Choose from 85 Fun Things to Do in Hong Kong Sar
ShowingFilter 41-60 of 85 listings.
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
Jade Market
In Chinese culture jade is associated with long life and purity and many locals in Hong Kong wear protective jade pendants based on their birthday and zodiac. If the jade cracks that means some sort of bad luck has been averted.
An enormous three ton hunk of jade makes the beginning of the “jade street” section of Canton Road in Kowloon. Here you'll find more than 400 stalls selling jade bangles, rings, earrings and more.
Fakes, colored stones and low quality pieces abound, so unless you're an expert don't invest in any expensive pieces. This is a great place however to pick up inexpensive souvenirs or gifts. Buying a piece of jade here is a great cultural experience. The vendors love to tell stories about their stones and many of the same sellers have been at the market for decades. Don't forget to bargain: if the seller accepts you're first offer that means you are paying too much.
An enormous three ton hunk of jade makes the beginning of the “jade street” section of Canton Road in Kowloon. Here you'll find more than 400 stalls selling jade bangles, rings, earrings and more.
Fakes, colored stones and low quality pieces abound, so unless you're an expert don't invest in any expensive pieces. This is a great place however to pick up inexpensive souvenirs or gifts. Buying a piece of jade here is a great cultural experience. The vendors love to tell stories about their stones and many of the same sellers have been at the market for decades. Don't forget to bargain: if the seller accepts you're first offer that means you are paying too much.
Address: Kansu St and Battery St, Hong Kong, China
Hours: Open 9am - 6pm Daily.
From $ 59
Nan Lian Gardens
The golden temple, brilliant red bridge and colorful flowers of Nan Lian Garden have been welcoming travelers in search of ancient Chinese beauty since its doors opened in 2006. Visitors to this classic garden will find relaxing ponds and trickling streams, expertly pruned trees and Zen rock gardens typical of the old-school Chinese tradition.
After exploring the beauty of Nan Lian Gardens, travelers can venture into exhibit halls, where informative displays outline ancient architectural practices used to build all wooden structures on site. A typical Chinese tea house offers visitors an opportunity to relax in the beauty of the garden while sipping cups of green tea and a trip to the nearby Buddhist nunnery makes a perfect addition to an already peaceful afternoon.
Practical Info
The gardens are located in Diamond Hill, Kowloon in Hong Kong. It is open from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m. daily. It is easily accessible via public transportation using the Diamond Hill station. Entry is free.
Address: 60 Fung Tak Rd, Hong Kong, China
Hours: Daily 7am-9pm
From $ 85
Stanley Market
Stanley, a former fishing village on the quiet south side of Hong Kong Bay, has become one of the area’s top destinations for shopping. Its famous open-air market, a maze of streets running down toward the water, is crammed with cut-price clothing, souvenirs, silks, crafts, art, Chinese costume jewelry, and bric-a-brac.
The Basics
While Stanley Market’s popularity means prices aren’t as cheap as they once were, it still deserves a spot on a Hong Kong itinerary both for the shopping and the surrounding neighborhood. Both private and group tours offer half- and full-day outings here; head to the market with the intent to bargain, and then relax afterwards with a tasty lunch at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The market is a must-see for shoppers.
- Stanley Market is an excellent introduction to Hong Kong markets before tackling the Ladies Market or Temple Street night market.
- Haggling is accepted but not expected, and prices are generally fair.
- Many of the vendors speak English.
How to Get There
Stanley is on the south coast of Hong Kong Island. Double-decker buses leave from the Exchange Square bus terminal in Central on the island. It’s a scenic 40-minute trip, so grab a seat upstairs at the front for the best views.
When to Get There
The best time to visit the market is on a weekday morning, before the sun starts to blaze and the crowds arrive. Expect weekends to be extremely busy with both locals and tourists perusing the wares.
Things to Do in Stanley
While Stanley Market has long been the main draw to the village, there’s plenty more to do while you’re in the area. Catch some sun on Stanley Beach, tour the Murray House (a British military building dating back to 1844), see Stanley Plaza and Tin Hua Temple, visit the Hong Kong Maritime Museum, or grab a bite to eat along the waterfront promenade.
