Tsz Shan Monastery: A guide to visiting Tai Po's hidden sanctuary

The architecture of Tsz Shan Monastery draws inspiration from the Tang, Northern Song, Liao, and Jin dynasties, with a design that seamlessly integrates with the natural terrain.

Three main buildings – including the Main Gate, Maitreya Hall, and the Grand Buddha Hall – are situated along a central axis, while another axis branches off from the Grand Courtyard and leads to the Universal Gate and the Guan Yin statue. Visitors are welcome to stroll through open corridors between the halls to admire the traditional architecture.

Without a doubt, the main attraction of the monastery is the bronze-cast white Guan Yin statue, which towers an impressive 76 metres and is flanked by 18 Buddhist Pines on either side of the Compassion Path, a wide pathway that stretches from the Universal Gate Hall to the statue.

Inspired by sculptures of the Song dynasty, the Guan Yin statue features a small image of Amitābha on her topknot to symbolise blessings and protection. Her right hand holds a wisdom maṇi pearl, while in her left hand is a vase from which "she pours pure water to cleanse the phenomenal world".

Opened in 2019, the Tsz Shan Monastery Buddhist Art Museum showcases Buddhist artefacts and objects from around the world to promote the appreciation of Buddhist art. It is said to be the city's first museum exclusively dedicated to Buddhist art and relics, with exhibits and cultural activities focused on this subject. The museum is located beneath the Guan Yin Statue in a circular enclosure, symbolising inner contentment.

Aside from the museum, there are many other activities visitors can engage with, including tea meditation, zen calligraphy, and walking meditation. Visitors can also head to the Thousand Wishes Pond, a large bronze water vessel which sits in the middle of the Compassion Path, to make a water offering to Guan Yin.