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Are you looking for some peaceful time away from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong city life? Visiting the Big Buddha in Tung Chung would be a lovely area to visit. The Big Buddha, or Tian Tan Buddha, is a remarkable tourist attraction that attracts thousands of visitors annually. It is located in the Ngong Ping Village of Tung Chung, a monumental bronze statue of the seated Gautama Buddha, completed in 1993. This 34-meter-tall statue is a sight to behold, located at the top of a hill on Lantau Island. Surrounding the Big Buddha is the serene neighborhood of Tung Chung, which offers a perfect escape for those seeking to relax and unwind. Whether you are a local or a tourist, this guide will help you plan a visit to the Big Buddha and explore the Tung Chung area.

This blog post will closely examine the Big Buddha and five other things you can do on Lantau Island.

The History of the Big Buddha

The Big Buddha statue is a giant bronze statue on Lantau Island in Tung Chung, Hong Kong. It is one of the world's giant seated Buddha statues, measuring 34 meters tall. The construction was an enormous feat of engineering that required steady hands. The statue was built as a symbol of peace and harmony. You can learn more about the Buddha's life, philosophy, and teachings from the nearby Wisdom Path.

The history of Big Buddha in Tung Chung dates back to the late 19th century when a small monastery was built near the site of the current statue. After remaining relatively untouched until the 1970s, plans were made to construct a larger building in the area – this building would eventually become Big Buddha. The project was initiated by local community members who wanted to create a spiritual center for Buddhists living in the area. Work began in 1993 and took six years to complete. 1999 after many months of painstaking work, Big Buddha was finally unveiled to great fanfare. Since then, it has become one of Hong Kong’s most iconic landmarks, attracting millions of visitors each year worldwide. The statue is composed of 202 bronze pieces that had to be shipped from mainland China and assembled onsite.

Visiting the Big Buddha

You can take a cable car ride on the Ngong Ping 360 to reach the Big Buddha. The 5.7km journey will take you over the mountains and give you a bird's-eye view of the surrounding forests and the sea. You can take the bus or taxi to the Big Buddha statue. Many people would also hop on the Ngong Ping 360 cable car ride. The cable car ride is an adventure, but once you reach the top, the Big Buddha is mesmerizing. It is a scenic journey that takes you over the island's forests and mountains, giving you a breathtaking view of the South China Sea.

Once you arrive at the entrance, you can consider walking around the statue, climbing up 268 steps to reach the figure, and enjoying the breathtaking views of the island and beyond. You will also have plenty of other things to do and see there. You can walk around the statue's base and take in its beauty or enter the Po Lin Monastery, a place of peace and tranquillity. There are also shops and restaurants located nearby, so you can grab a meal or souvenir to take home. For the more adventurous, you can try the Ngong Ping 360 VR experience or walk on the Wisdom Path.

The Big Buddha is open year-round, from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm, and free admission. However, visiting during the off-peak season, such as during weekdays or outside of public holidays, is best to avoid the peak crowd. The wether is also a factor to consider, so it is advisable to check the forecast before heading out. Generally, the best time to go is during autumn when the weather is cooler.

Five Things to Do on Lantau Island

In addition to visiting the Big Buddha statue and gardens around it, there are plenty of other activities to be enjoyed when visiting the area.

1 Citygate Outlets Shopping Mall

Nearby Citygate Outlets Shopping Mall offers a variety of shops and restaurants for those who want to take a break from sightseeing. This neighborhood is known for its peaceful ambiance and plenty of attractions. One of the best ways to explore Tung Chung is by cycling around. You can rent a bike from a shop near the Tung Chung MTR station and ride along the scenic trails that lead to the beaches, wetlands, and mangroves. If you prefer walking, then the Tung Chung Nature Trail is a must-visit. This trail takes you around the hills and streams of Tung Chung, and you will witness some stunning views of the island.

