Covering an area of about 1.5 hectares, the Ngong Ping Piazza has a strong Buddhist character and blends in with the religious ambience of Ngong Ping. The Piazza links up the various tourist attractions in Ngong Ping, including Po Lin Monastery, the Giant Buddha, Ngong Ping 360 cable car, Ngong Ping Village and Wisdom Path. It enables visitors to explore Ngong Ping, which is a popular tourist spot characterised by its religious setting and beautiful natural scenery, in a coherent manner.
The Ngong Ping Piazza has four components, namely a new Pai Lau, Bodhi Path, Di Tan and a Chinese landscaped garden.
Set at the entrance of the Piazza, the new Pai Lau is built along the Northern architectural style of the Qing Dynasty consistent with that of the Po Lin Monastery.
The Bodhi Path is a central walkway leading from the new Pai Lau to Di Tan. Lined on both sides of the path are statues of the "Twelve Divine Generals" as well as 40 lotus-shaped lanterns. The "Twelve Divine Generals" are regarded as protectors in Buddhism, and each is responsible for guarding a two-hour section of the day. In addition, they represent the twelve Chinese zodiac signs, as denoted by the different zodiac signs on their crowns.
Di Tan is the open space facing the Po Lin Monastery and the Giant Buddha, where religious ceremonies are occasionally held.
Chinese Landscaped Garden
The architectural design of the Chinese landscaped garden complements that of the Po Lin Monastery. The serene garden provides the perfect foil for the majestic Giant Buddha.
