Guide of Lantau Island – what to do, how to arrange itinerary, how to get there, where to dine
Lantau Island, sometimes spelled as Lantao Island, can be considered as the hideaway resort of Hong Kong. Tourists may not hear about the name but must know about the must-go attractions Big Buddha, Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car and Po Lin Monastery. All of them are gathering on the top of Lantau Island called “Ngong Ping Plateau” (highland of Ngong Ping). Besides, numerous visitors will also pay a visit to the nearby fishing village Tai O, which is considered as “Venice of Hong Kong” with the most authentic fishing culture. All of these attractions are located on Lantau Island.
In addition, Lantau Island is also known as a good option for hiking (Lantau Trail and Lantau Peak), appreciating landscape, plane spotting (Sha Lo Wan) and pink dolphin watch. In case you would like to do some shopping, Citygate Outlets in Tung Chung is a complex of many international branding shops and restaurants.
You can easily plan a trip here and enjoy a relax and quiet day. Due to the vicinity of Hong Kong International Airport, Lantau Island is one of the most convenient and manageable choices for all the stop-over tourists.
The problem is how to arrange the itinerary on Lantau Island? How much time will you need to cover the Big Buddha and Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car? For those transit visitors, is it feasible to manage Lantau Island within the limited layover time?
All you need to know of Lantau Island
- What is Lantau Island and Ngong Ping
- How to arrange itinerary and time on Lantau Island
- Top things to see and to do on Lantau Island
- How much time needed for visiting Lantau Island
- Best hotels for accomodation on Lantau Island
- Dining and shopping on Lantau Island
- When is the best time to visit Lantau Island and Tian Tan Buddha?
- Frequently asked questions about Lantau Island
- How to travel to Lantau Island and Ngong Ping Plateau?
What is Lantau Island and Ngong Ping?
Lantau Island is the largest outlying island in Hong Kong. It is only 10-minute bus ride away next to Hong Kong International Airport but very far away from city center. Ngong Ping Plateau is on the mountain side of Lantau Peak on the southwest of Lantau Island.
The major tourist regions of Lantau Island are geographically divided to Tung Chung, Ngong Ping, Tai O Fishing Village, Lantau Peak, Sha Lo Wan as well as beach resort Mui Wo and Pui O. Ngong Ping is the most visited as the famous cable car, the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery are all here.
- Ngong Ping Plateau
(on the top of Lantau Island, including the Big Buddha, Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, Po Lin Monastery, Ngong Ping Village and Piazza, Wisdom Path) - Tai O – Authentic century-old fishing village
(on the northwestern coast of Lantau Island) - Tung Chung Center
(residential and business, including Citygate Outlets, Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car terminal) - Lantau Trail through Lantau Peak
(2nd longest hiking trail in Hong Kong with 12 stages) - Sha Lo Wan
(next to airport, good option for plane-spotting photographers) - Hong Kong Disneyland
(northeast of Lantau Island) - Mui Wo and Pui O Beach
(south of Lantau Island, beach resort)
How to arrange itinerary and time on Lantau Island?
Lantau Island is a great treasure when it comes to attractions. Some attractions are highly touristy and very popular while others are less known but still worth time to see. Depending on your time limit and plan, you can visit Lantau Island within half day or spend a complete day. Different time frames lead to various arrangements. No matter you plan for sightseeing, photography, hiking or shopping, here are some itinerary arrangements for your reference.
1. Sightseeing itinerary arrangements
Most visitors coming to Lantau Island is for the top attractions, including the Big Buddha, Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, Po Lin Monastery and Tai O fishing village. Depending whether you would like to cover Tai O or not, it can be categorized to half-day arrangement and full-day arrangement.
How to arrange half-day itinerary on Lantau Island ?
If you will be staying in downtown (Kowloon or Hong Kong Island), getting to Tung Chung needs at least 40 minutes to 1.5 hour. Thus, for half-day time, although it is feasible to cover the Big Buddha and Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, it will be a bit stressful. Besides, there will not be much time left for taking a close look of the other nearby attractions. If you are stop-over visitors starting from airport, jump to time management for transit visitors.
With such short time (less then 5 hours) for sightseeing, it’s better to use cable Car to the Big Buddha back and forth, which is also the fastest transport. To prevent wasting time in waiting in line, getting a ticket in advance can enjoy boarding privilege and save a lot of time.
Itinerary for half-day visitors
(Time needed: minimum 4-5 hours, excluding waiting time)
Main targets: Have a quick visit of the Big Buddha, Cable Car, Po Lin Monastery
1. Find the best way to travel to Tung Chung (by different transports);
2. then take Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car going uphill to save time and enjoy the view (30 min). Walk through Ngong Ping Village and Piazza; and
3. get to The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery (1-2 hours). If you have extra time, you may consider to
4. visit Ngong Ping Village and Piazza, Wisdom Path (depending on your time frame and preferences). After that, you can decide to either
5. take cable car back to Tung Chung (30 min) or Take Bus No.23 directly back to Tung Chung (50 min)
How to arrange a full-day itinerary on Lantau Island
If you plan to spend a day on Lantau Island, you have good chance to enjoy relax sightseeing of the nearby attractions under no stress. Besides all the attractions in the half-day arrangement, you can also cover the Tai O fishing village in the full-day itinerary.
You can either get a round-trip ride on the cable car or take one cable car ride plus one ride on New Lantao Bus, which gives you different experience of Lantau Island.
To save the time from waiting in line, the 360 Tai O Pass is a better option, which includes the round-trip ticket of cable car, bus ticket to/from Tai O and a boat trip along the waterway of the village.
Two options of itineraries and arrangements:
– Option 1: to Tung Chung – to Ngong Ping (by cable car) – to Tai O (by bus) – to Ngong Ping (by bus) – back to Tung Chung (by cable car) (Or from Tai O directly back to Tung Chung by bus);
– Option 2: to Tung Chung – to Tai O (by bus) – to Ngong Ping (by bus) – back to Tung Chung (by cable car);
Itinerary for full-day visitors (option 1 – most selected)
(Time needed: minimum 7-9 hours, excluding waiting time)
Main targets: Have a thorough look of the Big Buddha, Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, Po Lin Monastery and Tai O fishing village
1. Find the best way to travel to Tung Chung (by various transports);
2. from Tung Chung to Ngong Ping by cable car and enjoy the views (30 min);
3. then visit the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery (1-2 hours);
4. visit Ngong Ping Village and Piazza, Wisdom Path if you have extra time (flexible); Can have lunch break at Ngong Ping Village or wait until arrive Tai O;
5. then travel to Tai O by bus No.21 (15 min);
6. visit Tai O Fishing Village (minimum 2 hours);
7. If you have round-trip cable car ticket, then get back to Ngong Ping via bus No.21, then to Tung Chung by cable car (45 min); Alternatively start from Tai O directly back to Tung Chung by bus No.11 (50 min)
8. Take a rest and have dinner and do some shopping at Citygate Outlets after a long day (flexible)
Itinerary for full-day visitors (option 2)
(Time needed: minimum 7-9 hours, excluding waiting time)
In case there are too many visitors for cable car, you can visit Tai O village first.
1. Similar to the above two itineraries, find a convenient way Travel to Tung Chung；
2. from Tung Chung to Tai O via bus No.11 (50 min);
3. first visit Tai O Fishing Village and can have lunch break there (minimum 2 hours);
4. get up to Ngong Ping by bus No.21 (15 min);
5. then start to visit Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery (1-2 hours)
6. take a look of Ngong Ping Village, Ngong Ping Piazza, Wisdom Path (flexible);
7. In the end, travel back to Tung Chung by cable car (30 min);
8. To finish the long day, have dinner and do some shopping at Citygate Outlets (flexible)
2. Hiking itinerary arrangements
Lantau Island is a great option for hiking as it has Hong Kong’s 2nd highest peak – Lantau Peak. The New Lantao Bus from Tung Chung can easily bring you to up to the stage 3 or stage 4 of Lantau Trail. Stage 3 is slightly longer and more difficult to manage than stage 4.
Hiking on Lantau Peak
(Time needed: minimum 2-3 hours, excluding waiting time)
Stage 4 of Lantau Trail:
1. First of all, find a convenient way travel to Ngong Ping (by various transports)；
2. then start hiking from the back of Wisdom Path. Follow the sign of Lantau Trail (1.5 hour); Stop and end at Sham Wat Road bus stop.
