Nan Lian Garden in Hong Kong is a poem brought to life in all its exquisite beauty. The skilfully crafted black lintel gate beckons travellers to walk the serene winding paths laden with works of art seemingly belonging to the bygone Tang Dynasty era. Inspired by and planned according to the Tang Dynasty principles, a picturesque array of wooden pavilions, discreetly planted trees, tranquil waterways and artful rock formations adorn the garden. Cherished by all who visit its beautiful landscape, Nan Lian Chinese Classical Garden is a serendipitous space where the discerning traveller can find age old stillness amidst the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong. Hotel seekers of the leisurely kind can consider checking into the Cosmopolitan Hotel Wan Chai Hong Kong (soon to be rebranded as Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong) to explore the garden at their ease. The charming backdrop of Lion Rock, Tate’s Cairn, Temple Hill and Kowloon Peak highlight Nan Lian Garden’s unmatched wonder.
True to the spirit of the classical Chinese landscape characteristics, the garden is designed to follow a spontaneous sequel of ‘borrowing scenes’, ‘concealing scenes’, ‘sheltering scenes’ and ‘penetrating scenes’. Those who take the circular route will be able to savour the subtle pleasures of viewing the abundance of old trees that shield the garden from the city, listen to the limpid rhythm of the Silver Strand waterfall and gaze at the calming depths of the Lotus and the Blue ponds where Koi carp swim amidst the artistic rock formations. The Pavilion of Absolute Perfection connected by the two red Zi Wu bridges tells and alluring story while the garden’s rock pattern hints at a deeper philosophy.
Nan Lian is essentially a place for peace and reflection and visitors too must abide by the deeply held etiquette of noiseless and slow enjoyment of its beautiful features to relish the experience to its fullest.
Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
