Planning a trip to Hong Kong? Consider adding Ngong Ping to your itinerary. Located on Lantau Island, this tourist area is famous for its plethora of attractions waiting to be explored.
The development of Ngong Ping began in the 1960s, initiated by the government to transform Lantau Island into a key tourist hub in Hong Kong.
What makes Ngong Ping unique is not just its modern attractions but also its historical buildings and cultural heritage, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. Wondering what you can do in Ngong Ping? Here's what's available:
Firstly, you can experience the cable car ride. This system was established to link Tung Chung to Ngong Ping, covering a distance of approximately 5.7 km. The journey to the top takes about 25 minutes, offering a spectacular view and a thrilling ride.
Originally, the cable car was designed to enhance access to the Ngong Ping area, specifically for easier visits to the Po Lin Monastery and the Buddha Statue. Launched in 2006, it quickly became one of the main tourist attractions in Hong Kong.
You have the option to choose between two types of cabins: the standard cabin and the crystal cabin, which features a glass bottom. This design allows you to not only take in the views from above but also watch the scenery unfold beneath your feet that creates the sensation of floating (lol).
From this aerial vantage point, sights such as Tung Chung Bay, Hong Kong International Airport, and the imposing Big Buddha statue come into splendid view.
For information about how to take the cable car, along with information on ticket prices and purchasing methods, please refer to the article below.
With the launch of the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, Ngong Ping Village was also established. The village features traditional Chinese architecture and serves as a hub for both shopping and culture, welcoming those who arrive by cable car.
After your cable car ride, Ngong Ping Village is the first place you can visit. Here, you can enjoy meals at the local restaurants.
You'll also find a variety of unique souvenirs to purchase. During our visit, we noticed that despite the crowd, the village maintained a peaceful and orderly atmosphere.
The Tian Tan Buddha, also known as the Big Buddha, is another significant attraction in Ngong Ping. Construction of this large bronze statue started in 1990 and finished in 1993. It has since become one of Hong Kong’s most famous landmarks and one of the largest Buddha statues in the world.
If you're looking for a bit of adventure, consider climbing the steep stairs to reach the Big Buddha. Many visitors make the climb to see the statue up close. Although there were many others when we visited, my husband and I chose to see it from a distance.
The story of Ngong Ping originally began with the establishment of Po Lin Monastery in the early 20th century. Originally called "The Big Hut," it was founded in 1906 by three monks from Jiangsu, China.
Initially, it served as a retreat for Buddhist monks and eventually became a hub for religious and cultural activities.
The stunning Buddha statues and the architectural elegance of the monastery make it a favored destination for both pilgrims and tourists worldwide.
We had the opportunity to enter and look around. Taking photos is permitted, but remember, this is a place of worship, so it's important to keep quiet and behave respectfully.
A visit to Ngong Ping isn’t complete without a stroll through Ngong Ping Piazza. This square links the main attractions I’ve mentioned: Ngong Ping Village, Tian Tan Buddha, and Po Lin Monastery.
Here, you can also walk along The Bodhi Path, which is lined with Buddha statues. The gardens are vast and beautifully maintained!
Interestingly, you might even see some sleepy buffaloes near the statues, although they weren't there during our visit.
Looking for souvenirs from Hong Kong? Start at the souvenir store in Ngong Ping. You might find something perfect to take home.
In Ngong Ping Village, there are about three to four souvenir shops, including one right where you exit the cable car.
You’ll find many unique items here! While the prices may not be the lowest, the souvenirs at tourist spots are often more special.
After exploring, you can eat at one of the many restaurants in the front area of Ngong Ping Village. There’s a variety of food available, from snacks and sandwiches to full meals.
These are the seven activities you can enjoy in Ngong Ping, Lantau Island, Hong Kong. I hope you find this article helpful. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comment section!