3. Hop on New Lantao Bus No.11 or No.23 either to continue journey to Tai O (15 min) or turn back to Tung Chung (30 min);
Best dining location: Citygate Outlets, Ngong Ping Village or Tai O;
Stage 3 of Lantau Trail:
1. Find a convenient way travel to Tung Chung (by various transports);
2. then transfer to Bus No.23 or No.11 to Pak Kung Au stop where the hiking starts;
3. hike along the Lantau Trail signs to Ngong Ping (start point of Stage 4) (2.5 hours);
4. take cable car back to Tung Chung (30 min) or take Bus No.23 directly back to Tung Chung (50 min);
Best dining location: Citygate Outlets
3. Photography itinerary arrangements
Lantau Island is a great place for all the photography lovers. No matter to the Sha Lo Wan for plane spotting, to Tai O for sunset and Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, or to Mui Wo for a relax beach day, Lantau Island can satisfy you. Do pay attention to the weather, as Lantau is usually with low visibility during cloudy or rainy days.
The time needed for photography tour depends on your own pace and preferences. Check the details of each destination for more details on time management.
4. Itinerary arrangement for stop-over visitors – how much time needed for lay-over visitors to visit Lantau Island
Many transit passengers will stop over in Hong Kong for hours and wonder is it feasible to visit Tian Tan Buddha during the transit time?
If you would like to do some sightseeing on Lantau Island, it’s better to have at least 6 hours stop-over time inbetween to be flexible and get a “ticket in advance with designated lane” for cable car to shorten the waiting time.
Don’t forget to leave time for passing immigration and storing luggages (if any) as well as to be back to airport 1.5-2 hours ahead of the departure time. Apart from these necessary procedures, if you still have no less than 4 hours, you may consider paying a visit to the Big Buddha.
The Big Buddha and cable car are very close to the airport. The Tung Chung cable car terminal is only 10-15 min bus ride away (how to get there).
However, don’t forget to count in the time for waiting in line on both ways of either bus or cable car. Although the cable car ride needs only 30 minutes each way as the fastest way going to Big Buddha, the waiting time can be more than 1 hour.
In case you don’t have enough time for Lantau Island, check out what else options you have during the stop-over time.
Top things to do and to see in Ngong Ping and on Lantau Island
The Big Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha) – on the Ngong Ping Plateau, top of Lantau Island
The Big Buddha, also referred to as Tian Tan Buddha or Giant Buddha, is located on the peak of Mount Muk Yue on Lantau Island, 482 meters above sea level. Being the world’s second-largest outdoor sitting bronze Buddha statue, the Big Buddha, along with the nearby Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car and Po Lin Monastery, become one of the top 10 sightseeing attractions in Hong Kong. Tian Tan Buddha is the main reason for tourists to Lantau Island.
This giant statue is to worship Buddha Shakyamuni, the founder of Buddhism, and works as a location of contemplation. The project of Tian Tan Buddha (design, enlargement, casting and assembling) takes 12 years to complete.
268 Steps to the Tian Tan Buddha Platform
Visitors need to conquer 268-step stairs to show their respect before getting an impressive close look of the buddha statue. The buddha statue is 26.4 meters tall (34 meters with the bottom alter) and weighs altogether 250 metric tons.
Six bronze statues, called the Offering of the Six Devas, are surrounding the statue on the platform “Tian Tan”. Besides, from Tian Tan you can also admire the panoramic views of the nature around.
Bronze statues around Tian Tan Buddha – The Offering of the Six Devas
View from Tian Tan Buddha Platform
You can reach the Big Buddha with cable car, bus or taxi. If you decide to take cable car uphill, be prepared long queue for hours. Try to avoid weekends and holidays if possible. Otherwise, it’s better to get there earlier in the morning or get an exclusive lane ticket.
Read more about Tian Tan Buddha
sightseeing highlights of Big Buddha, full instructions on how to get there, how to avoid crowds, how to shorten waiting time
Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car – Fastest way to Tian Tan Buddha – Between Tung Chung and Ngong Ping
In the trip to Lantau Island, the ride on Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car is on top of must-do list for most tourist. It’s the fastest way to the Big Buddha and takes only 25 minutes vs 50-minute bus ride. From the cable car cabin, you can enjoy the breathtaking views over the surroundings, such as Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, Hong Kong Airport, Tung Chung Bay and deep blue South China Sea.
