Hong Kong Tickets

Top things to do in Ngong Ping 360

Ngong Ping 360 sits on Lantau Island, connecting Tung Chung to the Ngong Ping plateau by cable car. At the top, Ngong Ping Village places you within easy walking distance of Hong Kong’s iconic Big Buddha (5–10 minutes), Po Lin Monastery (10–12 minutes), and the Wisdom Path (20 minutes). With Tai O Fishing Village just a short bus ride away, Ngong Ping makes an easy, self-contained day trip combining culture, mountain scenery, and traditional village life.

Top things to do near Ngong Ping 360

Ngong Ping Village

1-min walk (≈50 m)
Browse souvenir shops, tea houses, and cafés in this pedestrian village next to the cable car terminal, with mountain views throughout.
Cost: Free

Ngong Ping Piazza

5-min walk (≈400 m)
Walk through the ceremonial archway into this open square linking the village to Po Lin Monastery and the Big Buddha staircase.
Cost: Free

Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha)

10-min walk (≈800 m)
Climb 268 steps to Hong Kong’s iconic bronze Buddha and enjoy panoramic views across Lantau Island’s mountains and coastline.
Cost: Free

Po Lin Monastery

12-min walk (≈950 m)
Explore ornate temple halls, courtyards, and one of Hong Kong’s most important Buddhist monasteries beside the Big Buddha.
Cost: Free

Wisdom Path

20-min walk (≈1.5 km)
Follow a peaceful trail to see 38 wooden pillars inscribed with Buddhist scriptures set against mountain scenery.
Cost: Free

Tai O Fishing Village

Short bus ride
Visit a traditional stilt-house village known for boat rides, seafood snacks, and glimpses of Hong Kong’s fishing heritage.
Cost: Free (transport extra)

See more of Lantau with the Ngong Ping 360 Tai O Pass

Upgrade your cable car ride with the 360 Tai O Pass, which adds transport to Tai O Fishing Village, a traditional boat ride through stilt houses, and a snack voucher. It’s the easiest way to experience Ngong Ping’s top sights and Lantau’s most charming fishing village in one seamless trip.

Cable car over lush hills with Hong Kong International Airport in the background at Ngong Ping.

Paid experiences in Ngong Ping 360 cards

Standard Cabin cable car round trip

Ride the classic enclosed gondola between Tung Chung and Ngong Ping, soaring above airport runways, forests, and coastline during the 25-minute journey each way.
Distance: 0-min walk (inside Ngong Ping 360)
Cost: From HKD 270
Tip: Board before 11am to avoid peak queues and get clearer views.

Crystal Cabin cable car round trip

Upgrade to a glass-bottom cabin for dramatic downward views of mountains, hiking trails, and Tung Chung Bay beneath your feet during the full aerial crossing.
Distance: 0-min walk (inside Ngong Ping 360)
Cost: From HKD 350
Tip: Look straight down when crossing valleys for the best perspective.

Crystal+ Cabin cable car experience

Travel in Ngong Ping 360’s most premium cabin, featuring transparent glass floors and sides for immersive 360° panoramas across Lantau Island’s peaks and coastline.
Distance: 0-min walk (inside Ngong Ping 360)
Cost: From HKD 560
Tip: Choose midday departures when sunlight enhances mountain and sea views.

360 Tai O Pass with cable car and boat ride

Combine your cable car journey with Tai O Fishing Village exploration, including bus transfers, a stilt-house boat tour, and a snack voucher for a complete Lantau experience.
Distance: 0-min walk (starts at Ngong Ping terminal)
Cost: From HKD 395
Tip: Visit Tai O in early afternoon for quieter boat channels.

Guided Lantau Island tour with cable car

Join a guided small-group tour covering Ngong Ping Village, Big Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, and Tai O, with cable car rides, coach transfers, and cultural insights included.
Distance: 0-min walk (starts at cable car terminal)
Cost: From HKD 690
Tip: Ideal if you want historical context without planning logistics yourself.

Landmarks near Ngong Ping 360

Ngong Ping Village

Step into a traditional-style cultural village filled with souvenir shops, tea houses, and mountain viewpoints. It’s the main hub connecting the cable car terminal to nearby spiritual landmarks and walking trails.
Distance: 1-min walk (≈0.05 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Visit earlier in the day before tour groups arrive.

Ngong Ping Piazza

Walk through the grand paifang arch into this landscaped square linking Ngong Ping Village with Po Lin Monastery and the Big Buddha. Sculptures, open courtyards, and mountain backdrops make it a natural transition space.
Distance: 5-min walk (≈0.4 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Pause here for your first unobstructed Big Buddha photos.

Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha)

Climb the famous 268-step staircase to reach Hong Kong’s iconic 34-metre bronze Buddha seated on a lotus throne, with sweeping views across Lantau Island and the South China Sea.
Distance: 10-min walk (≈0.8 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Turn around halfway up for the best panoramic photo angle.

Po Lin Monastery

Explore one of Hong Kong’s most important Buddhist temples, known for its incense-filled halls, ornate architecture, and peaceful courtyards beside the Big Buddha. The monastery also houses a respected vegetarian restaurant.
Distance: 12-min walk (≈0.9 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Enter the main hall quietly during active prayer sessions.

Nature & outdoor attractions near Ngong Ping 360

Wisdom Path

Follow a peaceful hillside trail to see 38 towering wooden steles engraved with Buddhist scriptures, arranged against Lantau’s mountain backdrop. The quiet setting offers a reflective escape beyond the busy village and monastery areas.
Distance: 20-min walk (≈1.5 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Visit in late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds.

Ngong Ping Nature Centre

Discover Lantau’s ecosystems through interactive exhibits and educational displays inside this small visitor centre near the village. It also serves as a starting point for nearby walking trails and eco-tours.
Distance: 8-min walk (≈0.6 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Pick up trail maps here before heading to Wisdom Path.

Ngong Ping Fun Walk and nearby trails

Explore scenic walking paths linking Ngong Ping to Lantau’s countryside, passing grasslands, forest edges, and cable car viewpoints. Trails vary in difficulty, offering both short strolls and longer hikes.
Distance: 10-min walk (≈0.8 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Look up to spot cable cars passing overhead mid-trail.

Family-friendly experiences near Ngong Ping 360

Crystal Cabin cable car ride

The glass-bottom Crystal Cabin lets kids look straight down at forests, hiking trails and the airport below, turning the journey into a fun aerial adventure rather than just transport.
Distance: Inside attraction
Cost: From HKD 292
Tip: Ask staff to help children stand safely on the glass floor.

Ngong Ping Nature Centre

This small visitor centre introduces Lantau’s wildlife and hiking routes through exhibits and displays. It’s an easy, educational stop that helps children learn about the island’s nature before heading outdoors.
Distance: 15-min walk (≈1.2 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Pick up trail maps and spot cows nearby.

Tai O stilt house village walk

Walking through Tai O’s stilt-house streets feels like stepping into a different world. Kids enjoy the wooden walkways, seafood markets and boat rides through canals lined with traditional homes.
Distance: Short bus ride from Ngong Ping
Cost: Free (boat rides extra)
Tip: Try local egg waffles or street snacks.

Ngong Ping Village snack and souvenir street

Treat kids to local snacks, ice cream or fun souvenirs along the village street. It’s a relaxed break between sightseeing, with space to explore safely away from traffic.
Distance: 2-min walk (≈100 m)
Cost: Free entry
Tip: Visit after lunch when crowds thin slightly.

Where to eat & drink near Ngong Ping 360

Po Lin Monastery vegetarian restaurant

A famed monastery canteen serving traditional Buddhist vegetarian dishes and set meals — hearty, affordable, and an authentic way to taste monastery cuisine.
Distance: 12-min walk (≈0.9 km)
Cost: From HKD 60
Tip: Arrive before noon to avoid the lunch queue and try the set menu.

Village tea houses & cafés (Ngong Ping Village)

Small tea houses and cafés along the village lane serve Chinese teas, light bites and kid-friendly snacks — ideal for a peaceful break between sights.
Distance: 1–2-min walk (≈0.1–0.2 km)
Cost: From HKD 25
Tip: Order a pot of local tea to sample traditional brewing and slow down before hiking.

Citygate Outlets dining concourse (Tung Chung)

A short walk from the Tung Chung terminal, Citygate offers wide dining choices — from quick bites to family restaurants — handy before or after your cable car.
Distance: 3-4 min walk from Tung Chung terminal (≈0.25 km)
Cost: Varies (budget → mid-range)
Tip: Good spot for post-visit meals, luggage storage and mall conveniences.

Shopping near Ngong Ping 360

Ngong Ping Village souvenir lane

Small shops sell incense, prayer beads, Buddha figurines and local handicrafts — compact, themed souvenirs that match the cultural tone of the plateau.
Distance: 1–2 min walk (≈0.1–0.2 km)
Cost: Items from HKD 20
Tip: Bargain politely and compare stalls for unique finds.

Citygate Outlets (Tung Chung)

A large outlet mall with international brands, electronics and Hong Kong specialty stores — perfect for post-visit shopping, bargains and practical supplies.
Distance: 3–4 min walk from Tung Chung terminal (≈0.25 km)
Cost: Varies (outlet discounts common)
Tip: Combine with arrival/departure timing for efficient shopping and dining.

Tai O local market stalls

Tai O’s market sells dried seafood, shrimp paste, local snacks and handicrafts — ideal for food-centric souvenirs you won’t find in the city malls.
Distance: Short bus ride from Ngong Ping (NLB 21 / 11)
Cost: Varies; many affordable items under HKD 100
Tip: Sample small food items before you buy larger packs to ensure you like the taste.

Seasonal events & festivals

Buddha’s Birthday celebrations (Po Lin)

Major Buddhist ceremonies and special decorations are held at Po Lin Monastery during Buddha’s Birthday, drawing worshippers and photographers for ritual processions and floral displays.
Distance: 12-15 min walk (≈0.9–1.0 km)
Cost: Free (special exhibitions sometimes ticketed)
Tip: Arrive early; expect crowds and some restricted access during ceremonies.

Chinese long-weekend peaks (CNY / Golden Week)

Public holidays and festival weekends bring higher footfall, longer queues and occasional extended hours — plan early arrival or prebook tickets to avoid long waits.
Distance: n/a (applies to whole site)
Cost: n/a
Tip: Book cable-car slots ahead and aim for opening time to beat crowds.

Seasonal nature highlights (spring & autumn)

Spring brings fresh green slopes; autumn and winter often offer clearer skies and better long-distance visibility — these months are best for photography and ridge walks.
Distance: n/a (seasonal note for outdoor areas)
Cost: Free
Tip: Check weather visibility before you go for the best views.

How to plan your day at Ngong Ping 360

Ngong Ping Cable Car over Lantau Island, Hong Kong, with cityscape view.

Path: Cable car → Ngong Ping Village → Big Buddha Piazza → return

Steps & timing:

  • Cable car ride from Tung Chung to Ngong Ping – 25 min
  • Walk through Ngong Ping Village and browse shops – 30 min
  • Walk to Ngong Ping Piazza and see Big Buddha from the base – 20 min
  • Return cable car to Tung Chung – 25 min

Alternative: If queues are long, explore the village first and ride down later when crowds ease.

Ngong Ping Cable Car over water with lush hills and bridges in Hong Kong.

Path: Cable car → Big Buddha → Po Lin Monastery → Village → return

Steps & timing:

  • Cable car ride up to Ngong Ping – 25 min
  • Climb the 268 steps and explore Big Buddha viewpoints – 60–75 min
  • Visit Po Lin Monastery halls and courtyards – 45 min
  • Lunch or tea break in Ngong Ping Village – 45–60 min
  • Cable car return journey – 25 min

Alternative: Skip the Buddha staircase and spend more time exploring Wisdom Path instead.

Cable cars over lush hills with Tian Tan Buddha in Ngong Ping, Hong Kong.

Path: Cable car → Big Buddha → Monastery → Tai O Fishing Village → return

Steps & timing:

  • Cable car ride to Ngong Ping – 25 min
  • Visit Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery – 90 min
  • Lunch in Ngong Ping Village – 60 min
  • Bus to Tai O Fishing Village and explore streets / boat ride – 2.5–3 hrs
  • Return to Tung Chung by bus or cable car – 45–75 min

Alternative: Book the Tai O Pass to combine cable car, bus and boat in one itinerary.

Wooden pillars with inscriptions at Ngong Ping 360, Hong Kong.

Path: Cable car → Village → Piazza → short trail → return

Steps & timing:

  • Cable car ride (Crystal cabins are especially popular with kids) – 25 min
  • Snack break and photo stops in Ngong Ping Village – 45 min
  • Walk to Big Buddha Piazza (skip staircase if tiring) – 30 min
  • Easy nature walk or rest stop in village plaza – 45 min
  • Cable car return – 25 min

Alternative: Visit Citygate Outlets after returning for food and shopping.

Couple enjoying Ngong Ping 360 cable car with glass floor, Hong Kong view.

