Paul and I are presently in Hong Kong – diligently working on the development of the upcoming Spring 2011 le•top, le•top baby and rabbitmoon collections. We love Hong Kong (Paul’s birthplace) – it is a truly exciting city – the pace is fast and everyone seems to always have a purpose. This is a fabulous place to absorb energy and excitement! However, there are times that we miss our ‘other’ home in California – a place that is quiet and peaceful. Yesterday we discovered that we could experience serenity – surprisingly enough right in the middle of Hong Kong!
Paul’s brother Anthony invited us and other family members to visit the Nan Lian Garden – a place we did not even know existed. This is a classic Chinese style garden, in the style of the Tang dynasty, that was built over a period of more than 5 years. The garden covers an area that is over 8 ½ acres – with meandering paths that take you on a journey that results in calm and tranquility. Beautiful rocks – some so huge we wondered at how they could have possibly been transported – and grown trees were transported in from areas deep in China. The garden was designed with attention to the minutest details – the buildings in the garden were all constructed using ancient building techniques – everything is put together without the use of nails, just as they did centuries ago. There are ponds with large koi fish, waterfalls and beautiful plants.
This garden is part of the Nan Lian Buddhist Nunnery – and held in trust for the enjoyment of the public. There are no entrance fees – but a strict set of rules that everyone follows – no touching of the garden elements, no shouting or running and in general that visitors show respect. The moment we entered the garden we felt a sense of peace descend – truly magical!
There is a special restaurant in the garden, maintained by the nuns, that serves vegetarian cuisine of the highest quality, appearance and taste. We were treated to a very special dinner by Anthony – every one of the ten courses of the meal was entirely vegetarian – following Buddhist traditions that revere all living things. I could not believe how delicious and varied the dishes could be! We had a truly special experience – one that I will never forget.
If you are ever in Hong Kong take the time to visit this very extraordinary place, literally a stones throw from streets thronging with people and shopping areas filled with modern amenities.
Nan Lian Garden
60 Fung Tak Road
Diamond Hill – Kowloon – Hong Kong
www.nanliangarden.org
(click the English button on the bottom right)
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