Written by Aarohi Narain
Head to Lantau Island for a multi-day programme of workshops, performances, and exhibitions centred on the lotus flower.
What happens?
In Buddhism, the lotus symbolises purity, spiritual awakening, and the ability to rise above suffering — blooming pristine even in muddy water. This festival explores the cultural and spiritual importance of the lotus through calligraphy, tea and incense workshops, meditation sessions, traditional music, and floral art.
Held at Po Lin Monastery, one of Hong Kong’s most important Buddhist temples, the festival offers a chance to experience religious practice in a tranquil setting. Founded in 1906 and located near the famous Tian Tan Big Buddha, the monastery is known for its ornate halls, incense-filled courtyards, and vegetarian kitchen. It draws both pilgrims and curious travellers, especially those arriving by the scenic Ngong Ping 360 cable car.
Pro tip: While the monastery grounds feature blooming lotuses during summer, you can also see lotus flowers in Kowloon Park, Tsing Yi Park, and around the lakes at the Chinese University of Hong Kong.
Schedule 2025
Here are some of the highlights:
June 21 (Sat.)
- 10:00–11:00: Opening ceremony and dance performance
- 09:50–11:00: “Lotus Illusion” magic show
- 12:00–14:00: Tea ceremony workshop
- 12:50–14:00: Tea showcase
- 14:00–15:00:Guzheng performance, and singing bowl and Yunnan tea performances
- 14:00–16:00:Handicraft workshop: dried flower fans
Throughout the event period, there will be lctures on Buddhist calligraphy, daily Zen meditation, and Buddhist sutra copying sessions. There will also be many more tea workshops, incense culture sessions, printmaking, and eco crafts focused on the lotus flower.
For the complete schedule and to register, check out the official page.
How to get there
Po Lin Monastery is a short walk from the Big Buddha.
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