Activities |
Attractions
The attractions of Hong Kong are often thought of as being the brightly lit, energetic metropolis of the city. What is forgotten is that the area known under the cumbersome name of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, extends beyond the rampant streets of Kowloon into pleasant island areas of great aesthetic and cultural interest.
In all likelihood, however, your Hong Kong journey will begin in the urban part of the region, which is readily accessed from the airport. This is a city where east meets west: the architecture is either a curious mix of western building with oriental trimmings or an out-and-out juxtaposition which sees a temple structure stand opposite a lofty skyscraper. You could visit the Science Museum or the Museum of History, and moments later take in the banking district of Statue Square or the Wong Tai Sin Temple. Such is the mismatched wonder of Hong Kong.
Getting around is relatively easy. Tourists are advised to pick up an Octopus Card, which stores credit that to be used on any form of transport, including ferries, as well as restaurants and stores.
Out of town, Hong Kong offers numerous underrated natural charms. The Dragon's Back Ridge just behind the city (and to the south) offers exciting vistas of the over 200 Hong Kong islands. You can sight waterfalls and old towns along the route. Over the ridge, the Shek O beach provides respite from the city atmosphere. The Ping Shan Heritage Trail, to the northwest, tracks past old face brick homes and forts, abandoned towns from the agricultural age of the region, and up to the very heights of the region.
Victoria Peak
Much of the pleasure derived from a trip to Victoria Peak lies in the journey to its summit. The funicular railway or peak tram has steadily made its way up the mountain since 1888. Energetic travellers can scale the real peak that extends... see full details
Hong Kong Disneyland
The fifth Disneyland Resort in the world, but also the smallest, Hong Kong Disneyland offers a magical adventure in four themed lands similar to other parks, namely Main Street USA, Fantasyland, Adventureland and Tomorrowland. Mickey Mouse welcomes visitors of all ages to the happiest... see full details
Western Market
One of the best places to buy souvenirs in Hong Kong, this indoor market is held in a four-storey red brick colonial building that was constructed in 1906. After extensive renovation it re-opened in 1991 and now occupies an entire block at the... see full details
Statue Square
Statue Square is an amalgamation of Hong Kong's contemporary architecture that reaches its most spectacular manifestation in the designs of the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation and the Bank of China Tower. The most significant feature of the HSBC building is that it... see full details
Wong Tai Sin Temple
This grand Taoist temple is one of the most frequently visited temples in Hong Kong. It is dedicated to Wong Tai Sin, a legendary hermit who reputedly had healing powers and could foretell the future. A number of fortunetellers ply their trade in... see full details
Aberdeen
Some 200 years ago, Hong Kong's Aberdeen district was a haven for pirates. Located on the southern shore of Hong Kong Island, it is home to the Tanka boat people and has become a popular tourist destination where visitors can experience on hand... see full details
Lantau
Lantau is the largest of the 235 outlying islands in Hong Kong, being almost twice the size of Hong Kong Island. It is better known for its walking trails and beaches and provides a pleasant respite from crowds and shopping. The main arrival... see full details
Big Buddha
The Big Buddha, or Tian Tan Buddha, is one of the tallest outdoor seated bronze Buddha statues in the world, seated near Po Lin Monastery. It is a popular tourist destination and a major centre of Buddhism in Hong Kong. The 112-foot (34m)... see full details
Ngong Ping 360
The Ngong Ping Cable Car is a spectacular four-mile (6km) ropeway that affords panoramic views over the bay and surrounding area on its 25-minute journey to the Ngong Ping Village. As visitors approach the cable car terminal on top of the plateau views will... see full details
Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery
One of the most dramatic sacred sites in Hong Kong, the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery is perched at the top of a hill in the town of Sha Tin, and visitors must climb 400 stairs to reach the temple and the famous nine-storey... see full details