If you are lucky enough to visit Hong Kong, there is a huge variety of things to see and do in this fascinating region. From street markets to luxury hotels, beautiful parks to world-class exhibitions, Hong Kong has something for everyone at any time of year. With guide books fit to bursting with ideas and inspiration for your visit, here are just a few examples of the unique attractions and delights of Hong Kong.
The Iconic Star Ferry
Providing some of the best views of the Hong Kong skyline, the Star Ferry is a must. These historic boats have been transporting passengers between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island for over 120 years and are super cheap to hop onto. Why not take a ride during the evening to catch some amazing views of the sun setting along Victoria harbour.
Hong Kong Tram
The ‘ding-dings’ or the Hong Kong trams are easily the best way to get around Hong Kong Island and also one of the cheapest. These old-school trams are highly distinctive and, with a little planning, you can sit back and relax and let the gentle pace of the trams take you on a tour of the whole island - it’s a really unique way to see the sights and sounds of Hong Kong. It’s cheap too and you’ll be able to tick off some of Hong Kong’s main tourist attractions along the route, such as Victoria Park and Happy Valley Racecourse.
Wong Tai Sin Temple
This beautiful temple complex, located on the south side of Kowloon’s Lion Rock Mountain, is home to three religions - Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism and is one of the most popular temples in all of Hong Kong. The complex is home to altars, gardens and pavilions and is the perfect place to take in the decorative facades, traditional Chinese architecture, the heady scent of incense and the sounds of prayer. Dedicated to the god of healing, Wong Tai Sin, this truly iconic temple is supposedly one of the luckiest in all of Hong Kong. While you are there, why not try having your fortune told through kau chim, where you shake a cylinder containing bamboo sticks – the one that falls out will reveal your fortune! You can also pay a visit to one of the fortune-telling booths for a more personal experience.
Stanley Market
Stanley Market is the perfect location to pick up some souvenirs as well as take in the beautiful scenery of this pretty seaside market. When you’ve finished shopping, why not try one of the many waterfront restaurants or visit Murray House - an icon of the colonial era and one of the oldest surviving public buildings in Hong Kong.
Pineapple Buns
You never have to walk far to find a boutique patisserie or cake shop in Hong Kong. These wonderful establishments sell quality baked goods which are far superior to anything you might find in the supermarket. While you can find a wide array of traditional pasties and more western-style delights, such as sourdough bread, the pineapple bun is incredibly popular among locals and tourists alike. Don’t let the name fool you though – there’s actually no pineapple in the pineapple bun! Rather, the name refers to the crunchy sweet crackled crust which tops the soft fluffy bun below. No trip to Hong Kong is complete without trying at least one!
Dragon’s Back and Big Wave Bay
Dragon’s Back is an extremely rewarding but gentle hike. This popular route takes in the beautiful scenery of Tai Tam, Shek O Peak and finally Big Wave Bay and is the final leg of the far longer Hong Kong Trail. While there is little shade en-route, there are many viewing platforms to take in the stunning views around you and at Shek O Peak, you’ll get a truly amazing panoramic vista which really highlights how Dragon’s Back got its name. At the end of the trail you’ll find Big Wave Bay – the perfect place to rest, take in the clear blue skies and soft sand. If you still have the energy, why not try surfing or windsurfing here, as it’s also one of Hong Kong’s best surfing locations.