Address: Main Street, Hong Kong, China
Hours: Open daily, 9am - 6pm approximately
Admission: Free
From $ 30
Victoria Peak (Tai Ping Shan)
Overlooking the Central district on Hong Kong Island, Victoria Peak (Tai Ping Shan) is one of the best vantage points for stupendous views of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong’s skyscrapers. Rising 1,810 feet (552 meters), the mountain is topped with a 360-degree Sky Terrace viewing platform and the Peak Tower complex of shops and restaurants. There’s also a network of nature trails through lush tropical forest.
The Basics
With its unbeatable views, Victoria Peak is one of Hong Kong’s most popular tourist attractions and a stop on nearly every city tour, with stops at other sites like the Aberdeen Fishing Village and Stanley Market. There are even quick “layover” tours departing from Hong Kong International Airport, giving you the opportunity to snap some photos from the top of the peak before heading out of Hong Kong.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Victoria Peak is a must-see for first-time visitors to Hong Kong.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces, especially if you plan to use the nature trails.
- Ride the Peak Tram to the top, or visit as part of a guided tour of Hong Kong.
- Admission lines can take well over an hour on weekend afternoons and public holidays, so it’s best to book ahead.
How to Get There
The quickest and most iconic way to reach Victoria Peak is aboard the Peak Tram, which departs every 10 minutes or so from the lower terminus near Central Station. Alternately, visitors can ride Bus 15 all the way to the top. It’s also a stop on hop-on hop-off bus tours.
When to Get There
Victoria Peak is best visited first thing in the morning on a weekday to avoid long queues at the tram and crowds on the observation platforms. The busiest times at the peak tend to be weekend afternoons during summer and on public holidays. The peak also gets busy in the evenings with visitors seeking a panoramic view of the Symphony of Lights multimedia show around Victoria Harbour.
Getting the Best View from the Top
Situated at the top of the peak, Sky Terrace 428 is the highest 360-degree observation deck in Hong Kong. Budget-minded travelers who’d rather not pay the entrance fee have some other options as well: The Peak Galleria has its own observation deck on Level 3, which is only slightly lower in elevation and free of charge, while the deck at the Lion’s Pavilion at The Peak is another free option.
Address: Peak Road, Hong Kong, China
Hours: Daily
Admission: Free
From $ 30
Symphony of Lights
Every night at 8pm, Hong Kong puts on a free spectacular light show, highlighting the skyscrapers lining both sides of Victoria Harbour. Named by Guinness World Records as the largest permanent light and sound show in the world, the Symphony of Lights includes more than 40 of Hong Kong’s key buildings in its spectacle of laser beams, colored lights, searchlights, and synchronized music.
The Basics
A trip to Hong Kong wouldn’t be complete without a viewing of this free nighttime spectacle. Since the show is staged on both the Hong Kong Island and Kowloon sides, the best vantage point for an uninterrupted view is from the waters of Victoria Harbour. A variety of dinner cruises and sightseeing tours—including the Star Ferry—facilitate the experience. For those who’d prefer to stay on land, you can watch the nightly spectacle from either the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade in Kowloon or the Wan Chai waterfront on Hong Kong Island. On clear nights, you can see some of the show from Victoria Peak.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Hong Kong Symphony of Lights is a free, must-see show for all first-time visitors.
- Get the best views by booking a Hong Kong harbor cruise.
- Combine an evening cruise with an afternoon sightseeing tour or hop-on hop-off bus tour.
How to Get There
The Symphony of Lights is visible from both the Tsim Sha Tsui and Central waterfronts, as well as from Victoria Harbour.
When to Get There
The show is staged nightly at 8pm, but it’s a good idea to arrive a few minutes early to stake out a comfortable spot. The lights are most impressive on a clear night, as fog and rain can obstruct the view.
Live Narration of the Show
Get a deeper insight into the Symphony of Lights by listing to live narration in English, available outside the Hong Kong Cultural Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui and outside Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai during Monday, Wednesday, and Friday shows.
Address: Avenue of the Stars, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
Hours: Starts at 8pm nightly
Admission: Free
From $ 34
Star Ferry Pier
The Star Ferry Pier in Hong Kong serves as the launching spot for the Star Ferry on the Hong Kong Island side of Victoria Harbour. Located in Central, the current Star Ferry Pier is actually the fourth to bear the name since the Star Ferry first started carrying passengers across the harbor in 1888. The current structure was designed to resemble Edwardian style of the second generation pier, including a clock tower and five bells.
