Visiting the Hong Kong Buddha on Lantau Island.
As we headed up to Lantau Island in the cable car, we watched people struggle climbing the steps in the heat…
The humidity in Hong Kong in the summer is no joke!
We still had to climb steps though, however, when the Hong Kong Big Buddha appeared on the hill, it was definitely worth the hard work.
The Tian Tan (Big) Buddha is a must on any Hong Kong itinerary, so make your way to the majestic Lantau Island and immerse in the wonderful scenery with amazing 360º panoramic views - My favourite view in Hong Kong!
The giant bronze Buddha statue encapsulates everything which Hong Kong is, grand, immaculate and pretty damn amazing!
A trip to the Hong Kong Buddha should be in your plans for your trip to the Cantonese paradise, and this blog has all the information you need!
The globally famous Tian Tan Buddha statue in Hong Kong.
How you can visit the Tian Tan Buddha.
The Tian Tan Buddha is located on Lantau Island, which is approximately 10 miles from central Hong Kong, however, there are an array of good transport options available to you.
If you purchase an Octopus card during your Hong Kong stay, it can be used on all the below options:
Train.
Hong Kong’s metro network is amongst the world’s best, so it is a very efficient way of exploring the whole city.
If you are travelling from Hong Kong Central, you need to catch the MTR to Tung Chung Station, with a total time of around 30 minutes.
Once you arrive, you can take Exit B for the Ngong Ping 360° Cable Car to Ngong Ping Village and the Big Buddha.
Ferry/Bus.
A great way to experience Hong Kong is by travelling by ferry.
You can catch the ferry to Lantau Island, Mui Wo Village from Central Pier 6 and it takes around one hour.
Once you reach Lantau Island ferry pier, there are regular buses which can take you to Tung Chung MTR station where you will find the entrance to the cable car station.
You can also catch bus number 2 from Mui Wo directly to Ngong Ping village.
Bus number 23 leaves the bus station to Ngong Ping Village, taking around 50 minutes.
Ideal if you are on a budget, as this is the cheaper option.
It is awesome when the Hong Kong Buddha first comes into view.
The Big Buddha Hong Kong opening times:
Monday to Sunday (including public holidays)
10 am to 5:30 pm.
Po Lin Monastery
Monday to Sunday (including public holidays)
9 am to 6 pm.
The Big Buddha Hong Kong entrance fee:
It is free to visit the Hong Kong Buddha, other than transport you may use to reach the summit.
You will find the Ngong Ping village has everything you need, with souvenir shops, 7-Eleven stores and restaurants for your day of leisure. It is also kid-friendly.
Important tip - Please remember to bring water with you, as it can get pretty demanding - especially on hot days.
A Cantonese style pagoda on Lantau Island.
Where is the Big Buddha in Hong Kong?
Location:
Ngong Ping Village, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
Map showing the Big Buddha on Lantau Island in relation to Central Hong Kong.
The Big Buddha Hong Kong Cable Car.
Once you arrive at Tung Chung, you can get the cable car up to Ngong Ping.
Touted as one of the world’s best cable car experiences, the Ngong Ping Cable Car will take you on a fascinating journey up the mountainous terrain of Lantau Island and towards Mount Muk Yue.
If you opt for a crystal cabin, you will be treated to a one of a kind experience through the unbeatable panoramic views of the tropical forests through the clear glass floors - what are you waiting for?
A very scenic cable car ride.
You will begin your ascent by crossing Chung Bay, before reaching the angle station on Airport Island and turning 60 degrees towards North Lantau.
The South China Sea will be the distant backdrop as you admire the breathtaking panorama view of Hong Kong International Airport and the mountainous terrain of Lantau Island, before you arrive at Ngong Ping Village.
Be sure to check the weather forecast beforehand as some days can be extremely foggy - ruining the views!
There can be long queues for the cable car in peak times so it is advisable to skip the queues and save time by purchasing your advance tickets here.
More surreal views from the cable car.
