Lantau Tour - Tian Tan Buddha

The centre of Buddhism in Hong Kong is the Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island. The Tian Tan Buddha or more simply the 'Big Buddha' is situated near the Po Lin Monastery and is one of the stops on our Hello Hong Kong Lantau Tour. The Tian Tan translates to Alter of Heaven and the platform that the statue sits on represents that alter. Constructed from over 200 bronze pieces she is 34 meters (112ft) tall and weighs whooping 250 tons! The constructions began in 1990 and was completed on 29th December 1993. The date is very important, as it is believed to be the day of the Buddha's enlightenment!

Something very interesting one notices going up 268 (two hundred sixty eight!!!) steps to see the Buddha closely, is not only the disbelief how on earth one did not faint going up 😉  but also that every feature of the Buddha is a symbol of religious relevance. For example the positioning of the right hand means "fear not". The left hand rests on the Buddha's lap, palm facing up to heaven which represents "fulfilling wishes", implying the vow to grant blessing and happiness to all.

Take a Private Lantau Island Tour with us and you will come across more interesting details about the people of Hong Kong and their beliefs. Ask your Hello Hong Kong Tour Guide about the big fire of Tai O many hundreds years ago and the miracle that put it out... it's a very interesting story!

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