While modern transportation allows commuters and travelers to traverse the harbor via tunnels or the subway, riding the Star Ferry is inexpensive and much more scenic, with views of Hong Kong’s famous skyline on either side of the harbor.
Even if you choose not to ride the Star Ferry, it’s still worthwhile to pay a visit to the pier. Head toward the waterfront restaurant on the second floor of the building and turn right to access a public viewing platform for views of Victoria Harbour and the Kowloon side of Hong Kong.
While modern transportation allows commuters and travelers to traverse the harbor via tunnels or the subway, riding the Star Ferry is inexpensive and much more scenic, with views of Hong Kong’s famous skyline on either side of the harbor.
Even if you choose not to ride the Star Ferry, it’s still worthwhile to pay a visit to the pier. Head toward the waterfront restaurant on the second floor of the building and turn right to access a public viewing platform for views of Victoria Harbour and the Kowloon side of Hong Kong.
Address: China
From $ 53
Sai Kung
When the frenetic pace, flashing LED lights and crowded streets of Hong Kong become a bit overwhelming, consider spending a day at the beach in Sai Kung. Located on the Sai Kung Peninsula, Sai Kung District is the second largest by area in Hong Kong, though the area is largely rural. Sai Kung town, a former fishing village, has become a hotbed of seafood restaurants, many located on the waterfront along a stretch of road known as Seafood Street.
Besides the food, Sai Kung is also known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in Hong Kong. By day, visitors come to soak up the sun on the beaches lining Clear Water Bay. At night, the waters just off the coast light up with the lanterns of small chartered boats fishing for squid, an activity tourists can participate in as well. If you can pull yourself away from the waters, Sai Kung offers some of the best hiking trails in the greater Hong Kong area.
Besides the food, Sai Kung is also known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in Hong Kong. By day, visitors come to soak up the sun on the beaches lining Clear Water Bay. At night, the waters just off the coast light up with the lanterns of small chartered boats fishing for squid, an activity tourists can participate in as well. If you can pull yourself away from the waters, Sai Kung offers some of the best hiking trails in the greater Hong Kong area.
Address: China
From $ 33
Man Mo Temple
You’ll probably smell Man Mo Temple before you get there, as worshippers light enough giant incense coils within to turn the air an odd shade of blue and ensure everyone who enters leaves with a distinctive but pleasant Taoist perfume. Originally built in 1847, Man Mo is Hong Kong’s most famous temple, dedicated to the gods of literature and war. Students make up a significant portion of devotees who come seeking divine aid in their studies.
Within the temple, look for a statue of a man in green robes with a writing brush. This is one of the gods for which the temple is named -- Man Chung, the god of literature. Statues of Kwan Yu, the Chinese god of war, flank the main alter. As a famous general known for his martial successes, Kwan Yu is sometimes considered the deity of both the police force and the Chinese triads.
If you’re feeling particularly superstitious on your visit to Man Mo Temple, head into the hall to the right of the entrance to have your fortune told by an English-speaking teller who will divine your future using several bamboo sticks and a cup.
Within the temple, look for a statue of a man in green robes with a writing brush. This is one of the gods for which the temple is named -- Man Chung, the god of literature. Statues of Kwan Yu, the Chinese god of war, flank the main alter. As a famous general known for his martial successes, Kwan Yu is sometimes considered the deity of both the police force and the Chinese triads.
If you’re feeling particularly superstitious on your visit to Man Mo Temple, head into the hall to the right of the entrance to have your fortune told by an English-speaking teller who will divine your future using several bamboo sticks and a cup.
Address: 126 Hollywood Road, Hong Kong, China
From $ 53
Lamma Island
With no cars, a small population, old-fashioned buildings, excellent hikes, hidden beaches, and al fresco seafood restaurants, Lamma Island offers welcome respite from Hong Kong’s bustle. The closest and third-largest island of Hong Kong’s outlying islands, Lamma remains largely undeveloped, with a decidedly bohemian vibe, thanks in part to its youthful expat population.
