Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha)

The Tian Tan Buddha on the summit of the Ngong Ping Plateau is one of the world's most impressive religious statues: 34 meters high, 250 tons, cast in bronze, and since 1993 a symbol of harmony between man, nature, and religion. The statue is so large that it can be seen from Macau in clear weather.

The Ascent

268 steps lead from the base up to the statue — a sweaty climb (especially in summer) rewarded with a breathtaking 360° panorama: the mountains of Lantau, the South China Sea, the airport, and on clear days, the Hong Kong skyline and the islands of Macau. Around the base: six Bodhisattva statues (Devas) offering gifts.

Po Lin Monastery

At the foot of the Buddha lies the Po Lin Monastery (1906) — one of Hong Kong's most important Buddhist monasteries. The main hall houses three gilded Buddha statues, and the garden exudes a silence that contrasts with the city's hustle, creating something surreal. The vegetarian lunch at the monastery is an experience: a multi-course menu of tofu, vegetables, and mock meat (100 HKD). In the monastery: appropriate clothing (shoulders and knees covered).

Ngong Ping 360

The Ngong Ping 360 is a 5.7 km cable car from Tung Chung (MTR station) to Ngong Ping Village — a 25-minute ride with spectacular panoramic views of the airport, mountains, Tung Chung Bay, and the Big Buddha in the distance. Standard cabin: 250 HKD (return), Crystal Cabin: 380 HKD (with glass floor — only for those without vertigo). The ride alone is worth the trip to Lantau.