Stepping onto Lantau Island is like being transported to a different world – one where nature reigns supreme and time seems to stand still. It’s easily one of the best decisions I made while I was traveling around Hong Kong.
This remarkable island, the largest within Hong Kong’s territories, is full of contrasts; here, soaring mountains and tranquil beaches coexist with quaint fishing villages and Buddhist temples. It’s so different from the sky-scrapers that’s only a short train-ride away if you can believe!
In this travel guide, we’ll explore the Lantau Island’s rich history, key attractions, and hidden gems.This day trip itinerary will surely guide you through all of Lantau Island’s best sights with plenty of useful travel tips in between for that perfect island getaway!
What is Lantau Island Known for?
Lantau Island is known for being a serene escape from the concrete jungles of Hong Kong (I also made a Hong Kong travel guide if you’re interested). The island is home to majestic mountains, idyllic beaches, and is one of Hong Kong’s cultural & spiritual centers.
The name “Lantau”, meaning “broken head” in Cantonese, was derived from the unique shape of Lantau Peak, resembling a broken giant’s head.
History of Lantau Island
The history of Lantau Island traces its roots back to the Neolithic Age when it was first inhabited!
The island was a vital outpost in the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), serving as a hub for salt production and a naval base.
Fast forward to the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), the island gained prominence as a significant trading center. The serene waters of Silvermine Bay witnessed an influx of merchant ships loaded with silk, spices, and exquisite ceramics.
In the 19th century, with the advent of British rule, the island saw considerable development, especially the establishment of the Silver Mine in Mui Wo, which lent its name to Silvermine Bay.
The mine, though, was shut down by the early 20th century.
Today, Lantau Island has transformed into an important tourism hub, housing Hong Kong’s International Airport and landmarks like the Tian Tan Buddha and Disneyland!
How to Get to Lantau Island
Reaching Lantau Island is as easy as pie, thanks to the extensive transportation network in Hong Kong. Here are some of the ways you can make your way to this island oasis:
- MTR: The MTR (Mass Transit Railway) is the quickest and most convenient way to get to Lantau Island. You can hop on the Tung Chung Line from Hong Kong Station (on the Island Line) or Kowloon Station (on the Tseun Wan Line), and disembark at Tung Chung Station.
- Ferry: For a more scenic journey, you can opt to take a ferry from the Central Ferry Pier 6 to Mui Wo, which is on Lantau Island. The ferry ride offers breathtaking views of the Hong Kong skyline and the tranquil waters of the South China Sea.
- Taxi: If you prefer a more comfortable and direct ride, you can hail a blue Lantau taxi. However, this is the priciest option.
- Car: Alternatively, you can also rent a car if you’re with a family and want to take things at a much leisurely pace.
- Tour: If you’re simply looking to join a tour and explore the island hassle-free, you can join this tour that covers a lot of the island’s spots on this blog post, but definitely not everything.
Lantau Island Day Trip Itinerary
1. Tung Chung Fort
Since you’re already at Tung Chung, kick off your day of adventure at Tung Chung Fort, a historical gem that has stood strong since the 19th century.
The fort was built in 1832 during the Qing dynasty to combat piracy and to reinforce the coastal defense of the region. The brick-and-stone fort is now a declared monument of Hong Kong.
Once you step inside its walls, you’ll find six old cannons, a magazine, and a series of sturdy granite-wall barracks.
You can imagine the soldiers who once patrolled its walls, ever watchful for signs of pirate ships.
By this time, you should be ready for your next stop, the majestic Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery.
You can reach there by bus or the famous Ngong Ping 360 cable car which I highly recommend!
Cost: Free
2. Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car
Now, you’re in for a treat because the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car is an experience that will literally lift you up into the clouds!
Hop on the Ngong Ping Cable Car and get ready to be mesmerized by the captivating aerial views of the mountains, the sea, and the grasslands. This 25-minute ride will carry you over 5.7 km (3.5 mi) from Tung Chung to Ngong Ping, and you’ll arrive feeling on top of the world.
The cabins themselves come with a choice – you can either opt for a standard cabin or a crystal cabin with a glass floor. If you’re brave enough to choose the latter, you’ll feel like you’re floating above the stunning vistas, a truly exhilarating experience!
The Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car is open from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. To avoid the long-lines, you can easily get your round-trip tickets through here.
3. Ngong Ping Village
Emerging from the cable car, you’ll find yourself in Ngong Ping Village. This culturally-themed, open-air marketplace is surrounded by nature and imbued with spirituality.
