Lantau's Dual Universe: From Frozen Magic to Zen Fishing Villages
A journey through Disneyland, the Big Buddha, and Tai O

Tian Tan Buddha, Ngong Ping, Lantau Island
Huangdan2060CC BY 4.0Wikimedia Commons
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Hong Kong's largest island, Lantau, offers the most dramatic contrasts in tourism. Home to the dreamiest new Disneyland expansion and the oldest stilt-house fishing village, this is a journey from extreme joy to absolute tranquility.
Many tourists in Hong Kong spend their days lost in the skyscrapers of HK Island or the malls of Kowloon, completely overlooking Lantau Island—which is twice the size of Hong Kong Island. Lantau possesses a dual personality: one side is a world-class theme park filled with laughter, while the other is anchored by centuries-old fishing villages and Buddhist sanctuaries.
Stepping into the Kingdom of Arendelle
Our journey begins at the newly opened World of Frozen in Hong Kong Disneyland. As the world's first and largest Frozen-themed land, stepping inside feels like entering the movie. With the majestic Ice Palace and Nordic-inspired architecture surrounding you, you are a guest at Arendelle's "Summer Snow Day." From the immersive roller coasters and boat rides to the perfectly themed menus and cast member costumes, it is a magical must-visit for families and Disney fans alike.
Soaring Above the Clouds on Ngong Ping 360
Leaving the magic behind, we take the MTR to Tung Chung to ride the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car. We highly recommend booking the "Crystal Cabin." With its fully transparent glass floor, you feel as though you are floating over the sparkling South China Sea and the lush Lantau Country Park. The 25-minute scenic ride brings you to the Ngong Ping Plateau. Here, you can climb 268 steps to worship the 34-meter-tall Tian Tan Buddha. Amidst the incense smoke and the distant bells of the Po Lin Monastery, you will find an indescribable sense of inner peace.
Tai O: Sunset in the Venice of Hong Kong
In the afternoon, catch a bus from Ngong Ping down a winding mountain road to the western tip of the island: Tai O Fishing Village. This is Hong Kong's last remaining settlement of traditional stilt houses. Built over the tidal flats, the waterways are lined with tin houses supported by wooden pillars. You can rent a small boat for a few dollars to navigate the canals and venture out to sea to spot the rare Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (pink dolphins). Back on land, grab some famous charcoal-grilled egg waffles, watch the elderly fishermen drying salted fish under the sunset, and experience the true essence of "Old Hong Kong."
Reaching Lantau is easy. Take the MTR Tung Chung Line to Sunny Bay Station, then transfer to the Disneyland Resort Line. To reach the cable car, get off at Tung Chung Station. From Ngong Ping to Tai O, take the New Lantao Bus No. 21 (approx. 20 mins).
The World of Frozen is extremely popular; consider buying an "Early Park Entry Pass" or Premier Access to save time. Most food stalls in Tai O only accept cash (HKD), so bring small bills.