Ngong Ping 360 is one of Hong Kong’s top tourist attractions, located on Lantau Island. The 5.7 km cable car journey provides panoramic views of the island’s stunning natural landscapes, including the Big Buddha statue, mountain ranges, and the South China Sea.
The cable car system is made up of 115 cabins, including three crystal cabins with glass floors, offering a unique perspective on the surrounding scenery. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes, with the starting point being Tung Chung Cable Car Terminal, where visitors can also find a shopping mall and a variety of restaurants.
The Ngong Ping Village, located at the other end of the cable car ride, is a cultural themed village, featuring traditional architecture, entertainment, and shopping. The village is designed to replicate an ancient Chinese village and offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Chinese culture.
The village is home to several attractions, including the world-renowned Tian Tan Buddha, also known as the Big Buddha. The bronze statue is 34 meters tall and is the largest seated outdoor bronze Buddha in the world. Visitors can climb up the 268 steps to the statue and admire the panoramic views of Lantau Island from the top. The Po Lin Monastery, which is located next to the Big Buddha, is a popular tourist spot and a significant site for Buddhist worship.
Ngong Ping Village also features several other attractions, including the Wisdom Path, a serene walkway lined with wooden pillars inscribed with the Heart Sutra, a significant Buddhist scripture. The village also has several restaurants, souvenir shops, and a cultural center that showcases traditional Chinese crafts, such as calligraphy and tea-making.
The cable car system and Ngong Ping Village attract millions of visitors every year and have become one of Hong Kong’s most popular tourist destinations. Visitors can purchase various packages, including the “360 Sky-Land-Sea Day Pass,” which includes a cable car ride, access to Ngong Ping Village, a boat ride to Tai O fishing village, and a coach tour of the island.
One of the unique features of Ngong Ping 360 is the “Crystal Cabin” experience. The cabin features a glass floor that allows visitors to enjoy unobstructed views of the stunning landscape beneath their feet. The crystal cabins operate on a first-come-first-served basis, and visitors can upgrade their tickets to ride in a crystal cabin for an additional fee.
The cable car ride is also an excellent option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful and scenic ride. The ride takes visitors over the mountains, providing stunning views of the island’s natural beauty, including the rolling hills and the pristine beaches. The journey is particularly breathtaking during sunset, with the colors of the sky providing a stunning backdrop to the landscape below.
Visitors to Ngong Ping 360 can also enjoy a range of cultural experiences, including traditional Chinese tea-making and calligraphy workshops. The cultural center provides a glimpse into the traditional Chinese way of life, with exhibits showcasing ancient Chinese crafts, such as ceramics and paper-cutting.
In addition to the cultural experiences, Ngong Ping 360 also offers several adventurous activities, including hiking trails and mountain biking. Visitors can explore the island’s rugged terrain, with a range of guided tours available to suit all skill levels.
Overall, Ngong Ping 360 is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Hong Kong. The cable car ride offers breathtaking views of the island’s natural beauty, while the cultural experiences provide a glimpse into traditional Chinese culture. The combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes Ngong Ping 360 a unique and unforgettable experience.
If you're afraid of heights, I recommend blindfolding yourself and taking a deep breath! The cable car winds its way up the mountainside, providing an amazing "360-degree" view of Hong Kong's surroundings. At the top, there are monasteries and giant Buddhas. A fee is charged for entry to the statue.