Some information about the Tian Tan Buddha statue.
As the largest bronze seater statue in the world, the Tian Tan Buddha in Hong Kong sits at the height of 34 metres (112 feet) and weighs a substantial 250 tonnes.
The famous Hong Kong landmark is now entering its 31st year, following the completion of its construction in 1993 after over three years of work.
On the day of the Buddha’s enlightenment (unveiling), monks visited the cultural monument from all over the world, including; Mainland China, Japan, Thailand and Malaysia.
On a sunny day, you can catch a sight of the Big Buddha from as far away as Macau as it spreads positive energy throughout the majestic kingdom.
A Cantonese gate near the statue.
The bronze sculpture faces north, which is very unique among the great Buddha statues of the world.
Denoting the harmony of relationship between people and religion, surrounded by beautiful nature.
Is the Big Buddha still under Renovation works?
As one of Hong Kong’s proudest monuments, the Tian Tan Buddha is a symbol of the people in the Majestic Cantonese Kingdom, therefore, it should always be in pristine condition. As a result the ‘Tian Tan Giant Buddha Renovation Fund’ has been used for a large-scale renovation project.
The project started in June 2020, but is now completed, so it is no longer under renovation in 2024.
The main objective of the repair was to remove the oxidation layers and pollutants on the statue, add another layer of paint of protective coating and to restore the Buddha to its solemn state.
Due to Hong Kong’s tropical climate, the impressive bronze statue is susceptible to fading and corrosion - so after thirty years it was finally time for a complete repair!
Chinese style door on Lantau Island.
How many steps to the Big Buddha?
Once you leave Ngong Ping Village and head to the base of the Big Buddha statue, you are faced with a climb of 268 steps. This can be very physically demanding, especially when you take in the climate, temperatures and humidity levels. (there is alternative access for disabled visitors)
On your way up to the iconic Hong Kong landmark you will see six smaller statues.
The ‘offering of the six divas’ symbolise the qualities needed for enlightenment:
Patience.
Generosity.
Meditation.
Wisdom.
Morality.
Zeal.
You will also find some traditional temples where you can pay your respects.
Traditional Cantonese temple on Lantau Island.
Reaching the top of the Big Buddha in Hong Kong.
After completing your impressive climb up the stairs to the Big Buddha, you are going to need to cool down. Fortunately if you enter the inside of the famous bronze statue there is air conditioning - A miracle on hot days!
Be prepared to pay though.
There is a small admission fee to enter the Big Buddha statue, but there is a vegetarian restaurant inside, if you want to grab some refreshments during your day of exploration.
Vegetarian Kitchen opening hours:
Monday to Sunday (including public holidays)
11:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Nearly reached the Tian Tan Buddha.
The Wisdom Path.
After you have finished exploring the Big Buddha and the wonderful surrounding nature, make sure you go and find the hidden gem - The Wisdom Path.
Frequently overlooked by visitors to the famous Hong Kong landmark, the wisdom pathway comprises thirty-eight tall wooden columns which are carved with verses from the Buddhist Heart Sutra, lasting centuries.
You will make your way through breath-taking scenery at the foot of Lantau Peak. A nice stroll offers peace and beauty, while bringing the philosophy of the sutra to life - a real treat!
If you are wanting to indulge in nature for longer, at the end of the wisdom path there are two paths; one follows on through the forest towards the Shak Pik reservoir, alternatively, you can head up to the summit of Lantau Peak.
When to Visit the Hong Kong Big Buddha?
If you are looking for a comfortable trip to the Big Buddha, then the best time to visit Hong Kong is between September and December, as the temperatures are cooler, humidity is lower and the sunshine makes for pleasant days.
Summer clothes will still be suitable during this period, however bring a jacket in case, as the Big Buddha is elevated - so it can be brisk!
If you want a dry trip to see the Big Buddha, it’s best to avoid the rainy season, which usually occurs from May until September.
You may just pick a day when the Tian Tan Buddha is covered in fog, as this is very common, so it is advisable to check out the weather forecast in advance.