Path: Cable car → Village stroll → Buddha views → dinner → return

Steps & timing:

  • Afternoon cable car ride for softer light and fewer crowds – 25 min
  • Leisurely walk through Ngong Ping Village and tea stop – 60 min
  • Visit Big Buddha and monastery grounds for scenic views – 60 min
  • Early dinner in the village or Tung Chung – 60–90 min
  • Return cable car or stay for sunset from Tung Chung waterfront

Alternative: Upgrade to Crystal+ cabins for uninterrupted panoramic views together.

Visitor information

Woman hiking with child on rocky trail in Saxon Switzerland.

Ngong Ping is a compact, pedestrian-only plateau where most attractions are within easy walking distance of the cable car terminal.

  • On foot: Ngong Ping Village, Big Buddha, Po Lin Monastery and Ngong Ping Piazza are all within a 5–15 minute walk of each other. Clearly marked signs guide you between sites.
  • To Tai O Fishing Village: Take New Lantao Bus 21 from Ngong Ping Bus Terminus; the journey takes about 20 minutes.
  • Cable car: The main way to arrive and leave, with 25-minute rides between Tung Chung and Ngong Ping.
  • At Tung Chung: The terminal connects directly to Tung Chung MTR Station, taxis and buses for onward travel.
Row of parked cars under green trees in a sunny parking lot.

Parking at Ngong Ping itself is limited due to road restrictions, so most visitors park at Tung Chung.

  • Citygate Outlets car park: The main public parking option, a 2–4 minute walk from Tung Chung Cable Car Terminal. Paid hourly parking applies.
  • Tung Chung Cable Car Terminal: Limited parking, mainly reserved for coaches and accessible parking permit holders.
  • Ngong Ping Village: Parking is restricted; private cars need a special Lantau closed-road permit to drive up.
  • Best option: Park at Tung Chung and take the cable car up.
Restroom sign outdoors with male and female symbols.

Ngong Ping 360 and the surrounding attractions are well-equipped for visitors.

  • Restrooms: Available at Tung Chung Terminal, Ngong Ping Village and near Po Lin Monastery.
  • Dining: Restaurants, tea houses and snack stalls in Ngong Ping Village and monastery complex.
  • Shops: Souvenir stores selling religious items, gifts and local snacks.
  • Seating areas: Public plazas and rest areas throughout the village.
  • Luggage storage: Available at Tung Chung Cable Car Terminal for same-day use.
Vietnamese taxi with green taxi meter sign on roof.

Much of the Ngong Ping 360 experience is accessible, with a few limitations.

  • Cable car terminals: Step-free access with ramps, lifts and accessible restrooms at both Tung Chung and Ngong Ping.
  • Cable cars: Wheelchairs are accommodated, and staff assist with boarding and disembarking.
  • Village and Piazza: Mostly flat, paved and wheelchair-friendly.
  • Big Buddha: The 268-step staircase is not wheelchair accessible, but visitors can still enjoy views from the base and nearby Piazza.
  • Transport: Accessible taxis can reach Ngong Ping via permitted roads.

Visitor tips for exploring Ngong Ping 360

  • Start early to avoid long cable car queues
    Arriving close to opening time helps you board faster and explore Ngong Ping Village, Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery before peak crowds arrive. Late morning to mid-afternoon typically sees the longest wait times.
  • Check the weather forecast before booking your ride
    Clear days offer the best views of Hong Kong International Airport, the sea and Lantau peaks. Fog, rain or haze can significantly reduce visibility and affect the overall cable car experience.
  • Visit the Big Buddha before noon for a quieter climb
    The 268 steps can get crowded and hot later in the day. Climbing earlier means cooler temperatures, fewer people and better photo opportunities from the viewing platform at the top.
  • Plan extra time if you want to visit Tai O Fishing Village
    Adding Tai O requires at least half a day, including bus transfers and exploring the village. Consider booking a combo like the Tai O Pass to streamline transport and activities.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for village paths and trails
    Although Ngong Ping Village is compact, visiting Wisdom Path or climbing to the Buddha involves uneven paths, slopes and staircases, making sturdy footwear essential for a comfortable visit.
  • Eat at Po Lin Monastery for a unique cultural experience
    The monastery’s vegetarian restaurant is well known for traditional Buddhist cuisine. Visiting around lunchtime lets you combine sightseeing with a relaxed meal in a peaceful setting.

Frequently asked questions about what to do in Ngong Ping 360

The main highlights include riding the cable car, exploring Ngong Ping Village, climbing to the Big Buddha, visiting Po Lin Monastery and walking to Wisdom Path. Many visitors also extend their trip with a visit to Tai O Fishing Village.