Big Buddha in Ngong Ping Village, Hong Kong
Ngong Ping Village is a serene place you can visit to experience the Traditional Hong Kong. It is also where the famous Big Buddha can be found.
Tradition in the air
Ngong Ping village has this old-fashion appeal that allows you to get a glimpse of traditional Hong Kong. This in itself makes this place very worthwhile to visit.
Even though this was my second time visiting the Big Buddha, I didn’t get to see this part. This explains why, upon setting foot on the village, I was immediately captivated by its beauty of. It felt like I was somehow transported back into time – well, perhaps partly, since there were a handful of modern elements infused.
As I start exploring the village, sudden waves of memories came flashing back as I felt a sense of familiarity, and then I realized that this experience reminded me of Japan’s Kyoto (read more) – the traditional elements, the serenity and the happiness. I almost cried (internally, of course).
Due to the magnificent beauty of the place, tourists and local alike can’t help but take photos -- either for artistic purpose or just for keeping memories. In fact, as we walked nearer the Big Buddha, more of the place’s beauty gradually and magically revealed itself.
All corners of the place can be a subject or backdrop of your photo. It's up to your creativity how you can create memories and capture them here in Ngong Ping Village.
Straight out of a movie scene
The fascination I have with the village was truly overwhelming. Even the street itself was like art to me – it made me think about the scenes found in well-loved Asian movies or series.
This further compelled us to take more photos as our appreciation of the place.
Temples, serenity and soul searching
Ngong Ping Village happens to also be a place of serenity, silence and meditation. Hence, if you feel like you need the “pray” element of “Eat-Pray-Love”, this may do the trick for you. The cool breeze matched with the serene ambiance will guide you in letting the thoughts flow, and in the process, find your inner peace.
If you feel like it’s not enough, you can visit the temple in giving gratitude, and offer prayers to lift up all the burden you may have been carrying with you.
Also, the climb to the Big Buddha can be an instrument of further clearing up your mind. All you have to do is to focus and meditate on each step you take.
Famous bean curd dessert
Once you are done ascending to the Big Buddha, you may want to chill and stop by the Deli Vegetarian Café. They serve here affordable local cuisine which includes this velvety bean curd dessert. Best of all, it’s just 12 HKD (approx. P80). After all, there’s also “eat” in “Eat-Pray-Love”.
After about 4 hours within the area, we all decided to go back and take some rest in preparation for our next adventures.
Ngong Ping Village Quick Guide
Things to see/do: Appreciate the traditional Hong Kong, experience the tranquility of the place and witness the Big Buddha
Budget needed: None unless if you are going to ride the Cable Car and/or have some snacks there
Is it wander-worthy? Definitely yes! This is the place where you will be fascinated with the incredible old-fashioned beauty of the village.
How to get there: You can take MTR going to Teung Cheung Station. From there, you can either take the cable car or ride the bus going to the village.