Although it might have been built to cater to the tourists, the careful thought put into its design makes it much more than your usual tourist trap.
The architecture of the village reflects the local culture, with the traditional Chinese buildings mirroring the historic Po Lin Monastery nearby.
The village also offers a number of entertaining experiences. The “Walking with Buddha” multimedia presentation tells the story of Siddhartha Gautama (Shakyamuni Buddha), the man who became Buddha, and his path to enlightenment.
He’s the central figure in the Theravada Buddhist tradition and the founder of Buddhism!
Cost: Free
4. Tian Tan Buddha
Just a short walk from the village sits the majestic Tian Tan Buddha, also known as the Big Buddha.
I recommend heading up here first before going to the Po Lin Monastery for lunch. You can buy your food meal vouchers here, which you will need to enter the monastery’s restaurant, plus you’ll be hungrier after scaling up the stairs, win-win!
The Big Buddha was built in 1993, this monumental bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha stands 34 m (112 ft) tall and is one of the most prominent symbols of Buddhism in Hong Kong. It’s also one of the largest outdoor seated Buddha statues in the world.
Cost: Free
The Big Buddha was built in 1993, this monumental bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha stands 34 m (112 ft) tall and is one of the most prominent symbols of Buddhism in Hong Kong. It’s also one of the largest outdoor seated Buddha statues in the world.
Climbing the 268 steps to reach the statue might sound daunting, but it’s worth the effort. Each step brings you closer to the serene gaze of the Buddha, and each breath of mountain air energizes you to keep going on. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas of the island’s mountain ranges, I especially like how the Po Lin Monastery from afar looked like it was perched in the middle of a valley.
The Buddha’s right hand is raised in the Abhaya Mudra, representing the removal of affliction, while the left hand rests on his knee, symbolizing human happiness.
Around the base of the Big Buddha, you’ll find six smaller bronze statues known as “The Offering of the Six Devas,” presenting gifts to the Buddha, symbolizing charity, morality, patience, zeal, meditation, and wisdom, all necessary to enter into Nirvana.
5. Po Lin Monastery
Not far from the Big Buddha is the Po Lin Monastery, another one of the main highlights on the Ngong Ping Plateau.
Established in 1906 by three monks from Jiangsu Province, today it’s one of its most important Buddhist sanctums in Hong Kong.
The monastery is an impressive complex of temples, shrines, and beautiful gardens. The Grand Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas, the primary temple, is a sight to behold.
If you got your food vouchers from the Big Buddha, then drop by the monastery’s vegetarian restaurant. Even if you’re not a vegetarian, it’s worth trying the delicious dishes made from fresh vegetables, mushrooms, and tofu, all prepared in the traditional Buddhist manner.
The volume is quite large and to be honest, I had a hard time finishing it all, but the food was delicious!
Cost: Free, inner halls at 25 HKD (3.20 USD)
6. Wisdom Path
To find the Wisdom Path, head to the forest, a bit further away from the other attractions. This is a bit of a hidden gem and you can escape the crowds for a bit.
The Wisdom Path is a wooden art installation that takes the shape of an infinity symbol when seen from above, it’s basically a fusion of nature, art, and philosophy.
The Wisdom Path is marked by 38 towering wooden pillars, each over 8 to 10 m (25 – 35 ft) tall. Inscribed on these posts are verses from the Heart Sutra, one of the world’s best-known prayers revered by Confucians, Buddhists, and Taoists alike.
It’s all written in traditional Chinese characters, and they describe the essence of Buddhist wisdom – the understanding of emptiness to perceive reality.
Cost: Free
7. Lantau Trail
As you can see from the photo above, the Wisdom Path is actually just beside the trail head for Lantau Peak.
This is an optional activity and it’s reserved for those who have a lot of energy but the trek itself is definitely one for the books.
Now, since this is a day trip, you won’t be able to traverse the entire trail, but a shorter trek is entirely doable. There’s also the Dragon’s Back trail in Hong Kong for a much easier and scenic route.
You might consider hiking only a section of the trail, such as the popular Stage 2, stretching from Pak Kung Au to Ngong Ping.
This particular section offers the best of both worlds: it’s moderately challenging and, at about 5.6 km (3.4 mi), the perfect length for a leisurely 2-3 hour hike. You’ll also get to nab Lantau Peak while you’re at it, the highest point on Lantau Island!
