Hong Kong's Big Buddha

Launtau Island, home to one of the largest sitting Buddhas, possibly in the world (note: have fact-checking staff look into this). The big guy weighs in at 250 metric tons, and there’s a rumor that one of the most renowned features inside is a relic of Gautama Buddha, consisting of some of his alleged cremated remains.

The six other statues around it represent the “six perfections” of generosity, morality, patience, zeal, meditation, and wisdom, necessary for enlightenment in life.

From the top area, you can get an expansive view of the Po Lin Monastery grounds, from which I snapped this artsy photo some years ago.

The best way to get to this must-see of Hong Kong is by ferry from Central Ferry Pier, then by bus. On the return trip, take the hair-raising Ngong Ping 360 gondola ride back to Tung Chung and hop the MTR or Airport Express from there.