Tian Tan Buddha
Tian Tan Buddha
Last updated 2026-10-29
By Global Travel Guide Editorial Team
Introduction
The bronze Buddha is 34 metres tall and sits on a lotus throne at the top of 268 steps. The Po Lin Monastery below serves vegetarian meals, and the Ngong Ping 360 cable car from Tung Chung is the usual way up. The cable car has standard and crystal cabins; the crystal cabin has a glass floor. Go early to avoid crowds and clouds; the view over Lantau is best on clear days.
Ticket Price
The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery are free to visit; the Ngong Ping 360 cable car costs about HKD 295-365 return (≈ USD 38-47), or bus 23 from Tung Chung about HKD 20.
Opening Hours
Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery about 10:00-17:30; Ngong Ping 360 cable car about 10:00-18:00.
Transportation
MTR Tung Chung line to Tung Chung, then the Ngong Ping 360 cable car or bus 23.
Best Season
In Hong Kong (China), the best time to visit Tian Tan Buddha is May-Sep; Jul-Aug is peak and Dec-Feb is cold.
Pro Tip: Take the Ngong Ping cable car early
Local Tips You'd Only Learn After Visiting
The details official guides skip — save time, avoid crowds, and get better photos.
1
Take the Ngong Ping cable car early The cable car is the most scenic route and gets busy by mid-morning. Book a standard cabin in advance, check visibility, and allow time for the village and monastery.
Member-Only Tips
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Frequently Asked Questions3 questions
There are 268 steps to the statue; the climb takes 15-20 minutes and is exposed. A small train also runs from the base for those who cannot climb.
Morning for clearer skies and fewer crowds; the statue is often in cloud in spring. Weekdays are calmer than weekends and holidays.
The statue, the Po Lin Monastery and the Wisdom Path; the vegetarian meal at the monastery is popular. Allow 2-3 hours for the site.