Show up at 4am if you want to catch the monk washing the Buddha’s face, a ritual locals hold sacred. The sheer amount of gold leaf applied by devotees makes the statue look distorted and lumpier than photos suggest. Spend 45 minutes walking through the surrounding galleries and courtyard. Skip the overpriced trinket vendors near the entrance. Dress modestly covering shoulders and knees; locals won't hesitate to call you out if you ignore the dress code.