Being one of the best cable cars in world, Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car connects Tung Chung to Ngong Ping through the 5.7km bi-cable ropeway. It takes you away from skyscrapers and the hustle and bustle life. Here you will experience Hong Kong from another angle with more quietness and nature.
View of Big Buddha from cable car
If you feel for more excitement, Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car also offers the Crystal Cabin with four sides and floor made of tempered glass that you can have the true 360 degree panoramic views.
Crystal+ cabin with four-side tempered glass
Being the coolest and most convenient way to Tian Tan Buddha, Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car is always very crowded. Do remember to get there before the opening time. Otherwise, getting a ticket with designated lane is another way to save you some time.
Read more about Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car
how to get to cable car, ticket discounts, how to avoid crowds and shorten waiting time
Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car 1+1 Discounts
(Designated Lane)
1 ride on Standard Cabin and 1 ride on Crystal+ Cabin
(10:00am – 4:00pm)
HK$ 360
(Discounts for children are available)
Po Lin Monastery – The Largest Buddhist temple in Hong Kong – on Ngong Ping Plateau, top of Lantau Island
Po Lin Monastery is in the close vicinity of the Big Buddha. This century-old temple started when three monks from China set up a site on Lantau Island for practice. Gradually it gains more and more members and now has developed to a world renowned monastery.
Surrounded by lush green and hilly mountains, Po Lin Monastery is located right on Ngong Ping Plateau and is a beautiful way to enjoy the tranquil settings.
In front of Hall of Skanda Bodhisattva of Po Lin Monastery
The highlight of Po Lin Monastery are three major halls: Hall of Skanda Bodhisattva, the Main Shrine Hall of Buddha and the Grand Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas. Take your time to stroll around the different buildings and halls and you will encounter and discover various figures and gods of the Buddhism religion.
In case you get hungry, the temple’s vegetarian restaurant is very famous.
Grand Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas
Read more about Po Lin Monastery
what to see and where to dine in Po Lin Monastery
Tai O Fishing Village – Venice of Hong Kong – Authentic fishing culture
Tai O Fishing Village on west Lantau Island is famous for its stilt-house on the water, intact traditional life and picturesque landscapes. It is considered as “Venice of the Orient“. As a matter of fact, Tai O is one of the few remaining fishing village in Hong Kong. It represents the most authentic example of Southern China’s old fishing life and culture.
The on-the-water stilt houses and the unique fishing village atmosphere are the main reasons attracting numerous tourists to Tai O. Don’t miss the chances to walk around on the narrow alleys and footpaths of the village and appreciate the quietness and nature opposite to Hong Kong downtown’s chaotic vibe.
Stilt houses in Tai O
Dried seafood market, historical temples, heritage buildings, exclusive food specialties as well as the impressive landscape are extra bonus appealing not only to locals.
Various shops on the market street
Many visitors will also enjoy a boat trip through the village along the stilt house, or even go further out to sea for pink dolphins.
Tai O is also photographers’ favourite spot as it is considered as the best place for watching sunset. You can walk to the Tai O Heritage Hotel (the former Tai O Police Station) along Shek Tsai Po Street for the amazing sunset view. Hiking lovers can explore a bit further to Tseng Kwan Shek, Stone Obelisk, Fu Shan Viewing Point or Tai O Viewing Point, where you can enjoy the panoramic views of oceans and spot the giant Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge.
Read more about Tai O
what to see and do in Tai O (all the highlights), food specialties, how to get there, how to arrange itinerary
For those with headache for arranging the tickets and transportation, as well as would like to taste the delicacies in the Po Lin Vegetarian Restaurant, the Tai O one-day tour package with professional tour guide would be a good option.
Ngong Ping Village – A complex of shops, restaurants, entertainment and photo spots – On top of Lantau Island
Ngong Ping Village is a small village designed with typical Chinese-style architectural elements. It connects the cable car terminal and the Big Buddha together. The picturesque village provides lots of opportunities for dining, shopping as well as taking a break.
You will find some educational exhibition and decorations, such as 4D movie theatre “Motion 360“, VR exhibition “Cable Car Discovery Center“, chocolate-themed “The Art of Chocolate Hong Kong“, as well as Walking with Buddha multimedia house.
Bodhi Wishing Shrine
Don’t miss the chances to grab some photos at Bodhi Wishing Tree and Shrine, and get an overview at the Stupa Square. In case you would like to go home with some special souvenirs, here has various merchandise choices.
