing all the sights of a particular place at once. She said if you miss going to this place and that, you have more than enough reasons to go back.

    Hong Kong is a place you keep coming back to. It  does not fall into the 'been there done that' category. Amidst all the shopping frenzy, Disneyland and endless dimsum pig-outs, H and I, taking my aunt's advice to heart try to visit a new place every time we are in Hong Kong. So we learned about a charming temple and nunnery we could visit, the Chi Lin Nunnery in Diamond Hill. First up getting ready for the trip....

 Today's Destination: 

The Chi Lin Nunnery 

(Diamond Hill HK)

     We, Filipinos never embark on a field trip without snacks or what we call 'baon' pronounced ba-on. For this trip Starbucks, yeah, again was the reasonable choice, just below our hotel.

     Cold tuna and egg mayo. Yummy!

     Then to map out our journey via the MTR. 

      They blend in so well. 

Yes, they do.

 

     We arrive in Diamond Hill and were so shocked at how busy it is. In fact this giant mall was the first to greet us.

      It was not at all hard to find the nunnery. It is mere five minute walk from the MTR station/ giant mall.

     Amidst flyovers and skyscrapers.... 

    And here we are....

     This complex is a temple, nunnery, bonsai garden and even a vegetarian restaurant all in one.

     The building construction stuck to true Tang Dynasty style with wood and no nails! Beautiful!

      I love how peaceful and calming it is to roam around the compound. Visually, the colors are limited to browns, whites and greens. The feel is almost zen-ish and Japanese. I really enjoyed being there. =-)))

  

     See how the calm of the nunnery contrasts the urban life beyond it?

      More photos....

      The lotus pond...

    I love how the wood structure frames the views....

    No pics in the temple proper....

      My greatest love are the bonsai trees.

    Adorable little details...

 

     On your way out is a souvenir shop to help fund the nunnery. We got lovely stuff and pretty paper fans for my mom and H's mom.

     Heading out now...I am a bit sad...hehe!

     More bonsai trees lead you out of the nunnery...

    Now, did I just see an H&M and Marks & Spencer store here somewhere? Hmmm.....

We had lunch and did a little shopping at the giant mall called Plaza Hollywood. Kids bought UNI QLO hoodies and undies. There were restaurants and yes, Starbucks again! Toilets were clean too. So overall this race was a winner! haha!