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If you're planning a meaningful trip and seeking a place to relax your soul, the Big Buddha in Hong Kong is just what you need. Known as 'Ngoc Lam Guan Yin,' this temple and 34-meter-high Guan Yin statue is not only a religious icon but also a spiritually and culturally rich destination.
The beauty of the Big Buddha in Hong Kong | Photo: Luhanhvietnam
Traveling to Ngong Ping, specifically to the Big Buddha in Hong Kong, is a fantastic experience for culture and religion enthusiasts. The Big Buddha in Hong Kong is one of the city's most famous attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year.
Overview of the Big Buddha Statue
The Big Buddha, also known as the Ngong Ping Buddha Statue, is the tallest Buddha statue in the world and one of the remarkable religious architectural structures. Construction of the Big Buddha began in 1990 and was completed in 1993. Standing at 34 meters tall and consisting of 3 tiers, each tier represents different stages of Buddha's enlightenment. From atop, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Lantau Island and the peculiar archipelago.
Where is the Big Buddha Statue Located?
The Big Buddha Statue is situated atop Ngong Ping Mountain on Lantau Island, approximately 34 km away from downtown Hong Kong. It is the largest seated Buddha statue in the world, standing about 34 meters tall and weighing around 250 tons. The Big Buddha Statue rests on a bronze lotus throne, adorned with carvings and stories of Buddha's life.
Exploring the Inner Courtyard of Po Lin Monastery | Photo: Gody
How to Get to the Big Buddha Statue
Getting from the City Center
From the city center, you have several transportation options depending on your preference and purpose. Based on my Ngong Ping travel experience, there are two extremely convenient and budget-friendly modes of transportation:
Bus:Bicycle/Rent a Bike:Taking the Cable Car to the Big Buddha Statue
To ascend to the Big Buddha, you can take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, an intriguing cable car system that allows you to enjoy scenic views while traveling from the Big Buddha Temple to the Po Lin Monastery. Along the way, you'll marvel at the natural beauty of the Hong Kong archipelago, expansive seascapes, and lush green fields.
Experience Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car to reach the Big Buddha Statue | Photo: divui
When you reach the Big Buddha Statue, be careful as you will have to climb 268 steps to reach the platform of the Tian Tan Buddha statue. From the very first step, you will feel the peaceful and sacred atmosphere of this temple. The feeling will become even stronger as you ascend along this path.
Places to Visit When Visiting the Big Buddha Statue
Shopping at Ngong Ping Village
Apart from exploring the temple and the Buddha statue, travelers visiting Ngong Ping can also enjoy other exciting activities in Ngong Ping Village. You can indulge in traditional Hong Kong cuisine, purchase unique souvenirs, or play traditional folk games.
Travelers experience shopping when visiting Ngong Ping Village | Photo: Trip
Visit Po Lin Monastery
Relax and immerse yourself in nature when visiting the Big Buddha statue, take time to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at Po Lin Monastery and the beautiful nature surrounding it. There are many paths leading through gardens and trees, allowing you to explore the stunning natural landscape of Lantau Island. If you like, you can also participate in outdoor activities such as hiking or strolling through the lush forest to enjoy the fresh air and pristine scenery.
Po Lin Monastery is located right next to the area of the Big Buddha statue | Photo: Luhanhvietnam
Explore the Cat Cat Temple
Don't miss out on other attractions, besides visiting the Big Buddha statue, you should also explore other interesting spots like Cat Cat Temple to experience the spiritual beauty and admire the peaceful scenery of the hills and vast meadows.
Don't forget to bring your camera to capture memorable moments and create lifelong memories.
Cat Cat Temple beneath the Big Buddha statue | Photo: META
Specialties at Ngong Ping
not only experience the natural beauty but also have the opportunity to enjoy unique, flavorful local dishes. Below are some specialties at Ngong Ping that you shouldn't miss.
Lobster Bun
Lobster Bun is an iconic dish of Ngong Ping, famous for its enticing appearance and delicious flavor. The bun is made from crispy yet soft crust layered with fresh and tasty lobster filling, creating a unique and delightful culinary experience.
Delicious Lobster Bun at Ngong Ping | Photo: Vietnamnet
Star-shaped Mung Bean Sweet Soup
If you want to enjoy a sweet dessert, try the Star-shaped Mung Bean Sweet Soup. This is a traditional dessert, a specialty at Ngong Ping, made with mung beans and soft glutinous rice balls shaped like stars. This dessert not only looks appealing but also offers a refreshing taste on hot summer days.
Delicious and Colorful Mung Bean Sweet Soup | Photo: Collection
Jasmine Flower Tea
In addition to the food, you can also enjoy Jasmine Flower Tea, a herbal tea made from fragrant jasmine flowers. Jasmine Flower Tea not only provides a delicious flavor but also has a cooling and stress-relieving effect.
Delicious and Flavorful Jasmine Flower Tea at Ngong Ping | Photo: Medlatec
Accommodation Options When Visiting the Big Buddha
Travelodge Central Hollywood Road Hotel
Vibrant and Dynamic Colors Inside the Guest Rooms | Photo: reserving
Travelodge Central Hollywood Road Hotel is conveniently located near major attractions and offers reasonable prices. This hotel provides comfortable and basic yet fully equipped rooms, ensuring you have a place to rest after a day of exploration.
Vibrant and Dynamic Color Scheme Inside the Accommodation | Photo: Dayuse
The rooms are equipped with LCD TVs, dining and entertainment services, and friendly staff. Staying at this hotel near the Big Buddha, guests can reach Hong Kong Station in just 10 minutes, Sheung Wan MTR Station and Lan Kwai Fong in a 7-minute walk.
Hotel Madera Hollywood
Hotel Madera Hollywood is conveniently located with numerous shops and restaurants nearby. This hotel offers modern and stylish accommodations, along with friendly service. Its prices are typically reasonable considering its location and amenities.
The most fully-equipped and modern accommodations of the hotel | Photo: maderagroup
Silka West Kowloon Hotel
Silka West Kowloon Hotel offers beautiful rooms at affordable prices. This hotel is conveniently located and not far from the Ngong Ping 360 cable car. With basic yet adequate amenities, the hotel near Tian Tan Buddha is a suitable choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luxuriously styled rooms | Photo: Collected
If you want to book hotels during this summer or on holidays, you should consider booking early to avoid fully booked situations and have more options. The quickest and most rewarding way to book hotels in Hong Kong for your Ngong Ping trip is through Mytour. Visit the website, choose your stay dates, and all suitable options will be provided. Book your hotel near Tian Tan Buddha with Mytour to enjoy a memorable Ngong Ping trip!
Experiences and tips for visiting Tian Tan Buddha
The Tian Tan Buddha is a cultural and spiritual icon in Hong Kong, offering an intriguing experience for travelers. From riding the cable car through the natural landscape to relaxing and exploring Ngong Ping, and marveling at the majestic Buddha statue, every moment is worth experiencing and remembering. Plan your hotel bookings and flight tickets for your trip to Hong Kong, and make sure you don't miss the opportunity to explore the Tian Tan Buddha, where you can immerse yourself in tranquility and spirituality.
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