Lantau Island’s Big Buddha, officially called the Tian Tan Big Buddha, was erected in 1993 as the world’s largest seated outdoor bronze Buddha. It has been one of Hong Kong’s biggest draws ever since, prompting the addition of more attractions on the Ngong Ping Plateau, including the nearby Ngong Ping Village with its shops, Buddhist-related attractions and cable car.

The idea for the statue came after monks from the nearby Po Lin Monastery visited Japan’s famous Great Buddha in Kamakura, followed by subsequent visits to famous Buddha statues in Taiwan and China. Made from 202 bronze pieces attached to a steel frame, the Tian Tan Buddha is more than 98 ft/30m tall and weighs 250 tons. Every feature of the statue is a religious symbol. The face is the embodiment of perfection, compassion and wisdom; the left hand, resting on the lap, is meant to convey happiness and the fulfillment of wishes to all.