The Must-See Sightseeing Attractions of Lantau Island

Lantau Island is the largest island in Hong Kong, with an area of 147.16 square kilometers. It is home to some of the city’s most famous sightseeing attractions, attracting millions of visitors each year. From stunning natural scenery to cultural landmarks, there’s no shortage of things to see and do on Lantau Island. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the must-see sightseeing attractions on Lantau Island.

1. The Big Buddha

No visit to Lantau Island would be complete without a visit to the Big Buddha. Located at Ngong Ping on the top of a hill, the Big Buddha is one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world, standing at 34 meters high. To reach the statue, visitors can take a cable car ride on the Ngong Ping 360, which offers stunning views of the island. Visitors can also climb the steps to the base of the statue for an up-close view and explore the nearby Po Lin Monastery.

2. Tai O Fishing Village

Tai O is a traditional fishing village on the western side of Lantau Island, known for its stilt houses, seafood market, and a floating market. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and explore the island’s natural beauty. Visitors can take a boat ride for a close-up view of the stilt houses and see the famous pink dolphins that live in the area.

3. Hong Kong Disneyland

If you’re traveling with children or just a Disney enthusiast, Hong Kong Disneyland is an excellent place to visit. Located on Lantau Island, the park offers a variety of attractions, including rides, shows, and themed areas based on classic Disney stories. Some of the most popular attractions include It’s a Small World, Space Mountain, and the nightly Fireworks Spectacular.

4. Lantau Peak

For the adventurous visitors, Lantau Peak is the highest peak in Hong Kong, standing at an impressive 934 meters. The scenic hiking trail to the peak takes approximately five hours round trip and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the sea. The trail can be challenging for inexperienced hikers, so make sure to bring plenty of water and wear appropriate clothing.

5. Wisdom Path

Located near the Big Buddha, Wisdom Path is a stunning monument that pays homage to the centuries-old Heart Sutra scripture. The monument consists of 38 wooden columns aligned in a figure-eight formation, representing infinity. Each of the columns displays a Chinese character from the Heart Sutra, written by master calligrapher, and it’s a popular spot for meditation and reflection.

6. Sunset Peak

Sunset Peak is the third highest peak in Hong Kong, standing a little over 800 meters. The peak provides fantastic panoramic views of the island and the sea, making it a perfect spot to watch the sunset. Visitors can hike the challenging trail or take the Lantau Trail to reach the peak.

7. Cheung Sha Beach

Cheung Sha Beach is one of the longest beaches in Hong Kong, stretching over 3 kilometers. The beach is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. The beach also has a variety of restaurants and bars, making it a great place to spend an entire day.

Conclusion

Lantau Island is undoubtedly one of the most scenic and culturally rich places in Hong Kong, with plenty of must-see sightseeing attractions. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Lantau Island has something for everyone. From the majestic Big Buddha to the picturesque Cheung Sha Beach, visitors are sure to leave with unforgettable memories of this remarkable place.

The Insider’s Guide: Uncovering the Hidden Gems of Hong Kong

Local Attractions: Explore the Lesser-Known Wonders

Hong Kong is known for its bustling urban life, but the city has many hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. One of Hong Kong’s lesser-known attractions is Lantau Island, a breathtaking mix of natural wonders and cultural landmarks. Doscovery the unqiue out of doors with an immersive hiking experience via the Lantau Trail. Visit the Tung Chung Fort, which dates back to the 17th century when the island was a strategic military zone. Don’t miss out on the chance to visit the stilt houses of Tai O fishing village and learn about the traditional fishing methods of the locals.

Dining Spots: Experience the Uniqueness of Local Cuisine

Hong Kong is a food lover’s paradise, and Lantau Island offers some incredible culinary experiences that should not be missed. Stop by at the Ngong Ping Village and treat yourself to tasty vegetarian cuisine offered in Po Lin Monastery. Do not leave without trying the signature dish, the delectable vegetarian Big Bowl Feast. Flavorful French toast, crispy on the outside but soft and buttery in the middle, paired with silky milk tea is a popular breakfast in Hong Kong locals, and you can find the best version of it at Tai O Bakery.

Cultural Experiences: The Rich Heritage of Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a place that intricately blends east and west culture, and it is evident in the city’s numerous festivals and cultural experiences. Lantau Island is home to the iconic Tian Tan Buddha statue, the largest outdoor seated Buddha in the world. Visitors can join a traditional tea ceremony at the Po Lin Monastery, which reflects the Chinese philosophy of harmony between people and nature.

Local History: Stories from the Past

Explore the rich history of Lantau Island, where you can find the remains of the former fishing, salt, and charcoal-making industries. The stilt houses at Tai O fishing village and the abandoned village of Shui Lo Cho provides the insight into the lives of the more traditional inhabitants of the island. At the Tung Chung Fort, you can learn about how Hong Kong defended itself from pirates, as well as how it was used by the People’s Liberation Army during the Battle of Hong Kong.

Off-The-Beaten-Path: Unforgettable Experiences

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the Tai O Infinity Pool. Take a 90-minute hike to reach the pool, where you can immerse yourself in the crystal clear water while being surrounded by nature. At sunset, capture some beautiful and vibrant pictures that you will cherish forever.

Take a trip to Hau Wong Temple, located at Cheung Sha Beach, which is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Hong Kong. Do not miss out on the traditional lion dance performances or the gorgeous view of the surrounding mountains and the coastline.

Final Thoughts

Hong Kong has many dimensions, and it is more than just high-rise buildings and bustling city life. Lantau Island is just one example of the incredible diversity that Hong Kong has to offer. With the suggestions in this Insider’s Guide, you can experience the city like a local and discover the hidden aspects that make it all the more special. So, pack your bags and head to Hong Kong, where memories and experiences await you.