Brief information on Lantau Island  

An Island for all Seasons

Hong Kong’s Lantau Island really does have something to offer people of all ages, as well as offering something of a contrast to the neon bustle of  Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, despite being almost twice the size of Hong Kong Island with an area of approximately 146m². It is a haven for those who crave the outdoor life, as it is replete with indigenous forest, earning the island the epithet of ’The lungs of Hong Kong’. The clean air is certainly energising, and is a further welcome benefit of spending time on the island. The terrain is mountainous, and boasts Lantau Peak, standing at 934m, almost twice the height of Victoria Peak.

Those seeking activity can enjoy walking and hiking over the sometimes challenging terrain. One such trek is to Ngong Ping Plateau, where the Tian Tan (Giant) Buddha, various monastery buildings and a vegetarian restaurant can be found. It is possible to walk from Tung Chung to the monastery in around two hours, however, those wishing to be a little more sedate can take the cable car from Tung Chung to Ngong Ping Plateau. The journey takes around 25 minutes and affords stunning panoramic views of the islands mountains and flora and fauna. You can also marvel at the sight of the world’s largest seated outdoor bronze statue of Buddha.  It really is a journey that you will want to take more than once!

On the Northwest of the Island, visitors to the fishing town of Tai O can enjoy the historic waterways, stilt houses and fishing boats, evoking its 300-year history. You can also enjoy locally produced traditional Chinese food, such as shrimp paste and salted fish, a delicious way to end a tiring day’s hiking.

You can also visit one of Hong Kong’s historic monuments-Tung Chung Fort, originally built to repel the opium trade and to defend the coast from pirates. The ruins of Tung Chung Battery, also a historic monument, are located nearby. Visitors can really drink in the history at the sight, as the buildings still breath with the memories of the past.

For a slightly different emphasis-especially pleasant for younger visitors, Hong Kong Disneyland is located on the Northeastern part of the island. I won’t go into details-as most people know what to expect from Disneyland!

Nature lovers can enjoy the wonderful sight of Chinese White Dolphins off the coast of Lantau. On the North part of the Island, there is a marine park designated to protect the dolphins. This is definitely something for the whole family to remember!

As almost 50% of Lantau consists of national parks and well-marked trails, it really is a haven for hikers and nature lovers. Perhaps the best-known trail is the 70 km Lantau Trail. There are many campsites and youth hostels, so finding a place to lay your head at night is no problem.

For anyone considering a break from the perpetual motion of either the Mainland or Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, Lantau Island offers tranquility, abundant nature, clean air and a variety of trails to take you into a different world. So, take a deep cleansing breath and prepare to go where your feet carry you.

*You can download the bilingual note to show it to a taxi driver or someone else to find your way to Lantau Island if you plan to visit Lantau Island and have language problems.