Location: Pak Ng Shan, Sai Kung District, Hong Kong.
What is it? The path leading to the 10.000 Buddhas Monastery is an experience in itself. Over 500 statues of Arhats (enlightened beings) line the staircases. Each of them with a unique expression that seems to offer encouragement on your climb. The hike to the monastery is said to represent the journey towards enlightenment. Here every Arhat statue symbolizing a different virtue or obstacle overcome. As you go up, the city sprawls out behind you. Turn around and see the view of modern Hong Kong exposed with ancient serenity. The climb consists of eight sections. A little reminder that the path to spiritual growth is not always linear.
Why to go? Reaching the summit isn’t the only goal of the 10.000 Buddhas Monastery trail. It’s all about the trip. Every step, picture yourself pausing between each Arhat statue, absorbing their expressions. Experience a wave of calmness.
Location: On the Peak of Pak Ng Shan, Sai Kung District, Hong Kong.
What is it? Reaching the halfway point of your rise. Pause, and be rewarded with an amazing view. Upon climbing the route towards the 10.000 Buddhas Monastery, the metropolis of Hong Kong gradually comes into view below you. The port like a blue jewel, streets wind through the metropolitan landscape. Tall towers pierce the sky. This opposing viewpoint gives you a unique insight into Hong Kong’s energy. While serving as a reminder of the city you’re fleeing to find peace. If the skies are good, you may even be able to see famous sites like the Victoria Peak and the Tsing Ma Bridge.
Why to go? Another element to the experience is adding a pause to savor the views from Sha Tin while climbing to the 10.000 Buddhas Monastery. Consider taking in the contrast between the vitality of the city and the tranquility of the trail. Nature and urban life both infront of you. This viewpoint promotes a more profound comprehension of Hong Kong’s multifaceted character.
Location: Pak Ng Shan, Sai Kung District, Hong Kong.
What is it? Think of yourself standing amidst a sea of tranquility. Why? You will be surrounded by thousands of smiling Buddhas. The real magic happens at the top of Pak Ng Shan. following countless rows of Buddha sculptures. There are in fact more Buddha statues within the monastery itself. The calm ambiance is complemented with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the city skyline from the summit. According to legends, Madam Chung Yuet Lan founded the monastery. She dreamed to construct a monastery with 10.000 Buddhas . While estimates of the number of Buddha sculptures vary from 12.800 to over 13.000. The exact number is unclear. The volume creates a sense of overwhelming serenity. Remember to dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and respect the sanctity of the religious site.
Why to go? The goal is being able to reach the summit of Pak Ng Shan. See the sea of Buddhas at the 10.000 Buddhas Monastery. Imagine being at ease among the innumerable happy faces. Realize how much effort went into establishing this special spiritual sanctuary.
Location: On the Peak of Pak Ng Shan, Sai Kung District, Hong Kong,
What is it? The Nine Storey Pagoda, an octagonal building gives the monastic complex a sense of grandeur with its carvings and colors. Even though the entry to the inside is occasionally prohibited. The pagoda leads people toward spiritual enlightenment by acting as a symbolic light of enlightenment. In Buddhist philosophy, each story of the Nine Storey Pagoda corresponds to a specific stage on the path to enlightenment. Visitors to the pagoda are said to receive good fortune and luck from it.
Why to go? Beyond the fact that the Nine Storey Pagoda is stunning building. Yet it also symbolizes the spiritual path that the 10.000 Buddhas Monastery pursues. Appreciate every detail, reflecting on the Buddhist meaning.
Location: On the Peak of Pak Ng Shan, Sai Kung District, Hong Kong,
What is it? Arrive at the top and see the Kwun Yam. All who enter the monastery are greeted with a sense of serenity and safety by this depiction of the Buddhist goddess of mercy and compassion. Kwun Yam looks out over the surrounding countryside. The statue’s fine details, such as its flowing robes and contented look contribute to the peaceful ambiance. One of Buddhism’s most adored deities, Kwun Yam, is represented by a statue at the 10.000 Buddhas Monastery. It is thought that those who seek the statue’s direction would be blessed and endowed with good fortune.
Why to go? Kwun Yam monument serves as a source of inspiration and solace. Take a minute to stand in front of the statue. Consider its meaning, and let a wave of peace pass over you. The Kwun Yam statue adds another level of peace to your 10.000 Buddha trip.
Location: Scattered throughout the Rock Formations around the Main Temple.
What is it? Discover the golden jewels by investigating all the Buddhas in the monastery grounds. Statues of the Buddha sitting atop nearby rocks. These more little but not less remarkable figures give the scenery an unexpectedly lovely touch. Their golden shine reflecting in the sunlight inspires amazement and astonishment. The mystery surrounding the precise quantity of these golden Buddha sculptures heightens the sense of exploration. As you wander around the monastery grounds. The Bodhisattvas, enlightened beings who have opted to delay their own nirvana in order to aid others in achieving enlightenment, are thought to be represented by these statues.
Why to go? The golden Buddha statues are a reward for those who go beyond the main temple complex. Imagine feeling like a Buddha hunter as you discover these golden surprises.
Location: On the Peak of Pak Ng Shan, Sai Kung District, Hong Kong,
What is it? When you arrive at a clearing, visualize seeing the Laying Buddha. The Buddha is shown in this enormous statue in the state of resting. Complete enlightenment and tranquility. The calm countenance and the minute details, such as the curled fingers and the flowing robes, evoke peace and encourage introspection. One of the biggest statues in the whole monastery complex is the Laying Buddha. Representing the Buddha’s last phase of life on Earth before achieving nirvana. Those who visit the statue and offer prayers are said to receive blessings.
Why to go? The Laying Buddha will make you pause infront of the giant figure for a moment. Thinking about its meaning and his pure happy face. The Laying Buddha brings an entirely fresh viewpoint to your 10.000 Buddhas trip.
Location: Scattered throughout the Ponds around the Monastery.
What is it? Go to the pond to spend some time in silence when you’re surprised by an explosion of color fish! These fishes give the landscape some life and movement. Even though the 10.000 Buddhas may take center stage. They offer a welcome diversion from the climb and a reminder of the wonders of nature as they dart across the water. In Buddhist traditions, fish in the monastery ponds are considered a symbol of good fortune and wealth. The fish add an element to the experience, creating a lovely contrast to the calm mood of the monastery.
Why to go? The fish in the ponds are a lovely accent that gives the 10.000 Buddhas Monastery a splash of vitality. These guests serve as an enjoyable break from the trek and an important reminder of the interconnection of all living beings.
Location: Pak Ng Shan in Sai Kung District, Hong Kong.
What is it? Before starting your way to go down. Leave the peace of the mountain and having one final glance at the sea of Buddhas. Although the stairs down may appear like a straightforward stroll. The sculptures get bigger and their expressions more intricate as you wind down. Maybe even some secret Buddhas that you overlooked on the way up may show up! You can understand the enormity of the climb. Think of the work that went into building the 10.000 Buddhas Monastery during the return trip. The descent is a period of introspection. Pause to be grateful for the knowledge you gained from your journey.
Why to go? When at the summit, take your time down the stairs. Enjoy the last scenery, view the Buddhas from a different perspective. Bring your newfound tranquility with you.
Location: Pak Ng Shan in Sai Kung District, Hong Kong.
What is it? Departing the 10.000 Buddhas Monastery with a lighter heart and a fresh sense of tranquility, rather than just tired legs. Reintroducing the wisdom you’ve gained and the peace you’ve found back into your daily existence. That will mark the real conclusion of your journey. Not getting to the bottom of the steps. Long after your visit, the 10.000 Buddhas Monastery can continue to inspire. The tranquility among the Buddhas can act as a prompt to discover serenity in the midst of daily bustle.
Why to go? The hike to the 10.000 Buddhas Monastery is an opportunity to restore your connection to yourself, to the outside world. Find tranquility that will remain long after you depart.