In an earlier post, I mentioned that Hong Kong is made up of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories. Lantau Island, the largest of them all, is part of the New Territories and is conveniently close to Hong Kong International Airport and Disneyland.
From our base at Causeway Bay Station, we took the train toward Central Station (Island Line – the blue line toward Kennedy Town). Without ever coming above ground, we were able to walk from Central Station to Hong Kong Station in about 8–10 minutes.
From there, we switched to the Tung Chung Line (orange line) and rode all the way to its last stop, Tung Chung. Just before Tung Chung is Sunny Bay Station, where passengers transfer to the Disneyland Resort Line for Hong Kong Disneyland.
The journey from Hong Kong Station to Tung Chung took only about 23 minutes and was very smooth. From our hotel to Tung Chung, the trip took less than an hour in total. Unfortunately, when we arrived at 10 am, we discovered that the Ngong Ping Cable Car ride had been suspended until further notice due to thunderstorms and heavy rain. Lesson learned—always check the website before travelling!
Ngong Ping Cable Car & Alternatives
Thankfully, the station was right next to shopping malls and public transport. After waiting nearly two hours, we finally decided to cancel our cable car tickets. Since we had booked discounted tickets in advance, we had to visit their office (on Level 2) for a refund. We paid by credit card, and according to staff, it would take 5–8 weeks to process. At the time of writing this (three weeks later), we still haven’t received the refund.
There are three main ways to reach Ngong Ping from Tung Chung: bus, cable car, or taxi. Since the cable car wasn’t running, we had to go with Plan B. The bus or taxi ride takes at least an hour, compared to just 25 minutes by cable car.
In the end, we took Bus 23. The ride itself was an adventure—narrow, winding, hilly roads combined with the driver’s speed made it quite uncomfortable for me. Because of the weather, it was the only realistic option, as taxis were rare and only accepted cash (something we didn’t prepare enough of).
Once we arrived at Ngong Ping, everything—the cable car station, Tian Tan Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, Ngong Ping Village, and bus interchange—was within walking distance.
Cable car staff had warned us that we wouldn’t see much scenery due to the storm, and they were right. Every so often we caught glimpses of clear views, but within minutes, mist rolled in again. Shops nearby sold plastic ponchos (HK$25–30), which helped a little, though our shoes were still soaked.
Tian Tan Buddha
We first headed toward the Tian Tan Buddha, walking through the grand Ngong Ping Piazza lined with twelve Divine Generals and lotus flower statues. Just before Po Lin Monastery, we passed a large bagua-shaped platform where visitors can look up at the Buddha.
From there, we climbed 268 marble steps in the pouring rain to reach the massive bronze Buddha. In dry weather, this climb would have been a beautiful experience, but slippery wet steps made it challenging.
Inside, the Buddha houses three levels: the Hall of the Universe, the Hall of Benevolent Merit, and the Hall of Remembrance. Photography isn’t allowed, as the first level is a resting place for the deceased—including the late singer and actress Anita Mui. Relics of Gautama Buddha, believed to be cremated remains, are also on display.
Outside, six statues of Divine Ladies offer gifts to the Buddha, a sight worth pausing to admire.
Po Lin Monastery
Just a short walk from the Buddha sits Po Lin Monastery. Its architecture is breathtaking, with colourful details and ornate designs. We took a moment to pray (without lighting incense, as the rain was pouring harder) before leaving to enjoy local snacks like red bean cake, tofu fa with ginger-sugar syrup, and soya milk.
Ngong Ping Village
Ngong Ping Village is a charming cluster of shops, restaurants, cultural attractions, and photo spots. Highlights include the Motion 360 theatre and unique souvenir shops. Unfortunately, we didn’t linger long because we were soaked and eager to head back. On a dry day, though, it would be a great place to spend an afternoon.
Later, we caught Bus 23 (just behind Ngong Ping Village) back to Tung Chung Station. If the weather had been kinder, we would have stayed much longer. Despite the rain, I can confidently say Lantau Island is a must-visit in Hong Kong—you won’t be disappointed!
Travel Tip: Always check the Ngong Ping Cable Car website for weather updates before you go, and bring enough cash just in case you need a taxi.
