Choose from 356 Fun Things to Do in China
ShowingFilter 141-160 of 356 listings.
Ocean Park
One part theme park, one part zoo, and another part aquarium, Ocean Park dominates a southerly peninsula on the rocky coast of Hong Kong Island. The 170-acre (69-hectare) park includes eight themed areas with more than a dozen rides, from roller coasters to water flumes and the thrilling 20-story Abyss tower. The park also features a suite of wildlife exhibits (including one of the world’s largest domed aquariums) interspersed between smaller rides, shops, and entertainment pavilions. An aerial cable car ride, lasting about eight minutes, transports visitors between AquaCity in the park’s lower level, to the coasters at The Summit of Thrill Mountain.
Regional animal highlights include bizarre Chinese sturgeon, two giant pandas, Sichuan golden snub-nosed monkeys, a marsh filled with endangered Chinese alligators, and displays of ornate—and downright kooky—goldfish. But there are also plenty of creatures from further afield, like the exhibits on the North and South poles featuring arctic foxes, penguins, and sea lions. While the park does offer several animal encounters for additional fees—including dolphin swims (from $152)—these experiences are not offered by Viator.
Practical Info
Ocean Park is accessible from mainland Hong Kong by public transit via the Tsuen Wan line and the South Island line. The park is open daily with hours changing throughout the week and year; the fee-based parking lot is open from 9am until 30 minutes after the park closes. Admission costs 438 HKD ($56.50) for adults and 219 HKD ($28) for children ages 3 to 11.
Address: 180 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Hong Kong, China
Hours: Vary
Admission: 438 HKD ($56.50)
From $ 53
North Point
North Point is a district on Hong Kong Island’s eastern side, projecting out towards Kowloon Bay across the river. It’s situated between Causeway Bay and Quarry Bay.
North Point is a traditional neighborhood with family-run eateries and bustling wet markets surviving side by side with a smattering of chain stores and modern gyms. Although the area has little in the way of typical tourist attractions, many visitors are drawn to North Point for its affordable shopping, old-style restaurants, and old-world atmosphere.
The neighborhood is easily accessible too, with an MRT station and the tram (or ‘Ding Ding’) both making it easy for visitors to reach. Those who get a good spot on the double-decker tram (at the front of the top deck) will see local life, such as the traditional markets, unfold before their eyes on the approach to North Point.
Practical Info
To reach North Point by metro, take the Island Line or Tseung Kwan O line on the MRT. Alternatively, opt for the scenic route by taking the tram, which stops at various places throughout the neighborhood.
Address: North Point, Eastern District, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Island, China
From $ 43
Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Hu Qing Yu Tang Chinese Medicine Museum)
The Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine—located off Hangzhou’s historic Qinghefang Ancient Street—is a part of Hu Qing Yu Tang, a still functioning pharmacy from the Qing dynasty. Learn about traditional Chinese medicine while appreciating the historic architecture of the 29,000-square-foot (2,700-square-meter) complex.
The Basics
Hu Xueyan, a prominent businessman from the late Qing dynasty, founded Hu Qing Yu Tang in 1874. The museum was established in 1987 and has five parts: the Exhibition Hall, the Medicine Preparation Hall, the Chinese Health Care Clinic, the Restaurant of Medicinal Diet, and the Sales Department. There are numerous displays on different types of Chinese medicine, their component parts, as well as treatises on Chinese medicine going back thousands of years. Visitors can also learn about traditional pharmaceutical processes and even try their hand at preparing medications.
Hu Qing Yu Tang is easy to locate on Qinghefang Ancient Street. However, visitors may gain more insight from a guided tour, which will also typically cover other nearby attractions, such as the China National Silk Museum and Leifeng Pagoda.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The museum is a must-visit for those with an interest in traditional Chinese medicine.
- There is an entrance fee for the museum.
- Displays of dead animals and animal parts may disturb some people, especially young children.
How to Get There
Hu Qing Yu Tang is located at 95 Dajing Lane, off Qinghefang Ancient Street, east of West Lake (about a 20-minute walk) and at the foot of Wushan Hill. Take Metro line 1 to Ding’an Road (Exit C) and walk 10 minutes to the south, or bus nos. 8, 60, 127, 195, 208, or 216.
