Wisdom Path, Hong Kong

Hong Kong is sometimes referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, which seems rather fitting when you see the skyline filled with glittering skyscrapers. It is a major financial centre and major port, but is also popular with tourists, with many attractions, food and shopping.

Completed in 2005, the Wisdom Path is a relatively new tourist destination in Hong Kong. Situated a short walk from the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery in the hills of Ngong Ping, it is not so well known, so is serene and not as crowded as its neighbouring attractions. The Wisdom Path comprises of 38 wooden columns, each around 10 metres tall, arranged in a figure eight pattern, into the hills.

The columns have carved Chinese characters based on the calligraphy of famous scholar Professor Jao Tsung-I spelling out verses from the Heart Sutra. This is one of the world’s best known prayers known by Buddhists, Taoists and Confucians alike. The figure 8 arrangement of these large wooden columns actually symbolises infinity.

While the path is pretty in the sunshine, it becomes very atmospheric when the clouds are rolling across the hills and through the columns. If you ever visit Hong Kong, seek this attraction out as a quiet respite from the busy hustle and bustle of city life.

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