2 Days Tour of Hong Kong & Lantau Island Culture

Highlights of the Trip 

Experience the true splendour of Hong Kong and fall in love with this extraordinary city in this 2 Day tour.  Immerse yourself in the authentic lifestyle of Hong Kong, listen to the fascinating tales of its history, and witness its stunning beauty. You will also explore Lantau Island, the largest outlying island in Hong Kong, and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. Step back in time as you visit Buddhist temples, traditional fishing villages, and take in breath-taking views of the ocean. With its picturesque hiking trails and gorgeous beaches, Lantau Island is a must-see destination.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Hong Kong

• Victoria Peak by Tram: The peak stands at an elevation of 552 meters, making it the highest peak on Hong Kong Island.
• Tin Hau Temple: Dedicated to Tin Hau, the goddess of the sea and protector of fishermen in Chinese culture.

Lantau Island

• Po Lin Monastery: A famous Buddhist temple located in the beautiful Ngong Ping plateau on Lantau Island in Hong Kong.
• Tian Tan Big Buddha: The statue stands at a staggering height of 34 meters and is made of bronze. It is said to be one of the tallest outdoor seated Buddha statues in the world.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Repulse Bay: One of the most popular and picturesque bays in Hong Kong, is a true gem of the city. Located on the south side of Hong Kong Island, this long sandy beach attracts locals and tourists alike with its pristine white sand, clear blue waters, and impressive views of the surrounding hills and islands. The name ‘Repulse Bay’ comes from the British warship HMS Repulse, which once docked in the bay. Today, the bay is a bustling hub of activity, with a variety of attractions and activities to offer.

Stanley Market: Renowned for its lively atmosphere, vibrant shopping scene and stunning views of the sea. The origins of Stanley Market can be traced back to the early 19th century when it served as a small fishing village. Over the years, it has evolved into a thriving hub for both locals and tourists alike. The market is a maze of narrow streets, lined with shops and stalls selling a variety of goods ranging from clothing, accessories, and souvenirs to antiques and artwork.

Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car: Offers an unforgettable experience that combines modern engineering with breath-taking natural scenery and traditional culture. The cable car system, built in 2006, stretches over 5.7 kilometers from Tung Chung town to the tranquil Ngong Ping Village, nestled at the foot of the majestic Lantau Peak. As you ascend to the top, you will be amazed by the aerial views of the South China Sea, the rolling green hills, and the iconic Tian Tan Buddha – a 34-meter tall bronze statue that is one of the largest of its kind in the world.

Tai O: A quaint and charming fishing village located on the western coast of Hong Kong’s Lantau Island. Known for its stilt houses, traditional seafood markets, and cultural heritage, Tai O is a complete contrast to the bustling metropolis of Hong Kong. With its unique culture and charm, Tai O has become a popular tourist destination for those seeking a more authentic experience of Hong Kong.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Hong Kong

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region, including dim sum, a style of Cantonese cuisine that originated in southern China. Dim sum is a meal consisting of bite-sized portions of food, typically served in steamer baskets or on small plates. Another popular dish in Hong Kong is roast meat, particularly the famous roasted duck and pork. The city is famous for its ‘siu mei‘ (roast meats) shops, where you can find succulent and crispy meats hanging in the windows.

Accommodation of this Tour

All Accommodation in a 4* Hotel.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hong Kong and Marvellous Views of Victoria Peak

First, you will experience the fastest and most picturesque way to reach the highest point on Hong Kong Island (at 552 meters) – Victoria Peak, by taking the legendary Peak Tram. This funicular railway has been operating for over 130 years, making it one of the world’s oldest. At the top, you will ascend to the Sky Terrace 428 observation deck, where you can enjoy astounding 360-degree views of the lively city – from the impressive skyline and Victoria Harbour to the serene green landscape. If you wish, you can take a leisurely stroll and capture some stunning photos.

Later, you will be driven away from the busy city centre to the ‘Hawaii of the Orient’ – Repulse Bay. This crescent-shaped beach is Hong Kong’s most famous, boasting a long coastline, soft sand, clear water, and pleasant temperatures. It is also home to some of the city’s wealthiest residents. Take in the beautiful sea view and visit the Tin Hau Temple, which faces the sea.