When to Get There
Hu Qing Yu Tang is open year-round. Museum staff typically provide a presentation, which is available in Chinese and English, at 9:15am, 10:15am, 1:15pm, 2:15pm and 3:15pm. Pharmaceutical process demonstrations can be requested at any time.
Hu Qing Yu Tang Chinese Health Clinic
Hu Qing Yu Tang also has a functional health clinic. Those who are interested can try a foot massage, Tui Na massage, acupressure, cupping, and other traditional Chinese medicine treatments. Prescriptions can then be filled at the on-site pharmacy.
Address: No.78-10,Hanghai Road, Hangzhou, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 75
Mid-Levels Escalators
In Hong Kong’s South of Hollywood (SoHo) neighborhood, you’ll find the largest network of outdoor covered escalators on earth, known simply as the Central Escalators (or Mid-Levels Escalators). The series of 20 escalators and three inclined walkways stretch 2,625 feet (800 meters) with a 443-foot (135-meter) total vertical rise. This unusual Hong Kong attraction ferries more than 50,000 commuters and tourists between Central and the Mid Levels each day, moving downhill for four hours in the morning then uphill for the rest of the day.
The ride takes about 25 minutes one way, but part of the fun is getting off at the various stops to explore these busy Hong Kong neighborhoods. The streets and alleys to either side of the escalators, particularly at the Staunton Street and Shelley Street stops, are lined with bars and restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world. If you’re planning to travel up, start from the elevated walkway passing over Queen’s Road in Central District. Once you make it to the top of the system at Conduit Road, you can either walk back to the bottom or catch a bus or taxi to your next destination.
The ride takes about 25 minutes one way, but part of the fun is getting off at the various stops to explore these busy Hong Kong neighborhoods. The streets and alleys to either side of the escalators, particularly at the Staunton Street and Shelley Street stops, are lined with bars and restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world. If you’re planning to travel up, start from the elevated walkway passing over Queen’s Road in Central District. Once you make it to the top of the system at Conduit Road, you can either walk back to the bottom or catch a bus or taxi to your next destination.
Address: China
From $ 57
Plover Cove Reservoir
The Plover Cove Reservoir was built within Hong Kong Geopark in 1968 by constructing a barrier across the mouth of a bay and siphoning out seawater while replacing it with freshwater from the mainland. It’s the largest reservoir in Hong Kong by area and the first in the world to be made from part of the ocean.
Today, Hong Kong residents and visitors alike head to the area surrounding the reservoir for hiking and mountain biking in one of the city’s least populated areas, far from the concrete jungle of central Hong Kong. Various paths are suitable for different ability levels, and nearly all afford stellar views of the reservoir.
Practical Info
Access Plover Cove Reservoir by taking public transportation to the village of Tai Mei Tuk, where you can rent bikes or head out on food to the Plover Cove Country Park Visitor Centre, where you’ll find the trailhead to Pat Sin Leng Nature Trail.
Address: Shuen Wan, Hong Kong, China
From $ 98
Ming Tombs (Ming Shisan Ling)
A series of temple-like structures and burial mounds, the Ming Tombs contain the remains of 13 of the 16 emperors who ruled China during the Ming Dynasty (1368 to 1644). Visitors come from all over to see the imperial grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site and learn about the cultural importance of ancestor worship.
The Basics
Of the 13 tombs, three are open to the public and accessible via a statue-lined path called the Sacred Way, where the carvings of mythical animals and legendary figures are believed to ward off evil spirits. The Ming Tombs Museum sits just behind the ticket office and offers a short introduction to each of the 13 entombed emperors. Due to their proximity to portions of the Great Wall of China, the Ming Tombs are often included as a stop on tours to the Great Wall at Badaling, Mutianyu, or even Juyongguan.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Ming Tombs are a must-see for history buffs.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk; the site is vast and spread out.
- The above-ground tourist routes at the Ming Tombs are wheelchair accessible.
- Small-group and private tours to the Ming Tombs and Great Wall can last upwards of eight hours.
How to Get There
The Ming Tombs are located about 30 miles (50 kilometers) northwest of Beijing. To arrive by public transit, take bus 919 from De Sheng Men Xi station, get off at Chang Ping Xi Guan station, and take bus 314 to the Dingling Tomb or Changling Tomb station.
