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Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery
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Landmark
The Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery, located in the Sha Tin district of Hong Kong, is a striking mid-20th-century Buddhist complex famous for its overwhelming collection of golden statues. Founded by the devout layman Yuet Kai in the 1950s, the site consists of several temples, pavilions, and a landmark pagoda spread across a lush hillside. To reach the main hall, visitors must climb roughly 400 steps lined with over 500 life-sized golden Arhat statues, each depicting a unique facial expression and posture. Inside the main temple, the walls are adorned with more than 12,000 miniature Buddha statues, far exceeding the number suggested by its name. The architectural centerpiece is a bustling red nine-story pagoda, which gives commanding views of the Sha Tin valley below. Despite its lack of resident monks, the monastery remains a highly active spiritual site and a masterpiece of Buddhist iconography, attracting visitors with its blend of religious devotion, artistic variety, and serene natural surroundings.
- Location: Hong Kong SAR China
- Top sights: Beginning of 10,000 Buddhas · Lutheran Theological Seminary · Ngong Tong Shan Lion's Pavilion
- Nearby: Kowloon Bay Business District (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 16 | 18 | 20 | 23 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 25 | 22 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 35 | 29 | 69 | 109 | 231 | 288 | 197 | 234 | 173 | 56 | 29 | 21 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery in Sha Tin is accessible, with the ascent passing thousands of Buddha statues. The interior of the temple is usually open to visitors, though not all shrines.
Typical hours
The complex typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon, with exact hours varying by season. On Buddhist holidays, access may be restricted or special ceremonies may take place.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the outdoor area and most temple spaces, but not in all meditation halls. The ascent lined with Buddha statues gives excellent photo opportunities.
Time needed
Allow at least one and a half hours for the ascent and monastery visit. Those who want to study the statues and architecture in detail will need about two hours.
Combine with
In Sha Tin, you can combine a visit with Sha Tin Park and the Hong Kong Heritage Museum. The nearby New Town Plaza shopping centre is also worth a stop.
Getting there
The monastery is accessible by MTR to Sha Tin station, then on foot or by taxi. It's about a 20-minute uphill walk from the station.
Insider tip
Wear comfortable shoes as the ascent involves many steps. Bring water, especially on hot days - the view from the top rewards the effort.
Geography
Facts
- The monastery was founded in 1957.
- There are over 12,800 Buddha statues.
- The staircase has 431 steps.
- The statues are made of gold and resin.
- The mummy of the founder is kept in the bell tower.
- It is located in Sha Tin.
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Sights in the town Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery (7)
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Frequently asked questions
How many Buddhas are there?
There are actually well over 10,000 small Buddha statues lining the walls.
Is the path steep?
Yes, you must climb over 400 steps, lined with life-sized golden Buddhas.
Is there an entry fee?
No, visiting the monastery is free for all visitors.
Where is the monastery located?
It is located in Sha Tin, New Territories, a short walk from the MTR station.
Are there monkeys there?
Yes, wild macaques can often be seen in the wooded areas around the monastery.
Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery: where is it located?
Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery is located in Hong Kong SAR China.
Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery: what is there to see?
Highlights include Beginning of 10,000 Buddhas, Lutheran Theological Seminary, Ngong Tong Shan Lion's Pavilion.
Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery: why is it worth visiting?
The Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery, located in the Sha Tin district of Hong Kong, is a striking mid-20th-century Buddhist complex famous for its overwhelming collection of golden statues.
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