Tian Tan Buddha: A Must-Visit Attraction in Hong Kong

Address - Ngong Ping Road, Lantau Island Environment/Facilities - Picturesque scenery Feature - 260-step long staircase Average Price - Free admission Rating - 9.5/10 The Tian Tan Buddha in Hong Kong is located at the peak of Mount Muk Yue on Lantau Island. It is the world's largest outdoor bronze seated Buddha statue, weighing 250 tons and standing 23 meters tall, built in the early 1990s. The Buddha was designed according to the thirty-two aspects of a Buddha as described in the sutras. Its facial features are modeled after the Lushena Buddha in the Longmen Grottoes, while the drapery and head ornaments reference the Sakyamuni Buddha statue in the 360th cave of the Mogao Caves, thus embodying the characteristics of Buddhist statues from the prosperous Sui and Tang dynasties. To reach the base of the Tian Tan, one must climb 260 stone steps. The base is modeled after the Circular Mound Altar at the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. The interior structure is divided into three layers: the Hall of Merit, the exhibition hall, and the memorial hall. Along the trail next to the Po Lin Monastery is the 2.5-kilometer-long Ngong Ping Fun Walk, which is wide, flat, and scenic, leading directly to the tea garden, making it most suitable for beginner hikers. Additionally, Lantau Island is nearly twice the size of Hong Kong Island, with most of its area designated as country parks, offering a tranquil environment. Hong Kong International Airport and Disneyland are also located on Lantau Island, allowing for combined visits.