Overview of Lantau Island

Lantau Island enjoys an undulating topography with higher southeast and lower northwest. Its main peak Lantau Peak is the second highest mountain in Hong Kong, reaching 983 meters. Because of the numerous mountains and rare flat, Tai O village in the southeast became the major population center. In spite of twice the area of Hong Kong Island, Lantau Island has much less residents.

Originally being a peaceful fishing village, Lantau Island has been developed into the largest island in Hong Kong with the construction of Tung Chung New Town on its northwestern coast and the completion of several other infrastructure projects like Lantau Link, Hong Kong International Airport, and Hong Kong Disneyland. From early times in 20th century, there has been no lack of people visiting Lantau Island for worship, relaxation or entertainment.

Main Attractions

Lots of attractions like pearl scattered in Lantau Island. At the foot of this island stands Arhat Monastery. Po Lin Monastery and Tian Tan Buddha are situated in west while an old castle in north. In the southeast coastline, you can enjoy Cheung Sha Wan sea beach which is the longest and most elegant one. The hottest attractions are as follows:

Po Lin Monastery

Regarded as the Kingdom of Buddha in South and surrounded by green undulating hills, Po Lin Monastery enjoys high prestige among Hong Kong people. It was originally built in 1924 and developed into such a gigantic and majestic monastery. In the main hall worships the triad of the Buddha, the dharma and the sangha. It shows magnificence with red gate and grey tile, full of antique flavor. Po Lin Monastery can accommodate tourists who want to cultivate themselves according to Buddhist doctrine or need a short stay for viewing the sunrise in Lantau Peak. You can also enlighten your appetite at their popular vegetarian restaurant.

Tian Tan Buddha

In front of memorial archway of Po Lin Monastery is Muyu Hill where sits Tian Tan Buddha which is a large bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni. The statue is located near Po Lin Monastery and symbolizes the harmonious relationship between man and nature, people and faith. Amiable face, big ears and open right hand suggest his wish of relieving people from their suffering. This statue is a crystallization of art of religion and high technology, designed and constructed by Chinese Aviation Design Department. There are three floors beneath the statue: the halls of the Universe, of Benevolent Merit and of Remembrance. A huge bell inscribed with images of Buddha is exhibited in the show room. It was set to ring every seven minutes and 108 times one day, meaning the release of 108 kind of human vexations.

Tai O

Tai O is honored as the Venice in Hong Kong. Staying in the outlying island and far away from infection of modern life, it remains its primitive appearance of fishing village. The rivers flow through arrays of ancient wigwams, adding much spice to this sweet place. Setting foot in to Tai O, you will feel the strong taste of seafood. The traditional salted fish, shrimp paste and fish maw is well-known at home and abroad. Don’t give up this good opportunity to get a sumptuous feast if you love seafood.

Tsing Ma Bridge

Across the sea among Tsing Yi and Ma Wan, Tsing Ma Bridge is 2200 meters long and the span of main bridge reaches 1377 meters. With two bridge tower, each 206 meters high and 62 meters above sea level, it is the world’s longest railway and highway dual-purpose bridge. Tsing Ma Bridge, like a double rainbow, connects Ma Wan, Lantau KAP, Shui Men Bridge together. The spectacular scenery and imposing style make it a new hot tourist spot beyond Golden Gate Bridge in the United States. The Visitor Center and Sightseeing Platform located in the northwest end of Tsing Yi Island are the best place for viewing Tsing Ma Bridge.

Wisdom Path

Wisdom Path is located in Lantau Peak near the hill and by the river. It is a group of columns from Africa rosewood pillar with calligraphy of Heart Sutra. There are 38 columns with height ranging from 8 m to 10 m placed in the shape of “∞” which means boundless and limitless universe and life. The column in highest position is carved with nothing, symbolizing “empty” or free which is also the main idea of Heart Sutra. From the foot of the hill, climbing up to the top and looking or touching the calligraphy with reverence, you will be baptize and reap a more bright mind.

Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong Disneyland is Lantau’s youngest but most high-profile attraction. Entering Hong Kong Disney is passing into an incredible childlike dream heaven and all cartoon images come to life. You can enjoy the Broadway-style performance or play the dynamic games, full of interest. The park consists of seven themed areas: Main Street, U.S.A., Fantasyland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, Grizzly Gulch, Mystic Point, and Toy Story Land. Each one can gives you an unbelievably delightful experience. Never miss this excitement park if you visit HK.

Ngong Ping 360

If you want to discover the diversity of Lantau Island, the cable car called Ngong Ping 360 is your best choice. Taking Ngong Ping 360 from Tung Chung is a prelude of your great journey to Lantau Island. Placing yourself in the air and experience the moving scenery are so interesting. For more excitement, get down to the transparent Crystal Cabin. One way ticket price for the standard cabin is HKD $ 86 for adults and HKD $ 44 for children. Round trip is HKD $ 125 for adults and HKD $ 62 for children.

Cheung Sha Wan Beach

Cheung Sha Wan Beach is a perfect place for a romantic date or a family out, pretty, clean and refreshing. These are the longest stretches of sand in Hong Kong, ringed by peaks and closer by some beachside restaurants and you will never fight for space with other sun seekers. In this calm place away from hustle bustle, you will get an instant holiday vibes. Boarding a ferry from Central Pier 5 to Mui WO, then transferring to bus 1, 2, 3 or 4, you will get to Cheung Sha.

Featured Activities

Camping

Kau Ling Chung is referred as the most beautiful campsite. You can discharge the heavily helmet and armor and forget the noise and disturb of the city, and just enjoy the fresh air and simple nature. The island is capped with various plants and all the landscape is pure and unsophisticated. Lighting the bonfire, singing, dancing or just overlying on the soft sands and watching the twinkling stars, you will experience the amazingly beautiful world.

Tong Fuk is also popular among campers. There are several recreational vehicles with privacy imported from Britain. Different scales are optional on your own needs. Every vehicle is equipped with air condition, microwave oven, washing room and bathroom, making your camping quiet convenient and comfortable.

Hiking

Lantau Island is an excellent place for hiking ad there are numerous trails to enjoy the charming sights. Hiking along the 70 Km-long Lantau Trail, you can really stretch your legs as admire the picturesque hills. A 12-stage footpath that passes over both Lantau Peak and Sunset Peak is set up for the hikers. Lantau Peak is known as the best spot to watch sunrise. The whole hiking may cost two hours, it is advised to get accommodation in one hotel in Ngong Ping and set out from Wisdom Path in 4:00 am. As the sun rise from the sea level, take your cinema and record this memorable time.

Having Sunbath and Surfing

Tong Fuk Beach is a perfect holiday resort which attracts lot wave makers with its shallow sea bed and strong wind. The sand in Tong Fuk Beach is also not common in Hong Kong because they are black and as tiny as the power. Near Tong Fuk Bus Station are equipped with vacation rooms for rent and they are the haunt of stray cows. The beach is also installed with changing room bath room for surfers. After your surfing, overlook the two islands, Shigu Delta and Chaguo Delta and enjoy the silence.

Recommended Lantau Island Tour:

>> 2 Days Essence of Hong Kong Tour (Hong Kong Island + Lantau Island)

Lantau Island Po Lin Monastery
Lantau Island  Tian Tan Buddha
Lantau Island  Tai O
Lantau Island Tsing Ma Bridge
Lantau Island  Wisdom Path
Lantau Island  Hong Kong Disneyland
Lantau Island  Ngong Ping 360
Lantau Island  Cheung Sha Wan Beach
Lantau Island  Camping
Lantau Island  Hiking

Location & Transportation

Lantau Island is located in Tsuen Wan District of Hong Kong. Different transportation can bring you there.

  • By Water: You can take a ferry of High-speed boat to Silver Mine Bay, then transfer to the attractions you want. Ferries will be running in 5:55 – 23:30 on weekdays and 7:00-23:00 on weekends and holidays.
  • By Mero: Take Tung Chung MTR Line from Central to Tung Chung New Town and you will reach to Lantau Island directly
  • By Public Bus: It’s easy to get to your destination by Bus E21 in Olympics Station
  • If you want to get rid of hustle of public transportation and troublesome navigation, you can book a private tour package which covers sightseeing, dining and transfer from us. Our local tour guide and driver will escort you to Lantau Island with speed and convenience, and take care of all the details. You just need to focus on sightseeing.

Luodai Ancient Town Location Map Lantau Island Location Map

Best Time to Visit Lantau Island

With a comfortable weather in Hong Kong, you can visit the city any time of year. The best time is cool autumn and warm winter for it would be neither drippy nor risky of typhoon. Learn more about Weather & Best Time to Travel in Hong Kong

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