A Walk To Wisdom Path of Heart Sutra

25th April 2024

My #LantauIslandExploration was stopped when I pursued another path and focused on some aspects for now. For some reason, this travel story has long been waiting to be shared, and it's quite overdue, so I opted to spare some time to write about it. During my second visit after the Ngong Ping exploration, I was able to explore some parts of it where some iconic attractions can be found.

At the foot of Lantau Peak — is Wisdom Path. It's a tranquil escape from the bustling city life, and offers a glimpse into the teachings of Buddhism. People are visiting this place to see the 38 giant wooden columns with inscriptions of Heart Sutra. These wooden columns form a symbol of infinity, like a figure of eight.

Here's a photo of Wisdom Path taken from the aerial view. The wooden columns form a symbol of infinity. Image source here.

These large-scale wooden inscriptions were completed in 2005, and the Wisdom Path became a popular attraction on Lantau Island, alongside the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery located a few distances away from this place. They seem to have been built in one place to give visitors a true glimpse of Buddhism.

From calligraphy to outdoor large-scale carving. This place truly offers some spiritual contemplation. The calligraphy, by the way, was made by Professor Jao Tsung-I, a Hong Kong calligrapher, historian, and painter. As stated in the reference, this masterpiece was inspired by Buddhist stone carvings on a mountain in Shandong, China. Professor Jao then used the Heart Sutra to create a monumental calligraphic dedicated to the people of Hong Kong.

Apart from the Wisdom Path, the natural beauty around is another attraction. I wandered around and immersed myself in its tranquil surroundings, lush greenery, and majestic mountains on Lantau Island. Some trails can be accessed from this place for a nature stroll.

The Lantau Peak is popular in the area and can be reached from the Wisdom Path for more or less half an hour only. It's a perfect trail for those who don't like to scramble through the most dangerous ridge, West Dog Teeth just to reach the 2nd highest peak in Hong Kong. An easy-pissy trail for them. However, there's a thrilling trail on the other side for adventure seekers. There's an abandoned village located before Wisdom Path which I shared some time ago. Meanwhile, just on the left of Wisdom Path is the scenic trail of Shek Pik.

Some pavilions provide shelter and resting places for visitors. I saw a signboard for a hostel, but I didn't have time to visit it.

This concrete platform at the foot of the mountain becomes a playground for kids. There are benches around too for resting.

After this visit, I was inspired to hike this mountain behind me. And I made it during my third visit to this island this year. You can check out my Lantau Peak adventure to read about my worth-it experiences.

Many visitors find the Wisdom Path a place for solace and reflection. That was proven true. I found myself translating the inscriptions and reflecting on the profound teachings of Buddhism. Whether you are a devoted Buddhist, someone seeking spiritual enlightenment, or simply curious (like me), this place will allow you to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Buddhism, and appreciate the calligraphic masterpiece of Professor Jao. It's picture-perfect too.

You can check out other attractions on Lantau Island in my #MyLantauIslandExploration'24 stories:

Scrambling To The 2nd Highest Peak In Hong Kong

Climbing The Most Dangerous Ridge In Hong Kong - West Dog Teeth

Scenic Village Amidst The Hills - Ngong Ping Scenic Retreat

Po Lin Monastery And Its Solemn Land On Lantau Island

The Majestic Big Buddha - Tian Tan

Ngong Ping Rescue Trail and Midpoint Overlook

Abandoned Village Along Ngong Ping Fun Walk

Random Walk At Shek Pik Scenic Trail

Historical Walk At Tung Chung Fort

Thanks for your time.

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