The Top 29 Things To Do in Hong Kong
1. Ride the Star Ferry
The Star Ferry commuter boats, which have names like Silver Star and Twinkling Star, have transported passengers across Victoria Harbour since 1888. Not only is it the most affordable way to cross between Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon and either Wan Chai or Central on Hong Kong Island (HK$2.50 one way), but it also offers an incredibly scenic 10-minute boat trip. Along the route, travelers can enjoy expansive views of the towering mountains and skyscrapers of Hong Kong Island, as well as Kowloon`s skyline. The boat journey is particularly worthwhile on clear nights; the perspectives are dramatic if traveling from Tsim Sha Tsui to Central rather than the other way around; photographers may want to position themselves on the lower deck. Passengers can purchase their tickets from the ticket window or use coin-operated turnstiles with exact change.
Nearest transport: Tsim Sha Tsui MTR
2. Go up Victoria Peak
The highest vantage points on Hong Kong Island. Victoria Peak (552m) is Hong Kong Island`s tallest point and counts as one of the city`s major attractions. From this greenery-enveloped mountain, you obtain tremendous views of both Central and Kowloon across Victoria Harbour. The most popular means of reaching Victoria Peak is via the Peak Tram, the 125-year-old cable car that ascends sharply from near Hong Kong Park in Central. It concludes at the Peak Tower, where you can pay to access the observation deck at the apex. Tip: head for the top level of the adjacent Peak Galleria shopping center and you’ll get essentially the same views for free.) From Victoria Peak, you can wander along the scenic 3.5km Morning Trail that runs past the Peak Lookout, or even hike a section of the Hong Kong Trail that starts from there. For something less strenuous, linger in the beautiful gardens up Mt Austin Rd, 500m northwest of the peak; the old governor`s summer lodge once stood here before it was burnt down by the Japanese during WWII. If you have your heart set on witnessing the sunset from Victoria Peak, arrive at the Peak Tram in ample time to spare as queues can be lengthy.
Nearest transport: Central or Admiralty MTR
3. Visit Man Mo Temple
One of Hong Kong’s most longstanding Taoist temples. Its ceiling decorated with dozens of earth-toned coils of incense burned by worshippers, and its air dense with fragrant smoke, this colorful temple was constructed in 1847 by affluent Chinese merchants. Dedicated to the writing-brush-wielding god of literature (‘Man’) and the sword-wielding god of war (‘Mo’), during British rule this temple served as a local dispute court during times of tension between the colonialists and the Chinese population. Oaths were made here, sometimes accompanied by poultry sacrifice. Today it’s a popular place of prayer. Some of its exceptional features include the four gilt placards on poles outside the entrance, one of which informs menstruating women to keep out of the main building. Witness the Kung Sor hall, which was utilized by the local Chinese community for settling disputes before the introduction of the current justice system.
Nearest transport: Sheung Wan MTR
4. Temple Street Night Market
Hong Kong’s finest nightly marketplace. Extending for three blocks from Man Ming Lane to the northern limit to Nanking St in the south, this nightly marketplace (6-11pm on a daily basis) is the place to go merely for the environment, though you can also bargain with determination for low-cost garments, phony Rolexes and other goods. Fortune tellers tend to congregate in the center of the marketplace; they are able to tell you your forthcoming by examining your palm or your face, making predictions based on your date of birthside, or by having a trained bird to select out your fortune card. If you’re fortunate, you might see a Cantonese opera performer do a short performance at the marketplace. If you’re hungry, you’re in luck: the food stalls serve anything from noodles to curry.