There are also a dozen of restaurants and snack stores offering from Hong Kong local Wonton noodles, egg tarts and desserts to sushi, ramen, kebabs, pizza. In case you would like to take a short break, there are also Starbucks Coffee and Subway.
Restaurants and snack stores
Read more about Ngong Ping Village
what to see and do in Ngong Ping Village (dining, shopping, exhibitions, shop spots) and where to get discount coupons
Meal and Snack Coupon Discount
Snack coupon: HK$ 40 HK$ 22
Meal coupon: HK$ 105 – 128 HK$ 97
(free cancellation)
Ngong Ping Piazza – A link from cable car to Big Buddha – on Ngong Ping Plateau
Ngong Ping Piazza is a small plaza with stone statues and lotus-shaped lanterns on the uphill of Lantau Island. It is a link to all the nearby attractions. If you plan to visit the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery, you will wall through the plaza on the way.
With an area of about 1.5 hectares, Ngong Ping Piazza basically consists of four major components: New Pai Lau, Bodhi Path, Di Tan and a Chinese garden.
Di Tan of Ngong Ping Piazza
Read more about Ngong Ping Piazza
the sightseeing highlights on Ngong Ping Piazza
Wisdom Path – A hidden gem on Lantau Island – on Ngong Ping Plateau
Numerous tourists come to Lantau Island for Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car and Tian Tan Buddha, but very few knows about the Wisdom Path, although it is very close to the Big Buddha. It is a place with the verses of the Heart Sutra inscribed on the wooden columns hidden not far away. For those who loves hiking and photography, it worths a visit.
There are 38 giant wooden columns or beams, each of which is inscribed with Chinese calligraphy from the Heart Sutra written by master sinologist.
Timber Columns of Wisdom Path
The Wisdom Path is also surrounded by stunning and beautiful scenery. From Wisdom Path, you can arrange an-hour hiking along the Lantau Trail, or even enjoy beautiful views of the Hong Kong’s second highest Peak the Lantau Peak which is famous for its amazing sunrise scenery.
Read more about Wisdom Path
how to get to Wisdom Path and the meaning of it
Hong Kong Disneyland – Northeast of Lantau Island
Hong Kong Disneyland is one of the two big theme parks in Hong Kong (another one is the local brand Ocean Park Hong Kong). It locates on Lantau Island just adjacent to the Hong Kong International Airport.
Hong Kong Disneyland consists of 7 themed sections and will cost a full day to explore. As Disney has purchased the copyright of Star Wars and Marvel, Hong Kong Disneyland also implements both themes in the park, by replacing some old rides.
The fans beloved Duffy and his friends all come to Hong Kong Disneyland. Every special holiday they will join the party and send best wishes to all. Don’t miss the chance to take a selfie with them.
Hong Kong Disneyland Christmas celebration with Duffy and Friends
Besides the attractions and lovely characters, Hong Kong Disneyland also offers daily fireworks show and parade, as well as a lot of exclusive merchandises in souvenirs stores.
Parade in Hong Kong Disneyland
To accommodate Disney fans as well as families, Hong Kong Disneyland offers three Disney hotels: Disney’s Hollywood Hotel, Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel and the new Disney Explorers Lodge. They all have different themes and styles. You can do some research on which Disneyland hotel suits your need before booking.
Read more about on Hong Kong Disneyland
how to arrange time in Disneyland, discount tickets and insider tips
Citygate Outlets – First Outlets in Hong Kong – Tung Chung Center
Citygate Outlets is a large shopping mall featuring more than 80 international and local brands, from cosmetics, handbags, clothing, sneakers, jewellery to electronics, travel items. As its name indicates, it is a complex of outlet stores with up to 80% discounts.
Besides, there are also many dining options inside and around Citygate Outlets. You will find cuisine from all around the world, such as Japanese, Italian, Taiwanese, American, Thailand and of course local style. If you have spent half day on Ngong Ping with an empty stomach, Citygate Outlets is a good fuel-up option.
It is only 10-minute bus ride away from the Hong Kong International Airport, which makes it very appealing for stop-over passengers. If you plan to spend 1 or 2 days in Hong Kong or already plan a trip to Hong Kong Disneyland and/or the Big Buddha, you may consider to stop by Citygate Outlets.
