Visiting an institute of any kind might not sound like the top item on any holidaymaker’s ‘to-do list’, but a trip to the tranquil grounds of the misleadingly named Yuen Yuen Institute will be a pleasant surprise.

Located in scenic Sam Dip Tam, the Yuen Yuen Institute was founded in 1950 to spread the principles of Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism; uphold the eight virtues (filial piety, respect, loyalty, fidelity, propriety, justice, honesty and honour) and promote social welfare.

Its sprawling grounds are a smorgasbord of temples, pavilions, monasteries and prayer halls dedicated to these three religions, and are dotted with decorative gardens and ponds. One of its many worthwhile 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 creatures of the Chinese zodiac.