Hong Kong: Lantau VIP Priority Cable Car, Big Buddha & Tai O

Exploring Hong Kong’s Lantau Island: An Honest Review of the VIP Cable Car, Big Buddha & Tai O Tour

If you’re looking for a day packed with culture, stunning views, and authentic experiences on Lantau Island, this guided tour offers a convenient way to tick all those boxes. We haven’t personally taken it, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it sounds like a well-rounded, thoughtfully curated adventure for travelers eager to see Hong Kong beyond its bustling city streets.

What we love about this experience is how smoothly it’s organized, including skip-the-line access to the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, a highlight for many. We also appreciate the opportunity to explore Tai O fishing village, a quieter place where tradition still thrives, and the chance to learn about local customs from knowledgeable guides. The included vegetarian snack at Po Lin Monastery adds a touch of local flavor, and the round-trip transfer means no stress about logistics.

One potential consideration is that the tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users. If you’re after a super-flexible or private experience, you might want to explore other options. But if you’re after a structured, informative day that balances iconic sights with cultural insights, this tour could be just right.

This experience is ideal for travelers wanting value, ease, and an authentic glimpse into Hong Kong’s spiritual and fishing heritage, all while enjoying incredible vistas. It suits those who appreciate guided insights but still want opportunities for personal exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Skip-the-line cable car access ensures you avoid long queues and maximize sightseeing time.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing interesting stories and cultural context.
• Beautiful panoramic views of Lantau Island, the bridge to Macau, and Hong Kong Airport make the trip visually unforgettable.
• Historic Tai O fishing village offers a glimpse into Hong Kong’s traditional fishing lifestyle, with optional boat rides.
• Serene spiritual sites like the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery provide peaceful moments amid scenic mountain surroundings.
• Value for money with round-trip transportation, multiple stops, and insightful commentary packed into one day.

The Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup from the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui at the Kowloon Hotel entrance, making it accessible for most travelers staying in central Hong Kong. The deluxe coach is air-conditioned, which is a plus given Hong Kong’s often sweltering weather. The round-trip transfer from downtown to Lantau Island ensures a stress-free start, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenery rather than worry about logistics.

The Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Experience

This is the star of the show. Unlike regular cable cars, you get priority access, meaning you skip the queues—a huge time saver in a city known for its tourist crowds. The cable car ride offers panoramic views of lush greenery, rugged mountains, and the impressive Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge. Many reviews mention that this is one of the most breathtaking rides in the world, with opinions highlighting the crystal cabins for those wanting an extra thrill or clearer views.

Travelers typically love the way the cable car elevates them above the hustle, giving a sense of floating over Hong Kong’s natural landscape. We noted a review where one guest mentioned seeing Macau and even a glimpse of the Hong Kong Airport, making the experience feel like a scenic journey over some of Hong Kong’s most iconic sights.

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Visiting Tai O Fishing Village

A highlight for many is Tai O, often called the “Venice of Hong Kong”. It’s a fishing community with stilt houses, narrow alleyways, and a slower pace that’s a sharp contrast to the city’s frenetic energy. Guests can choose to take a boat ride around the stilt houses, a rare chance to see Hong Kong’s traditional fishing lifestyle firsthand. If you’re lucky, you might spot pink dolphins, which adds an element of magic—and makes the boat ride worthwhile.

Multiple reviewers mention how special this stop is. Debby highlighted that the boat ride gave her “a proper insight into the fishing community,” and others appreciated the chance to step away from the crowds and see a different side of Hong Kong. The boat ride is optional but highly recommended to truly appreciate the area’s charm.

The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery

The tour’s next stop is the majestic Tian Tan Buddha, perched atop a mountain and visible from miles around. The guide often shares details about the significance of this icon, which is a must-see for many visitors. The Po Lin Monastery nearby offers a peaceful environment, perfect for a reflective moment or simply admiring the architecture.

Guests rave about the views from the Buddha site—a combination of spiritual serenity and natural beauty. The tour includes a vegetarian snack at the monastery, which many describe as simple but tasty, adding a layer of local authenticity. The peaceful atmosphere here is a stark contrast to the busy city, making it a perfect spot for quiet contemplation.

Return Journey and Extra Details

After visiting the Big Buddha, the tour concludes with a scenic cable car ride back to Tung Chung. From there, travelers are transferred back to Tsim Sha Tsui, completing a full day of exploration.

Reviewers like Lucy appreciated the smooth organization and the value for money—noting that the trip covers a lot of ground without feeling rushed. The included wireless headsets help you catch every detail from your guide, which many found helpful, especially on busy roads or crowded sites.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Wear comfortable shoes — there’s a fair amount of walking at the Big Buddha and Tai O.
• Bring sun protection — a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are wise, especially during summer.
• Capture the moments — the views from the cable cars and mountain sites are picture-perfect.
• Stay flexible — the boat ride at Tai O is optional, but it adds a special touch to the experience, so consider doing it if possible.
• Expect some quiet moments — the sites are peaceful, so a respectful attitude enhances your visit.
• Check the weather forecast — clear days mean better views and a more enjoyable trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want to see some of Hong Kong’s most iconic landmarks without worrying about logistics. It’s ideal for those interested in cultural sites, scenic views, and local traditions, with enough comfort and guidance to make the day enjoyable. Perfect if you appreciate value for money and want to fit a lot into one day, especially if you prefer a structured itinerary with insightful guides.

It’s less suitable if you have mobility challenges or require a private, customizable experience, as the tour involves walking and group movement. Also, if you’re not comfortable with boat rides or outdoor walking, you might want to prepare accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cable car ride round trip?
Yes, the ticket includes both the ride to Ngong Ping and the return journey, with skip-the-line access to save time.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, but it does offer a vegetarian snack at Po Lin Monastery, which is a simple, peaceful addition to the visit. You can explore local eateries for a more substantial meal afterward.

Can I see Macau from the cable car?
You might catch a glimpse of Macau and the Hong Kong Airport during the ride, thanks to the panoramic views from the cable car.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, but keep in mind that it involves some walking and outdoor exposure. Very young children or those with mobility issues may find certain parts challenging.

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience usually lasts a full day, with pick-up, transfers, and the various stops included.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, multiple reviews praise guides like Jackie and Simon for their friendly, informative manner and ability to keep everyone engaged.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, water, and a camera are recommended for capturing the stunning scenery and ensuring comfort throughout.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The group setting and organized nature make it easy for solo travelers to join and enjoy the day.

What about the weather?
Check the forecast before your trip; clear days will enhance the views, especially from the cable car and mountain sites.

Final Thoughts

This tour combines convenience, stunning scenery, and cultural insights into a well-rounded day on Lantau Island. The inclusion of skip-the-line cable cars and a knowledgeable guide makes it a great choice for those who want to experience Hong Kong’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

Travelers who enjoy authentic cultural visits, scenic rides, and peaceful spiritual sites will find this experience both enriching and enjoyable. The feedback shows that many appreciate the friendly guides, beautiful views, and the value offered—making it a reliable choice for a memorable day.

While it’s not perfect for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues or seeking private tours—it offers excellent value for the general traveler looking to see Hong Kong’s natural and cultural gems in one accessible package.

In summary, if you want a well-organized, culturally immersive, and scenic introduction to Lantau Island, this tour delivers in spades. It’s especially suited for curious, adventurous travelers eager to step outside the city’s skyline and experience a quieter, more traditional side of Hong Kong.

You can check availability for your dates here: