Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery

The Tian Tan Buddha, usually called the Big Buddha, sits on a hilltop on the Ngong Ping plateau of Lantau Island. The seated bronze figure is 34 metres high, weighs more than 250 tonnes and was cast in 202 pieces. Work began in 1990 and the statue was completed at the end of 1993. It sits on a lotus on top of a three-tiered altar and is surrounded by six smaller bronze figures known as the Offering of the Six Devas.

The statue was built as an extension of Po Lin Monastery, a Chan Buddhist monastery founded in 1906 by three monks from Jiangsu province. It began as a simple hut and took the name Po Lin in 1924. Its Main Shrine Hall holds three bronze Buddhas representing the past, present and future, and the complex is an active place of worship as well as a sight, so dress modestly and keep voices down inside the halls.

From the base, 268 steps lead up to the Buddha's platform, where the views take in the surrounding peaks and, on clear days, the sea. Viewing the statue from outside is free. The climb is steady rather than difficult, but there is little shade, so bring water and a hat in summer. Allow at least two hours for the statue and monastery, and most of a day if you combine them with the cable car ride.

The most scenic way up is the Ngong Ping 360 cable car from Tung Chung, which takes around 25 minutes. Alternatively, take the MTR to Tung Chung and New Lantao Bus route 23 to Ngong Ping, or a ferry from Central Pier 6 to Mui Wo followed by bus route 2. On misty days the statue can disappear entirely, so check the weather before you set out.

The site suits families, photographers and anyone interested in Buddhist culture. Ngong Ping Village, at the top of the cable car, has a visitor information centre with left luggage, which helps if you are travelling with bags. Weekends and Buddhist festivals are the busiest times, so a weekday visit is calmer.