Nearest transport: Yau Ma Tei metro, exit C
5. Ride a Double-Decker Tram
Hong Kong’s oldest form of public transportation involves narrow, double-decker railcars that have served the city for many decades. Known as trams, these tall vehicles travel along the northern shore of Hong Kong Island. While they may not be as rapid as other transit options, trams offer visitors an interesting way to explore the landscape. Riders can select from six tram routes, with the longest journey stretching from Kennedy Town to Shau Kei Wan via a transfer at Western Market for approximately 90 minutes. Passengers board from the rear and pay a flat fare of HK$2.30 when disembarking, though no change is provided. For optimal scenery, aim to secure a front seat on the upper level Nearest transport: Central or Sheung Wan MTR
6. Walk the Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade
The walkway hugging the southern tip of Kowloon provides splendid scenes of Victoria Harbour. Extending from the landmark KCR Clock Tower near the Star Ferry terminal to structures on reclaimed land in Tsim Sha Tsui East such as the Hong Kong Coliseum, this waterside promenade sends travelers past cultural jewels including the Cultural Centre and excellent Museum of Art before arriving at the somewhat underwhelming Avenue of Stars commemorating Hong Kong’s once illustrious film industry. Look out for Bruce Lee’s bronze statue. Evenings (8-8:20pm) transform the promenade into a stage for the Symphony of Lights, the world’s largest laser showcase, projected from numerous skyscrapers. Locals also flock here to admire Chinese New Year fireworks (late Jan/early Feb) and colorful boats in the June Dragon Boat Festival.
Nearest transport: Tsim Sha Tsui MTR
7. Hike the Hong Kong Trail
Hong Kong’s most extensive hiking path. Visitors (and even Hong Kong locals themselves) tend to overlook just how lush Hong Kong is, and just how much scope surrounds the city for quality hiking. The longest hike one can take is the 50km Hong Kong Trail that initiates from Victoria Peak and passes through Hong Kong Island’s five countryside parks prior to concluding near Shek O Road on Island South. The trail is separated into eight segments of varying difficulty, with different portions requiring from one and a half hours to four hours to finish. A uniquely scenic segment of the trail, known as the Dragon’s Back since it runs along the mountain ridge from Shek O Peak to Wan Cham Shan Peak, takes around four hours. It launches from Shek O Road near To Tei Wan village on the south side of Hong Kong Island; from the highest vantage points along the trail you get spectacular scenery of the coastline, while the end point of Tai Long Wan Bay is a great place for a dip. To arrive at the starting point, take bus #9 from Shau Kei Wan MTR stop to To Tei Wan.
A nearby mode of transportation is the Victoria Peak tram upper terminus.
8. Relax in Hong Kong Park
Nestled between towering skyscrapers hosting guests and buildings managing finances on one aspect, and greenery-covered mountains on another, this appealing 8-hectare park is among Hong Kong`s most attractive natural spaces. Constructed where the previous Victoria Barracks stood, this park isn`t untouched nature: beautifully maintained flower beds encircle an artificial lake at the center of the park, fed by an plummeting waterfall providing shade with trees, and there`s a fountain complex where you can relax around mist. Besides appreciating the park`s peace or a midday meal at the outdoor restaurant, visitors can pass through the Edward Youde Aviary, near the park`s southern boundary, home to 90 bird varieties taking you high into the leafage through a raised wooden path. Next to the lake, the Forsgate Conservatory highlights plants from tropical and arid areas, while the Visual Arts Centre, in the southwest corner of the park, stages temporary displays by upcoming local designers. To perceive panoramic perspectives of the park, climb the 105 steps to the summit of the 30-metre Vantage Point tower.
Nearest transport: Admiralty MTR, exit C1
9. Hit the rides at Hong Kong Disneyland
The Asian themed area of the widely popular American theme park. Situated on Lantau Island, just a short subway ride from the airport, Hong Kong Disneyland has been hugely popular with families since opening in 2005. It`s smaller compared to its California equivalent, and split into seven sections: Main Street USA, Fantasyland, Toy Story Land, Tomorrowland, Adventureland, Grizzly Gulch and Mystic Point. Most attractions are tailored towards younger children, with family-friendly rides like the Mad Hatter Teacups and a ghost tour of the Mystic Manor providing supernatural chills. If you`re seeking something with more excitement, head to the RC Racer halfpipe rollercoaster in Toy Story Land, plunge through darkness on the Space Mountain space rollercoaster in Tomorrowland or take a trip on the Big Grizzly Mountain rollercoaster in Grizzly Gulch. The 3D Iron Man motion simulator provides additional thrills. Kids love the daily Main Street parade (3:30pm) featuring favorite characters from Disney movies, and there’s a fireworks, music, and light extravaganza at Sleeping Beauty Castle each night at 8pm. For dining options, choose between Chinese (dim sum) and Western (burgers, cotton candy) fast food.
