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Hidden Hong Kong gem

Hong Kong’s Nan Lian Garden ­­is a surprising 3.5ha of lush greenery, traditional Tang-style architecture and soul-restoring tranquility in busy Kowloon.

May 02, 2016, updated May 02, 2016
Nan Lian Garden: An extraordinary oasis. Photo: Amanda McInerney

Nan Lian Garden: An extraordinary oasis. Photo: Amanda McInerney

Just when I think I may be getting tired of Hong Kong, I find yet another hidden gem in this utterly manic city.

I have previously shared a couple of the peaceful secrets  the region has to offer. The island of Cheung Chau (a popular tourist destination) and the historic fishing village of Tai O are just a ferry ride away from Kowloon, but the surprisingly tranquil Nan Lian Garden is even  closer – a 10-minute cab ride from Tsim Sha Tsui.

This 3.5ha garden nestles at the foot of the grey high-rise developments surrounding it and is designed in the style of the Tang dynasty. The gardens are fastidiously landscaped and every pond, waterfall, rock and tree is placed according to strict traditional garden design rules.

There are several beautifully elegant timber pavilions dotted around the gardens which contain permanent exhibitions of traditional Chinese architecture, rock gardens and potted trees.

A vegetarian restaurant is hidden behind a waterfall and there is a traditional tea house in another pavilion.

Hong Kong - Nan Lian Garden 2

The garden is an extraordinary oasis in this mad town. Indeed, after 10 minutes here it’s possible to forget you are in one of the most densely populated cities in the world.

Adjacent to the garden is the historical Chi Lin Nunnery and temple complex. Another tribute to the Tang dynasty, the main wooden temple building has been constructed without nails and is surrounded by peaceful lotus ponds and a series of temple halls.

Hong Kong - Nan Lian Garden 1

Hong Kong - Nan Lian Garden 3

Hong Kong - Nan Lian Garden 4

1:30 Scale replica of a Liao Dynasty pagoda.

Hong Kong - Nan Lian Garden 5

There’s a restaurant hidden behind this waterfall.

Hong Kong - Nan Lian Garden 6

Hong Kong - Nan Lian Garden 7

Nan Lian Garden is at 60 Fung Tak Road, Diamond Hill, Hong Kong. Open 7am-7pm, admission free.

South Australian writer Amanda McInerney writes about travel and food on her Lambs’ Ears & Honey blog.  

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