Lantau Travel Guide (Hong Kong/East Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Lantau

Lantau is a beautiful island located in Hong Kong, East Asia, famous for its cultural significance and scenic beauty. The island is home to many tourist attractions that include historical sites, natural reserves, hiking trails, beautiful beaches, and local markets. With its rich cultural heritage, beautiful scenery, and friendly locals, Lantau offers travelers a unique experience that combines history, nature, and modernity.

List of Places to Visit in Lantau

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Tian Tan Buddha: This magnificent bronze statue of Buddha is one of the tallest in the world, and is a significant attraction for visitors to Lantau. The statue is located at the Po Lin Monastery, which is considered one of the most important temples in Hong Kong.
Tai O Fishing Village: A traditional fishing village, Tai O offers a glimpse into a simpler way of life in Hong Kong. The village is known for its houses on stilts, local fish markets, and historic temples, which all provide a unique insight into the city’s past and present.
The Wisdom Path: Located near the Big Buddha statue, the Wisdom Path is a beautiful hike through the hills of Lantau that features a collection of 38 wooden monuments inscribed with verses from the Heart Sutra.

Natural Attractions of Lantau: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lantau Trail: A hiking trail that covers 70km around Lantau Island. It offers beautiful vistas of the island’s natural scenery and is a perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and connect with nature.
Cheung Sha Beach: This beautiful beach is located on the southern side of Lantau Island and offers visitors the opportunity to relax on the sand or swim in the clear waters.
Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car: This cable car ride offers stunning panoramic views of Lantau Island as well as the famous Tian Tan Buddha statue.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lantau

Sunset Peak Hiking Trail: A challenging hike that takes you to the highest peak on Lantau Island, offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the sea.
Lantau Trail: A 70km hiking trail around Lantau Island that takes you through some of the island’s most scenic areas.
Tai O Fishing Village - The Front Beach: A short hike that takes you from the Tai O Fishing Village to the Front Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Best Things to Do in Lantau: Activities and Tours

Tai O Fishing Village Tour: A tour that takes you through the historic fishing village, offering insights into the traditional way of life.
Sunset Cruise: A beautiful way to experience the island’s scenic beauty on a relaxing boat ride.
Big Buddha and Wisdom Path Tour: A comprehensive tour of two of Lantau’s most famous sites.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lantau

Day	Activities
1	Arrive in Lantau, visit Tian Tan Buddha
2	Visit Tai O Fishing Village and Lantau Trail
3	Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car ride and Cheung Sha Beach
4	Take a tour of the island’s local markets and shops
5	Hike the Sunset Peak Hiking Trail and Front Beach
6	Explore local museums and temples in Lantau
7	Depart from Lantau and travel to next destination

Food and Drink Scene of Lantau

Must-Try Dishes

Lantau Da Pai Dong: This famous local restaurant offers delicious seafood including calamari, fish, and prawns.
Po Lin Monastery Vegetarian Restaurant: A unique vegetarian dining experience near the Big Buddha statue.
Shan Shui Tofu Pudding: A popular local dessert made with soybean curd.

Local Beverages

Hong Kong-style Milk Tea: A popular drink in Hong Kong that is a mixture of tea and milk.
Tsingtao Beer: A popular Chinese beer that is a refreshing drink on a hot day.

Where to Stay in Lantau: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Disney’s Hollywood Hotel: A themed hotel located near Hong Kong Disneyland.
Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong: A beachfront resort that offers beautiful views of the sea.
YHA Ngong Ping SG Davis Youth Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel near the Big Buddha statue.

What to Buy in Lantau: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Hand-Painted Fans: A traditional gift to bring back from Lantau.
Local Herbs: Traditional Chinese medicines and souvenirs available at local markets.
Sea Salt: Local sea salt made from the sea in Lantau is a popular souvenir for visitors.

Local Culture and Customs of Lantau

Religion and Beliefs: Lantau is home to several religions, including Buddhism, Taoism, and Christianity.
Language: Cantonese is the primary language spoken in Lantau.
Festivals: The birthday of Tin Hau, the goddess of the sea, is celebrated every year in Lantau with a parade and various activities.

Best Time to Visit Lantau

The best time to visit Lantau is during the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons when the weather is pleasant, and visitors can enjoy the outdoor activities comfortably. The summer season (June to August) can be hot and humid, while the winter season (December to February) can be cold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lantau

Do:

Respect local customs and traditions when visiting religious sites.
Try the local food and drinks.
Follow the signs and directions while hiking or biking.

Don’t:

Wear revealing or inappropriate clothing while visiting religious sites.
Litter or leave trash on the island’s trails or beaches.
Stay out late in remote areas without proper preparation.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lantau

Lantau is a safe place to visit, but it’s always advisable to take precautions while traveling in any foreign destination. Be aware of pickpocketing and take care of your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Also, be cautious when hiking, especially if the terrain is unfamiliar.

Health in Lantau

Lantau has excellent medical facilities, and travelers can access treatment in case of emergencies. However, it’s always advisable to carry travel insurance to cover unexpected medical costs. Additionally, take precautions against mosquito bites, especially during the summer season.

Getting to Lantau: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lantau

Hong Kong International Airport: The main airport in Hong Kong, which is located on Lantau Island.

Bus Stations Near Lantau

Tung Chung Bus Terminal: A major bus terminal on Lantau Island with links to other parts of Hong Kong.
Mui Wo Bus Terminus: A bus terminal that offers transport services to various parts of Lantau Island.

Other Options

Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge: A scenic drive that connects Lantau Island to Macau and mainland China.
Ferry: A ferry ride from Hong Kong Island to Lantau Island is also available.

How to Get Around in Lantau

While exploring Lantau Island, there are several transport options to choose from, including:

MTR: The Mass Transit Railway system provides reliable and affordable transport around the island.
Bus: Buses run throughout Lantau Island and are a convenient way to travel between different attractions.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout Lantau Island and are a convenient option for those looking to travel at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Lantau: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hong Kong Island: Take a ferry or bus ride to explore the bustling city of Hong Kong.
Macau: Explore the unique cultural blend of Portuguese and Chinese influence in this historic city.

Conclusion

Lantau Island offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that is sure to delight visitors. From hiking trails to local markets, the island has something to offer everyone. Follow our comprehensive guide to Lantau and discover the best attractions, activities, food and drink, safety tips, and nearby destinations to make the most of your trip.