Then, continue your journey to Stanley Market, located on the south coast of Hong Kong Island. Enjoy browsing through various small stores selling fancy and unique goods, and if you want, you can purchase some souvenirs or relax at a seaside café or pub with a cup of coffee or beer – a perfect way to escape from the crowds.

After the tour, you will be driven back to your hotel in the downtown area. The rest of the afternoon and evening is yours to explore at your leisure.

In the late afternoon, we highly recommend taking in the breath-taking views of Victoria Harbour on both sides. Start by heading to Central, where you can marvel at the towering buildings, such as the Bank of China Tower, IFC, and HSBC Building, from up close. Then, make your way to the Central pier and hop on the iconic Star Ferry, which has been named one of National Geographic’s ’50 Places of A Lifetime to Visit.’ Enjoy a 10-minute ride across Victoria Harbour on the famous green and white ferry, and take some stunning photos of the stunning Hong Kong skyline. Once you reach Tsim Sha Tsui pier, take a leisurely stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and Avenue of Stars, where you can take in the magnificent views of Hong Kong Island across the harbour. If time permits, don’t miss the opportunity to catch the nightly ‘A Symphony of Lights’ show at 8:00 PM. After the show, make your own way back to your hotel.

Day 2: Lantau Island and Culture

Your morning will begin with a pick up from your hotel by your guide and driver after breakfast. From there, you’ll enjoy a 1-hour transfer to Tung Chung on Lantau Island, the largest outlying island of Hong Kong. Upon arrival, you’ll board the renowned Ngong Ping 360 cable car, known for its breath-taking views and considered one of the most spectacular cable car experiences in the world. During the 25-minute ride, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of Hong Kong International Airport, the vast South China Sea, the lush mountains of Lantau Island, and a 360-degree view of Ngong Ping Plateau.

Once you arrive at Ngong Ping Village, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the biggest Buddhist temple in Hong Kong – Po Lin Monastery. This magnificent complex includes prayer halls, shrines, courtyards, gardens, and a scripture library. Directly across from the monastery sits the Tian Tan Big Buddha, the largest seated bronze Buddha in the world standing at 34 meters tall. To fully appreciate its grandeur, you’ll need to climb 268 steps to reach the statue. From this vantage point, you can also take in the stunning views of the lush greenery of Lantau Island. If you’re up for a stroll, you can take a 20-minute walk to Wisdom Path, where you’ll see a series of 38 wooden steles arranged in the shape of an infinity symbol.

You will then ride a bus down to the Venice of Hong Kong – Tai O. This charming village, which has been around for over three centuries, still retains much of its historical charm, from its waterways and stilt houses to its fishing boats. You’ll have a chance to explore the village before taking a bus back to Tung Chung and heading back to your hotel.

Price

Price: From £661

– Price per person based on two-people group size.

– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing.

– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays.

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Summary

Day 1: Experience Victoria Peak’s stunning views, visit Repulse Bay and Tin Hau Temple, explore Stanley Market, then enjoy a ferry ride across Victoria Harbour for panoramic cityscapes.

Day 2: Embark on a cable car journey to Ngong Ping Village, visit Po Lin Monastery, see the Tian Tan Big Buddha, explore Tai O village, and return to your hotel after a day of cultural immersion.

FAQs

1. How long does the cable car ride to Ngong Ping Village take?

The cable car ride to Ngong Ping Village typically lasts about 25 minutes, offering stunning panoramic views along the way.

2. Are there any specific dress codes or guidelines for visiting Po Lin Monastery?

Visitors to Po Lin Monastery are encouraged to dress modestly out of respect for the religious site. It’s advisable to wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.

3. Can I take photos at Tai O village?

Yes, photography is permitted at Tai O village. It’s a great opportunity to capture the unique stilt houses, waterways, and traditional way of life in the village.

4. Is the Symphony of Lights show included in the tour?

The Symphony of Lights show is not included in the tour itinerary, but you’ll have the opportunity to catch the show independently if time permits during your free evening exploration.

5. What kind of transportation is used for the tour?

The tour utilizes a mix of private vehicles, cable cars, buses, and ferries to transport guests to various destinations, ensuring a comfortable and efficient travel experience.

Tour Map