Lantau Island is famous internationally as the home of Hong Kong International Airport and a giant outdoor Buddha statue. The area is also well known for its lush valleys. Lantau is Hong Kong’s largest outlying island and it hosts a variety of famous historical sites and beautiful natural scenery. The island offers plenty of man-made and natural attractions that can make your visit unforgettable. Lantau Island is home to several attractions that are suitable for people of all ages.
Disneyland
Disneyland is definitely a top pick for attractions on Lantau Island. Opened to public on September 12th, 2005, Hong Kong Disneyland is very different from the other places around the world because it comprises of a natural undulating landscape and backdrop of abundant mountains. It is one of those places that you must have on your itinerary, especially if you love nature, wonder and rides.
Po Lin Monastery
This is the most famous Buddhist monastery in the city of Hong Kong. Po Lin Monastery is a place where you will find tranquility and peace. It hosts the popular massive idol of Tian Tan Buddha, or Sakyamuni, which is considered to be the tallest outdoor seated statue of Buddha in the world.
Tung Chung Fort
You can make your visit even more memorable by visiting Tung Chung Fort, one of Hong Kong’s historical monuments. It was built in 1817 with a motive to suppress the opium trade and hence defend the coast from piracy. You can enjoy the sight as the building still breathes with the memories of the past including a display of 6 old cannons.
Tai O
It is quite interesting to note that Lantau Island has 47 villages, but three of them, including Tai O, are being developed as new towns. Tai O is also known as The Venice of the Orient and it is the largest settlement on the island. Some major attractions include the old Tai O waterways, fishing boats and stilt houses. Also, do not forget to savor the local delicacy of salted fish and shrimp paste.
Ngong Ping 360
This is a spectacular tourism attraction that features a thrilling 3.4 mile cable car ride up a mountainside which offers wonderful panoramic views of the region. You will step out of the cable car in the culturally themed Ngong Ping Village that incorporates other fascinating attractions including the Ngong Ping Tea House and Monkey’s Tale Theatre.
Other Attractions
Approximately half of the total land area of Lantau Island consists of national parks and other well-marked trails. For instance, the Lantau trail that stretches for about 43 miles is well known all over the world. Also, the island has some beaches like Cheung Sha which is known for being Lantau’s longest.
Transportation
You can reach this island via a ferry that operates from Lantau to other Hong Kong islands. Getting around Lantau is relatively easy because taxis are available.
