How to plan a perfect day trip to Lantau Island

Take the MTR to Tung Chung Station, ride the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, and use the Lantau bus network to connect between the Big Buddha, Tai O fishing village, and the beaches. Start your day by 9:00 AM to beat the massive cable car queues.

  1. Get to Tung Chung. Take the MTR Tung Chung Line to its final stop, Tung Chung Station. Exit through Exit B and follow the signs for the Ngong Ping 360 terminal.
  2. Book your cable car in advance. Purchase your Ngong Ping 360 tickets online at least 48 hours before your trip to skip the ticket booth line. Choose a Crystal Cabin (glass bottom) for the best views if you aren't afraid of heights.
  3. Navigate the Ngong Ping Village. Once you arrive, walk through the village to the Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha. You will need to climb 268 steps to reach the base of the Buddha.
  4. Bus to Tai O. From the Ngong Ping bus terminal, take the number 21 bus to Tai O. It takes about 20 minutes on winding roads. Buy a local boat trip from the vendors at the Tai O bridge to see the stilt houses and search for pink dolphins.
  5. Return to the city. Take the number 11 bus from Tai O back to Tung Chung MTR station to end your day, or take the number 1 bus to Mui Wo and catch a ferry back to Central Pier 6.
Is the cable car scary for kids?
Most kids find the glass-bottom cable car thrilling rather than scary. If you are worried, opt for the standard cabin instead.
Can I use credit cards for the buses?
No. You must use an Octopus card or exact cash in Hong Kong dollars.
How long are the lines for the cable car?
On weekends, expect to wait 45-60 minutes even with a pre-booked ticket. Always go on a weekday if possible.