China is attempting to move nomads into permanent settlements, but the transition for many has proven difficult. After apartment living, one family plans to go back to herding.
Many older activists were educated at missionary schools, which informs their sense of social and political justice. It's sure to be noticed by Beijing, which sees religion as a threat to its rule.
The Chinese territory's chief secretary, Carrie Lam, says a call from pro-democracy forces to step up protests if concessions aren't made has undermined the dialogue.
The key demand of the recent protesters in Hong Kong has been democracy. But behind that desire is anger about jobs, high housing prices, and competition — and a culture clash — with mainland Chinese.
The pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong largely have been peaceful, but many mainland Chinese see the demonstrators as spoiled troublemakers who are asking for too much, too soon.
"China can no longer isolate itself," says the religious leader, who praises Chinese President Xi Jinping for fighting corruption. He also says Tibetans don't need a Dalai Lama any more.
From a quiet backwater, the former Portuguese colony of Macau has developed a sparkling skyline and 35 casinos with revenue six times that of Las Vegas — and more on the way.