Guide of The Big Buddha on Lantau Island
The Big Buddha, also referred to as Tian Tan Buddha or Giant Buddha, is one of the most-known attractions in Hong Kong by tourists. Lots of visitors pin it on their top list and must-do. It sits 482 meters above sea level on the top of Ngong Ping of Lantau Island with impressive views.
Being the second-largest outdoor sitting bronze Buddha statue in the world, the Big Buddha, along with the nearby Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car and Po Lin Monastery, become one of the top 10 sightseeing attractions in Hong Kong.
Being on such high level, during the foggy or rainy days, the visibility can drop to zero. Thus, try to avoid visiting Big Buddha in bad weather if possible. Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car is unbeatable choice for most tourists getting up to the hill. Do remember to book the tickets in advance to enjoy extra discount and designated lane.
Lantau Island and Tung Chung is close to the airport. Thus, the Big Buddha and Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car are also good options for those stop-over visitors, who has only several hours in Hong Kong.
All you need to know about the Big Buddha
- The Big Buddha – a remarkable art work
- Highlights of Tian Tan platform (statue, six devas, scenic views)
- When is the best and worst time to the Big Buddha?
- Is it worthwhile to visit the Big Buddha? How much time needed?
- Ticket price and opening hours of the Big Buddha
- How to get up to Ngong Ping and the Big Buddha?
- How to get to buddha statue when you arrive at Ngong Ping?
- Nearby popular attractions on Lantau Island
- General Info (opening hours, contact info)
- Inside Tips (Tip 1, Tip 2)
- Worthwhile:
- Location:
- Highlights: Cable Car Crystal Cabin, Buddha statue, Po Lin Monastery, scenic views
Plan to Stay: Altogether minimum 4 hours, up to a day on Lantau Island (excl. waiting time)
Besides the Big Buddha, there are many other attractions, such as historical temples, viewing platforms, hiking trail, fishing village and beach resorts on Lantau Island. Check out how to arrange the itinerary and insider tips.
More to Know
What to do in Ngong Ping and on Lantau Island
Lantau Island is a great treasure when it comes to attractions. Besides the Big Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car and Tai O fishing village, you may also be interested in hiking, scenic views, beach resort and pink dolphin. Check out how to plan your itinerary for one-day sightseeing on Lantau Island.
The Big Buddha – a remarkable and giant art work
The Big Buddha is the statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, the founder of Buddhism. The statue is part of Po Lin Monastery and has attracted countless Chinese and foreign believers and tourists.
The whole project of the Big Buddha statue (design, enlargement, casting and assembling) lasted 12 years. All the casting and assembling process were carried out by the China Astronautics Science and Technology Consultant Corporation.
The assembling was finally accomplished on the Oct 13, 1989 after the three-year dedicated hard work. After the inaugural ceremony by the Po Lin Monastery on Dec 29, 1993, it was open to the tourists, visitors and Buddhists.
Facts about Tian Tan Buddha:
- It’s the bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni;
- Assembling over 3 years;
- The buddha statue is 26.4 meters tall and 250 metric tons;
- Sits 482 meters above sea level on the peak of Mount Muk Yue;
- 268 steps climbing up to the buddha statue;
The world’s second-largest outdoor sitting bronze Buddha statue
The Big Buddha turns to the major landmark of Hong Kong and has also won the prize of Engineering Wonders in Hong Kong in 2000. This bronze statue is 26.4 meters tall (34 meters with the bottom alter) and weighs 250 metric tons altogether. The piece of buddha’s face is already 4.3 meters by 5.8 meters and weighs 5 tons.
In case you took the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, you should have seen this impressive statue along your scenic cable car ride or when you exit the terminal in Ngong Ping Village. Interestingly, the Giant Buddha is even visible from Macau on a clear day. If you arrive in the morning or early afternoon by plane, you may have a chance to spot it from your window seat as well.
Spotting Tian Tan Buddha from Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car
Did You Know
“The largest outdoor sitting bronze Buddha statue is the Fo Guang Big Buddha in Taiwan, which is 104-meter tall (with base).”
268 steps to the Buddha
The Big Buddha is at the top of 268-steps stairs. Visitors have to conquer to reach the Buddha. Some visitors complained about the inconvenience and asked why there were no escalators. In fact, the climbing is to reflect the followers’ faith, sincere and respect who would like to see and pray in front of Shakyamuni. After all, it’s a place for contemplation and a source of inspiration, not just a touristy place.
268 steps to the Big Buddha platform
Don’t underestimate the climb, especially on hot and humid days. Just take your time. A good excuse for a stop or break is to take some amazing pictures in-between.
Stairs going up to Tian Tan (Altar of Heaven)
Tian Tan under the buddha statue – 360-degree viewing platform
At the end of the stairs, there is a three-floor base platform, which is designed according to the Altar of Heaven (Tian Tan) in Beijing. It’s why the Big Buddha is also called Tian Tan Buddha. “Tian” means Heaven and “Tan” means Alter in Chinese. As the Buddha is often referred to as a deva of devas and a sage among sages, naturally they decided to design the Tian Tan platform for the statue. Tian Tan is like 360-degree round viewing platform, from where you can have a close look of the statue, the views and much more.
Tian Tan platform
Buddha statue, Tian Tan and Di Tan (Alter of Earth) are on the central axis
Did You Know
“Good news for those who are handicapped: there is a small and winding road to access the Tian Tan platform. Just ask the staff members for assistance.”
What can you see from Tian Tan (Alter of Heaven)?
Once you climb up, don’t miss the chance to circle around Tian Tan and enjoy the breathtaking views of mountains and ocean. Besides, standing beneath the buddha statue and looking up will bring peace to your heart.
Close look of the Big Buddha
The Buddha sits cross-legged on the lotus throne, looking slightly down. He raises up his right hand while his left hand rests on the lap. On both palms are the wheel of the law, representing the eternity of Buddha truth.
Buddha statue at the end of stairs
Lotus flower is considered as the pure flower growing out of mud. It has been widely used as thrones in Buddhism, which symbolises the purity of the Buddha.
Hong Kong has another breathtaking statue of Buddha Shakyamuni in another picturesque temple “Chi Lin Nunnery“. He is also sitting on the golden lotus throne.
The Buddha is sitting on the lotus throne
The back of buddha statue
By the way, the Tian Tan Buddha statue is facing north (a bit to east). It is interesting and unique because most of Buddha statues face south. It is said that the Big Buddha is actually facing the direction of Beijing.
The Offering of the Six Devas
Walking around Tian Tan platform, you will find six smaller bronze statues, known as “The Offering of the Six Devas“, are facing and surrounding the Big Buddha. They are holding different offerings: flowers, fruits, incense, music, ointment or light (lamp), representing generosity, morality, patience, zeal, meditation, wisdom, respectively.
the Big Buddha and the 6 Devas
Bronze statues around Tian Tan Buddha – The Offering of the Six Devas
Three holding incense, ointment and music (from left to right)
Two with lamp and flower (from left to right)
Take your time and walk around the platform and admire his serene, calm, dignity and charisma.
Impressive view around Tian Tan Alter
The tranquil atmosphere paired with the amazing and beautiful views of Lantau Island will transform you in a calm and relaxed setting that should definitely not be missed. Simply walk around the platform and explore the views.
View from Tian Tan
Beneath the Big Buddha
The ground floor under the Big Buddha is an entry-free mausoleum. The deceased local singer Anita Mui’s ashes are interred at this mausoleum. Anita Mui is referred to as the Daughter of Hong Kong by locals, who died at the age of 40 (on December 30th, 2003) of cervical cancer. You will also find her statue on the Avenue of Stars.
In addition, above the ground floor are three floors known as The Hall of Universe, The Hall of Benevolent Merit and The Hall of Remembrance. The Hall of Remembrance has kept the relic of the Gautama Buddha inside. Photos are not allowed inside the three Hall.
These three halls require an admission ticket. Alternatively, you can purchase a combo ticket with the vegetarian meal at Po Lin Monastery to get a free entry.
The Hall of Universe underneath Tian Tan Buddha
When is the best and worst time to the Big Buddha?
Avoid bad weather
Siting on the peak of mountain 482-meter above sea level, the experience of visiting Tian Tan Buddha is highly weather dependent. In raining or foggy days, even when standing at the foot of the statue, the face is still unclear to see.
Tian Tan Buddha is in the heavy fog
If you decide to use Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car going up under such weather, the cable car cabins will be completely wrapped up by fog/clouds and you can see nothing but the white clouds.
Not only the view from the cable car, but everything in Ngong Ping can hardly been seen in the heavy fog.
Ngong Ping Piazza is full of heavy fog.
If you have already noticed such weather before heading to Tung Chung, I would recommend cancelling or changing the plan, or you may get very disappointed.
If that’s the case, don’t worry. There are lots of other things tourists can do during the rainy days in Hong Kong.
Getting there earlier or buying ticket in advance
As the most popular way getting to Tian Tan Buddha, the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car is usually very crowded. You should prepare to stand in line for tickets as well as for the ride itself (minimum 1 hour). The best ways to avoid wasting time in line are either getting there earlier before opening time or purchasing a cable car special ticket to enjoy designated ticket lane. Check out more details about how to avoid crowds for Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car ride.
Is it worthwhile to visit The Big Buddha and how much time needed?
Half day or full day?
If your target is to visit the Big Buddha and Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car only, it is feasible to accomplish within a half day. However, the trip will be very stressful, and you will not have extra time for any other nearby attractions.
If you would like to visit Giant Buddha as well as the surroundings, including the fishing village Tai O, to give a complete day is better for a full-day itinerary arrangement on Lantau Island.
You can think about the Tai O Fun Pass, which includes cable car round trip, Lantao Bus ride, Tai O boat excursion and snack coupon.
360 Tai O Pass Ticket
Round trip cable car + Boat ride in Tai O
+ Round-trip New Lantao Bus ride + Gift voucher
Standard Cabin Ticket
Adult : HK$ 315
Child : HK$ 190
Crystal Cabin Ticket
Adult : HK$ 390
Child : HK$ 270
Worthwhile or not?
If you have only a short stay in Hong Kong (less than 2 days), you may double consider whether it is on your top priority list for sightseeing. After all, it is an artificial attraction, a place for contemplation, but not represents Hong Kong’s culture, history and life.
However, if you are particularly interested in Buddhism culture, religion and landscape with the cable car ride, you can put the visit to Lantau Island to your to-do list.
Besides the Big Buddha, there are many other attractions nearby which you also may be interested in taking a look and enjoying a relaxing day.
Ticket price and opening hours of the Big Buddha
Access to the Big Buddha (except the halls underneath the statue) and the Po Lin Monastery are free of charge.
The opening hours are from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm daily.
How to get up to Ngong Ping and Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island?
Both Giant Buddha and Po Lin Monastery are very far away from downtown area and on the top of the mountain of Ngong Ping. To get to them, you need to get up to Ngong Ping first. Here lists the details of the most efficient or economic ways to get to Ngong Ping and the Big Buddha.
Option 1: The easiest way is first to travel to Tung Chung Town Center and continue the journey to the Big Buddha by various means (Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, taxi or Bus No.23). It’s the best choice for all the visitors from downtown and airpot.
Option 2: Alternatively, taking the ferry from Central to Mui Wo and then using New Lantao Bus No.2 to Ngong Ping can be another option. It takes at least one and half hour on the way (excl. waiting time).
Option 3: In case you visit Tai O fishing village first, Bus No.21 will take you from Tai O to the Big Buddha in 15 minutes.
Get to the Big Buddha by Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car
– Minimum time required: 25 minutes (excl. waiting time)
To use the service of Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, you need to get to Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Tung Chung Terminal first and from there transfer to the cable car.
Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car is the fastest (25 minutes), most efficient and most convenient way for getting up to the top of Ngong Ping, the Big Buddha and the nearby attractions. It is also one of the highlights of the journey to the Big Buddha.
Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car is one of the best cable cars in the world and the longest bi-cable cable car in Asia. It will not only directly bring you close to the Big Buddha, but also present the amazing views.
Be aware that the cable car is a very popular attraction and always gets crowded. Get there early or get ticket in advance. Check out How to take the cable car, highlights, where to get tickets in advance as well as the insider tips.
Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car
Get to the Big Buddha by New Lantao Bus No.23
– Minimum time required: 50 minutes (excl. waiting time)
Taking Bus No.23 is perhaps the second most popular way to the Giant Buddha apart from Cable Car. The bus terminal is close to the Tung Chung Terminal thus you also need to get to Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Tung Chung Terminal first.
Bus ride is an alternative option when Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car gets very crowded or when it closes for maintenance (sometimes unexpected malfunction). It is also a good option for those who are afraid of height.
Bus No.23 is coach bus with soft seats and runs between Tung Chung Town Center and Ngong Ping. Be prepared for a 50-minute ride on the winding roads and scenic views. The bus ride costs around HK$ 18 on weekdays and HK$ 31 on holidays, respectively.
New Lantao Bus
Scenic views along New Lantao Bus ride
Scenic views along New Lantao Bus ride
Bus Operation Time:
8:10 am – 7:10 pm (Monday to Sunday and holidays)
For more details of the Bus No.23 routes and operation hours, you can check from New Lantao Bus official website.
Get to the Big Buddha from Tai O by Bus No.21
– Minimum time required: 15 minutes (excl. waiting time)
If you decide to visit Tai O Fishing Village first, you can later take New Lantao Bus No.21 from Tai O to Ngong Ping. The ride takes only 15 minutes and costs HK$ 6.6 on weekdays and HK$ 14 on holidays. There is only one shift per hour from 7:45 am to 5:45 pm. Thus if you plan to use Bus No.21, plan your time accordingly.
For more details of the Bus No.21 routes and operation hours, you can check from New Lantao Bus official website.
How to get to Tai O fishing village?
From Tung Chung Cable Car Terminal, you can take New Lantao Bus No.11 from Tung Chung Town Center to Tai O directly. (Check out how to get to Tai O from Tung Chung).
Using Blue Taxi to the Big Buddha from Tung Chung
– Minimum time required: 35 minutes (excl. waiting time)
If there are too many people waiting for either the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car or the New Lantao Bus, you also can consider hiring a taxi. The ride on taxi from Tung Chung to the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery takes around 20-25 minutes and costs around HK$ 200.
The taxi stand is near the bus terminal in Tung Chung Town Center. When you get to Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Tung Chung Terminal, just follow the sign and walk towards Citygate Outlet shopping mall.
Taxi is faster but will be more expensive and waiting longer. For those who have bus/car sickness, be aware that the mountain roads are very winding.
Did You Know
“Hong Kong has three colours of taxis: red, green and blue. But only the blue taxi is allowed to drive on Lantau Island, thus from Tung Chung to the Big Buddha.”
Blue taxi for Lantau Island in Hong Kong
From Mui Wo by New Lantao Bus No.2
– Minimum time required: 35min by ferry and 45min by bus (excl. waiting time)
If you would like to enjoy a ferry ride from Central to Mui Wo, or you happen to stay in the Silvermine Beach Resort hotel, you may consider to take New Lantao Bus No.2 from Mui Wo Ferry Pier to Ngong Ping (the Big Buddha).
The Sun Ferry from Central embarks at Central Pier No. 6 and it takes around 40 minutes getting to Mui Wo.
The ride on Bus No.2 from Mui Wo to Ngong Ping takes another 45 minutes and passes 40 stops. Ticket price is around HK$ 18 to HK$ 31. It runs from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm from Mon – Sat and from 8:00 am to 5:55 pm. Check out New Lantao Bus official site for the price and schedule of the Bus No.2.
Did You Know
How to take ferry from Central to Mui Wo?
Sun Ferry company operates ferries between Central Pier No.6 and Mui Wo Ferry Pier. The ferry ride takes 35-40 min (Fast Ferry) or 50-55 min (Ordinary Ferry) and most ferries leave every 40 minutes. The ticket prices range from HK$ 13 to HK$ 32. Check out the details of ferry schedule and prices.
More to Know
Getting to Cable Car Tung Chun Terminal (Tung Chung Town Center)
Getting to Tung Chung Town Center and then changing to other transports is the easiest and most convenient way for most of the tourists. Depending on where you start your trip (downtown, airport or Mainland China), you can choose either metro (MTR), taxi or bus getting to Tung Chung Town Center (close to Tung Chung Cable Car Terminal).
Different means and locations require different time. Find out which option is suitable for you and how to get to Tung Chung Town Center from downtown, airport, mainland or Macau.
Useful links:
- New Lantao Bus official link: www.nlb.com.hk/route
- Sun Ferry official link: www.sunferry.com.hk
How to get to the the Big Buddha statue when you arrive at Ngong Ping?
The Big Buddha statue is adjacent to the Cable Car Ngong Ping Terminal, taxi stand, and bus terminals. No matter by which means you choose to get to the Big Buddha, it can easily be reached on foot within a few minutes walk once getting off the cable car, taxi or bus.
Get To Ngong Ping Village and the Big Buddha
Following the way through Ngong Ping Village will lead you to the Ngong Ping Piazza and the Bodhi Path. At the end of the Bodhi Path, you can already spot the entrance of Tian Tan Buddha and the countless steps leading up to the Tian Tan platform.
You can spot the Big Buddha from Ngong Ping Village Lantau Island
Bodhi Path on Ngong Ping Piazza
Nearby popular attractions on/close to the Big Buddha
Lantau Island is a great treasure when it comes to attractions. Besides the Big Buddha / Tian Tan Buddha, Po Lin Monastery and Tai O Fishing Village these top attractions, there are many other things to see and to enjoy on Lantau Island, such as hiking, shopping, plane spotting. Besides, Hong Kong Disneyland theme park is also close to it.
General Info and Details
Locations: On top of Ngong Ping, Lantau Island
Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm (daily)
Ticket Fare: Free admission for the Big Buddha. Ticket required for the halls under the statue.
Official Site: http://www.plm.org.cn/
How to get to Tian Tan Buddha?
Depending on your starting location and budget, you can get to Tian Tan Buddha by the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, taxi or bus: See details above