The Basics
When frenetic pace of Hong Kong’s concrete jungle gets to be too much, an escape to Lamma Island might be in order. Many visitors experience the island on a private or group tour, with options that include sea kayaking or a guided hike between the island’s main villages, Yung Shue Wan and Sok Kwu Wan.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The island makes a great escape from the hectic pace of Hong Kong.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel to enjoy Lamma’s many beaches.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.
- Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike between Lamma’s villages.
How to Get to Lamma Island
The easiest way to reach Lamma Island independently is to take a ferry ride from the Central Ferry Pier on Hong Kong Island (the same place where you catch the Star Ferry). Boats depart every hour or two, and you can choose between an ordinary ferry (35 minutes) or a faster one (20 minutes).
When to Get There
For the most enjoyable time on the island, plan your visit for a weekday when the sun is shining. On Sundays and holidays, Hong Kong residents head to the island for family outings, so expect the ferry and the hiking trails to be crowded.
Points of Interest on Lamma Island
Lamma’s main town, Yung Shue Wan, is known for its hippie vibe, craft shops, eclectic eateries, and Tin Hau Temple, while much smaller Sok Kwu Wan attracts with its waterfront seafood restaurants. Floating in the harbor is Lamma Fisherfolk’s Village, an outdoor museum highlighting the area’s fishing history and heritage. Beachgoers looking for a quiet stretch of sand should head to Lo So Shing Beach, situated on a small bay. Hung Shing Yeh Beach is popular with families.
Address: Main Street, Yung Shue Wan, Hong Kong, China
Admission: Free
From $ 56
Lippo Center
The Lippo Center is a twin-tower skyscraper situated on Hong Kong Island that was designed by the American architect, Paul Rudolph. The unique building has become an iconic Hong Kong landmark and has been nicknamed The Koala Tree on account of the protruding windows bearing a similarity to koalas climbing a tree!
The two towers that make up the Lippo Center are similar in design but differ in height; Lippo Center 1 is 172 meters tall, while Lippo Center 2 reaches a height of 186 meters. Both towers are set on a four-story podium, which is home to a large atrium and a retail center.
The Lippo Center is situated on a busy road right in the heart of the city, with fantastic views of nearby Hong Kong Park. Walkways connect the base of the towers to the buildings that surround the complex, as well as a nearby MTR station.
Practical Info
The Lippo Center is located just outside the Admiralty MTR station on Queensway Road. You can also get a completely unobstructed view of the towers from Hong Kong Park.
Address: Hong Kong, China
From $ 12
Peak Tram
For over 100 years, the Victoria Peak Tram has been inclining its way up Victoria Peak on Hong Kong Island. The service began as a coal-fired tramway in 1888 and was electrically powered starting in 1926. Today, some 7 million people take a ride on the funicular railway every year for its spectacular panoramic views. At the top, you’ll find the ultramodern Peak Tower with its restaurants and Sky Terrace 428 viewing platform, nature trails, and the Victoria Peak Garden.
The Basics
Taking a ride on the steeply angled tram is an essential Hong Kong experience, and there are plenty of ways to make it happen. Opt for a basic or skip-the-line tram ticket, or choose a tour that includes a ride on the tram, along with visits to other Hong Kong attractions like Stanley Market, Aberdeen, Victoria Harbour, and the Mid-Levels Escalator. Travelers with a long layover in the Hong Kong Airport can ride the tram on a layover tour with airport transfer.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A ride on the Peak Tram is a must-do for first-time visitors to Hong Kong.
- Choose between a basic admission ticket and a Peak Tram Sky Pass ticket that includes access to The Sky Terrace, Hong Kong’s highest 360-degree observation platform.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to hike the nature trails at the top.
How to Get There
If you’re not riding the Peak Tram as part of a guided tour of Hong Kong Island, the easiest way to reach the main station is by taking the MTR to Admiralty (Exit C1) or Central Station (Exit J or K). There’s also a shuttle bus from the Central bus station to the Peak Tram Lower Terminus that departs every 15 to 20 minutes. The Peak Tram is also a stop on the Big Bus hop-on hop-off tour.
When to Get There
For the shortest lines and the sparsest crowds on the observation decks at the top, plan to ride the Peak Tram first thing in the morning. Weekdays are generally quieter as well. If you visit on a public holiday, weekend afternoon, or in the evening before the city’s Symphony of Lights show on Victoria Harbour, expect long lines to board.
