Among the many attractions on Lantau Island are popular sights like the Tian Tan Big Buddha, the Po Lin Monastery, and the Ngong Ping 360 cable car ride. Unfortunately for visitors to the area, one of these well-admired attractions, The Wisdom Path, will soon be closed from June 5 for refurbishment.
This large-scale installation consists of 38 timber columns inscribed with the Heart Sutra, and arranged in a figure-of-eight formation along the hilly landscape to symbolise infinity. Professor Jao Tsung-I, an academic master renowned internationally for his research and art, donated an original calligraphy work of the Heart Sutra to Hong Kong, with the request that it be made into a large outdoor carving.
The Wisdom Path was completed in 2005, and visitors can wend their way along the sculptures, contemplating the profound centuries-old text that is treasured by Buddhists, Taoists, and Confucians. It is also a popular spot for a casual hike, with an easy loop that can be completed in approximately half an hour.
20 years on, The Wisdom Path is due some TLC, with the Tourism Commission estimating that the refurbishment works will be fully complete in the last quarter of 2026. However, sections of the path will be reopened gradually before then, so locals and tourists alike can enjoy at least some of the attraction with minimal disruptions. During the time of its refurbishment work, visitors can take in The Wisdom Path from the viewing platform located on a section of the Lantau Trail nearby. There will also be QR codes leading interested parties to learn more about the sculpture’s history and background.
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