Read more about on Citygate Outlets
what to expect in Citygate Outlets, how to get there, opening hours
Lantau Trail – through the 2nd highest mountain in Hong Kong – Lantau Peak
Lantau Trail is one of the most popular and third longest hiking trails in Hong Kong. The 70-kilometer footpath is divided into 12 stages, covering from west to east of Lantau Island and crossing Lantau Peak (check trail map). All the stages are well marked to help hikers know where they are and how much time they need between various stages.
As Hong Kong’s second highest peak, Lantau Peak is 934 meters above sea level. Lantau Peak’s Cantonese name is 鳳凰山, which means the Phoenix Peak.
Best pick: The Stage 4 of Lantau Trail
The Stage 4 of Lantau Trail is very suitable for those visiting Ngong Ping (the Big Buddha). It starts from Ngong Ping, goes through Wisdom Path and finish at Sham Wat Road. Altogether is 4.0 kilometers and needs around one and half hour. From Sham Wat Road, you can take either Bus No.11 or No.23 back to Tung Chung. It is fairly difficult to manage.
Entrance of Stage 4 of Lantau Trail
The Stage 3 of Lantau Trail
If you are more interested in climbing up to Lantau Peak, then pick Stage 3, which is around 4.5 kilometers long and very difficult to manage. Along the trail of Stage 3, you can view Tung Chung Town Center, Hong Kong Airport, Shek Pik Reservoir and obviously the spectacular nature.
Stage 3 begins from Pak Kung Au and ends at the starting point of Stage 4. Bus No.11 or No.23 can bring you from Tung Chung Town Center to Pak Kung Au directly.
For more details about Lantau Trail, check “Hong Kong Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department official information.
Sha Lo Wan – Plane Spotting – Close to Hong Kong Airport
Sha Lo Wan Pier is located right across the south-runway of Hong Kong International Airport. There is only a small channel dividing the airport and Lantau Island. Every two minutes, from here you will have a great opportunity to spot planes taking off as well as landing.
There are several good spots for taking photos. One spot is directly on the pier and another is a few minute away up on the hill. The pier is usually not crowded. There is only a few people relaxing and fishing there.
Read more about on Sha Lo Wan
how to get to Sha Lo Wan for plane spotting
Mui Wo and Pui O – Beach resorts – South of Lantau Island
Both Mui Wo and Pui O are less-known beach resort hidden on south of Lantau. It is a great option for locals to get away from the daily hustle and bustle life of downtown. For tourists, it shows another and different side of Hong Kong.
Mui Wo is also called Silvermine Bay and it is one of the best beaches in Hong Kong. It connects the surroundings, such as Pui O, Ngong Ping, Tung Chung, as well as the airport and conveniently reaches by several bus routes. Besides golden-sand beach, visitors can explore the hidden waterfalls, historical temple and mystery bat cave around this small community. In case you would like to stay longer, the beach-side Silvermine Beach Resort Hotel is convenient for accommodation.
Similar to Mui Wo, Pui O is another great place for embracing the nature and beach. From Pui O, you will be amazed by magnificent views of the pastures, encounter some food-searching water buffalos, and of course enjoy some leisure time on the beach.
Read more about on Mui Wo Beach
what to expect from Mui Wo beach resort, where to stay, how to get there
How much time needed for visiting Lantau Island and major attractions?
Here are the minimum time estimated for each attraction (a quick look only). You can also slow down and relax if you love the places. Then extra time is needed. Simply calculate the time that you may need for the trip to Lantau Island.
Major touristy attractions;
- Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car: 30 minutes one way (excl. waiting time);
- Tian Tan Buddha: 30-60 minutes;
- Po Lin Monastery: 30-60 minutes;
- Ngong Ping Village: 30 minutes;
- Ngong Ping Piazza: 15-30 minutes;
- Wisdom Path: 30-60 minutes:
- Tai O: 2-4 hours
– Waiting time for cable car can be unpredictable, from 20 minutes up to hours. The best way to avoid waiting in line is to get a ticket in advance to save the time for queuing for purchasing ticket;
– New Lantao Bus No.23 runs between Tung Chung Town Center and Ngong Ping with average 3 shifts per hour;
Other sightseeing spots:
- Sha Lo Wan Plane Spotting: minimum 2 hour
- Mui Wo: minimum half day
- Pui O: minimum half day
- Lantau Trail: minimum 1.5 hour up to a day
- Hong Kong Disneyland: 1-2 days
Where to stay if staying overnight on Lantau Island
In case you are attracted by the scenic views of Lantau and Ngong Ping, or maybe the beach and fishing village, there are several nearby locations for accommodation. Here lists some hotel choices.
