🏙️ Hong Kong: top 15 places and entertainment for an unforgettable vacation 🇭🇰
Once a cluster of tranquil fishing villages on the coast of the South China Sea, Hong Kong is now a thriving cosmopolitan metropolis boasting the largest number of skyscrapers in the world. We have compiled a list of things to do in this ever-waking city.
Aqua Luna
Set sail at sunset around the harbor under the bright red sails of the Aqua Luna, a traditional Chinese wooden junk. This is the best way to enjoy bustling Victoria Harbor and the glittering Symphony of Lights show along the Hong Kong skyline.
Big Buddha
Big Buddha appeared in 1993. The 34-metre tall object is the world's largest outdoor bronze Buddha statue. The attraction, located on Lantau Island, can be reached by 268 stairs.
Or you can save your energy and enjoy panoramic views with a 25-minute ride on the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, which takes you right to the Big Buddha. Please note that all booths have glass bottoms.
Hong Kong park
Gardens and parks throughout the city offer a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The lush landscape of Hong Kong Park in the Central District contrasts with the surrounding concrete skyscrapers. The oasis of ponds, waterfalls, botanical, tai chi and ovier gardens is also home to a tea museum.
Zoo
The zoological and botanical garden appeared in 1860. This 5.6-hectare park in the Central District is the oldest in the territory. It is home to flamingos, Hawaiian geese and jay awli on the east side of the Old Garden and orangutans, gibbons and reptiles in the New Garden on the west side.
Ding-Ding
Hong Kong's famous double-decker tram system, which locals call Ding Ding because of the bell, has been operating on the island since 1904. The network carries 200 thousand passengers daily. It is also the largest in the world.
Islands
Hong Kong, the special administrative center, consists of 250 islands. 70 percent of them are green. Lamma Island has great hiking trails and fresh seafood. While on Lantau Island there is an airport and Big Buddha.
The local steep green hills are a paradise for hikers. The most popular route is considered to be the 8-kilometer “back of the dragon”. This is an accessible trail with stunning views of the coves, beaches and fishing villages of southern Hong Kong Island. It's best to go out early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds.
Church of St. John the Evangelist
The Church of St. John the Evangelist was opened 175 years ago. The cathedral is the oldest surviving western church building in the city. The beautiful cross-shaped church with Gothic architecture and a cream-colored façade is a tranquil oasis among the high-rise buildings of the Central District.
M+ Museum
M+ is the crown jewel of West Kowloon's new cultural district. M+ is more than an art museum. It presents visual culture, art, design, architecture. There is also a cinema, restaurants and a lounge for visitors.
Night markets
One of the city's largest and busiest night markets is Temple Street in Kowloon. There are more than 100 retail outlets open here every day from 18:00, selling everything from antiques to electronics. In the same market you can visit a fortune teller and try street food at rice and noodle stalls.
Cable car ride
The journey on one of the oldest funicular railways in the world takes just eight minutes. The tram will take you 1396 meters above sea level. And there the breathtaking views will make you linger at the top. This is the best place for a stunning selfie or city panorama.
Octopus cards are accepted for payment. This is a pass for all types of transport: buses, ferry, metro. The card can also currently be used to pay in retail stores.
PMQ
The PMQ building was previously a dormitory for officers working at the nearby police station. It is now a true hub of design studios and ateliers, housing 100 local artists and artisans. Today, PMQ is a great place to find unique, locally made items.
Rooftop bars
The city is full of skyscrapers with open roofs. But the most remarkable thing is the roof of The Ritz-Carlton, the tallest building in the city and the tallest hotel in the world. The bar on the breathtaking outdoor terrace on the 118th floor is also the highest in height.
Wine and Dine Festival
The popular gastronomic wine and food festival takes place outdoors on the central harbour. Open Air returned to the culinary capital of Asia in 2023 after five years. The four-day festival will take place in November.
What to try?
Tiny street cafes like Lan Fong Yuen serve “pantyhose oolong”—essentially tea leaves in silk bags. Tea is usually accompanied by egg pie – a silky puff pastry filled with custard. You can get it from the famous Tai Cheong Bakery. Xiao Long Bao are also popular – these tasty little steamed buns are offered at street food stalls around the city and even at airports. Read more about local popular dishes in this publication.