The iconic Tian Tan Buddha, Lantau Island, Hong Kong 03 Feb 2017
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Cable cars motor over the mountainous terrain of Lantau Island, Hong Kong, during their 5.7-kilometre journey from Tung Chung to the Ngong Ping plateau. The 25-minute ride offers a picturesque panoramic view of the island with the Tian Tan Buddha perched in the background. One of five large buddhas in China, the Tian Tan is made from 202 pieces of bronze, weighs 250 tonnes and stands at 34 metres tall. It is named after the pedestal on which it sits; it is a replica of the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. Surrounding the base of the buddha are six smaller bronze figures, collectively known as ‘The offering of the six Devas’. Flowers, incense, a lamp, ointment, fruit and music are all offered to symbolise the six perfections: generosity, morality, patience, zeal, meditation and wisdom. It is believed all six traits must be mastered before enlightenment. Add a trip to Lantau Island to any of Insight Guides' trips to Hong Kong.
