Chi Lin Nunnery is a Buddhist convent in Diamond Hill, Kowloon, founded in 1934 and rebuilt in the 1990s in the style of the Tang dynasty (618–907). It is famed as one of the world's largest hand-built wooden temple complexes, assembled entirely from interlocking cypress without a single nail, and it connects by footbridge to the adjacent Nan Lian Garden. The pairing offers a rare pocket of stillness amid the city and is sometimes called 'Hong Kong's Little Kyoto.'
Tang-style wooden halls interlocked from cypress with no nails — among the world's largest handmade wooden structures
Symmetrical courtyard layout with 16 halls, four lotus ponds and a central incense burner
Nan Lian Garden's gilded Pavilion of Absolute Perfection, reached by a bright orange bridge
The Silver Strand waterfall and Chi Lin Vegetarian, a meat-free restaurant tucked behind it
Koi ponds, sculpted pines and bonsai, a teahouse, and the striking contrast with the surrounding high-rises
Good to know
MannersNo photography or video is allowed inside the prayer halls or of the Buddha statues; shoot only in the courtyards and garden, and avoid flash.
MannersThis is an active place of worship. Keep your voice low, silence phone calls, and dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered is recommended).
SeasonThe nunnery closes when Typhoon Signal No. 3 or above, or a Black Rainstorm warning, is in force (it may reopen if lifted before noon). It can also close on certain Buddhist festival days — check before you go.
SeasonWeekends and public holidays draw tour coaches and large crowds, breaking the calm. Arrive early on a weekday morning for the quietest experience.
RulesThe nunnery and garden keep different hours (temple roughly 09:00–16:30; garden opens earlier and stays open into the evening). The temple closes earliest, so see it first, then the garden. Verify hours, fees and rules before visiting.
Practical info
Free admission. Take the MTR to Diamond Hill Station (Kwun Tong and Tuen Ma lines), Exit C2, then walk about 5 minutes. The nunnery and garden are linked by a footbridge and easily seen together on foot. Confirm opening hours and any closures on the official site.
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