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

If you’re visiting Hong Kong and want to explore beyond the glittering city skyline, the Lantau VIP Priority Cable Car, Big Buddha & Tai O tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s serene landscapes and traditional villages. For $92 per person, you’ll journey from downtown Hong Kong via a comfortable, air-conditioned coach to Lantau Island, where the day unfolds with stunning views, cultural sites, and local flavor.

What we love most about this experience are the skip-the-line cable car ride—which gives you more time to enjoy the sights—and the small group atmosphere, often praised for guides like Jackie and Simon, who keep things lively and informative. Plus, the chance to visit Tai O fishing village with an optional boat ride adds a touch of authentic fishing heritage that’s tough to find elsewhere.

One thing to consider is that this tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users, mainly because of the walking involved and the nature of some attractions. Still, if you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and culturally enriching day, this tour fits the bill nicely—especially for those who love panoramic views, local stories, and visiting iconic landmarks.

This trip is especially ideal for travelers who want a mix of nature, culture, and convenience—it’s perfect if you prefer guided experiences that take care of transportation and logistics, leaving you free to soak it all in.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation from downtown Hong Kong saves hassle and time.
• Skip-the-line cable car tickets allow more time at the main attractions.
• Authentic visit to Tai O, including optional boat rides, offers a glimpse into traditional fishing life.
• Guides like Jackie and Simon are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness.
• The view of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge from the cable car is a highlight.
• The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery are awe-inspiring sites, worth the visit for their serenity and scale.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated itinerary that balances natural beauty, cultural heritage, and practical convenience. Starting right in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, the deluxe coach whisks you away to Lantau Island, a journey that’s both comfortable and scenic. The transport is air-conditioned, making the roughly one-hour drive pleasant, especially if you prefer to relax before your adventure begins.

The Cable Car Ride: A View to Remember

The real star of this trip is the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car. We loved how the priority access meant no queues, a real plus during busy seasons. As you glide over lush forests, mountain peaks, and the vast waters of the South China Sea, you’ll get plenty of photo opportunities. The views are so spectacular that even locals mention how this ride ranks among the world’s most incredible. You might catch a glimpse of the Hong Kong Airport, the bridge to Macau, and distant islands—an aerial picture that sticks with you.

The cable car ride is a highlight for many travelers, as confirmed by reviews, with guests noting the panoramic scenes and the convenience of round-trip tickets included in the tour. The ride also offers an opportunity for quiet reflection or snapping photos, so bring your camera and some patience for that perfect shot.

Visiting the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery

Once you arrive at Ngong Ping Village, the next stop is the Big Buddha (Tian Tan). Its majestic stature, set against mountain vistas, makes it one of Hong Kong’s most recognizable symbols. We appreciated how the tour guides explain the significance of the site, making it more meaningful than just a photo op.

Adjacent to the Buddha is the Po Lin Monastery, a peaceful spot where you can enjoy a light vegetarian meal if you’ve opted for the lunch. Many reviews mention that the serene atmosphere and the chance to sit quietly amidst the monastery’s gardens add a spiritual dimension to the visit. It’s a good break from sightseeing, offering a moment of calm and reflection.

Tai O Fishing Village: Tradition Meets Charm

After exploring the religious sites, the tour takes you to Tai O, a village that feels worlds away from Hong Kong’s urban chaos. Known for its stilt houses and fishing heritage, Tai O provides a authentic slice of local life. You’ll get a transfer to the village, and if you’re up for it, you can take an optional boat ride around the stilt houses, which many find quite memorable.

Guests consistently praise the boat ride, with some mentioning the possibility of spotting pink dolphins—a rare and delightful sight. Even without the dolphins, the boat offers a close-up view of the traditional fishing community and an opportunity to see Hong Kong’s maritime culture in action.

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Ending the Day: Return Cable Car & Transfer

The back half of the journey features a scenic cable car ride from Tai O back to Tung Chung, where your coach picks you up for the return trip to Hong Kong. Many reviews thank the guides for their well-paced schedule and attention to timing, though some note that the tour ends back in the city rather than at their hotel, which could require an extra step to reach your accommodation.

What the Tour Means for You

This experience packs a lot into a single day—scenery, spirituality, and local flavor—delivered with expert guidance. The value lies not just in the sights but in the smooth logistics, making it accessible even if you’re not familiar with Hong Kong’s public transportation. The included skip-the-line cable car tickets are a real time saver, especially during busy periods.

The guides often receive high praise, with descriptions like “friendly,” “knowledgeable,” and “attentive,” which helps make the day feel personal rather than just another group tour. The optional boat ride at Tai O is particularly valued by those seeking a more immersive look at the fishing lifestyle, adding a layer of authenticity that many travelers cherish.

On the downside, the tour may feel rushed if you want to spend extra time at each site. Also, it’s not suitable for those with mobility challenges, given the walking involved and the nature of some attractions. Still, for active travelers who enjoy scenic vistas, cultural sites, and well-organized tours, this experience offers excellent value.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience of some of Hong Kong’s most iconic and picturesque spots without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. It suits those interested in cultural exploration, scenic views, and local traditions, especially if they appreciate good guides and comfortable transportation.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, and want to see the Big Buddha, experience a traditional fishing village, and ride a cable car with minimal fuss, this tour covers it all. It’s especially worthwhile if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful taste of Lantau Island.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Wear comfortable shoes because there’s some walking involved, especially around the sites.
• Bring your camera, hat, and sunscreen to stay protected and capture the scenery.
• The vegetarian snack at the monastery is an optional treat, so check if it’s included when booking.
• The tour does not include the dolphin-watching cruise, so if that’s your priority, look for other options.
• The meeting point is at the Kowloon Hotel entrance in Tsim Sha Tsui, accessible via MTR.
• The tour isn’t wheelchair friendly, so plan accordingly if needed.
• Remember to check the weather forecast—clouds or rain can obscure the views or make walking slippery.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, your round-trip transfer from downtown Hong Kong to Lantau Island is included, with air-conditioned coach service.

Can I skip the boat ride at Tai O?
Yes, the boat ride at Tai O is optional. You can choose to explore the village on foot instead.

What’s the value of the cable car ticket?
The ticket is round-trip and skip-the-line, saving you time and hassle while offering breathtaking views over the island and beyond.

Are vegetarian meals included?
Yes, a vegetarian snack at Po Lin Monastery is included if you select that option during booking.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
While generally family-friendly, it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking and site access.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience typically lasts a full day, with pick-up and return to central Hong Kong locations.

Can I book this tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility to plan your trip.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a thoughtfully arranged day that combines stunning landscapes, cultural insights, and ease of access, this VIP Lantau tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those eager to see Hong Kong’s spiritual sites and traditional villages without the stress of navigating public transport or crowded attractions.

While not the most budget-friendly option, the convenience and depth of experience make it a worthwhile investment for travelers who value guide-led adventures, scenic rides, and authentic cultural exposure. The knowledgeable guides, especially Jackie and Simon, make a difference, adding stories and humor that bring the sights to life.

For anyone who loves panoramic views, peaceful temples, and a taste of local life, this tour offers a memorable day that balances natural beauty with cultural heritage. It’s a way to see a different side of Hong Kong—calm, scenic, and surprisingly charming.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this tour provides a comprehensive, enjoyable way to deepen your understanding of Hong Kong’s diverse landscape and traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: