Ngong Ping 360 is more than just a cable car ride with breathtaking views of Lantau Island. This unique destination gives you a plethora of experiences that combine natural beauty, cultural richness, and a dash of adventure. The cable car journey itself, about half an hour long, is a marvel, with different cabin options to enhance your ride - from the standard cabins to the thrilling Crystal Cabins with glass floors, you get a panoramic view that’s simply unforgettable. While many visitors come for the famous Tian Tan Buddha and the Po Lin Monastery, there are several hidden treasures within Ngong Ping 360 that are often overlooked. Let’s dive into these secret spots that make this place even more special.
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Hidden Treasure 1: Wisdom Path
The Wisdom Path is a serene and spiritual haven that showcases 38 wooden steles inscribed with the Heart Sutra, one of the world’s best-known prayers. This tranquil path is shaped in a figure eight to symbolize infinity and is set against the backdrop of Lantau Peak, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling tourist spots. Each wooden column is stunning to look at, and is crafted to withstand the elements.
What to Expect When Visiting
As you stroll along the path, you’ll feel an immediate sense of calm and reverence. The towering wooden columns, some as tall as 8 to 10 meters, create a majestic atmosphere. The inscriptions are in traditional Chinese characters, adding to the sense of historical depth and spiritual significance. The gentle rustling of leaves and the distant chirping of birds enhance the tranquility of the place, making it an ideal spot for reflection and meditation.
Tips for the Best Experience
- Best Time to Visit: Aim for sunrise to catch the morning light filtering through the trees, casting a golden glow on the steles. Alternatively, visit during the late afternoon for a quieter experience and a chance to witness a stunning sunset over Lantau Peak.
- Unique Photography Spots: For a dramatic shot, stand at the center of the figure-eight formation and capture the steles converging into the distance. Another great spot is the elevated viewpoint near the entrance, where you can frame the entire path against the lush mountainous backdrop.
- What to Bring:
Comfortable Walking Shoes: The path is relatively easy, but wearing supportive footwear will make your visit more enjoyable.
A Journal or Sketchbook: This is a perfect spot for some quiet reflection or artistic inspiration. Jot down your thoughts or sketch the serene landscape.
A Small Picnic: Find a quiet spot nearby to enjoy a peaceful meal surrounded by nature. Just remember to carry out all your trash and keep the area pristine. - Mindfulness Practice: Take advantage of the serene atmosphere to practice mindfulness or meditation. Find a quiet corner, sit down, and focus on your breath, allowing the tranquility of the surroundings to enhance your inner peace.
Hidden Treasure 2: Ngong Ping Village
Unique Shops and Eateries
At Ngong Ping Village you’ll find an eclectic mix of unique shops selling everything from traditional Chinese handicrafts to quirky souvenirs. Walk alongside the village to find some pretty unique treasures such as intricately painted porcelain, hand-carved wooden trinkets, and beautiful silk garments. A special shoutout to all the foodies here, since the range of eateries around this area, from quaint tea houses (Ngong Ping Tea House) serving aromatic blends to restaurants offering delectable local delicacies like dim sum and roast duck, are sure to pull you in.
Cultural Performances and Demonstrations
Ngong Ping Village frequently hosts cultural performances and demonstrations that provide a fascinating glimpse into traditional Chinese arts. You might stumble upon a lively lion dance at the Cultural Performance Plaza, or even experience a kung fu show in the central square, or participate in an interactive workshop on Chinese crafts at the Handicraft Studio.
Hidden Spots Within the Village
- Charming Tea House: Tucked away from the main street, Tranquil Tea House is a serene retreat where you can enjoy an authentic tea-tasting experience as you sip on premium teas like Oolong and Pu’erh and nibble on delicate snacks such as lotus seed buns and almond cookies.
- Secret Courtyard: Near the rear of the village lies a less-frequented courtyard, Harmony Courtyard, perfect for a peaceful escape. Sit here and soak in all the peace around you. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to hear the soft sounds of traditional Chinese music played by a nearby musician.
- Hidden Garden: Discover a beautifully maintained garden space, Zen Garden, where you can go on a quiet stroll. The lush greenery and carefully arranged flowers create a picturesque setting that invites relaxation. Look out for the koi pond and the small rock waterfall that add to the garden’s charm.
Tips for the Best Experience
- Timing: Plan your visit around the performance schedules to ensure you catch the cultural shows. Early afternoon is usually a good time to see a variety of performances.
- Explore the Alleys: Don’t stick to the main paths; the real gems of Ngong Ping Village are often found in the side alleys. Get off the beaten track to discover hidden shops like Dragon’s Keep, which offers a collection of antique maps and rare books, and cozy corners like the Whispering Alley, known for its street art and murals.
- Taste the Local Delicacies: Be adventurous with your palate and try the local delicacies at the food stalls. From savory buns to sweet pastries at Lotus Bakery, there’s a lot to taste here. Don’t forget to try the traditional Chinese herbal jelly at Herb Haven.
- Cultural Souvenirs: Pick up a few cultural souvenirs that are unique to Ngong Ping Village and also support local craftsmen. Look for items like hand-painted fans at Fan Fantasy or traditional paper lanterns at Lantern Light.
Hidden Treasure 3: Tai O Fishing Village
Tai O's history dates back over 300 years, with its unique stilt houses and traditional fishing methods still preserved today. You can explore the narrow streets lined with dried seafood stalls, sample local delicacies like salted egg yolk fish balls, and take boat tours to spot the rare Chinese white dolphins. The village also boasts several historic temples, including the Kwan Tai Temple, dedicated to the God of War and Justice.
Highlights of Tai O Fishing Village
- Boat tours: Hop on a boat tour for the ultimate Tai O experience! Glide through winding canals, providing views of the stilt houses and the surrounding natural beauty. As you cruise along, soak in the village's rustic charm and keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of the area's stunning natural beauty. It's a must-do adventure!
- Culinary Delights: Tai O is renowned for its seafood delicacies. You can savor local specialties like shrimp paste and fish balls at numerous food stalls dotting the village. For a sit-down meal, try authentic Cantonese cuisine at charming eateries such as the waterfront Crossing Boat Restaurant or the beloved local favorite, Cheung Choi Kee.
- Cultural Festivals: Tai O comes alive with vibrant cultural celebrations throughout the year. The village's unique Dragon Boat Water Parade, a cherished tradition spanning centuries, is now recognized as intangible cultural heritage. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, the community illuminates the night with a dazzling display of colorful lanterns.
- Hiking: Nature enthusiasts can explore the area's picturesque hiking paths. One notable route is the trail leading to Fu Shan Viewpoint, offering breathtaking views of the shoreline and neighboring isles.
How to get there from Ngong Ping
- Bus Route 21: Take the new Lantao Bus route 21 from Ngong Ping to Tai O. It’s the most straightforward way and the 20-minute journey offers scenic views of Lantau Island.
- Taxis: Taxis are always available from Ngong Ping to Tai O. It will be expensive but can save time, especially if the bus is crowded.
- Taste the Local Delicacies: Be adventurous with your palate and try the local delicacies at the food stalls. From savory buns to sweet pastries at Lotus Bakery, there’s a lot to taste here. Don’t forget to try the traditional Chinese herbal jelly at Herb Haven.
- 360 Tai O Pass: This pass is an excellent option if you want to explore both Ngong Ping and Tai O. It includes a round-trip cable car ride, bus transportation to Tai O, and a boat excursion.
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Hidden Treasure 4: Lantau Hiking Trails
Lantau Island is a hiker's paradise, boasting over 15 diverse trails that cater to all skill levels. From leisurely sunset strolls to challenging Olympic-level treks, these paths wind through some of the island's most breathtaking landscapes. Each trail offers its own unique blend of difficulty and scenic beauty, allowing you to immerse yourself in Lantau's natural wonders. For adventurers looking to explore beyond Ngong Ping's cable cars and temples, these hiking trails provide the perfect opportunity to discover the island's hidden treasures.
Lantau Hiking Trails recommendation
1. Lantau Trail
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Length: 6.1km
- Duration: 2-3 hours
This scenic trail offers panoramic views of Lantau Peak and the South China Sea. Starting from Pak Kung Au, it winds through lush forests and rocky terrain before reaching Mui Wo. Highlights include the picturesque Sunset Peak and stunning coastal vistas. The trail is well-marked and suitable for intermediate hikers.
2. Nei Lak Shan Country Trail
- Difficulty level: Challenging
- Length: 5 km
- Duration: 2 hours
This trail starts near Ngong Ping Village, it circles Nei Lak Shan mountain, providing hikers with panoramic views of the Big Buddha, the airport, and the South China Sea. The path is steep in some sections, requiring a good level of fitness. Along the way, you'll encounter diverse flora and fauna, making it an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts. Remember to bring plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear.
3. Ngong Ping 360 Rescue Trail
- Difficulty level: Challenging
- Length: 5.7 km
- Duration: 2-3 hours
This trail follows the Ngong Ping 360 cable car route, offering unique perspectives of the infrastructure and surrounding landscape. It's a steep climb with some technical sections and requires a good level of fitness. The trail ends near the Big Buddha statue, making it a perfect option for those wanting to combine hiking with cultural exploration.
Tips for hikers
- Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the terrain and weather conditions Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized
- Check weather forecasts before setting out and avoid hiking during extreme conditions
- Carry a fully charged mobile phone and a portable charger
- Respect the environment by following Leave No Trace principles
Hidden Treasure 5: Po Lin Monastery's Hidden Corners
Leaving the popular Big Buddha aside, the Po Lin Monastery is a lesser known hidden gem that people must visit! Before the Big Buddha was constructed in 1993, this monastery was one of the best hidden retreats. While the Big Buddha is essentially an extension of the Po Lin Monastery, let’s dig a bit deeper into the the history of the Monastery:
History of the Po Lin Monastery
Located on the Lantau Island of Hong Kong, the Po Lin Monastery was established in 1906 by 3 monks who were visiting from the mainland of China. While it was initially known as the ‘Big Hut’, it was renamed to the current name in 1924.
What to see?
- The monastery houses 3 statues of Buddhas – Buddha from the past, Buddha in the present and Buddha from the future! These bronze statues are a beauty in its own right!
- Apart from the statues, the monastery also safeguards several important buddhist scriptures.
- The Main shrine ‘Hall of Buddha’ and the ‘Hall of Boddhisatva Skanda’ are known for their noteworthy architecture.
Etiquette and tips for respectful visitin
- Dress modestly: Can’t stress on this enough! While the monastery is a tourist gem now, it is essentially and will always be a monastery first. So you must ensure you’re dressed appropriately while visiting. Cover up your shoulders and knees. Ditch the tank tops, shorts and anything deemed to be too revealing.
- Respect the surroundings: Don’t litter at the monastery! While this is common sense, plenty of tourists tend to neglect cleanliness. Another apsect to ensure you respect the surroundings – don’t touch or play around with sacred items (for obvious reasons).
- Maintain the decorum of silence: While you may be visiting and exploring the monastery as an explorer, there will be devotees and monks at the Monastery offering their prayers! So, make sure you’re not speaking too loud and conversing only when needed, but softly.
Insider tips
- Check the weather: The views are best on clear days, so check the weather forecast before planning your trip. Avoid visiting during typhoons or heavy rain, as the cable car may be temporarily closed.
- Plan your day: Allocate enough time to explore Ngong Ping Village, the Tian Tan Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, and Wisdom Path. The cable car ride itself takes about 25 minutes each way.
- Bring essentials: Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, and carry water. The walk around Ngong Ping Village and to the Big Buddha involves some steps and can be physically demanding.
- Check for special events: Sometimes, there are special events or festivals at Ngong Ping Village or Po Lin Monastery. Check the official Ngong Ping 360 website for any events during your visit.
- Return trip timing: Be mindful of the last cable car departure time to avoid being stranded. The closing time varies seasonally, so double-check on the day of your visit.
