Tian Tan Buddha, Hong Kong - Big Buddha Statue

Big Buddha, Hong Kong Overview

Located at Ngong Ping in Lantau Island, Tian Tan Buddha is the large bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, the second-largest seated bronze Buddha statue in the world. Also popular as the Big Buddha, it rises 34 metres high and weighs over 250 tons, facing towards Mainland China. The statue can be viewed from as far as Macau on a clear day.

The Tian Tan Buddha statue sits atop a triple-layered altar, the Altar of Heaven, and is surrounded by six smaller bronze statues, which are "The Offerings of the Six Devas", symbolising six different virtues of the faith. The highlighting features of the statue are the eyes, lips, raised right hand and a slight incline of the head symbolising the showering of blessings to all.

The major highlight of Tian Tan Buddha is the relic of Gautam Buddha consisting of his cremated remains. Only people who buy offerings for Buddha are allowed to see the relics. Climb the 268 steps that lead up to the monument for a sweeping panoramic view of Hong Kong.

Highlights & Features of Big Buddha Statue

Tian Tan is one of the five largest Buddha statues in China
The smaller bronze statues surrounding the Big Buddha statue are posed as offering incense, lamp, flowers, ointment, music and fruits to the Buddha. These symbolise six perfections needed to attain enlightenment.
The statue is constructed from 202 bronze pieces
Tian Tan Buddha statue faces north as opposed to all other Buddha statues in the world, which face south.
The statue has three floors beneath it housing the Hall of Universe, Hall of Remembrance and Hall of Benevolent Merit.
The compound houses a huge bell carved with images of Buddha. It used to ring 108 times in a day, every seven minutes, symbolising the 108 types of human temper.

How to Reach Tian Tan Buddha

To reach Tian Tan Buddha, first travel to Tung Chung Town Centre and then opt for Ngong Ping Cable Car, taxi or bus to reach the Big Buddha statue site.

Ferry- Take a ferry from Central Pier 6 to Mui Wo then hop onto Bus No.2 from there to reach the Ngong Ping Village.

Cable Car- Take the Ngong Ping Cable Car from the MTR station Tung Chung (Exit B) to reach the Big Buddha. This 25-minute ride is supposed to be a tantalizing experience in itself.

Bus- Walk to Tung Chung Town centre, take the New Lantao Bus No.23 (will take around 45 minutes to reach the destination) and then it is a 10-minute walk from the arrival station to the Big Buddha.