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Lantau Peak
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Lantau Peak, known in Cantonese as Fung Wong Shan or "Phoenix Mountain," stands at 934 meters as the second-highest summit in Hong Kong. Located in the heart of Lantau Island, it is a key highlight of the 70-kilometer Lantau Trail. The peak is legendary for its sunrise views; hikers often begin their ascent from Ngong Ping in the early hours of the morning to reach the summit before dawn. The climb involves navigating thousands of steep stone steps, leading through open grasslands that offer unobstructed views of the South China Sea, the Chek Lap Kok International Airport, and the Big Buddha statue. The mountain's volcanic origins are reflected in its rugged terrain and thin soil, which supports a unique alpine-like vegetation adapted to the high winds.
- Location: Hong Kong SAR China
- Top sights: Ngong Ping SSSI · Lantau Peak · Po Lin Monastery Hua Yan Pagoda
- Nearby: Tai O (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 17 | 18 | 20 | 23 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 26 | 23 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 40 | 31 | 85 | 112 | 247 | 294 | 216 | 253 | 195 | 69 | 32 | 26 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Trekkers usually take a ferry or public bus to the island, subsequently accessing the challenging trailheads via local bus stops located strategically near the high mountain passes.
Best season
The reliably cool, dry climate of late autumn and winter is absolutely vital for safely attempting this grueling 934-meter climb, especially for the very popular sunrise ascents.
Terrain & paths
The physically punishing path to the second highest summit consists largely of massive, highly uneven stone steps that create a continuous, unrelenting, and steeply angled gradient.
What to bring
Specialized trekking footwear, abundant drinking water, and extra warm clothing are critical; a highly reliable headlamp is an absolute mandatory requirement for any night or sunrise hike.
Parking
Private vehicle access is heavily restricted and often strictly prohibited on the island's mountain roads, making absolute reliance on the comprehensive public bus system unavoidable.
Safety
The high altitude can bring extremely sudden fog and fierce winds; hikers must pace themselves very carefully on the giant stone steps to prevent severe, trip-ending knee or ankle injuries.
Time needed
A complete round trip covering both the physically demanding, steep ascent and the equally punishing, joint-jarring descent typically requires between four and six grueling hours.
Geography
Facts
- Height: 934 m (3,064 ft)
- Rank: Second highest peak in Hong Kong
- Part of Lantau South Country Park
- Climbing time: 3-4 hours
- Distance to summit: 5 km (3.1 mi) from trailhead
- Annual hiker count: over 50,000
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Lantau Peak (7)
Grand Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas
Large hall with thousands of Buddha statues at Po Lin Monastery.
Hall of Great Hero
Main assembly hall at Po Lin Monastery, central building.
Po Lin Monastery
Buddhist monastery in Hong Kong, China.
Tian Tan Buddha Statue
Second largest outdoor bronze Buddha statue in the world.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How high is Lantau Peak?
It is the second highest peak in Hong Kong, at 934 meters.
When should you start for the sunrise?
You should start around 4 AM from Ngong Ping.
Is the hike difficult?
Yes, it is very steep and strenuous; good physical fitness is required.
How do I get to the Ngong Ping starting point?
By the Ngong Ping 360 cable car or bus 23 from Tung Chung.
Are there shelters on the peak?
No, there are no shelters. Bring weather-resistant clothing with you.
Lantau Peak: where is it located?
Lantau Peak is located in Hong Kong SAR China.
Lantau Peak: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ngong Ping SSSI, Lantau Peak, Po Lin Monastery Hua Yan Pagoda.
Lantau Peak: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
Lantau Peak: why is it worth visiting?
Lantau Peak, known in Cantonese as Fung Wong Shan or "Phoenix Mountain," stands at 934 meters as the second-highest summit in Hong Kong.
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