Nearest transport: Disney Resort Station MTR
10. Take the kids to Ocean Park
Hong Kong’s most visited amusement park. Situated in Aberdeen on the southern side of Hong Kong Island, Ocean Park features two main areas separated by cable cars and a funicular train: the lower altitude Waterland and higher Summit headland. Both exciting and educational attractions are available. In addition to kid-friendly rides in Whiskers Harbour, thrill-seekers can enjoy the hair-raising roller coaster on Thrill Mountain Summit. The showcase Grand Aquarium displays 400 fish species in various aquatic settings, including within the world’s largest domed aquarium. Amazing Asian Animals presents four giant pandas and rare red pandas, while Marine World offers up-close views of larger marine life like sea lions and seals.
Nearest transport: bus #629 from Central ferry pier
11. Visit the Chi Lin Nunnery
Nan Lian Garden located in Wong Tai Sin is considered one of Hong Kong`s most notable wooden architectural sites. The large Buddhist complex was originally constructed during the 1930s but was entirely rebuilt using wood in 1998 in the style of China`s Tang dynasty. Demonstrating harmony between humanity and nature, all structures are skillfully crafted from interlocking pieces of wood without employing a solitary nail. It offers a tranquil environment with lotus ponds and bonsai trees, and its beautifully carved wooden pagodas appear particularly dramatic against the backdrop of Hong Kong`s green hills and towering skyscrapers rising in the distance. Entry to the Lotus Pond Garden is through three gates representing Buddhist concepts of wisdom, compassion and skillful means. The adjacent Hall of Celestial Kings houses a large statue of Buddha surrounded by deities. Within the Main Hall one may come across nuns providing offerings to Sakyamuni Buddha or chanting behind intricately carved screens. It is worth visiting the neighboring Nan Lian Garden to catch a glimpse of its golden pagoda and assortment of strangely-contoured stones. The nunnery`s Chi Lin Vegetarian serves excellent vegetarian cuisine. To access the nunnery, walk around the Hollywood Plaza shopping center, turn right onto Fung Tak Rd and proceed up the steps Nearest transport: Diamond Hill MTR, exit C2
12. Visit the 10,000 Buddhas Monastery
A striking temple in the New Territories. A thirty-minute MTR ride from central Kowloon, this quirky monastery is well worth seeking out. From Sha Tin station, take the ramp down from Exit B past the traditional stone houses of Pai Tau Village, take a left into Pai Tau St, a right into Sheung Wo Che St and follow the path as it winds its way up the hill, lined with life-size golden statues of Buddha’s followers. Some are holding exotic objects, some are riding wild beasts (a tiger, a pig); look out for one bearded follower with hands coming out of his eyes. The walls of the main temple are lined with row upon row of tiny Buddha statues in various poses, and you’re likely to see worshippers lighting incense sticks and praying, both inside the temple and outside the multi-tiered pagoda. Head further up the hill to reach a smaller temple and the monastery’s highest point: a reclining stone Buddha above a koi pond and a waterfall cascading behind a tall statue of the Gautama. It’s very popular with visiting coach parties on weekends, so get here early or on a weekday.
Nearest transport: Sha Tin MTR, exit B
13. Sail on the Aqua Luna
Decades ago, the waters of Victoria Harbour were filled with dozens of traditional Chinese junks, their red sails aflutter. They all but disappeared with the advent of modern boats, but you can still sail aboard two examples of this venerable ancient sailing ship. On weekday afternoons, between noon and 4pm, one of the junks runs a hop-on, hop-off circuit of the harbour (HK$130) between Tsim Sha Tsui (Pier 2), Central (Pier 9), Wan Chai and Hung Hom, departing from Tsim Sha Tsui on the hour. For a longer and more atmospheric sailing trip, hop aboard the Aqua Luna for a 45-minute daily sunset or evening cruise, complete with complimentary drink (HK$195), or else see the nightly Symphony of Lights laser show from the boat’s deck (HK$285). For an extra-special touch, if you want to romance your sweetie, you can also opt for the latter, followed by a six-course Northern Chinese dinner at Hutong (www.hutong.com.hk).
Nearest transport: Tsim Sha Tsui MRT
14. Drink in the Views at Ozone
To experience an unparalleled perspective of Victoria Harbour, travelers should head for Ozone. Positioned on the 118th floor of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, which is currently recognized as the world’s highest hotel, it is considered the most elevated bar globally. Visitors will find themselves peering down upon the dense cluster of Kowloon’s skyscrapers, Hong Kong Island’s continuous skyline and the white foamy trails of boats crisscrossing the harbour from an immense altitude of 490 meters. An ear-adjusting trip up the elevator transports one inside this subtly illuminated, futuristic appearing bar – step outside onto the terrace, and Hong Kong spreads out below. Guests can reserve a seat facing the bay or else a sofa; for the finest views, request the sofa in the far right corner. In addition to champagnes, wines and gin and tonics on offer, patrons can opt for one of the bar’s signature cocktails (from HK$180); Bamboo (green-tea-infused cachaça with ginger beer, lime and lemongrass syrup) ranks among the most popular and comes in a bamboo stalk. Small plates include international tapas and sushi.
Nearest transport: Kowloon MRT
15. Marvel at the Tian Tan Buddha
The world’s largest seated bronze Buddha statue. One of Hong Kong’s star attractions, the Tian Tan Buddha sits on top of the Ngong Ping Plateau, amidst the forested hills of Lantau Island. The easiest and most picturesque way to reach the plateau is to take a 25-minute ride over the bay and mountains on one of the Ngong Ping 360 cable cars from Tung Chung; the pricier ones have glass floors for an even more spectacular view (NOT for those with vertigo!). Walk through the tacky Ngong Ping tourist village at the cable cars’ upper terminus and climb the 268 steps up to get up close and personal with the Buddha, sitting on a giant lotus. The bell inside the Buddha rings 108 per day to symbolize ‘108 troubles on mankind’. Beneath the podium is the 1924 Po Lin Monastery – a large, impressive Buddhist complex popular with visitors. Most of the buildings you see here are new and extravagantly decorated; the simpler ones hiding behind them are the older ones. You can easily combine a visit to the ‘Big Buddha’ with visits to Lantau Island’s picturesque villages; bus #21 takes you down to Tai O, while bus #2 runs to Mui Wo.
Nearest transport: cable car from Tung Chung MTR station
16. Visit the Hong Kong Museum of History
The excellently-curated Hong Kong Museum of History escorts visitors through the development of Hong Kong – from the region’s prehistory up until present day. The museum’s eight galleries that are artfully contrived furnish much-needed context for attendees and offer a superb avenue to delve into the territory’s singular culture and history. The initial gallery introduces one to Hong Kong’s natural surroundings and the earliest signs of human inhabitation, 6000 years ago. As you continue, you learn regarding ancient China’s maritime expansion and commerce, the arrival of the British and the Opium Wars, the British takeover of Hong Kong and the handover of the territory to China in 1997. Standout exhibits incorporate the life-size dwelling of the Tanka boat people, the fortified villages of the Puntay, traditional costumes and brightly-colored festival masks, and a replica Chinese wedding processional. You can peer into an opium den, check out recreated 1880’s shop houses, board a 1913 tram, and listen to the harrowing testimonials of survivors of the 1940’s Japanese occupation of Hong Kong. The 1960’s & 70’s culture segments showcase a cinema that screens Cantonese movies and a retro soda fountain. Post-handover Hong Kong, from 1997 onward, remains unrepresented.
Nearest transport: Tsim Sha Tsui MRT
17. Day trip to Macau
The former Portuguese colony and locale nicknamed the ‘Vegas of the Orient’. It takes just one hour by Turbojet hydrofoil to travel from Hong Kong to Macau. To make the most of your day, begin at Largo do Senado square, and walk past the historic IAM (Leal Senado) building, and along Rua de São Paulo to Macau’s most famous landmark – the still-standing façade of the 17th-century Church of St Paul. Stop at one of the nearby shops for some pastéis de nata (famous custard tarts). Then visit the interactive Macau Museum nearby that compares and contrasts China’s and Portugal’s achievements over the centuries. Next, take bus 2 or 2A along the main Rua do Campo to Guia Hill, the highest point of the Macau Peninsula. Take the Guia cable car up to the fort for excellent views of the city. For lunch, try some Macanese (Portuguese-Chinese fusion) specialities, such as slowly braised ribs and cod with black-eyed peas, at the colonial Clube Militar de Macau (Avenida de Praia Grande), accompanied by fine Portuguese wines.
After lunch, take bus 21A south across the Sai Van Bridge to connect Macau to Taipa, formerly inhabited by the Portuguese people, take a stroll along the narrow streets lined with Chinese shops and temples in Taipa Village. Check out the restored colonial homes at the Taipa Houses-Museum to see how affluent Macanese citizens once lived, and try some traditional Portuguese cuisine at O Santos before heading south to the Cotai Strip to catch an acrobatics and water show at the House of Dancing Water before joining those wagering at the blackjack and poker tables of the Venetian – the world’s largest casino.
Nearest transit: Take the MRT to Nam Cheong station, then walk to the fast boat
18. Visit the Hong Kong Maritime Museum
For over two millennia, the region of Hong Kong has derived its livelihood from the surrounding waters. Still functioning as one of the primary terminals worldwide for shipping containers, Hong Kong has served as a pivotal linchpin in maritime trade over the centuries – initially for China, later under British control, and more recently again as a Chinese entity. This engaging, technology-driven museum explores Hong Kong`s history as a port in addition to the different facets of everyday life linked to the surrounding sea. In Traditional Maritime China, follow the routes of yore along which exotic goods were exchanged. The China Trade delves into the Opium Wars that arose from the one-directional flow of Chinese goods into Europe and the British exporting opium to China in return while China sought to ban such opium imports. Weaponry, artillery, and an exquisite scroll painting illustrate Hong Kong`s centuries-long struggles with pirates. Hong Kong`s Ships and Shipyards provides an interactive look at the evolving Hong Kong harbor through the ages and the frenetic realm of stevedores, tugboat operators, tally clerks, and others who maintained its smooth functioning. Other displays feature scale models, glimpses below the surface, maritime communications, and even evocations of the sea – from the splashing of waves and vessels` warning signals to sea shanties inspired by the watery domain.
Nearest transport: Central MTR
19. Cheung Chau Island
The small island of Cheung Chau is a favored getaway for residents of Hong Kong, being conveniently accessible through regular ferry services from Central pier. Covered with gentle, paved trails winding along the rocky coastline, this hilly area draws city dwellers seeking to hike, relax on beaches, and dine at seafood restaurants in the central village. Ferries dock at the main village of Cheung Chau, which occupies the narrow central landstrip. Visitors can wander the tight lanes, appreciating the classic Chinese homes and fish air-drying along the waterfront. A 15 to 20 minute walk transports one to the former pirate lair of Cheung Po Tsai cave (external link) on a southern headland, where some still search buried treasures. Then heading east on Peak Road as it climbs to the cemetery, a path descends to the sheltered, sandy Pak Tso Wan beach ideal for swimming. Around an hour further along the eastern coastline brings one to the Kwun Yam Wan beach favored by windsurfers, also home to a colorful temple. A five minute walk returns visitors to the busy seafood eateries bordering the central village waters Nearest transport: Ferry from Central pier 5
20. Go for a night out in Soho
Explore the lively nightlife scene of Hong Kong’s most vibrant district. Hong Kong’s bar and pub offerings are unparalleled. You will find sophisticated award-winning cocktail bars, English-style pubs, craft beer breweries, hidden whisky lounges – and hilly Soho uphill from Central has the highest density of them all. Begin at Stockton, with its Victorian London styling – mounted animal heads, antique furnishings and intimate lighting. The rum-, whisky- and gin-focused cocktails here draw inspiration from late 19th century Europe and the atmosphere exudes decadence. Nearby, Origin Bar centers around gin, featuring a minimalist design and unique flavor infusions. Some steps descend to Ezra’s Lane, home to the remarkable J Boroski a private `creative cocktail space` tailoring bespoke beverages to your palette – call or email for an invite. Head back up Hollywood Road to dance; Drop attracts top DJ talent. Down nearby Old Bailey St, The Pontiac evokes retro rock`n`roll with its acclaimed craft libations and beers, led by a renowned female mixologist. Back on Hollywood Rd, finish at stylish Quinary applying molecular mixology to craft Hong Kong`s finest cocktails, or intimate wine and whisky lounge NocturneNearest transport: Central MRT
21. Walk the Ping Shan Heritage Trail
Traditional Chinese village in New Territories offers glimpse of ancient culture heritage. Worth visiting using MTR New Territories see centuries-old site inhabited since 13th century. Meandering 1km Ping Shan Heritage Trail passes through three partially-walled villages landmarks including temples, pagodas grand ancestral halls. From Tin Shui Wai MTR exit E cross road AMO Heritage site Tsui Shing Lau, Hong Kong’s pagoda built 1486. Then follow Tsui Sing Rd south past shrine Earth God 200-year-old Sheung Cheung Wai village. Further magnificent Tang Ancestral Hall 1273 halls courtyards indicating clan’s prestige imperial government. Beside Yu Kiu Ancestral Hall formerly boys’ three villages. Next Kun Ting Study Hall finely crafted granite followed Ching Shu Hin 19th century scholars’ guesthouse murals carved panels. Turn left Ping Ha Rd reach Hung Shing Temple still worshipped fishermen. Finish slightly uphill Ping Shan Chuk Lam Rd Ping Shan Tang Clan Gallery beautifully restored former police station. Displays focus powerful Tang clan artifacts traditional sedan chair.
Nearest transport: Tin Shui Wai MTR
22. Walk around Central
A quick stroll around the heart of Hong Kong. Start your walk at the Statue Square that commemorates the founder of the HSBC bank. A cenotaph in the northern section of the square (reachable via an underpass) honours the Hong Kong residents killed in the two world wars. On the east side of the square is the Legislative Council Building – a grand 1912 neoclassical edifice that used to house the Supreme Court during the colonial era. Across Des Voeux Rd from the tram stop is the Norman Foster-designed HSBC bank headquarters, a striking 52-storey masterpiece in aluminium and glass. Along Bank St you’ll see the elegant brick Court of Final Appeal (1 Battery Path). It stands out among the surrounding skyscrapers and used to house the French Mission during colonial times. St John’s Cathedral (1849, at 4-8 Garden Rd, kitty-corner to the Court of Final Appeal, is the oldest Anglican church in Asia. Services have been held here continuously since its creation, with the exception of 1944, when the occupying Japanese forces used it as a social club. Take Garden Rd north for a couple of blocks to the angular Bank of China tower, designed by IM Pei, a 70-storey glass prism structure that’s an iconic part of Hong Kong’s skyline. This part of the city is particularly impressive when lit up at night.
Nearest transport: Central MRT
23. Lamma Island
Island popular with weekend trippers. An easy ferry hop from Aberdeen or a short ferry ride from Central, Lamma is big enough to seriously stretch your legs if you’re into hiking, but not so big that you’re ever far from a ferry stop. Paved footpaths run past its beaches and along the gentle slopes of its hills. A good way to explore the island is to get dropped off at Mo Tat Wan, its easternmost ferry stop, and get picked up at Pak Kok Tsuen, at the very north of the island. From Mo Tat Wan, take the footpath south to the unspoiled Tung O Wan beach. A short scramble over the hill is the tiny, beautiful Sham Wan cove, where endangered green turtles nest June to October. A hilly twenty-minute walk brings you to the tiny Sok Kwu Wan village, with fish farms out in the bay and some seafood restaurants along the waterfront. A short walk west are the Kamikaze Caves, where the Japanese kept explosive-laden boats during WWII. Head north along the west coast of the island, passing a couple of pretty beaches, until you reach the busy little village of Yung Shue Wan, with seafood restaurants, cafes and New Age shops along its main street. If you have the energy, it’s another 15-minute walk north through lush greenery to the northern tip of the island.
Nearest transport: Ferry from Central pier 4
24. Visit Aberdeen Floating Village
The harbor located on the southern side of Hong Kong Island in the town of Aberdeen features a blend of high-rise buildings, ancient temples, and a narrow waterway populated by traditional fishing boats and yachts. During the 1960s and 1970s, the harbor was completely filled with sampans, which served as both the homes and livelihoods of the Tanka people, ethnic Chinese fishermen sometimes referred to as “sea gypsies.” Modernization of the fishing industry has greatly reduced the once vast floating village, with far fewer Tanka still living aboard their sampans. However, it`s possible to take a 30-minute tour of Aberdeen harbor viewing the families inhabiting the boats engaged in tasks like cleaning gear, gardening on roof decks, or playing mahjong. The sculpture-lined promenade provides a pleasant amble and early visitors can witness the activity at the western fish market. Out in the harbor is the Jumbo Kingdom Floating Restaurant, the world`s largest of its type easily spotted resembling a floating palace. Figures like Queen Elizabeth II and Tom Cruise have dined here, but while the seafood is excellent, prices are steep as well; going upstairs for the quality dim sum offers better value instead.
Nearest transportation: bus #121 from Central, then bus #170
25. Tai O
Traditional fishing village on Lantau Island. Apart from the airport, Disneyland and the Big Buddha, Hong Kong’s largest outlying island maintains a few historic towns that provide an interesting explore, with the most fascinating being Tai O. From the Tung Chung MTR stop near the Large Buddha, you have the choice to take bus #11 to the western coast, where the occupants of this tiny fishing village produce pungent shrimp sauce in the narrow alleyways and hang fish to dry out on lines along the waterfront. This is where many Tanka boat people still live – either on their sampans (fishing boats) or in the traditional stilt homes above the water. Local ladies offer ‘dolphin tours’ – boat trips of the harbour where, if you’re fortunate, you may spot some scarce pink dolphins. In any case, seeing the village from the water is really enjoyable; the number of houseboats in the harbour will make you realise why Tai O has been nicknamed the ‘Venice of Hong Kong’. On weekends, you can ride the traditional rope-tow ferry that connects the main village to the homes on the tiny island offshore for the bargain price of HK$1.
Nearest transit: Tung Chung MTR, then bus #11
26. Explore Stanley
Historic neighborhood on Hong Kong Island’s south side. Few Hong Kong neighborhoods hold as much history as Stanley, with its blend of heritage sites and museums, as well as an outstanding beach, crafts marketplace and an attractive seaside promenade lined with restaurants. One of Hong Kong’s oldest villages, Stanley takes its name after Lord Stanley, the British Secretary of State for the Colonies when Hong Kong was ceded to Great Britain in 1841. Remnants of that era remain: at the west of the Stanley promenade stands Murray House (1846), re-established here after being transported from its former home in Central, and housing several restaurants with ocean views. A couple of blocks from the east side of the promenade is the 1859 police station (88 Stanley Village Rd), while a 5-minute walk further southeast along Tung Tau Wan Rd brings you to the fairly distressing Hong Kong Correction Services Museum that charts Hong Kong’s history of crime and punishment. In central Stanley, grab a bite to eat at the German, medieval-themed King Ludwig Beer Hall, a gourmet burger at Beef & Liberty, or shop for souvenirs at the bustling Stanley Market.
Nearest transport: Bus 6, 6A, 6X, 260
27. Hike to Tai Long Wan Beach
Hong Kong’s best and most remote beach. When considering Hong Kong, a tropical beach is likely not the first thought that comes to mind. Yet it’s attainable if you know where to search. With its jungle-covered offshore islands, gentle waves and a wide expanse of sugary-white sand, Tai Long Wan is a stunner, located on the remote Sai Kung Peninsula in the New Territories, and worthwhile for the day trip. Take the MTR to Po Lam and then buses 11 and 1 to get to Sai Kung town (around one hour), then another minibus to the trailhead. From there’s it’s around 4km to the beach over a beautiful headland. The trail is easy to follow and not particularly demanding. Along the coast, you pass through several gorgeous, deserted coves, such as Chek Keng and Sai Wan, where you can swim and sunbathe in peace and quiet. Once you reach Tai Long Wan Beach, you can have lunch there at the couple of low-key seafood restaurants. Then retrace your steps to Sai Kung town, and back to Po Lam.
Nearest transport: Po Lam MTR
28. Explore the traditional medicine streets of Sheung Wan
Situated just minutes from Hong Kong’s energetic commercial center, the rising Sheung Wan neighborhood has a small cluster of roads lined with storefronts specializing in Chinese medicines that date back centuries, highlighting how Hong Kong’s dazzling advancement is founded on deep homage for tradition. The shop windows here showcase pungent displays of dried marine creatures, mysterious herbs, and unidentifiable objects. At 56 Bonham Stand East, the gleaming Tai Sing Bird’s Nest & Ginseng Co. does a busy trade in ginseng, a root believed to boost the immune system and treat male sexual dysfunction; it is literally worth more than its weight in gold. Wander into the shabbier shops along Wing Lok St St and you’ll see dried lizards on sticks, bags of dried shark fins, boxes of dried seahorses. (Shark fins give texture to soup and, as a sign of wealth and prestige, are an essential ingredient at wedding banquets, while dried seahorses are believed to increase men’s virility.) Further down the street, another establishment sells whales’ gallstones (ground up and fed to children to stop them from crying, allegedly) and vomit (used in the cosmetics industry to make perfume). Contact Walk In Hong Kong for a fascinating walking tour of the neighborhood.
Nearest transport: Sheung Wan MTR
29. PMQ – Qube
Design studios and quirky galleries. Spread across two buildings, PMQ is a hub of local creativity, its many floors housing design studios and one-of-a-kind shops by local designers; selling accessories, jewelry, homewares, shoes, and more. Events are held in the courtyard between the two buildings and there are frequent art exhibitions. If you’re shopping, head to BlkSheep Empire Footwear (3rd fl.) for innovative ladies’ footwear, The Little Finger (2nd fl.) for unisex jewelry, Stars & Tart (2nd fl.) for unusual gifts, Obellery (4th fl.) for contemporary jewelry for men and women, and kapok (ground fl.) for locally-made clothing. Other great choices include Hak (2nd fl) and me, ME & ME (2nd fl.) for striking women’s fashions, Goods of Desire (ground fl.) for gifts, Found MUJI (1st floor) and Bamboa Home (3rd fl.) for homewares, Eone Timepieces (2nd fl.) for designer watches and FABcessories (4th fl.) for unique men’s and women’s accessories. The on-site artisanal bakeries and cafes are good places to rest and refuel.
Nearest transport: Central MTR, Exit D2