Other Ways to Get to the Top
If you’re greeted by a long line at the Peak Tram station, don’t worry; there are other ways to get to the top of Victoria Peak to enjoy the views. Bus 15 takes passengers from Central Station to the Peak, and Route 1 of the minibus will also get you there. While more expensive, it’s also possible to take a taxi to the top.
Address: Garden Road, Hong Kong, China
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Adults: HK$45
From $ 12
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
Tai Mo Shan
The extinct Tai Mo Shan volcano is the highest peak in Hong Kong, rising 3,140 feet (957 meters) above sea level. The surrounding 3,558 acres (1,440 hectares) of highland are home to the scenic Ng Tung Chai waterfalls, several panoramic lookouts, and a range of flora and fauna, including snakes, insects, and more than 100 species of bird.
The Basics
Hiking tours provide an escape from the city and are typically tailored to suit the party’s fitness levels, with lower reaches hosting trails more suited to families or casual walkers and a number of signposts providing geographical insight. Visitors with more time can hike toward the summit, discovering scenic waterfalls, viewpoints, and a weather observatory along the way, or continue on to the Shing Mun Reservoir via the Lead Mine Pass and Pineapple Dam.
Things to Know Before You Go
- While the hike is generally moderate, some sections can be challenging.
- Remember to bring water and any necessary energy snacks, as the shops are located at the base.
- Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
- The rugged slopes aren’t accessible for wheelchair users; however, a parking lot at 2,723 feet (830 meters) elevation offers sweeping views of the north-west.
How to Get There
Tours with round-trip transfer will help you avoid the hassle of locating the out-of-town site. Otherwise, take the MTR to Tsuen Wan Station and transfer to the bus No. 51; take that to the Country Park stop.
When to Get There
Unlike other scenic attractions in Hong Kong, Tai Mo Shan doesn’t rely on sunny weather for memorable views—and it’s a good thing, too, because the volcano experiences the most rainfall in Hong Kong. While clear days do offer far-reaching vistas, the atmospheric mist has charms of its own, and the highlands are the only place in the subtropical territory where it’s possible to see ground frost, particularly in the early morning or after dark.
Volcanic Hong Kong
Tai Mo Shan isn’t the only significant volcanic behemoth in the territory. In fact, the very landscape of Hong Kong as we know it today is the result of mega volcanic activity that took place some 140 million years ago. Head to the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark to discover more volcanic rock formations, and drop by the Volcano Discovery Centre for scientific insight and hiking recommendations.
Address: Tai Mo Shan, Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong, China
From $ 79
Lan Kwai Fong
With over 100 bars, restaurants, clubs and retailers, Lan Kwai Fong is considered Hong Kong’s dining and entertainment destination. Its convenient location just around the corner from Central makes the area a mainstay for locals, expats and travelers looking for the perfect nighttime hot spots.
Lan Kwai Fong’s history is varied, as the area has undergone a significant number of changes over the years. It was primarily filled with prostitutes back in the 1880’s and then it became a water catchment area at the turn of the century. Around the same time a flower market opened, giving rise to the name Lan Kwai Fong, meaning “Orchid Square”. Prior to the Second World War, the area saw legitimate businesses open their doors as prostitution was abolished, but it wasn’t until the early 1980s that Lan Kwai Fong became the entertainment district of Hong Kong. Early businesses saw immediate success, paving the way for a booming nighttime entertainment district today. In 1979, the well-known “Disco Disco” was the first to open and then “California” Restaurant followed in 1983, earning Lan Kwai Fong an immediate fan base.
Lan Kwai Fong Street is L-shaped with the two ends joining with D’Aguilar Street and is typically referred to as “LKF” by locals and those in the know. The area continues to grow and now “Greater Lan Kwai Fong” includes D’Aguilar Street, Lan Kwai Fong, Wo On Lane, Wing Wah Lane, Wyndham Street, On Hing Terrace, and Wellington Street.
When it comes to dining and partying in LKF, the area has it all. From upscale ethnic cuisine to trendy bars featuring crazy libations, there is literally something for every occasion. It’s the ideal spot for happy hour, a simple glass of wine while people watching, or a late night of dancing and partying. It’s not uncommon to see local celebrities frequenting Lan Kwai Fong, and big holidays like Halloween, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve see huge parties that spill out into the streets.
