- HONG KONG
Family-Friendly Guide To Exploring Chi Lin Nunnery & Nan Lian Garden Hong Kong
Where To Eat, How To Get There, Opening Hours
Looking for a peaceful, screen-free weekend adventure that doesn’t require boarding a plane? Head to Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden, a stunning oasis in the heart of Kowloon, perfect for a cultural family day out in Hong Kong.
Chi Lin Nunnery is a hidden gem that offers a mix of history, architecture, and nature, without the crowds of more commercial attractions. Built entirely from interlocking wood (yes, no nails!), this Buddhist temple complex reflects Tang Dynasty architecture and provides a calming escape from the city buzz.
Kids will love:
- Spotting koi fish in the lotus ponds
- Counting bonsai trees and tea plants
- Watching the water features and admiring the golden pagodas
- Experiencing the serenity of the chanting nuns (a great moment to encourage mindfulness!)
Just across a footbridge from the Nunnery is Nan Lian Garden, a meticulously landscaped classical Chinese garden with winding paths, rockeries, waterfalls, and pavilions. It’s stroller-friendly and perfect for leisurely exploration.
Pro Tip: There’s very little shade, so be sure to bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water for the kids.
Good to Know: The entire complex is stroller-friendly, with wide paths and ramps for easy navigation.
- Chi Lin Nunnery opening hours: 9:00am – 4:30pm daily | entrance: free and no ticket is required
- Nan Lian Garden: opening hours 7:00am – 9:00pm daily | entrance: free and no ticket is required
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Chi Lin Vegetarian
Perfect Lunch SpotFor a meal that nourishes both body and soul, make your way to Chi Lin Vegetarian, a peaceful dining retreat nestled just behind the Silver Strand Waterfall in Nan Lian Garden. While vegetarianism might seem like a modern wellness trend, it has been deeply rooted in Buddhist tradition for centuries, reflecting a philosophy of compassion and mindfulness.
This tranquil restaurant serves up elegant Chinese cuisine with a modern flair, showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients like mushrooms, tofu, and a variety of local vegetables and fruits. The calming, Zen-inspired setting adds to the experience—each dish feels like part of a meditative ritual.
Whether you're stopping in for a light afternoon tea, a leisurely lunch, or a peaceful evening meal, Chi Lin Vegetarian offers thoughtfully curated set menus that are both satisfying and affordable.
Tip: The restaurant is popular with locals and visitors alike, so booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially on weekends.
Chi Lin Vegetarian, Long Men Lou, Nan Lian Garden, 60 Fung Tak Road, Diamond Hill, Kowloon, Hong Kong, +852 3658 9388
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Enjoy A Traditional Tea Ceremony At Song Cha Xie
Indoor Area & CourtyardTucked beside the pond in Nan Lian Garden, Song Cha Xie is a serene Tang-style teahouse offering a peaceful escape. Relax in the quiet courtyard and enjoy premium Wuyi rock teas and aged Pu’er, including Da Hong Pao and Tie Luo Han—brewed using traditional methods by Chi Lin Nunnery. There is an indoor (read air conditioned!) part too if you prefer to escape the heat.
Pair your tea with beautifully presented dim sum, or shop for tea gift boxes and white porcelain tea sets to take home. Occasionally, live music and cultural performances are held in the courtyard. Open daily from 12:00pm to 6:00pm.
Song Cha Xie, +852 3658 9390
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Other Places To Eat Near Chi Lin Nunnery
International & Local Food Chains -
Other Landmarks Nearby
Temples, Parks & Swimming
Where To Find It:
- Chi Lin Nunnery And Nan Lian Garden
- 5 Chi Lin Drive, Diamond Hill, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- +852 2354 1888
- info@chilin.org
- www.chilin.org
Additional Info:
Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden are easily accessible by public transport:
- By MTR: Take the Kwun Tong Line to Diamond Hill Station (Exit C2). Follow the signs—it’s just a 2-minute walk.
- By Taxi: Ask for “Chi Lin Nunnery, Diamond Hill.” Most drivers will know it.
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