Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1To reach the Big Buddha, consider the Ngong Ping 360 cable car for scenic views, or opt for the bus for a budget-friendly but longer journey. Taxis are the most expensive option. (2:43)
- Tip 2Booking cable car tickets in advance, especially through platforms like Klook, is recommended to save time and potentially money. Consider the crystal car for a unique glass-bottom experience. (4:00)
- Tip 3When visiting the Po Lin Monastery and Big Buddha, let the weather and crowd levels guide your order. Visiting the monastery first might be wise if the Big Buddha area is crowded or too hot. (8:11)
- Tip 4Be aware of local wildlife. While stray dogs and cows might be present, maintain a safe distance to avoid any incidents, as signage warns of potential risks. (9:35)
- Tip 5To get to Tai O Village from the Big Buddha area, take bus number 11. This is a convenient and affordable option, especially if you have an Octopus card. (13:15)
- Tip 6When exploring Tai O Village, put away your map and simply wander. Getting lost in its charming streets is a delightful way to discover its hidden corners. (15:34)
- Tip 7For your return journey, you can take the cable car back if you purchased a round-trip ticket, or opt for the bus directly to Tung Chung MTR station. (20:25)
Embark on a captivating journey with Our Roaming Empire to Lantau Island, a tranquil paradise offering a perfect day trip from Hong Kong. This adventure unveils the awe-inspiring Big Buddha and the charming, traditional Tai O Fishing Village. Experience the thrill of the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, marvel at the colossal Tian Tan Buddha, and find serenity within the Po Lin Monastery. Discover the unique stilt houses and delectable street food of Tai O, a truly authentic slice of Hong Kong life. Prepare for stunning views, cultural immersion, and culinary delights.
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Our Roaming Empire takes viewers on an unforgettable day trip to Lantau Island, a serene escape from the bustling city of Hong Kong. This journey focuses on two iconic destinations: the majestic Big Buddha and the charming Tai O Fishing Village.
The adventure begins with an ascent via the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the island's mountainous terrain and coastline. While the ride can be a bit thrilling, the stunning vistas are well worth the experience. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the impressive Tian Tan "Big Buddha," a colossal bronze statue standing over 34 meters tall. The climb to its base involves 268 steps, a manageable feat with rest stops along the way, rewarding climbers with expansive views.
Adjacent to the Big Buddha is the Po Lin Monastery, a significant Buddhist site dating back to 1906. The monastery complex is a haven of peace, featuring intricate architecture, beautiful landscaping, and the serene Hall of 10,000 Buddhas, adorned with a stunning ceiling. The travelers found the monastery to be a surprising highlight, offering a deeply spiritual and visually captivating experience.
Following the spiritual and monumental sights, the journey transitions to the more traditional and laid-back Tai O Fishing Village. Accessible by bus, this village offers a glimpse into Hong Kong's past with its unique stilt houses built over the water. Exploring Tai O involves navigating its narrow pathways, sampling local delicacies, and observing the daily life of its residents. The village is particularly famous for its dried seafood market and vibrant street food scene.
Our Roaming Empire highlights the incredible street food in Tai O, especially the jumbo spicy fish balls and grilled squid with shrimp paste, which were declared some of the best they've ever tasted. They also enjoyed the delicious mango mochi, noting the exceptional quality and flavor. The experience in Tai O is characterized by its charming atmosphere, friendly locals, and a slower pace of life, a stark contrast to the urban energy of Hong Kong Island.
The return journey is made easy with Hong Kong's efficient public transportation system, whether opting for the cable car or the bus back to Tung Chung. The overall sentiment is one of awe and satisfaction, with Lantau Island proving to be a must-visit destination for its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and authentic local experiences.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: What are the best ways to get to the Big Buddha?
- A: You can take a cab, which is the most expensive, or a bus, which requires multiple transfers and takes a long time. The recommended way is to take the MTR to Tung Chung and then ride the Ngong Ping 360 cable car.
- Q: Is the Ngong Ping 360 cable car scary?
- A: It can be a bit scary as you go over the mountain range, but it's a smooth ride and considered very safe. The views are spectacular, making it a worthwhile experience.
- Q: What's the best order to visit the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery?
- A: It's best to let the weather and crowds decide. If it's hot, you might want to visit the Big Buddha first. If the area around the Buddha is crowded, consider visiting the monastery first.
- Q: What should I know about visiting Tai O Fishing Village?
- A: Tai O is known for its stilt houses and dried seafood. You can take a boat tour or simply wander through the village. Be mindful of motorized vehicles and watch out for stray animals.
- Q: What is the must-try street food in Tai O?
- A: The jumbo spicy fish balls are highly recommended, as is the grilled squid with spicy shrimp paste. Don't forget to try the mango mochi for dessert!
- Q: How do I get back from Lantau Island?
- A: If you have a return cable car ticket, head back to the village. Otherwise, you can take bus number 11 back to Tung Chung MTR station, which is about a 45-minute to 1.5-hour ride depending on traffic.