Address: Lan Kwai Fong St. and D'Aguilar St., Hong Kong, China
From $ 53
Wan Chai District
Located between Victoria Peak and Victoria Harbor, Wan Chai earned its reputation as a red light district during the Vietnam War (and by featuring in the 1960 film, The World of Suzie Wong). Today the neighborhood has shed much of its seedy reputation, although the area around Lockhart and Johnson Road is still going strong with girlie bars and clubs.
The nightlife in all other parts of Wan Chai is much more down to earth, with a buzzing selection of British pubs, karaoke bars, and dozens of international restaurants. The area even caters for the more upmarket crowd with some fine dining options located along Star Street.
Wan Chai’s rich heritage means there’s plenty to do by day too, with an array of historical sites in the area, most of which feature on the Wan Chai Heritage Trail. Highlights include the century-old Hung Shing Temple and the Old Wan Chai Post Office on Queen’s Road East, which is one of the few remaining examples of colonial architecture of its type.
Practical Info
Wan Chai is well connected by public transport. If travelling by MTR, simply take the Island Line and alight at the Wan Chai stop. Visitors can also take the tram to Wan Chai, which is a scenic way to arrive in the neighborhood, as is hopping on the Star Ferry.
Address: Wan Chai District, Hong Kong, China
From $ 74
Upper Lascar Row (Cat Street)
Some call it a flea market and some call it a bazaar. What Upper Lascar Row definitely is, is a shopping heaven for all those on the hunt for treasures and antiques. Lascars were Indian seamen who traded between China and the Middle East and found their accommodations in the range of houses who soon became to be known as Lascar Row as well as Cat Street. The area had quite the criminal reputation and it was a common joke that if you had something stolen, you’d likely be able to unearth it in one of the shops on Cat Street. In Cantonese, thieves are often referred to as rats, and the buyers of the stolen goods as cats, which explains the nickname.
Today, Upper Lascar Row is no longer the center of lawlessness and the road has evolved into a market for antiques, second hand items and junk. It’s also clearly a tourist destination with lots of kitsch, Mao statues and jade pieces. Provided they do some digging, visitors can find bargains on silk products, jade, handicrafts, brass works, ceramics and random treasures ranging from the Ming Dynasty to the Cultural Revolution. The price of course depends on the age and the rarity of the items, but many of the items are also modern replicas intended to add a nice touch of interior decoration to a home for a cheaper price.
Practical Info
Upper Lascar Row is located in Sheun Wang and you can get there by taking the MTR to the station of the same name. It can be visited any time of day of course, but the shops usually open late in the morning and close around 7pm or later. The exception is Sunday, when the market remains closed.
Address: Sheun Wang, Hong Kong, China
From $ 57
Lantau Island
The largest of Hong Kong’s outlying islands, Lantau is twice the size of Hong Kong Island, yet it has only a fraction of the population. Where Hong Kong is an urban jungle of sorts, Lantau is a mostly quiet escape famous for its long beaches, traditional fishing villages, Buddhist monuments, outlet shopping, and mountainous interior popular with hikers. The northern tip of the island is home to both Hong Kong International Airport and Hong Kong Disneyland.
The Basics
Whether arriving in Hong Kong by air or spending a day with Mickey Mouse, many travelers find themselves on Lantau Island at some point during their Hong Kong trip. But the rest of the island is worthy of exploration as well, especially for those looking for a break from the urban buzz of central Hong Kong. Ride the Ngong Ping cable car to the Po Lin Monastery with its bronze Big Buddha statue (also called the Tian Tan Buddha), search for dolphins from stilt houses in the Tai O fishing village, hike to the top of Lantau Peak, bask in the sun along Cheung Sha Beach or Pui O Beach, or dine on freshly caught seafood at Discovery Bay.
Things to Know Before You Go
- You can choose between adventure and culture tours on Lantau Island.
- Many Lantau tours include round-trip transportation to and from your hotel in Hong Kong.
- The northern part of the island is the busiest; head south to see a more rural Lantau.
- Remember to bring sunscreen and water, as the area can get hot and humid.
- Wear suitable shoes comfortable for walking over uneven ground.
