For a more traditional Chinese cultural experience, a visit to the rather misleadingly named Yuen Yuen Institute promises to provide an enjoyable surprise. The Institute was founded in 1950 and occupies spacious grounds in the tranquil, beautiful environment of Sam Dip Tam.
The Institute is a collection of temples, pavilions, monasteries and prayer halls dedicated to Confucian, Buddhist and Taoist beliefs, and its sprawling grounds are dotted with decorative gardens and ponds. The Institute's purpose is to spread the principles of these three religions, to uphold the eight virtues (i.e. filial piety, respect, loyalty, fidelity, propriety, justice, honesty and honour) and to promote social welfare.
One of its many attractions includes a replica of Beijing's magnificent Temple of Heaven (Tian Tan). The Hall of Rocks Collection features rocks with interesting natural shapes, including those of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac
