We had a family outing to Diamond Hill last Saturday. My mother has a knack for discovering new places whereas I frequent the same places over and over again. The city council along with Hong Kong's wealthy donated money to build a fortified Chinese garden (called the Nan Lian Garden) complete with a golden tower and orange-lacquered bridge. It no doubt reminded me of Kinkakuji in Kyoto but in the middle of a concrete forest. The question is, who copied who? Was Kinakuji built before or after the Tang Dynasty?
There are chunks of strategically place polished rocks/stones dotted around the garden. Have you sat on a rock lately? I think it's better than yoga for peace and tranquility, despite a cold butt on a winter's day. There was also a koi pond and a bonsai display. The souvenir shops sold olive oil and pasta. Go figure! My mother bought 120 year old preserved orange peel for about HK$200 a jar. Apparently good for reducing phlegm. So, if you want to secure an income for your great-grandchildren start preserving your orange peels!
2 comments:
Koi are great to watch.
Kinkuji was built around the 14th Century which is after the Tang dynasty.
I do like the garden though! Might be worth a visit someday.
Thank you for your input Mr Clever. There is a also huge temple behind the gardens as well that I haven't been to so I'll have to revisit.
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