Visit to Tian Tan Buddha, Hong Kong

Photography: Nelly Ortiz

Asia is well known for its culture, people, food, temples, and Big Buddhas, and the Hong Kong Tian Tan Buddha (天壇大佛) is not an exception. Based on my experience I think to visit it is a must. I arrived in Hong Kong on a Saturday evening, and given the fact that I was just going to spend 4 days in Hong Kong and that the big Buddah is far from the city center, I decided to travel directly from the Airport to visit the Big Buddha. Personally, I loved the experience of getting to Lantau Island through the Ngong Ping Gondola. I recommend to buy a ticket in advance and save a lot of time making the huge queue. You can buy the ticket at www.np360.com.hk.

Glass Cabin Ngong Ping Gondola

The trip in the Gondola takes approximately 30-35 minutes. However, you can get to the island by bus as well.

268 stairs to reach the Big Buddha

This 34meter (112 ft) statue was completed in 1993, it is made from 202 bronze pieces and its weight is 250 metric tonnes. The Buddha Shakyamuni symbolizes the harmony between man and nature and it is a major center of Buddhism in Hong Kong.

The statue is 34 meters (112 ft) tall, weighs over 250 metric tons (280 short tons), and was constructed from 202 bronze pieces. Reputedly the figure can be seen across the bay from as far away as Macau on a clear day.

Photography: Nelly Ortiz

The Buddha's right hand is raised, representing the removal of affliction, while the left rests open on his lap in a gesture of generosity. He faces north, which is unique among the great Buddha statues, as all others face south.