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Big Buddha/cable car

Hi

We’re hoping to go visit the big Buddha from the airport on arrival in HK, using the cable car. As it will be mid afternoon, does this give us enough time to visit the Buddha and monastery? And do we have to book the cable car for a specific time if we book online beforehand?

Any advice appreciated

Visiting the Big Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha) and the Po Lin Monastery in Hong Kong from the airport in the mid-afternoon is doable, but you’ll need to manage your time carefully. The Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car ride takes about 25–30 minutes one way, and visiting the Buddha and monastery can take 1–2 hours depending on how much you explore.

Here are some details and tips to help plan your visit:

  • Time management: If you land in the afternoon, factor in immigration and luggage collection at the airport, which can take 30–60 minutes depending on your flight. From the airport, you can take the Airport Express to Tung Chung Station (~25 minutes), then a short walk to the cable car station.
  • Cable car ride: The standard Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car ride is around 25–30 minutes each way. If you book online beforehand, you usually select a time slot, which is recommended during peak periods to avoid long waits. During mid-afternoon, it is often less crowded, so walk-up tickets may also be available.
  • Visit duration: Once you reach Ngong Ping Village, walking up to the Big Buddha and visiting the Po Lin Monastery will typically take 1–2 hours. Consider that you’ll need additional time to return to the cable car and get back to Tung Chung or the airport.

Additional advice:

  • Check the cable car closing time; usually it is around 6 PM but varies by season.
  • If you are short on time, you can take the bus from Tung Chung to Ngong Ping instead of the cable car, which can save time, though you miss the scenic views.
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes, as there are some steps to climb at the Big Buddha site.

In summary, a mid-afternoon visit is possible, but you should allow roughly 3–4 hours for the full experience including transit. Booking the cable car online with a specific time is recommended if you want to secure your slot and avoid queues, especially during weekends or holidays.

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The attractions mentioned in this question

Ngong Ping
Po Lin Monastery

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