THE guardian gods of Lantau's giant Buddha are taking sanctuary behind iron fences to escape 'dastardly attacks' by visitors who sling coins at them for good luck.
Scratch marks can be seen on the statues' eyes and faces, and the floors of the altar are covered with 10 and 20-cent coins.
Some visitors believe it brings them good luck if they hit the statues' heads with their donations.
To raise funds for maintenance, the Po Lin Monastery, which manages the statues, has recently imposed a $60 fee for admission to the Buddha. Fast-food kiosks have also been set up outside the monastery to raise money.
The statues of the six guardian gods are fenced off but are still targets. Visitors ignore signs saying 'Do not damage the statues'.
Security guards are often helpless in the face of the 6,000-strong crowds at weekends and holidays.