If you are quite keen on doing this hike and are a bit worried on time, you can skip Tung Chung Fort and the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car and start at Pak Kung Au instead, on the descent at the other side you’ll end up in the Wisdom Path!
From there you can then continue on with the itinerary, either visiting the attractions around Ngong Ping Plateau or continue on to Tai O Fishing Village.
Cost: Free
8. Tai O Fishing Village
If you decided to skip out on the hike, no worries because Tai O Fishing Village is more than just meets the eye.
Just a bus ride away from Ngong Ping, this traditional fishing village, resting on stilts above the tidal flats of Lantau Island, is a far cry from what you’ve seen so far on the island. Tai O translates to “large inlet” referring to the outlet for the waterways.
Once known as the “Venice of Hong Kong,” Tai O is famous for its old-world charm. As you walk through the narrow lanes, you’ll see traditional stilt houses, dried seafood being prepared and sold, and locals going about their daily routines.
Tai O holds significant value as one of the last remaining traditional fishing villages in Hong Kong. Despite the urbanization seen across most of Hong Kong, Tai O has managed to preserve its age-old customs and traditions.
Around this time, the day is already coming to an end and you might already be feeling a bit tired, you can either stick around here longer for sunset, head to Mui Wo and take a ferry back to Hong Kong Island (and still catch the sunset), or take a bus back to Tung Chung for a train ride back to Hong Kong Island.
Tai O Fishing Village itself has plenty of activities to do, there are amazing hiking trails, that are very short and easy with amazing views of the sea, there are boat tours with a chance to catch the rare pink dolphins, and simply walking around and taking in the laid-back atmosphere. If you’re keen on learning more, you can read more about the things to do in Tai O Fishing Village.
Cost: Free
Where to Stay Around Lantau Island
Hong Kong can be a bit pricey and it was a bit difficult for me to find the right balance between comfort and affordability, but I was satisfied with my choice in the end. Here are some of my recommendations for Hong Kong:
Best Hotels in Hong Kong
- iClub Sheung Wan Hotel – this is where I personally stayed and found it to be within my budget, it’s modern, chic and quiet. The location is perfect as it was near plenty of restaurants and just a few meters away from the train station and the bus stop. Man Mo Temple is especially close. The bathroom was superb and the bed amazing after a day of exploration!
- Bishop Lei International House – boasts stunning city skyline views and offers an outdoor pool, fitness center, and free WiFi throughout the property. You can also enjoy the well-equipped gym, poolside sun loungers, and a quiet reading room.
- Four Points by Sheraton – offers comfortable air-conditioned rooms and complimentary bikes for your use. Each room is well-equipped with a flat-screen TV featuring satellite channels and a safety deposit box. Bed linen and towels are provided for added comfort.
Best Hostels in Hong Kong
- Ashoka Hostel – enjoy clean common areas and dorm lockers. Their licensed facility ensures safety, comfort, and affordability. Additionally, Ashoka Hostel offers discounted tickets for popular attractions like Ocean Park and Disneyland.
- Homy Inn North Point – comes with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and air-conditioning. Each room has a private bathroom with a shower, complimentary toiletries, and hair dryers. The hostel provides a welcoming 24-hour front desk service.
- Check Inn HK – offers complimentary water, local calls, Wi-Fi, and comfortable beds. Check Inn HK also offers various free services such as irons, computers, hair dryers, and adapters. To enhance the guest experience, the staff regularly organizes dim sum gatherings and hiking activities.
Lantau Island Alternative Things to Do
Lantau Island isn’t just the Big Buddha and Tai O, there are still a lot of hidden gems around the island that you can visit if you so choose. A lot of them offer a respite from the much more touristy areas for a much more intimate experiece. Here are some of them:
9. Pui O Beach
One of the unique features of Pui O Beach is its blend of sand and unique black rocks, the remnants of volcanic activities that took place millions of years ago.
During low tide, these rocks become more visible and create a spectacular landscape contrasted with the bright, golden sand. Quite similar to the beaches of “China‘s Hawaii,” Sanya.
Pui O Beach is also very rich in biodiversity. You can spot water buffalos and egrets in the nearby marshes! There’s also a public campsite behind the beach with basic facilities, where you can set up your tent and spend the night under the stars.
10. Mui Wo Village
The quaint and laid-back Mui Wo Village is dotted with charming seafood restaurants, local shops, and beachfront accommodations where you can enjoy an array of seafood delicacies caught fresh from the nearby waters.