Hotels close to the airport
These hotels are directly located next to the airport with walking distance. It is perfect for the stop-over visitors as well as those who plan to spend more than one day on Lantau Island.
- Regala Skycity Hotel airport (newly finished in 2021)
- Regal Airport Hotel 富豪機場酒店 (connect to airport arrival hall)
- Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel 天際萬豪酒店 (next to AsiaExpo)
Hotels in Tung Chung center
The following hotels are all gathering around Tung Chung Center. Compared with the above hotels next to the airport, staying in Tung Chung center has more dining and shopping options. What’s more, Tung Chung is the best place to start the exploration of Ngong Ping. No matter you decide to choose cable car, bus or taxi, Tung Chung offers all.
- Four Points by Sheraton Hong Kong 東涌福朋喜來登酒店
- Sheraton Hong Kong Tung Chung Hotel 香港东涌世茂喜来登酒店
- Novotel Citygate Hong Kong Hotel 香港東涌諾富特東薈城酒店 (next to Citygate Outlets)
- The Silveri Hong Kong – MGallery 香港銀樾美憬閣精選酒店 (above to Citygate Outlets)
Stay in Mui Wo
As mentioned above, Mui Wo is hideaway place with amazing views and golden-sand beach. The Silvermine Beach Resort hotel is only steps away from the beach. It is one of most popular hotels for locals to enjoy a relax weekend and beach time.
- Silvermine Beach Resort 銀礦灣度假酒店(close to the beach)
Stay in Tai O Fishing Village
Tai O Heritage Hotel is close to the ferry pier with fantastic ocean view. It is also one of the best places to enjoy sunset in Tai O village.
- Tai O Heritage Hotel 大澳文物酒店 (with great sunset view)
Dining and shopping on Lantau Island
A lot of visitors to Lantau Island will spend more than half day. Therefore, where to eat will be an issue. Unlike the convenience in Hong Kong downtown, there are not so many locations to dine on Lantau Island for tourists. The best chances are in Tung Chung center, on Ngong Ping plateau or in Tai O village.
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Dine on Ngong Ping Plateau
When you finish visiting the Giant Buddha and Po Lin Monastery, or finish hiking from Lantau Peak, you have choices to take a break either in the restaurants of Ngong Ping Village or in the vegetarian restaurant of Po Lin Monastery. There are snack/meal coupon available for extra discount.
Ngong Ping Village also has many souvenirs stores related with Hong Kong and Buddha.
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Taste specialties in Tai O
Tai O has many local restaurants and snacks. Many of them are only available from this small fishing village. Besides, Tai O Heritage Hotel also provide fine dinning options. If you plan to visit Tai O after visiting Ngong Ping, you may consider to try some traditional local food in Tai O.
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Dine in Tung Chung Center
Close to Tung Chung MTR station is a residential area. You will find various cuisines in the Citygate Outlets mall and around this area. If you arrive Lantau Island around noon time, you could consider having lunch in Tung Chung first. Here has many more options than in Ngong Ping Village.
Citygate Outlets is also a great place for bargains.
When is the best time to visit Lantau Island and Tian Tan Buddha?
Lantau Island can be best enjoyed at dry and clear days. Most of the highlights of Lantau Island are outdoor activities. No matter sightseeing of the Big Buddha and Tai O, or hiking on Lantau Peak, they are all the outdoor activities. Especially the sites on the top of Ngong Ping (which is around 400 meter above sea level), it is very weather dependent.
The visibility can be very poor in the rainy, hazy and foggy days. The cable car cabins will be completely wrapped up by fog/clouds. All you can see is the white clouds around the cabin. Even when standing at the foot of the Big Buddha statue, the face is still unclear. If you have already noticed such weather before heading to Tung Chung, it’s better to adjust your plan. Alternatively, there are lots of other things tourists can do during the rainy days in Hong Kong.
Tian Tan Buddha is in the heavy fog
Frequently asked questions about Lantau Island
How to travel to Lantau Island
All the attractions on Lantau Island are interconnected by either bus, taxi or cable car. No matter where you start your journey from (downtown, airport, Mainland China, or even Macau), you can choose the suitable transport to your destination.
