Once a group of serene fishing villages on the shores of the South China Sea, Hong Kong is now a thriving cosmopolitan metropolis that boasts the largest number of skyscrapers in the world. Collected a list of things to do in this ever-vibrant city.
Aqua Luna
Take a sunset sail around the harbor under the bright red sails of the Aqua Luna, a traditional Chinese wooden junk. This is the best way to enjoy the bustling Victoria Bay and the sparkling Symphony of Lights show along the Hong Kong skyline.
Big Buddha
The Big Buddha came into being in 1993. The 34-meter object is the world's largest outdoor bronze Buddha statue. The landmark, located on Lantau Island, can be reached by climbing 268 stairs.
Or you can save your energy and take in the panoramic views with a 25-minute ride on the Ngong Ping 360 cable car. It will take you to the Big Buddha. Note that all cabins have glass bottoms.
Hong Kong Park
Gardens and parks throughout the city offer a respite 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. An oasis of ponds, waterfalls, botanical gardens and 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 cranes 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 streetcar 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 islands. Lamma Island has great hiking trails and fresh seafood. While Lantau Island is home to the airport and the Big Buddha.
The local steep green hills are a hiker's paradise. The 8-kilometer "dragon's back" is considered the most popular trail. It is an accessible trail with stunning views of the bays, beaches and fishing villages of southern Hong Kong Island. It is optimal to go out early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds.
Church of St. John the Evangelist
St. John the Evangelist Church was opened 175 years ago. The cathedral is the oldest surviving western church building in the city. The beautiful cross-shaped church with its Gothic architecture and cream-colored facade is a peaceful oasis among the high-rises of the Central District.
M+ Museum
M+ is the jewel of West Kowloon's new cultural district. M+ is more than an art museum. It showcases visual culture, art, design, architecture. It also has a movie theater, restaurants and a visitor lounge.
Night markets
One of the city's largest and busiest night markets is Temple Street in Kowloon. There are more than 100 stalls open daily from 6pm selling everything from antiques to electronics. At the same market, you can visit a fortune teller and sample street food at rice and noodle stalls.
Cable car ride
A ride on one of the oldest funicular railroads in the world takes just eight minutes. The streetcar will take you up to 1,396 meters above sea level. And there, the breathtaking views will make you linger at the top. This is the best place for stunning selfies or a panorama of the city.
Octopus cards are accepted for payment. It is a pass for all types of transportation: buses, ferry, metro. Also currently the card can be used for payment in retail stores.
PMQ
The PMQ building was formerly a hostel for officers working at the nearby police station. Now it is a true center of design studios and ateliers, housing 100 local artists and artisans. Today, PMQ is a great place to find unique, locally made goods.
Rooftop bars
The city is full of skyscrapers with open roofs. But most notable is the roof of The Ritz-Carlton, the city's tallest building 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 in the central harbor. Open Air returned to Asia's culinary capital in 2023 after five years. The four-day festival will take place in November.
Try what?
Tiny street cafes like Lan Fong Yuen serve "oolong in tights" - essentially tea leaves in silk bags. Egg tart is usually taken with tea - it's a silky puff pastry filled with custard. It can be picked up at the famous Tai Cheong Bakery. Also popular are Xiao Long Bao - these delicious little steamed buns are offered at street food stalls around the city and even at airports. Read more about local popular dishes in this post.
