🌿 【Lantau Trail – Section 4 (鳳凰徑第4段)】 offers a wonderfully relaxing journey after tackling the high-altitude summits. Setting off from Ngong Ping, the trail passes by the serene Wisdom Path and the majestic Tian Tan Buddha before winding gently down the lower slopes of Nei Lak Shan (Maitreya Hill). This section seamlessly blends cultural spirituality with natural beauty, serving as the perfect “breather section” of the entire Lantau Trail—allowing hikers to soak in the lingering presence of Lantau Peak while heading toward the quiet, mirror-like waters of Shek Pik Reservoir. The scenery along the way unfolds in beautiful layers: in the foreground, you’ll spot the towering wooden columns of the Wisdom Path and the bustling energy of Ngong Ping Village; looking out, the umbrella-shaped peak of Kwun Yam Shan commands the middle distance; while the jagged, saw-toothed ridges of Kau Nga Ling (Dog Teeth Range) and the sweeping horizon of Shek Pik Reservoir frame the distant background. Spanning roughly 5 kilometers and taking about 1 to 1.5 hours, this section consists of about 90% gentle downhill slopes, making it absolutely perfect for photography, quiet contemplation, or helping thru-hikers catch their breath and reset their pace. —
📌 Quick Facts
Item Details Starting Point The Phoenix Sunrise Arch at Ngong Ping, located right near the Wisdom Path Ending Point Sham Wat Road / Keung Shan Road junction Distance Approx. 4–5 km Duration Approx. 1–1.5 hours Distance Posts L027–L035 Difficulty Easy to Intermediate; 90% gentle descents and paved service roads, dropping from about 533m to 253m (an elevation drop of roughly 280m) Highlights Wisdom Path, Tian Tan Buddha, Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, Lantau Peak, Shek Pik Reservoir, and Kau Nga Ling —
🗺️ Route Highlights
- Wisdom Path: 38 massive wooden pillars arranged in an infinity symbol (“∞”) and carved with the complete text of the Heart Sutra, creating a beautiful fusion of philosophy and nature.
- Nei Lak Shan Country Trail: A scenic loop trail equipped with viewing platforms that serve up fantastic, bird’s-eye looks over Ngong Ping and the Big Buddha.
- Ngong Ping Village: An excellent rest and early-exit point packed with local eateries, cafes, and convenience stores.
- Tai Fung Au Pavilion: A roadside viewing area offering expansive vistas looking straight out at Dog Teeth Range and Shek Pik Reservoir.
- Sham Wat Road: Spotting the classic Lantau Trail stone archway marks the official completion of Section 4. From here, you can easily hop on a bus or keep the momentum going onto Section 5.
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🚍 Transport Info
- Getting to the Start (Ngong Ping): Hop on New Lantao Bus Route 23 (from Tung Chung), Route 2 (from Mui Wo), or Route 1R (from Hung Hom, Sundays/public holidays only). Alternatively, take the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car straight up.
- Getting from the End (Sham Wat Road): Catch New Lantao Bus Route 1 (Mui Wo – Tai O), Route 2 (Mui Wo – Ngong Ping), Route 11 (Tung Chung – Tai O), or Route 23 (Tung Chung – Ngong Ping).
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🍂 Seasonal Highlights
- Autumn Foliage (December): The leaves of the Sweet Gum trees along the trail blaze into vibrant shades of crimson and amber, creating a stunning visual treat.
- Spring & Summer Mists: When the seasonal low clouds roll in, Shek Pik Reservoir becomes shrouded in fog, looking like a mystical alpine lake.
- Crystal Clear Days: Offers wide-open panoramic views stretching all the way to the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and the vast South China Sea.