When to Get There
As one of Beijing’s most popular tourist sites, the Ming Tombs can get quite crowded during the summer tourist season and Chinese public holidays. In summer, arrive first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon to beat the crowds. For the best weather and manageable crowds, plan to visit on a spring or autumn weekday.
Which Tombs to Visit
Of the three tombs open to the public, the Changling tomb built for Emperor Yongle is the largest and best preserved. It’s been described as a Forbidden City in miniature. The Dingling tomb of Emperor Zhu Yijun is most famous for its Underground Palace, where his original thrones still stand. Emperor Longqing’s Zhaoling tomb is the smallest and least visited tomb, notable for its above-ground architecture.
Address: Changchi Road, Changping Qu, Northern China 102213, China
Hours: 8am - 5:30pm
Admission: CNY 20+
From $ 25
Kowloon
Situated on the mainland facing Hong Kong Island across Victoria Harbour, Kowloon represents Hong Kong’s jam-packed, slightly grittier side with highlights including night markets, museums, and shopping. The districts of Kowloon rank among the most interesting in the city, offering a glimpse at what working class Hong Kong is all about; the Yau Ma Tei and Mong Kok districts are densely populated.
The Basics
There are as many ways to explore Kowloon as there are things to do there. The night markets of the Kowloon Peninsula are famous for their street food, making a Cantonese food tour an appealing option for hungry travelers, and most city sightseeing tours include stops in Kowloon, including the blue route of the hop-on hop-off bus. Explore the museums of Tsim Sha Tsui, view the impressive Hong Kong skyline from the waterfront, visit old Buddhist temples, or indulge in some retail therapy in the collection of shops and businesses along Nathan Road’s Golden Mile.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visit to Kowloon is essential for understanding Hong Kong.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do quite a bit of walking.
- Demystify the tightly packed maze of streets with a guided Kowloon tour.
- It’s a good idea to carry a small umbrella, as sudden rainfall is frequent in Hong Kong.
How to Get There
Kowloon is well serviced by local transportation; several MTR lines service the neighborhood, including the red line that crosses beneath Victoria Harbour to Hong Kong Island. A more scenic option for getting to Kowloon from Hong Kong Island, especially for first time visitors, is to ride the Star Ferry across.
When to Get There
Kowloon looks completely different by day than at night, so try to visit during both times of day to get a complete picture. The area is famous for its night markets, particularly Temple Street in Jordan and the Ladies Market in Mong Kok.
Specialized Markets of Kowloon
Aside from the usual street markets selling clothes and souvenirs, Kowloon is home to some rather specific markets as well. The Jade Market comprises some 400 vendors selling jewelry and trinkets made from China’s beloved green stone, while the fragrant Flower Market caters to the city’s wholesale and retail flower trade. Goldfish Street does indeed sell goldfish, as well as a whole menagerie of reptiles and exotic critters.
Address: Nathan Road, Hong Kong, China
Admission: Free
From $ 34
M50 Creative Park
M50 Creative Park is an artistic area of Shanghai. Situated just south of Shanghai Suzhou Creek, M50 is one of the earliest, largest, and most influential creative industry and modern art clusters in the city.
An open park, art-lovers and creative types have lots to explore here. It's a thriving hub of galleries and art studios, with exhibitions from both local and international artists. There are a wide range of art forms, from the popular black and white portraits of Shanghai’s urban development, to audio visual and abstract art.
Despite being one of the best-known creative hubs in Shanghai, strolling into M50 Creative Park gives the distinct sense of stumbling across a hidden gem. If you’re looking for a piece of art to take home, this is the ideal place to find something original at a reasonable price.
Insider’s Tip
Notable galleries and studios to visit include the Island6 Arts Center, the LWH Gallery, and the Eastlink Gallery.
Practical Info
To reach M50 Creative Park, take Line 1 of the metro and alight at Shanghai Railway Station, or take Line 3 or 4 to Zhongtan Road.
Address: 50 Moganshan Road, Shanghai 200000, China
From $ 50
Macau Tower
Reaching a neck-pinching height of 1,109 feet (338 meters), Macau Tower dominates Macau’s skyline and offers sweeping views of the peninsula for over one million visitors per year. Visitors without a fear of heights can rapidly ascend the high-speed, glass-fronted elevator to the tower observation decks on the 58th and 61st floors.
The Basics
Inspired by the Sky Tower in Auckland, Macau Tower ranks among Macau’s most popular attractions, with plenty of ways to experience it depending on the thrill level you’re looking for. Options range from a basic admission ticket to the outdoor observation deck for 360-degree views of Macau and the Pearl River Delta to more adrenaline-fueled activities like one of the world’s highest commercial bungy jumps or a more controlled Skyjump or outdoor Skywalk. If you fancy more of a challenge, you can even scale the side of the building to its highest point with the help of safety cables, ladders, and guides.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Macau Tower is a must-see for thrill seekers and first-time visitors.
- Don’t forget your camera for a photo op from the top.
- Book your Macau Tower admission ticket or experience in advance, especially during high season, to avoid long lines.
How to Get There
The best way to reach Macau Tower is by taxi or public bus. Routes 9A, 18, 23, 26, and 32 stop at the base of the tower.
When to Get There
Macau Tower is open daily, with extended hours on weekends and public holidays. Since the view is the biggest draw, plan to visit on a clear day. Expect frequent rainfall during spring and summer (April to August).
Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment at Macau Tower
Even non–thrill seekers will find something to do within Macau Tower. The building is home to a movie theater, casino, shopping center, and several restaurants serving both Chinese and international fare.
Address: Largo da Torre de Macau, Macau, China
Hours: Open Mon - Fri, 10am - 9pm; Sat - Sun, 9am - 9pm
Admission: MOP 145 for adults, MOP 75 for seniors and children
From $ 18
Muslim Quarter
Right behind the Drum Tower, you can find the Muslim Quarter of Xian. In Chinese, it is also known as Huimin Jie, which is the home of the majority of the Muslim Hui minority. The Hui men are usually easily recognizable by their typical white hats, sitting in front of the houses and enjoying the sun, while the women wear headscarves but don’t cover their faces. Once, Muslim traders traveling the Silk Road settled here with their Chinese wives, had children and formed a tight-knit community which still lives on. If you like oriental markets, you will find tea shops, potteries, produce and much else in this haggling-paradise along the Beiyuanmen Muslim Market. For those visitors looking to recover from the whirlwind bartering sessions, a famously wide array of tasty snack and food stalls line the streets. Try some Yang Ruo Pao Mo, a soup with lamb meat and wheat bread, dig into a savory meat kebab or, if you’re just looking for a snack, purchase some dried fruit, ginger candy or persimmon pies and wash it all down with pomegranate juice.
Apart from the food, the market and oddities such as a bird market and cricket fights, there are several mosques to be found in the Muslim Quarter. It is the biggest one, though, the Great Mosque of Xian, which forms the religious center of the district. At first glance, the building doesn’t seem that much different from the typical Chinese temple architecture - there are no minarets and no domed roofs and instead, pavilions and pagodas take over the religious functions. Still, there are some Islamic elements to be found: the mosque is facing Mekka, paths and buildings are arranged differently and there are delicate Middle-Eastern engravings to be found. But the mosque isn’t only famous for incorporating Chinese and Islamic architecture, but, having been built in 742 AD in the Tang Dynasty, is one of the largest, oldest and best preserved mosques in China.
Practical Info
You can find the Muslim Quarter on the northern side of the drum tower right in Xian’s city center. If you want to visit the Great Mosque, it is open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., but during prayer times, non-Muslims aren’t allowed into the main prayer hall.
Address: Xian, China
From $ 25
Potala Palace
Tucked into Lhasa’s iconic Red Hill, Potala Palace is the highest palace in the world, with its main structure sitting more than 12,000 feet above sea level. Its sprawling structures are divided into two parts, known as the Red and White palaces. Travelers who venture to this religious Mecca will find a center devoted to Buddhist prayer and impressive, detailed murals located inside the Great West Hall. The Dharma Cave and Saint’s Chapel date all the way back to the seventh century, offering visitors a chance to connect with Tibet’s rich history in a truly unique way.
The White Palace, which once housed local Tibetan government, now serves as the living quarters for the Dalai Lama. It’s also home to a school, seminary, printing house, well-kept gardens and even a jail. In addition to breathtaking views, visitors will find cultural relics, brightly colored murals and hand-carved statues dating back to ancient times.
Practical Info
Polata Palace is located at 35 Beijing Middle Road in Chengguan in Lhasa, and as with many sites, the Chinese government strictly controls entrance. All travelers must enter from the east main entrance, and all visits are limited to one hour. During high season, from May 1 to October 31, travelers must apply for reservation tickets to enter the palace. Although they are free, it is not possible to enter the grounds without them. No liquids are allowed in the palace, and a thorough security check is administered. Be sure to respect Tibetan Buddhist customs by not stepping on thresholds or wearing hats.
Address: 35 Beijing Middle Rd, Lhasa, China
Hours: May-Oct 7:30am-6:40pm
Nov-Apr 9am-4pm
Admission: May-Oct 200RMB; Nov-Apr 100RMB
From $ 544
Po Lin (Precious Lotus) Monastery
If you ask around Hong Kong about the best attractions, chances are you’ll hear mention of the Big Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha) on Lantau Island. What you probably won’t hear mentioned is Po Lin (Precious Lotus) Monastery, yet this once remote monastery is one of the city’s most important Buddhist sites.
The monastery was established in 1906, long before the Big Buddha was erected, by three monks traveling from China. The three men discovered a flat stretch of land amid the verdant mountains and though it would be a perfect place for meditative religious practice. The monastery didn’t gain a spot on the global tourist map until 1993 when the Buddha statue was completed, and today it welcomes thousands of tourists who ride the cable car to see the statue and gaze out over the South China Sea.
The monastery itself is easy to overlook but is well worth a visit, particularly for the excellent vegetarian restaurant run by the monks. Dishes vary season to season and are made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients thought to help cleanse the body and spirit.
The monastery was established in 1906, long before the Big Buddha was erected, by three monks traveling from China. The three men discovered a flat stretch of land amid the verdant mountains and though it would be a perfect place for meditative religious practice. The monastery didn’t gain a spot on the global tourist map until 1993 when the Buddha statue was completed, and today it welcomes thousands of tourists who ride the cable car to see the statue and gaze out over the South China Sea.
The monastery itself is easy to overlook but is well worth a visit, particularly for the excellent vegetarian restaurant run by the monks. Dishes vary season to season and are made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients thought to help cleanse the body and spirit.
Address: Hong Kong, China
From $ 19
Kuan-Zhai Lane (China's Lane)
When Chinese soldiers of the Qing Dynasty returned from war with Tibet in 1718, many of the soldiers and their families based themselves around Kuan-Zhai Lane in the Sichuan city of Chengdu. Though only 3 of the original 42 lanes remain from the period of military housing - Kuan, Zhai, and Jing - these three lanes collectively comprise an area of Chengdu now known to travelers as China’s Lane.
Although the name literally translates to “Wide-Narrow” Lane, both Kuan and Zhai lanes exist as narrow alleyways, with one being imperceptibly wider than the other. Along with the third lane, Jing, these three parallel alleyways are recognized as one of Chengdu’s three historic conservation districts.
Ranking as one of the finest pedestrian thoroughfares in downtown Chengdu, Kuan-Zhai Lane offers a visually pleasing blend of traditional Sichuan architecture fused with modern Chengdu commerce. Dozens of quadrangle homes built in the Qing style stand nestled between fashionable cafés, nightclubs and clothing boutiques; and visitors can sip tea in a traditional tea house on Kuan before grabbing a beer at a trendy bar just one street away over on Zhai. Next door on Jing Lane is a 1,300 foot (3,962.4 meter) long wall that depicts a thousand years of Chengdu history and is an informative complement to the old style architecture and various antiques being sold throughout Kuan-Zhai.
With many modern hotels opening in and around the Kuan-Zhai Lane area there rarely is a shortage of activity in what is arguably one of Chengdu’s most cosmopolitan yet traditional districts.
Although the name literally translates to “Wide-Narrow” Lane, both Kuan and Zhai lanes exist as narrow alleyways, with one being imperceptibly wider than the other. Along with the third lane, Jing, these three parallel alleyways are recognized as one of Chengdu’s three historic conservation districts.
