1. What is the history behind the construction of Big Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha) in Hong Kong?
Big Buddha, also known as Tian Tan Buddha, is a large bronze statue located on Lantau Island in Hong Kong. It was constructed in 1993 and officially opened to the public in 1997. The statue was built to commemorate the harmonious relationship between man and nature, and to promote Buddhism in the region.
However, the idea for constructing Big Buddha can be traced back to the 1970s when a group of Buddhists sought to build a large iconic figure for Hong Kong. It was not until 1986 that plans for building the statue were finalized, with funds being raised by donations from local residents and various Buddhist organizations.
The construction of Big Buddha took seven years and involved over twelve-thousand workers. The statue stands at 112 feet tall and weighs 202 tons, making it one of the largest seated outdoor bronze Buddhas in the world.
Today, Big Buddha has become a popular tourist attraction in Hong Kong, drawing millions of visitors every year. It is also an important religious site and a symbol of Buddhism’s rise in Hong Kong.
2. How tall is the Big Buddha and what materials were used to build it?
The Big Buddha is 85 feet tall. It is made of bronze and steel.
3. Can visitors enter inside the Big Buddha structure or is it just for viewing from outside?
Visitors are allowed to enter inside the Big Buddha structure at some locations, such as the one in Hong Kong. However, for some other Big Buddha structures around the world, visitors are only able to view them from the outside and cannot go inside. It ultimately depends on the specific location and structure being visited.
4. Are there any other attractions surrounding Big Buddha that one can visit?
Yes, there are several other attractions near Big Buddha that visitors can explore. These include the Po Lin Monastery, Ngong Ping Village, Wisdom Path, and Tai O fishing village. Each of these places offers a unique cultural experience and stunning views of the surrounding area. Additionally, visitors can also take the Ngong Ping Cable Car to access Big Buddha and enjoy panoramic views of Lantau Island.
5. What is the significance of the 108 small bronze statues that surround the Big Buddha?
The 108 small bronze statues around the Big Buddha represent the 108 human emotions that are believed to be a barrier to enlightenment in Buddhism. They also serve as a reminder for visitors to work towards overcoming these emotions and achieving inner peace.
6. What is the best way to reach Big Buddha? Is there any public transportation available?
The best way to reach Big Buddha would depend on your starting location. However, if you are in Hong Kong, the most common and convenient way is to take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car from Tung Chung MTR station. Alternatively, you can also take bus route 23 from Tung Chung or routes 2 and 21 from Tai O. There is also a ferry service from Central Pier 6 to Mui Wo and then you can take a bus or taxi to Big Buddha. Overall, there are various public transportation options available to reach Big Buddha.
7. Is there an entrance fee to visit the Big Buddha and its surroundings?
Yes, there is an entrance fee to visit the Big Buddha and its surroundings. The exact amount may vary depending on the specific location, but typically there is a small fee to cover maintenance and upkeep costs.
8. Can one climb up to the top of the Big Buddha or access it by stairs?
Yes, one can climb up to the top of the Big Buddha by using the stairs that lead up to it.
9. How long does it take to tour around the entire area of Big Buddha and its surroundings?
The answer to this question varies depending on the pace of the tour and the specific areas that are included. On average, a tour around Big Buddha and its surroundings can range from half a day to a full day. Some tours may also offer longer or shorter options based on individual preferences. It is recommended to allocate ample time for the tour to fully appreciate and explore the beauty of this area.
10. Is taking a cable car ride part of the experience when visiting Big Buddha?
Yes, taking a cable car ride is often considered an important part of the experience when visiting Big Buddha. The cable car offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and provides a unique way to ascend to the statue itself. Visitors can also opt for alternative transportation methods such as buses or taxis, but many choose to take the cable car for its scenic route and convenient access.
11. Are there any restaurants or food options near Big Buddha for visitors to grab a bite?
Yes, there are several restaurant and food options near Big Buddha for visitors to grab a bite. Some popular choices include the Po Lin Monastery Vegetarian Restaurant, Ngong Ping Garden Restaurant, and the Seven Eleven Convenience Store. Additionally, there are many street vendors and market stalls selling local snacks and treats in the area.
12. Is photography allowed inside and around Big Buddha?
Yes, photography is allowed inside and around Big Buddha.
13. Are there any religious ceremonies or rituals that take place at Big Buddha?
Yes, there are several religious ceremonies and rituals that take place at Big Buddha, primarily in the form of offerings, prayers, chanting, and incense burning. These practices are rooted in Buddhism and are often performed by visitors and monks to show reverence to the statue. Additionally, there are special events held throughout the year such as Vesak Day and Chinese New Year where larger scale ceremonies may take place.
