Lantau Island – A Comprehensive Guide to Hong Kong’s Largest Island

Lantau Island is the largest island in Hong Kong, with an area equivalent to two Hong Kong Islands. Whether it’s shopping and leisure, hiking and water activities, fishing village charm, Zen temple serenity, or a dream amusement park, you can find it all here. The popularity of this destination has been steadily increasing in recent years.


From Tung Chung, you can take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car to reach Ngong Ping in just 25 minutes. The ‘Crystal Cabin’ features a transparent bottom and walls, adding an extra thrill to the journey. Ngong Ping is home to the Tian Tan Buddha, a symbol of Lantau Island, and the Po Lin Monastery. The Tian Tan Buddha stands at 34 meters tall, modeled after the Vairocana Buddha from the Longmen Grottoes, with a solemn and dignified appearance, making it the world’s second-largest outdoor bronze seated Buddha statue.


The century-old Po Lin Monastery, known as the ‘Buddhist Kingdom in the South’, has been a thriving center of worship for many years. The temple complex features several Chinese-style buildings worth visiting, and you can also enjoy vegetarian Buddhist cuisine here. After visiting the Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha, you can stroll through the Heart Sutra Forest, a large outdoor wooden carving group composed of 38 wooden pillars, where you can also enjoy views of the South China Sea, lush greenery, and a tranquil atmosphere.


Tai O Fishing Village, known as the ‘Venice of Hong Kong’, is one of the earliest developed fishing villages on Lantau Island. The stilt houses built on water are a distinctive feature of Tai O, with dense clusters of houses, crisscrossing waterways, and bridges forming the current appearance of the village. Here, you can take a boat out to sea to look for Chinese white dolphins, taste fresh seafood, and purchase local specialties such as salted fish, seafood, shrimp paste, shrimp sauce, and fish maw, all of which are must-buy souvenirs for visitors. If time permits, consider staying overnight at the Tai O Heritage Hotel, converted from an old police station, for a peaceful retreat.


For outdoor and water sports enthusiasts, Fenghuang Mountain, the second-highest peak in Hong Kong, is a well-known spot for watching sunrises. The mountain has a dedicated hiking trail, the Phoenix Trail, which is very popular among outdoor hikers. Remember to bring a flashlight and be cautious for safety when watching the sunrise.


Visitors who enjoy sunbathing and water sports such as surfing must not miss the Pui O Beach and Cheung Sha Beach. Cheung Sha has one of the longest beaches in Hong Kong, with fine sand, clear water, and well-equipped facilities.


Step into Hong Kong Disneyland and you’ll find that fairy tales come to life, with characters appearing before you. You can enjoy Broadway-style performances or play exciting dynamic rides, enjoying a day of fun and excitement, and feeling the charm of Disney stories! With seven themed areas: Main Street USA, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Adventureland, Toy Story Land, Grizzly Gulch, and Mystic Manor, both adults and children will have a great time.


Citygate Outlets Citygate Outlets is one of the largest brand outlets in Hong Kong, gathering nearly 90 brands of fashion, accessories, beauty, home, and sports products, with prices always at 30-70% off, making it a great place for treasure hunting.


Apart from shopping, Lantau Island offers a range of activities and experiences such as spa treatments, movie theaters, and a variety of international cuisines to indulge in. It is open to visitors all year round with full-day access.


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