Ranking as one of the finest pedestrian thoroughfares in downtown Chengdu, Kuan-Zhai Lane offers a visually pleasing blend of traditional Sichuan architecture fused with modern Chengdu commerce. Dozens of quadrangle homes built in the Qing style stand nestled between fashionable cafés, nightclubs and clothing boutiques; and visitors can sip tea in a traditional tea house on Kuan before grabbing a beer at a trendy bar just one street away over on Zhai. Next door on Jing Lane is a 1,300 foot (3,962.4 meter) long wall that depicts a thousand years of Chengdu history and is an informative complement to the old style architecture and various antiques being sold throughout Kuan-Zhai.
With many modern hotels opening in and around the Kuan-Zhai Lane area there rarely is a shortage of activity in what is arguably one of Chengdu’s most cosmopolitan yet traditional districts.
Address: Chengdu, China
From $ 15
Meijiawu Tea Village
Meijiawu Tea Village, just west of West Lake, is a top producer of Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, considered one of the finest teas in China and the world. Surrounded by mountains, valleys, and streams, Meijiawu Tea Village is a picturesque locale where visitors can learn all about the heritage, production, and benefits of Longjing tea.
The Basics
Meijiawu Tea Village, nestled among lush, green terraced hills, is an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of Hangzhou and spend a few hours appreciating nature. Explore this charming ancient village, with its 160 teahouses, watch an elaborate tea ceremony, and learn all about tea culture while sipping a cup or two of this fragrant and flavorful tea. This is also a good opportunity to purchase some tea under the supervision of an expert guide.
Many day tours from Hangzhou and Shanghai include a visit to Meijiawu Tea Village, or another nearby tea plantation, along with other top Hangzhou sites, such as West Lake and Lingyin Temple.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Meijiawu Tea Village is a must-visit for tea lovers and photographers.
- The village is free to visit, but picking tea leaves and making tea costs extra.
- There are a number of historical points of interests, as well as good hiking trails, so allot at least a few hours, if not visiting as part of a tour.
How to Get There
Meijiawu Tea Village is located just west of West Lake, about 6 miles (10 kilometers) from downtown Hangzhou. If not visiting as part of a tour, it’s best to take a taxi. Or, you can take bus nos. 324, 658, 837, or tourist bus no. 4 from Hangzhou.
When to Get There
The village is open to visitors year-round. Spring is the best time to visit as travelers can try their hand at picking and making tea with the locals. Avoid going during Qing Ming, in early April, as it’s the busiest time in the village.
Tea Food
In addition to its world-famous tea, the village is also known for its tea food, dishes often made with and meant to complement the locally grown tea. Try local dishes, such as shrimp in Longjing tea, Longjing fish, fragrant braised pork, crispy-skinned chicken with Longjing tea, and moist chicken infused with Longjing tea.
Address: China
From $ 81
Noah's Ark
Situated on Ma Wan island overlooking the Rambler Channel near Tsing Ma Bridge, Noah's Ark is the world’s first full-size replica of the famous biblical vessel and a Hong Kong attraction for families traveling with young children. The centerpiece of the park is the full-scale replica ark, which houses a 180-degree cinema, a collection of smaller ark models, and an interactive children’s museum. Outside in the garden, guests walk among 67 pairs of life-sized animal sculptures that are popular for family photo ops.
The Basics
While the ark itself is the unquestionable highlight, visitors can also watch the surface of the sun in real time through a vacuum telescope inside the Solar Tower, play interactive games at the Treasure House, or test their physical prowess in Noah’s Adventureland ropes course. A full-day admission ticket comes with entrance to exhibits, the solar tower, and 3D documentary. Or, see Noah’s Ark on a Hong Kong and Macau Attractions Pass, which includes other popular points of interest such as Ocean Park, Ngong Ping 360, or the Peak Tram.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Noah’s Ark is a great option for families traveling with young children.
- Choose a basic admission ticket or a multi-attraction pass.
- Wi-Fi is available in select areas of the park.
- Remember to bring sun protection for enjoying the outdoor areas of the park.
How to Get There
Noah's Ark ticket holders can get to the park via a free shuttle bus from the MOKO shopping complex in Mong Kok directly to the park’s entrance.
