In Three Days

While you could spend a third day -- and even a fourth and a fifth -- visiting more attractions and soaking up Hong Kong's lively street life, visitors with limited time in Hong Kong should consider an excursion to Lantau, home of a giant outdoor Buddha and adjoining monastery offering vegetarian lunches. Start: Central Ferry Piers.

1. Ferry to Lantau

Though you can now reach Lantau via MTR followed by cable car, I recommend the old-fashioned method of transportation -- the ferry -- on your outbound journey, where from the outdoor deck in deluxe class you're treated to great views along the way.

2. Bus to Ngong Ping Plateau

Bus no. 2 from Silvermine Bay (Mui Wo in Chinese) hurtles around hair-raising curves and up and down lush countryside on its 45-minute trip to Ngong Ping.

3. Giant Buddha

Built in 1993, this is the world's largest seated outdoor bronze Buddha. Climb 260-some steps to the viewing platform for sweeping views from Ngong Ping Plateau, 738m (2,460 ft.) above sea level.

Take a Break

Dining at Po Lin Monastery was a draw long before the Giant Buddha and other attractions came on the scene. There are two fixed-price vegetarian meals to choose from, served daily 11:30am to 4:30pm. Be sure to see the monastery's ornate temple, which houses three bronze statues of Buddha representing the past, present, and future. tel. 852/2985 5248.

4. Wisdom Path

Wooden pillars, placed in the form of a figure eight to symbolize infinity, display the Heart Sutra, a centuries-old prayer revered by Confucians, Buddhists, and Taoists alike.

5. Ngong Ping Village

Ngong Ping's newest attraction features "Walking with Buddha," a multimedia experience relating Siddhartha's path to enlightenment; "Monkey's Tale Theatre," which presents the parable of a selfish monkey who learns a powerful lesson about sharing and kindness; Ngong Ping Tea House, offering fine teas and cakes and demonstrations of traditional Chinese tea ceremonies; and restaurants and shops.

6. Ngong Ping Skyrail

This cable car travels 5.7km (3.5 miles) in about 25 minutes, providing panoramic views of Lantau, the South China Sea, and even the airport along the way.

Take the MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui.

Take a Break

Hong Kong's most famous spot for afternoon tea -- and people-watching -- is the ornate lobby of the venerable Peninsula hotel, built in 1928. A classical string quartet serenades as you feast on scones, finger sandwiches, pastries, and fine teas, served daily from 2 to 7pm. Located on the corner of Nathan and Salisbury roads. tel. 852/2920 2888.

Take the MTR to Central.

7. Lan Kwai Fong

It's a party scene every night in Lan Kwai Fong, Hong Kong's most famous nightlife district. Bars and restaurants beckon with open facades, and the action invariably spills out onto the streets.