How to Get to Lantau Island
The fastest way to get to Lantau Island from Hong Kong is by taking the MTR to Tung Chung station. The ride takes about 25 minutes and connects with the special rail service shuttling guests to Disneyland. More scenic is the ferry ride departing from Central Hong Kong to either Discovery Bay or Mui Wo.
When to Get There
The weather tends to be cool and dry between October and February, making it a pleasant time to visit. Expect temperatures in the upper 80s with high humidity during the summer months. Budget-minded travelers should plan to visit on a weekday or Saturday, as ferries and buses impose a surcharge on Sundays and public holidays.
Where to Find the Best Views on Lantau Island
Hong Kong’s Victoria Peak gets all the attention for its panoramic views, but Lantau has some gems of its own. For a stellar sunrise view of the island and the South China Sea, give Lantau Peak a try (you can hike to the top or take a cable car ride), or for a romantic spot to bid farewell to the day, climb up to the aptly named Sunset Peak.
Address: China
Admission: Free
From $ 19
Nathan Road
Hong Kong’s Nathan Road is the main thoroughfare in Kowloon that runs from from Tsim Sha Tsui to Sham Shui Po. This busy street is lined with a huge array of food and shopping outlets and can usually be found brimming with tourists.
Nathan Road is the oldest street in Kowloon and these days is lined with dazzling neon signs that point the way to both cheap and upmarket establishments. If you intend to visit Nathan Road for its shopping opportunities, you won’t be disappointed. Open right up until midnight, Nathan Road has it all, from boutiques touting the latest fashion designs, to electronics shops selling every brands of digital camera and cell phone imaginable.
Food-wise, Nathan Road is awash with options, from local cuisine to international dishes. There are also a number of foodie gems hidden away in the side streets leading off from Nathan Road in addition to the main street itself.
Practical Info
Reaching anywhere on Nathan Road shouldn’t be a problem — there are no less than five MRT stations built beneath the road, and there are also numerous bus routes that run through it.
Address: Nathan Road, Hong Kong, China
From $ 34
Victoria Harbour
Dividing Hong Kong Island from Kowloon, Victoria Harbour has long been the lifeblood of the city. It is from these waters—often teeming with a motley mix of traditional and modern vessels—that the city’s twin skylines are best viewed. The harbor is historically responsible for the city that surrounds it as well; its deep and sheltered waters situated strategically on the South China Sea have directly contributed to Hong Kong’s rise as a major world trading center.
The Basics
It sounds cliche, but you really haven’t seen Hong Kong until you’ve seen Victoria Harbour. Cutting right through the heart of the city, the harbor plays host to some of the city’s most iconic experiences: Ride the double-decker Star Ferry from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island, watch the twin Hong Kong skylines light up during the nightly Symphony of Lights, take in the sights and sounds of the waterway aboard a leisurely dinner cruise, feast on seafood at Jumbo Floating Restaurant (the world’s largest), or simply stroll along the waterfront promenade, stopping for a photo op on the Avenue of Stars. For the best view of the harbor from above, head up to Victoria Peak.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The harbor is a must-see for every first-time visitor.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you’re planning to explore the harbor front on foot.
- Get out on the water with a sightseeing harbour cruise, dinner cruise, or nighttime Symphony of Lights cruise.
- Plan to visit the harbor both during the day and at night.
How to Get There
Victoria Harbour is easily accessed from just about anywhere in Hong Kong. The Star Ferry Pier is the point of departure for trips across the harbor, and the most popular portion of the harbor—the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade—is within walking distance of East Tsim Sha Tsui MTR station.
When to Get There
Victoria Harbour bustles with activity day and night, and it’s best to experience it at both times to truly put your finger on its pulse. Don’t leave Hong Kong without witnessing the world’s largest permanent light and sound show, the Symphony of Lights, staged nightly on the harbor.
Points of Interest on the Victory Harbour Waterfront
Even if you keep your feet on dry land, there’s plenty to do along the waterfront of Hong Kong harbor. Strike a pose next to the Bruce Lee statue, shop at Harbour City mall (Hong Kong’s biggest), pop into the Hong Kong Museum of Art or Hong Kong Space Museum, or take a stroll through Victoria Park.
Address: Star Ferry Pier, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, China
Admission: Ferry ticket prices vary
From $ 21