When to Get There
Noah’s Ark is open daily throughout the year, but the best weather for visiting is from October to December and April to May. In summer, expect hot, humid days with frequent rain. During Chinese national holidays, the park gets crowded with visitors from the Chinese mainland.
Other Attractions Nearby
To take advantage of Noah’s Ark’s location outside of downtown Hong Kong, plan a few other things to do in the area. The park is not far from Lantau Island, so outlet shopping and riding the Ngong Ping 360 cable car are nearby options. The island is also home to several beaches and hiking trails—perfect for those who need an outdoor escape from the high-rise jungle of Hong Kong.
Address: Hong Kong, China
Hours: Daily 10am-6pm
Admission: Adult: HK$168 Child (Under 12): HK$138
From $ 20
Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
Only in Madame Tussauds Wax Museum Hong Kong can you spot Lady Gaga and Michael Jackson or get your picture taken with local and international celebrity Jackie Chan. Located inside the Peak Tower, the Hong Kong installment of the world’s most popular wax museum houses more than 100 eerily lifelike wax figures of both local and international stars.
The museum is divided into six areas: Hong Kong Glamour, SCREAM, World Premier, Historical and National Heroes, The Champions and Music Icons. Unlike the other five areas, you won’t find many familiar faces inside SCREAM, Hong Kong’s first permanent haunted house. Instead, you’ll wander through the halls of an asylum filled with both wax figures and live actors, making it difficult to distinguish what’s real from what isn’t.
Watching the locals and Mainland tourists come up with quirky poses next to their favorite wax celebrities can be just as entertaining for foreign tourists as the wax sculptures themselves.
The museum is divided into six areas: Hong Kong Glamour, SCREAM, World Premier, Historical and National Heroes, The Champions and Music Icons. Unlike the other five areas, you won’t find many familiar faces inside SCREAM, Hong Kong’s first permanent haunted house. Instead, you’ll wander through the halls of an asylum filled with both wax figures and live actors, making it difficult to distinguish what’s real from what isn’t.
Watching the locals and Mainland tourists come up with quirky poses next to their favorite wax celebrities can be just as entertaining for foreign tourists as the wax sculptures themselves.
Address: Hong Kong, China
From $ 22
Museum of Sichuan Cuisine
Learn where Sichuan got its spice at the Museum of Sichuan Cuisine. Located about a 1.5-hour drive by car outside of downtown Chengdu near Pixian Old Town, the museum not only gives a history of Sichuan cuisine but is also home to a tea house and a restaurant where guests can sample typical Sichuan food and, possibly, prepare a dish of their own.
The museum consists of halls that show various elements of Sichuan food, from antique tools used for processing to a collection of more than 3,000 bronze, pottery, porcelain and wooden cookers that span 2,000 years. Perhaps most intriguing are the giant open-topped clay pots containing fermenting chiles and beans that are on their way to becoming douban jiang, a red, fermented paste of erjingtiao chiles and broad beans that is responsible for the deep umami flavor and penetrating heat in famous Sichuan dishes. A visit to the Museum of Sichuan Cuisine gives a guest a unique look—and taste—into one of China’s most popular palates of flavor.
Practical Info
The Museum of Sichuan Cuisine is located about an hour and a half’s drive outside of Chengdu. To get there, either hire a private car or take a bus from Jinsha Bus Station before transferring to a local bus headed to Gucheng (Old Town). Cost to enter the museum is about $25 (150 RMB).
Address: Pixian Ancient Town, China
Admission: 150 RMB
From $ 36
Kowloon Park
Opened in 1970, Kowloon Park’s Chinese-style gardens provide an escape from the bustling streets in Tsim Sha Tsui. Once a military base, the 32.8-acre (13.3-hectare) green space now hosts playgrounds, sculptures, and fitness facilities, as well as a range of flora and fauna, including several protected trees.
The Basics
Combine your visit with an exploration of Tsim Sha Tsui’s food stalls and markets, or escape the heat of the day on an evening stroll—many tours offer nighttime excursions. Visitors with a little more time can take advantage of free events, including weekly Kung Fu and birdwatching meetups, enjoy the family-friendly maze and playgrounds, or simply unwind in one of the many landscaped gardens.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kowloon Park is popular with families, joggers, and wildlife-watchers.
