Your complete guide to must-visit attractions in Hong Kong, including opening hours, tickets, and tips.
For more recommendations, see the full guide.
When it comes to Hong Kong's outlying islands, many visitors immediately think of sunshine, beaches, and sea breezes. However, what truly makes these islands special is not just the scenery—it's the ritualistic journey that begins at Central Pier. Serving as the transportation hub between Hong Kong Island and the major outlying islands, Central Pier is more than just a boarding point; it's an excellent place to experience Hong Kong's marine transportation culture.
Located in the coastal area of Central and Western District on Hong Kong Island, the pier is close to Hong Kong Station and the Exchange Square. The pier itself has undergone several reconstructions, and the current building combines modern facilities with some historical elements. Standing on the pier's promenade, you can simultaneously view the skyline of Kowloon across the water and the silhouettes of distant islands—a visual contrast between "city and ocean" that is uniquely Hong Kong. The pier is divided into multiple numbered berths, each serving different ferry routes; passengers can choose the appropriate boarding gate based on their destination.
The main islands accessible from Central include Lantau Island, Cheung Chau, Lamma Island, and Ping Chau—with Lantau Island being the largest and internally divided into multiple areas, offering the most flexible itinerary. Each of these islands has a distinct character—Cheung Chau preserves a rich traditional fishing village atmosphere, Lamma Island is known for its leisurely hiking environment, and Lantau Island combines modern facilities with natural landscapes. Below is an in-depth introduction to each island's characteristics and recommended attractions.
Lantau Island: Diverse Experiences from Ngong Ping to Tai O
Lantau Island is Hong Kong's largest island, covering a vast area with widely distributed internal attractions, suitable for a one- or two-day itinerary. Take a ferry from Central to Mui Wo on Lantau Island (approximately 35-55 minutes), or opt for the Airport Express connecting bus to Tung Chung, then transfer to buses heading to various attractions.
The Tian Tan Buddha (Bronze Buddha) at Ngong Ping is the most iconic attraction on the journey. Take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car to Ngong Ping Square, where the solemn bronze Buddha stands on the platform, reaching a height of 34 meters. Operating hours are from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM daily. One-way cable car tickets cost approximately HK$150, round-trip approximately HK$220—if weather permits, the cable car ride itself is a visual delight—overlooking the airport runway and coastline from above, the scenery exceeds many travelers' expectations.
…