2 Indulging in the Local Food

One of the best things about visiting Tung Chung is its food scene. This neighborhood is home to some of the best seafood joints in the city. The Tung Chung Pier has several restaurants that serve fresh seafood straight from the sea. The seafood platter at the Tai O Lookout restaurant is a must-try. You can also indulge in local delicacies like egg waffles, fish balls, and pork buns from the street vendors near the MTR station. If you are in the mood for shopping, Tung Chung’s Citygate Outlets has over 80 international and local brands, where you can snag some great deals.

3 Hong Kong Disneyland Resort

is located on Lantau Island in Hong Kong too. It is about an hour by train away from Tung Chung. Opened in 2005, the park spans over 119 acres and features classic Disney attractions such as 'It's a Small World,” Space Mountain: Ghost Galaxy, and Toy Story Land. Visitors to the park can also enjoy live entertainment, seasonal parades, and special events, including Halloween-themed activities in October. Additionally, Hong Kong Disneyland has an array of dining options, from character meals to fine restaurants, all with a Disney flair. With plenty of attractions for all ages, Hong Kong Disneyland will surely make your visit to Hong Kong unforgettable.

4 Cheung Sha Beach

Nature lovers are in luck too! Take a hike up Lantau Peak for amazing panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, or relax on Cheung Sha Beach for some quality rest. Cheung Sha Beach is one of the area's most beautiful, untouched beaches, boasting crystal-clear waters and stunning sandy shores. The beach is 400 meters long and faces northeast, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports. The beach has several restaurants and bars and a few hiking trails for those looking to explore the area. Visitors can also enjoy kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding. At night, the stars come alive in all their glory above Cheung Sha Beach, providing a stunning view of the night sky. Cheung Sha Beach is the perfect spot to explore and relax, whether looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-packed day out.

5 Tai O Fishing Village

For an even more immersive experience of local culture, explore Tai O Fishing Village, where you can learn about traditional life along the waterfront.

Hotels in Tung Chung

There are many exciting things to do and enjoy in the neighborhood. If you want to extend your stay in Tung Chung, plenty of options are available. On top of the Disneyland resort, there are a few other hotel options to explore.

The Regal Airport Hotel is a well-known hotel in Tung Chung, Hong Kong. Situated just steps from the airport and offering direct access to the MTR station, this luxury hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and islands. The on-site spa provides a relaxing atmosphere with various body treatments and therapies. Guests can enjoy delectable cuisine at award-winning restaurants or take advantage of complimentary shuttle services to local attractions.

The Harbour Plaza Resort City is another excellent choice for travelers seeking top-notch accommodations in Tung Chung. This chic resort offers luxurious guestrooms with private balconies overlooking the city or Victoria Harbour. On-site facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, and spa. Guests can enjoy international dishes at its many restaurants or the breathtaking views from its rooftop deck.

The Novotel Citygate Hong Kong is one of the best picks for travelers seeking comfort and convenience while staying in Tung Chung. Located just minutes from Hong Kong International Airport by MTR train, this 4-star hotel features modern rooms with LCD TVs, Wi-Fi internet access, minibars, and tea/coffee makers. Its Pinyin Chinese Restaurant offers authentic Cantonese cuisine, while its lounge bar serves refreshing drinks with panoramic views of Lantau Island's countryside scenery. Guests can also relax in its outdoor Jacuzzi or take advantage of its free shuttle service to select locations in downtown Hong Kong.

The Big Buddha and Tung Chung neighborhood perfectly escapes the city’s chaos and noise. The Big Buddha is a must-visit for its stunning views and cable car ride. The Tung Chung neighborhood is perfect for nature lovers, foodies, and shoppers. With its beautiful trails, mouth-watering seafood, and fantastic shopping options, Tung Chung is a well-hidden gem in Hong Kong. So, head to the Big Buddha and then explore the Tung Chung neighborhood for a peaceful and enjoyable weekend.

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August 2023