Beyond the skyscrapers, Hong Kong hides islands, incense-filled temples, and centuries-old customs waiting to be explored.

It was just a happenstance that he noticed a 35-meter high Tian Tan Buddha statue standing right next to the Hong Kong Airport that put him "On the Trail of Buddha: A Journey to the East".

Part of 1,600 papier-mache pandas, created by French artist Paulo Grangeon, are on display in front of the Tian Tan Buddha statue on Lantau Island in Hong Kong, June 10, 2014.

Part of 1,600 papier-mache pandas, created by French artist Paulo Grangeon, are on display in front of the Tian Tan Buddha statue on Lantau Island in Hong Kong, June 10, 2014.

Part of 1,600 papier-mache pandas, created by French artist Paulo Grangeon, are on display in front of the Tian Tan Buddha statue on Lantau Island in Hong Kong, June 10, 2014.