It still makes for a very enjoyable day in Hong Kong, however, you may not get to experience the scenery in its purest form - also, you won’t get the perfect snaps!
Being flexible with your Hong Kong itinerary will be very beneficial.
As the bronze Big Buddha is one of the most visited tourist spots in Hong Kong it can get very busy during peak times.
If you want to avoid the crowds, your best bet is to visit the iconic Buddha very early in the day, or midweek.
Alternatively, off season will always give you some quality quiet time admiring the impressive architecture and beautiful nature. On the right day, you are guaranteed the perfect Hong Kong sunset spot.
Key tip - on busy days, you may have to queue for up to an hour, therefore, it is advised to grab your tickets in advance.
Purchase your tickets here.
Tian Tan Buddha in Hong Kong.
A cheeky wave.
Where to stay near the Big Buddha in Hong Kong?
The most convenient places to stay near the Big Buddha in Hong Kong for close proximity are based on Lantau Island.
Several options are detailed below:
Budget options:
The Cove Hostel - Tong Fuk Sea Lion - *
Situated 6.2 miles away from the Big Buddha in Hong Kong, The Cove Hostel - Tong Fuk Sea Lion has everything you need for a comfortable stay - such as free WIFI, air conditioning, a garden and a shared lounge. It is also in close proximity (450 yards) to Tong Fuk Beach.
YHA Ngong Ping SG Davis Youth Hostel - *
The Tian Tan Buddha is only a ten minute walk away from the YHA Ngong Ping SG Davis Youth Hostel, making it a fantastic choice for budget travellers. There are many hiking trails nearby including the famous ‘Lantau Trail’.
Inside a pagoda on Lantau Island.
Mid-range options:
Seaview Holiday Resort - ***
Situated approximately 13 miles from the Big Budhha, Seaview Holiday Resort is another good option for visitors. All the available rooms at this hotel have air conditioning, a LCD TV and free Wi-Fi access. It is also a 45-minute drive from Hong Kong International Airport.
Four Points by Sheraton Hong Kong, Tung Chung - *****
If you want a luxurious stay in Hong Kong for your visit to the Big Buddha look no further than the Four Points By Sheraton in Tung Chung. Situated 15 miles from the Iconic Landmark, this 5-star hotel has all you need. You can also enjoy a buffet breakfast before your day at the bronze statue.
The last few steps are very steep.
There cool statues all over the Island.
Luxurious options:
Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong - ****
The Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong is located on Lantau Island, just under twenty miles away from the Big Buddha. A resort hotel with a seasonal 30 yards outdoor swimming pool with ocean views, fitness centre and pampering massage at Spa Botanica makes this a good option for a relaxing trip.
The guest rooms also enjoy ocean views.
Disney Explorers Lodge - *****
Located 22 miles away from the Big Buddha, Disney Explorers Lodge is guaranteed to give you world class service, to make your trip to Hong Kong a memorable one. The hotel stay includes use of an outdoor pool with ocean views, a fantastic restaurant and nice garden area.
Hong Kong Disneyland is also only 750 yards away from this 5-star hotel.
Book your stay at Disney Explorers Lodge Hong Kong here.
The offering of the six divas statues on Lantau Island.
Final thoughts on the Big Buddha in Hong Kong.
If you are lucky enough to visit the majestic kingdom of Hong Kong, then the Big Buddha is a must see attraction. The day trip offers everything such as; beautiful nature, stunning architecture and challenging exercise - all of which combine to offer a one of a kind experience.
If you choose your day wisely, you will get amazing sunshine to bring out the full serenity of the mysterious Lantau Island.
We captured some awesome Instagram shots on Lantau Island.
Time to go pay your respects!
While you are in Hong Kong.
Another iconic landmark to add to your Hong Kong itinerary is the Bruce Lee statue located at the Avenue of Stars promenade next to Victoria Harbour.
You will find some cool activities in and around this area, including the best views of the Victoria Harbour skyline.