Is Ngong Ping Village worth visiting?

Hong Kong holds a special place in our hearts as it was our first overseas travel destination. We’ve visited twice—first in 2017 as newlyweds, and then again in 2023 with our son. Both times, we were mesmerized by the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and the towering figure of the Big Buddha in Ngong Ping Village. Our last visit was in September, a month known for its hot and humid weather, which added an extra layer of challenge to our trips.

The Big Buddha, or Tian Tan Buddha, is one of Hong Kong’s most iconic landmarks. Located on Lantau Island, this massive bronze statue stands at 34 meters high and symbolizes the harmonious relationship between man and nature, people and faith. Surrounded by lush greenery and offering breathtaking views, the Big Buddha is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Hong Kong.

During our first visit in 2017, we were captivated by the sheer size and serenity of the Big Buddha. Climbing the 268 steps to reach the statue was both challenging and rewarding. Each step we took brought us closer to the awe-inspiring statue, and the view from the top was well worth the effort. For those concerned about climbing the steps to the Big Buddha itself, it’s worth noting that the ascent can be quite strenuous, particularly in the hot weather.

We spent time exploring the Po Lin Monastery, a peaceful sanctuary with beautiful architecture and serene gardens. This was my first experience visiting a Buddhist temple, and while I’m not particularly religious, I was genuinely touched by the sense of peace and tranquility that enveloped me. The atmosphere was so serene and calming that it felt like a profound personal moment, offering a sense of inner peace I hadn’t expected.

Our second visit in 2023 was equally memorable, especially with our son and friends. Despite the hot September weather, we made sure to keep hydrated and take breaks in the shaded areas. Ngong Ping Village village is filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. 

Here are some fun things that we do:

• Climb the Steps: The 268 steps leading up to the Big Buddha offer a sense of accomplishment and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Be aware that the climb can be strenuous, particularly for seniors or those with mobility concerns.
• Visit Po Lin Monastery: This serene monastery is a great place to learn about Buddhist culture and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
• Explore Ngong Ping Village: A quaint village filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. It’s a fun place to explore, especially with kids.
• Hike the Wisdom Path: A tranquil trail featuring wooden pillars inscribed with the Heart Sutra, perfect for a reflective walk.
• Enjoy the Views: The area around the Big Buddha offers spectacular views of Lantau Island and the South China Sea.

The Ngong Ping 360 cable car provides a convenient and scenic way to get to Ngong Ping Village, but the climb to the Buddha remains a significant part of the experience. We used the cable car to travel from Tung Chung to Ngong Ping Village, which was comfortable and enjoyable. For the return journey, we took bus 23 back. Although the bus ride was fast and the driver drove with impressive speed, which made me a bit scared, it was quite a memorable part of the trip.

Tips for Visiting Ngong ping village

• Stay Hydrated: September can be very hot, so bring plenty of water and take breaks in the shade.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The climb to the Big Buddha involves many steps, so comfortable footwear is a must.
• Visit Early: Arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds and the peak heat of the afternoon.
• Bring a Hat and Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun with a hat and sunscreen, especially if you’re visiting in the summer months.

How to Get There

By MTR and Cable Car:

1. Take the MTR Tung Chung Line to Tung Chung Station.
2. From Tung Chung Station, follow the signs to the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car terminal.
3. Board the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car for a scenic ride to Ngong Ping Village. The cable car ride offers spectacular views of Lantau Island and takes about 25 minutes.

By Bus:

1. From Tung Chung Station, you can take Bus 23 to Ngong Ping Village.
2. The bus ride offers views of the island’s landscapes and takes about 50 minutes. Be prepared for a fast drive down the mountain on your return trip—our bus driver drove quite quickly, which made the ride a bit nerve-wracking!

By Ferry and Bus:

1. Take a ferry from Central Pier to Mui Wo on Lantau Island. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes.

Entrance Fee:

Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery: There is no entrance fee to visit the Big Buddha or Po Lin Monastery. However, there may be fees for specific activities or offerings within the area, such as the vegetarian meals at the monastery’s restaurant.

Opening Hours:

• Big Buddha: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
• Po Lin Monastery: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car: Operating hours vary, so check the official website for the most up-to-date information.