- Bring binoculars for a closer look at the park’s 100 species of bird, including heron, bulbul, and flamingos.
- The loggia offers some shelter during rainy months, but it’s also wise to bring an umbrella.
- Most of the park’s paths are wide and paved, allowing for wheelchair access, and there is an accessible toilet on-site.
How to Get There
As with all big cities, it’s best to avoid driving where possible, though a small on-site parking lot offers two spaces for wheelchair users. Tsim Sha Tsui, Jordan, and Austin stations are all nearby, and the park is served by a number of KMB bus services, including the number 2, 7, and 9.
When to Get There
Hong Kong is a perfect layover for birds migrating across Asia, making it a top destination for wildlife lovers all year round. The park is particularly charming around dusk in summer, and offers brisk, refreshing mornings in winter.
The Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre
While you’re in the grounds, pay a visit to the on-site heritage center, housed in two old barrack buildings, which features exhibits that explore the territory’s far-reaching cultural heritage, including Bronze Age pottery and imperial artifacts.
Address: Austin Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
From $ 34
Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King
Considered one of the best museums anywhere in China, the Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King (sometimes called the Museum of the Southern Yue Royal Mausoleum) houses the contents of the royal tombs of the Nanyue-ruler Zhao Mo.The tomb was discovered in 1983 when a bulldozing crew digging up a basement for a hotel uncovered the ancient mausoleum.
Zhao Mo ruled the southern Chinese kingdom of Nanyue from 137 BC to 122 BC after being sent south by the emperor to establish a new sovereign state. The skeletons of Zhao Mo, along with 15 of his courtiers who were buried alive to serve him in death and several thousand objects from the empire are on display, and the compact tomb sitting behind the museum is open to visitors as well.
An audio tour available in English will walk you through the history of the Han Dynasty by way of the relics and artifacts once housed in the tomb.
Zhao Mo ruled the southern Chinese kingdom of Nanyue from 137 BC to 122 BC after being sent south by the emperor to establish a new sovereign state. The skeletons of Zhao Mo, along with 15 of his courtiers who were buried alive to serve him in death and several thousand objects from the empire are on display, and the compact tomb sitting behind the museum is open to visitors as well.
An audio tour available in English will walk you through the history of the Han Dynasty by way of the relics and artifacts once housed in the tomb.
Address: 867 Jiefang Bei Road, Guangzhou, China
Hours: Open daily 9am - 5:30pm (except Feb 28 & Aug 31). No admission after 4:45.pm
Admission: Adults: 12 CNY; Students and Seniors (65-69): 5 CNY; Students with ID and Seniors (70+): free
From $ 20
Meridian Gate
The Meridian Gate of the Palace Museum is perhaps the most recognizable landmark of the Forbidden City. Built in 1420 and renovated in 1801, the Meridian Gate is the largest and southernmost of the Palace Museum’s gates; currently, it’s the sole entrance into the Forbidden City. When the imperial family occupied the palace, the emperor would sit at the top of the Meridian Gate to proclaim sentences on prisoners of war brought before him.
The structure is made up of five towers, meant to resemble a phoenix in flight when viewed from above. The doorway through the central tower was for the Ming and Qing Dynasty emperors exclusively, though the empress was allowed to pass through this central gate on her wedding day. The door directly to the west was for the royal family, while the one to the east was for imperial officials. The final two doors were only used during ceremonies at the palace.
The structure is made up of five towers, meant to resemble a phoenix in flight when viewed from above. The doorway through the central tower was for the Ming and Qing Dynasty emperors exclusively, though the empress was allowed to pass through this central gate on her wedding day. The door directly to the west was for the royal family, while the one to the east was for imperial officials. The final two doors were only used during ceremonies at the palace.
Address: 4 Jingshan Qianjie, Beijing, China
Hours: Open: Apr 1-Oct 31: 8:30am-5pm; Jul 7-Aug 26: 8am-5pm; Nov 1-Mar 31: 8:30am-4:30pm. Closed Monday afternoons except holidays.
Admission: Adult: Apr 1 - Oct 31: CNY 60; Nov 1 - Mar 31: CNY 40. Student: CNY 20
From $ 46