How to get to Tung Chung Town Center?
Tung Chung Town Center is the best starting point, no matter you decide to visit the Big Buddha on Ngong Ping, Tai O village behind the mountain, prepare for hiking on Lantau Peak, or head to Sha Lo Wan for plane spotting. Both major bus terminus and Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car terminal are in Tung Chung Town Center. Here has listed the details of the most efficient or economic ways to get to Tung Chung.
For step-by-step instruction on how to get to Tung Chung, please refer to the complete guide of Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car.
How to get up to Ngong Ping Plateau?
There are many ways to get to Ngong Ping. Depending on where you are from, Tung Chung, Tai O or Mui Wo, you can choose by cable car, bus, taxi and ferry.
Majority visitors choose to travel from Tung Chung by cable car, taxi or Bus No.23. Alternatively, taking ferry from Central to Mui Wo and then using New Lantao Bus No.2 to Ngong Ping can be another option.
Please refer to the complete guide of the Big Buddha for step-by-step instruction on how to get to Ngong Ping.
Get to the Big Buddha by Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car
– Minimum time required: 25 minutes (excl. waiting time)
It takes only 25 minutes by Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car from its Tung Chung terminal up to Ngong Ping. It is the most efficient and convenient way to the Big Buddha and the nearby attractions. The ride on cable car itself is also a highlight of the journey.
Get to Ngong Ping by New Lantao Bus No.23
– Minimum time required: 50 minutes (excl. waiting time)
Taking Bus No.23 is the second most popular way to the Big Buddha apart from Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car. It a good alternative option when lines of cable car gets very long, when it is under maintenance or for those who are afraid of height.
The 50-min bus ride on Bus No.23 between Tung Chung Center and Ngong Ping has lots of turns on the winding roads.
Get to Ngong Ping from Tai O by Bus No.21
– Minimum time required: 15 minutes (excl. waiting time)
New Lantao Bus No.21 can bring visitors from Tai O to Ngong Ping. The ride takes only 15 minutes and runs daily.
Using Blue Taxi to Big Buddha from Tung Chung
– Minimum time required: 35 minutes (excl. waiting time)
While there are too many people waiting for either the cable car and bus, hiring a taxi is another option. The ride on taxi from Tung Chung to Ngong Ping takes around 20-25 minutes and costs around HK$ 200. Just look for the blue taxi near the bus terminals.
Pay attention that there are not too many blue taxi. You may also have to wait long. However taxi is faster but more expensive. Similar to the bus ride, the taxi ride on the mountain roads are very winding and not friendly to those with motion sickness.
Blue Taxi in Hong Kong
From Mui Wo by New Lantao Bus No.2
– Minimum time required: 35-55 minutes by ferry and 45 minutes by bus (excl. waiting time)
Taking ferry to Mui Wo and transfer to Bus No.2 is another way to Ngong Ping. There are standard ferry and fast ferry which takes 55 minutes and 35 minutes respectively. Check out the details of ferry schedule.
The bus ride takes another 45 minutes and passes 40 stops.
How to get to Tai O fishing village?
If you add Tai O on your itinerary, you can get to Tai O by bus or taxi from different locations.
Please refer to The complete review on Tai O for detailed information on how to get to Tai O by various transports.
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From Ngong Ping by Bus NO.21 or ticket package:
Ngong Ping is very close to Tai O. The New Lantao Bus No.21 runs between Ngong Ping and Tai O, which takes only 10-15 minutes.Meanwhile, you may consider the 360 Tai O Pass, which includes Cable Car ride, a round-trip bus ride to/from Tai O, a boat ride through the stilt houses and HK$ 20 snack voucher.
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From Tung Chung by Bus NO.11:
The Bus No.11 runs between Tung Chung to Tai O everyday with an average 15-20 minute per shift. The ride takes around 50-60 minutes on the winding roads. -
From Tai O by Bus No.1:
If you take a ferry ride to Mui Wo or stay in the Silvermine Beach Resort hotel, New Lantao Bus No.1 can bring you from Mui Wo Ferry Pier to Tai O directly. The 45-minute bus ride of Bus No.1 runs from daily from 6:00am till 1:00am.
For more details of the New Lantao Bus No.1, 2, 11, 21 and 23 routes, prices and operation hours, you can check from New Lantao Bus official website.