14. What are some recommended souvenirs to purchase at or around the site of Big Buddha?
Some recommended souvenirs to purchase at or around the site of Big Buddha include incense, prayer beads, miniature buddha statues, traditional Chinese paintings or calligraphy, and keychains or magnets featuring images of the Big Buddha. You could also consider purchasing local handicrafts or specialty foods such as sesame candies or handmade pastries from nearby shops.
15. Are there any specific rules or dress codes that visitors should follow when visiting this religious landmark?
Yes, visitors should follow the specific rules and dress codes set by the religious authorities when visiting this religious landmark. This may include covering one’s head or removing shoes before entering, dressing modestly, and refraining from loud or disruptive behavior. It is important to respect the traditions and customs of the religious site to show reverence and courtesy.
16. What are some interesting facts about the architecture or design of Big Buddha?
1. Big Buddha, also known as the Tian Tan Buddha, is located on Lantau Island in Hong Kong and is one of the largest seated bronze Buddha statues in the world.
2. The construction of Big Buddha began in 1990 and was completed in 1993. It took around 12 years to plan and build.
3. The statue stands at a height of 112 feet (34 meters) and weighs a staggering 250 metric tons.
4. The base of the statue is made of 202 bronze pieces while the body is made of stainless steel framework.
5. To build the statue, more than 200 skilled workers had to work tirelessly for two years, using traditional techniques to create the mold and castings.
6. The design of Big Buddha was inspired by a famous Buddhist scripture known as “The Sutra of Immeasurable Life”. This explains why the statue sits atop a lotus throne with its right hand raised to offer blessings and its left hand resting on its lap holding an “Alms Bowl”.
7. A staircase with 268 steps leads from the base of Big Buddha to its top, offering visitors stunning views of Lantau Island along the way.
8. Surrounding the base of Big Buddha are six smaller bronze statues called “The Offerings of Devotion”. Each statue offers different offerings, such as flowers, incense, music, fruits, lamps, and ointment.
9. Inside the statue’s body is a three-story exhibition hall which houses various religious artifacts and relics brought over from Mainland China by monks.
10.The architectural design blends traditional Chinese cultural elements such as religious symbolism with modern engineering techniques to create a harmonious blend between tradition and modernity.
17. Can one see views of Hong Kong city from on top of or around Big Buddha?
Yes, one can see views of Hong Kong city from on top of or around Big Buddha. The Giant Buddha statue, also known as Tian Tan Buddha, is located on Lantau Island in Hong Kong and stands at 34 meters tall. Visitors can climb the 268 steps to reach the base of the statue and can also take a cable car ride to get panoramic views of the city below. Additionally, there are several viewing platforms around Big Buddha that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and city skyline.
18. Is there a specific time or season when visiting Tian Tan Buddha is considered particularly scenic?
Yes, visiting Tian Tan Buddha during sunrise or sunset offers stunning views and is often considered the most scenic time to visit.
19.Can children visit and appreciate Big Buddha as well, or is it more suitable for adults?
Yes, children can visit and appreciate Big Buddha as well. While it may be more suitable for adults in terms of understanding the cultural significance and history behind it, children can still enjoy its grandiose size and peaceful atmosphere. Plus, the surrounding area offers activities such as a wildlife park and cable car ride that may be more appealing to younger visitors.
20.What are some common misconceptions about Tian Tan Buhhda that tourists have before visiting?
Some common misconceptions about Tian Tan Buddha that tourists may have before visiting include:
1. It is the largest Buddha statue in the world: While it is one of the largest outdoor bronze statues of the Buddha, it is not the largest in the world.
2. The statue is ancient: In fact, construction of Tian Tan Buddha began in 1990 and was completed in 1993.
3. Tourists can climb up to sit next to the Buddha: Visitors are able to climb up roughly two-thirds of the way to a certain point on the platform where they can take photos with the statue, but do not sit next to it.
4. The Buddha represents all forms of Buddhism: The statue represents a specific school of Buddhism, known as Mahayana Buddhism, practiced primarily in East Asia.
5. It is only accessible by cable car: While taking a cable car is one option for reaching Tian Tan Buddha, there are also hiking trails available for those who prefer a more active approach.
6. There are no entry fees: There is a small admission fee for entering the Ngong Ping Village area where Tian Tan Buddha is located.
7. There are no rules or etiquette when visiting: Visitors are expected to dress modestly and adhere to respectful behavior while visiting Tian Tan Buddha out of respect for its religious significance.
8. It is just a tourist attraction: While it certainly attracts tourists, Tian Tan Buddha remains an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and should be treated with reverence and respect.
9. It can be visited at any time: As with most religious sites, there are designated hours for visiting Tian Tan Buddha which vary depending on the season and day of week.
10. Visiting during peak season will guarantee seeing everything: Even during peak season, there may be long lines and crowds at Tian Tan Buddha which could impact viewing time or lead to inability to explore other attractions in Ngong Ping.