Tian Tan Buddha & Po Lin Monastery
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Tian Tan Buddha - by Koreval
Description
Tian Tan Buddha, also known locally as Big Buddha, is one of Hong Kong most iconic sculptures. At 34m tall (including the base), it was cast with 250 tonnes of bronze and is the world's 2nd largest outdoor bronze seated Buddha. The Buddha's right hand is raised, representing the removal of affliction, while the left rests open on his lap in a gesture of generosity. He faces north, which is unique among the great Buddha statues, as others generally face south. The Buddha sculpture has become a popular Buddhist pilgrimage site in the region. The Po Lin Monastery was founded by three Buddhist monks in 1906. The main temple houses many scriptures and three bronze statues of the Buddha representing his past, present and future lives. Interestingly, the face and clothes were inspired by Buddha from the Longmen Caves (in Luoyang) and the Dunhuang Grottoes, two of the most famous Buddhist heritage sites along the Silk Road.
Access & Transport
There are three ways to get there 1) Organized tour or private taxi 2) Ferry to Mui Wo (also known as "Silvermine Bay") from the Outlying Islands piers in Central (pier No. 6) followed by a taxi or bus NLB 2 3) MTR to Tung Chung station (in Lantau, on the Tung Chung line) followed by bus NLB23, taxi or cable car ride (to Ngong Ping village, a short walk away from the Buddha) Once in Ngong Ping, visitors have to climb 268 steps to reach the base of the Buddha, though the site also features a small winding road for vehicles to accommodate the handicapped. No such challenge for the monastery.
Instructions & Recommendations
It is best to check the weather before going as clouds and fog can significantly impact visibility We recommend to pair this attraction with a hike to the top of Lantau Peak (2.5k and ~500m ascent) for those fit enough and/or a visit to Tai O stilt village
Environmental & Social
Environmentally and socially neutral
Conclusion
The Tian Tan Buddha in Lantau is a worthy excursion out in Lantau. It is visually very impressive and is a good opportunity to see another side of the territory. Because the transport is quite long, and possibly expensive (if taking the cable car ride), we recommend making the most of it and grouping this with a visit to the Po Lin Monastery, a hike to the top of Lantau Peak (for those fit enough) and/or a visit to Tai O village.
Key positive
Both the Buddha and the monastery are very impressive and makes for great pictures
Opportunity to discover a part of Lantau. Good views of Lantau and the Ocean from the top
Key negative
May be a bit time consuming or expensive to get to
It can get crowded with tour groups
The monument lacks historical significance
Suitability
Suitable for visitors with reduced mobility (may need to arrange with Po Lin Monastery to go to the top). No religious denomination restrictions.
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h 15m
est. visit time:2h
Monday10:00 - 17:30
Tuesday10:00 - 17:30
Wednesday10:00 - 17:30
Thursday10:00 - 17:30
Friday10:00 - 17:30
Saturday10:00 - 17:30
Sunday10:00 - 17:30