Hong Kong New Territories & Lantau Island

Beyond the skyscraper canyons of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon lies a greener, wilder side of the city. The New Territories and Lantau Island offer a compelling blend of rural landscapes, ancient temples, and world-class attractions. Here, you can hike across mountain ridges, ride a cable car over the South China Sea, and explore fishing villages that seem frozen in time. This is Hong Kong at its most authentic and adventurous.

Highlights & What to See

• Tian Tan Buddha & Po Lin Monastery: Ascend 268 steps to the colossal bronze Buddha and wander through the ornate monastery complex on Lantau.
• Ngong Ping 360: A breathtaking cable car ride from Tung Chung to Ngong Ping, offering panoramic views of the airport, sea, and mountains.
• Tai O Fishing Village: Stilt houses, narrow alleyways, and a chance to spot pink dolphins on a boat tour – this is Hong Kong's 'Venice of the East'.
• Lantau Trail: A 70-km hiking trail that winds through forests, along coastlines, and up to Sunset Peak, perfect for day hikes or multi-day treks.
• Hong Kong Wetland Park: A serene haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers in the New Territories, with boardwalks and observation hides.
• Ping Shan Heritage Trail: A walk through centuries-old ancestral halls, temples, and watchtowers in the Yuen Long area.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least two full days to explore Lantau Island and the New Territories properly. Spend the first day on Lantau: take the cable car to Ngong Ping in the morning, visit the Buddha and monastery, then head to Tai O for lunch and a dolphin cruise. On the second day, explore the New Territories – hike part of the MacLehose Trail or visit the Wetland Park, followed by the Ping Shan Heritage Trail. If you have a third day, consider a longer hike on Lantau or a ferry to one of the outlying islands.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hong Kong Island: The bustling heart of the city, with Victoria Peak, Central, and Stanley.
• Kowloon: Home to the vibrant Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, night markets, and historic temples.
• Outlying Islands: Cheung Chau, Lamma, and Peng Chau offer laid-back escapes with seafood and hiking.
• Sai Kung: A scenic peninsula with excellent beaches, hiking trails, and seafood restaurants.
• Macau: A former Portuguese colony with a unique blend of European and Chinese culture, accessible by ferry.

Please check official sources for current details.