The village also has the Silver Mine Waterfall, which is great for capturing long-exposure photos if you’re into photography!
11. Silver Mine Bay Beach
Silver Mine Bay Beach is located near Mui Wo. Named after the silver mines that were once active in the area during the 19th century, today, the beach is a haven if you’re looking for a laid-back beach experience.
This scenic stretch of sandy shoreline offers an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, or even just picnicking by the seaside. The beach is well-equipped with facilities such as changing rooms, showers, and barbecue pits.
There’s also a lifeguard service so you can rest assured the little ones can go for a swim safely.
12. Hong Kong Disneyland
Hong Kong Disneyland is actually located on Lantau Island, and as you may already know it’s an absolute treat for both kids and adults.
As the smallest Disneyland park, it offers a more intimate and less overwhelming experience, yet it still packs all the magic that Disney is known for.
You can easily get your skip-the-line Disneyland tickets through here.
13. Shaolin Wushu Cultural Center
If you’re a martial arts enthusiast or simply curious about Chinese culture, a visit to the Shaolin Wushu Cultural Center offers you a great insight into the ancient martial art of Wushu, which originated from the Shaolin Monastery in China.
You can join some Wushu classes here that taught by a Shaolin master to unleash your inner warrior!
How to Get Around Lantau Island
Getting around Lantau Island is a breeze, thanks to the well-developed and diverse transportation options available:
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Bus: Lantau Island is serviced by New Lantao Bus Company (NLB), which operates numerous routes covering most areas of the island. Bus routes 1, 2, 3M, 11, and 23 will get you to most tourist spots. Although they can get crowded during peak hours, especially during the weekends, I’m not exaggerating when I say I almost couldn’t get back!
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Taxi: There are plenty of taxis around the island. They’re a bit more expensive than buses for sure, but are a good option if you’re short on time. Keep in mind, taxis in Lantau are all blue and only operate within Lantau Island.
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Car: If you rent a car, then getting around Lantau Island is smooth-sailing with plenty of parking spaces available near the various tourist area.
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Bicycle: Mui Wo, Pui O, and other villages rent out bicycles for a leisurely way to get around, perfect for exploring the more rural parts of Lantau.
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Foot: Finally, if you’re up for it, hiking is a great way to see the island. With trails of varying difficulty, you can enjoy the stunning scenery while getting in a bit of exercise.
How to Stay Safe in Lantau Island
Traveling to Lantau Island is generally safe, but like any other travel destination, you’ll want to take a few safety measures.
Beware of the local monkeys, they’re often seen as charming but they’re also known for their mischievous habits like stealing food and small items.
And even though Hong Kong boasts an excellent healthcare system, it’s always better to be prepared for any eventualities.
That’s where travel insurance comes in. I personally recommend getting SafetyWing, a top-rated travel insurance company that offers comprehensive coverage.
It’s better to be safe than sorry, so consider securing a SafetyWing policy for your trip to Hong Kong.
Best Time to Visit Lantau Island
The best times to visit Lantau Island are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F).
The island has a subtropical climate, which means it can get really hot and humid, particularly during the summer months from June to August. These months also tend to be rainy and typhoons are a possibility.
On the other hand, the winter months (December to February) can be quite cool, with temperatures sometimes dipping to around 10°C (50°F).
Plan Your Trip to Hong Kong | Best Travel Resources
Book Your Accommodations
- Booking.com – the world’s leading online booking platform for accomodations around the world, they have an extensive amount of available listings with zero booking fees and best price guarantees.
- Hostelworld – a backpacker’s best friend, Hostelworld has the largest collection of hostels and guesthouses for affordable prices.
Don’t Forget Insurance
- SafetyWing – from Nomad Insurance, an insurance by nomads for nomads. They understand our lifestyle well and have really comprehensive and flexible plans that cater to any traveler.
Find Cheap Flights
- Kiwi.com – my go-to for booking and finding the cheapest flights and it’s helped me save tons of money. They do virtual interlining which is connecting flights from airlines that do not codeshare, so you can find routes that you wouldn’t be able to find normally.
Join Tours & Activities
- GetYourGuide – is one of the best places to find unique tours and activities. I found that it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and create fond memories. They are not only limited to tours as they also offer niche services such as skip-the-line tickets or private transfers.
Catch a Ride
- Rentalcars.com – nothing beats the freedom of the road, Rentalcars.com is the world’s largest online car rental service. They operate across 160 countries so they’re the perfect partner to work with if you find yourself wanting a ride.
