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Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Tian Tan Buddha Statue Summary
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| Public website: | www.plm.org.hk |
China – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type A , Type I
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY) £1 ≈ CN¥8.87 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted in China, particularly in urban areas. Mobile payment services like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not customary in China and is not expected, although it may be appreciated in high-end restaurants or by hotel staff for exceptional service. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is generally not allowed in many places in China, but it is common in restaurants and bars. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in many indoor public spaces, such as restaurants and public transport, but enforcement can vary. |
| Chinese New Year (January/February) |
Major holiday with family gatherings and public celebrations |
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| National Day (1 October) |
National holiday with parades and festivities |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 110 (Police), 120 (Ambulance), 119 (Fire) |
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| Taxi apps: | DiDi, Uber |
| Other: | China is known for its vast cultural heritage, including historical landmarks like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Army. It offers diverse landscapes ranging from mountains to beaches. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
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Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Tian Tan Buddha Statue, China
Ngong Ping 360 cable car stops in strong wind and typhoon warnings, and closes for annual maintenance for a few weeks
Chinese New Year, late January to mid February: Po Lin Monastery very crowded with worshippers
Don't miss
- 🧗♂️ Climb the 268 steps to the Tian Tan Buddha statue
- 🏯 Visit Po Lin Monastery nearby for peaceful meditation
- 🌄 Take in panoramic views of Lantau Island around
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Tian Tan Buddha Statue, also known as the Big Buddha, is a colossal bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni located on the summit of Mount Muk Yue on Lantau Island. Completed in 1993 after years of meticulous construction, the statue symbolizes the harmonious relationship between man and nature, people and faith.
The statue sits atop a lotus on a three-platform altar inspired by the Altar of Heaven in Beijing. It is faithfully admired for its grand scale – 26.4 meters tall – and the detailed craftsmanship that went into its 202 bronze pieces. Around the base are six smaller bronze statues known as 'The Offering of the Six Devas,' representing generosity, morality, patience, zeal, meditation and wisdom.
Visitors must climb 268 steps to reach the statue, which can be physically demanding especially in hot and humid weather, so pacing oneself and staying hydrated is advised. For those with mobility challenges, an alternate winding road allows vehicle access to the site. Inside the base of the statue, three floors of exhibition halls display Buddhist artifacts, art and a sacred relic of Buddha.
The adjacent Po Lin Monastery and Ngong Ping Village offer serene spiritual surroundings and cultural experiences. While the site is peaceful, it can become crowded during peak tourist seasons and festivals such as Buddha’s Birthday. Early visits are recommended to enjoy the tranquility and avoid midday heat.
Why travel to Tian Tan Buddha Statue?
Knowledge before you go
- Climb 268 steps. Bring water and sun protection.
- Take Ngong Ping 360 cable car early to avoid queues and haze-limited views.
- Combine with Po Lin Monastery visit; dress modestly and keep voices low indoors.
- Completed in 1993 on Lantau Island, this 34m bronze Buddha symbolizes harmony between people and nature.
How to travel to Tian Tan Buddha Statue
The Tian Tan Buddha is accessible via Hong Kong International Airport, followed by travel to Tung Chung by train or bus. From Tung Chung, visitors typically take the scenic Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car or a bus up to the statue and the Po Lin Monastery area. The cable car offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lantau Island, the South China Sea and the surrounding landscapes.
Access summary
- From Hong Kong Airport: Bus S1 to Tung Chung, Ngong Ping 360 cable car (~40–60 min).
- From Central Hong Kong: MTR to Tung Chung, then Ngong Ping 360 cable car (~60–80 min).
- Scenic alternative: Central ferry to Mui Wo, bus 2 to Ngong Ping (~90+ min).
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay near Tian Tan Buddha Statue
Accommodation near the Tian Tan Buddha is mainly found in Tung Chung and the greater Lantau Island area, with options ranging from budget lodges to comfortable hotels, suitable for travelers looking to explore nature and culture alike.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
YHA Ngong Ping SG Davis Youth Hostel (Lantau Island)
Double bed room with balcony
Cozy Twin Bed Room in Tung Chung (Shared bathroom)
Family room in Tung Chung
Adjacent Room in Tung Chung
Cozy Double Bed Room in Tung Chung
Twin Bed Room with Balcony
Cozy Double Bed Room (Shared bathroom)
City Getaway Airport Apartment Tung Chung 1st Flr
Airport Apartment, Getaway, BBQ,JACUZZI Tung Chung
Packing recommendations for Tian Tan Buddha Statue
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
🚰
Reusable water bottle
🧥
Waterproof jacket
🕶️
Sunglasses
🎒
Small rucksack
🔋
Power bank
👒
Sun hat
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
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To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in the region are around 15% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to CNY) is 1% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.
Safety information overview
General safety
The Tian Tan Buddha in Hong Kong is generally safe for visitors, with well‑maintained pathways and frequent security patrols. Petty theft is rare; stay vigilant in crowded areas, keep valuables secure and follow local advisories during large events.
Accessibility
The Tian Tan Buddha in Hong Kong offers wheelchair‑friendly paths and accessible viewing platforms, with clear signage and elevators to the temple complex. However, crowds during peak times can impede mobility and some stairways remain steep. Plan visits early for smoother access.
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