Ngong Ping 360

One of the best ways to explore Lantau Island is to take a trip on the Ngong Ping 360. This lofty cable car links Tung Chung on the north coast with the hilly inland area of Ngong Ping, site of the famous Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan, or “Big Buddha”. Both of these attractions were popular with tourists before the advent of the cable car, but the spectacular journey has now become a must-do part of the whole experience, especially on a clear day.The 25-minute ride crosses Tung Chung bay before turning 60 degrees and heading inland towards North Lantau, offering unrivalled views of the South China Sea and the rolling green expanses of North Lantau Country Park. Passing Hong Kong International Airport and the Tian Tan Buddha, the cable car nears the end of the ride with 360-degree views of the Ngong Ping Plateau. The final destination is Ngong Ping Village, where you can leave the cable car and explore the retail complex and the other attractions of this once-remote part of Lantau Island.The multimedia “Walking with Buddha” exhibition offers a fascinating introduction to the man who became Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, and a chance to find out more about his ground-breaking philosophy. Youngsters might prefer the animated stories in the Monkey’s Tale Theatre. Admission to these attractions is included in some cable car packages, so check the official website for different ticket options before you leave to make sure you don’t miss out.The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery are easily accessible from Ngong Ping Village, so make the short stroll to pay your respects at these atmospheric locations before taking the cable car back to Tung Chung in time to catch the sun setting across the bay.Not surprisingly, queues for the cable car can be very long, especially at peak times, so be prepared to wait sometimes several hours. If you are able to book online in advance you’ll save yourself a lot of hassle. For an additional cost you can travel in the special glass-bottom Crystal Cabin, which offers even more spectacular views. The cable car terminal is around five minutes’ walk from Tung Chung MTR Station, Exit B.