Hong Kong is a vibrant city that offers an eclectic blend of cultures, history, and natural beauty. With a population of over 7 million, it is one of the most visited places in the world. Hong Kong is brimming with exciting attractions that will make your visit to the city unforgettable. From towering skyscrapers to quaint temples, there is something for everyone. This blog post will guide you through some of the must-see attractions in Hong Kong that shouldn’t be missed.
Photo Credits: Chapman Chow
Visit the Peak, Hong Kong’s highest point, for a stunning 360-degree view of the city
Getting to The Peak
The best way to get to The Peak is by tram, which is an experience in itself. Boarding from Garden road, the journey takes a mere 10 minutes to reach the top. The journey up the hillside offers a unique perspective of the cityscape as it snakes its way to the Peak Tower.
Peak Tower and Sky Terrace 428
The Peak Tower is located at the summit of Victoria Peak and features excellent dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Marvel at the beautiful structure and stunning views from the Sky Terrace 428, which at 428 meters above sea level, is famous for its amazing views of Hong Kong’s skyline. You can enjoy a light meal or cold drinks while enjoying the sweeping panorama of Hong Kong, all from the highest point in the city.
Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
If you are a fan of movie stars, sporting legends, and historical figures, you should not miss Madame Tussauds at The Peak. Interactive exhibits and wax figurines of famous people from around the world are sure to put a smile on your face. Take endless selfies with your favorite celebrities from Hollywood, Bollywood, and K-pop, all in one place!
Outdoor Activities at The Peak
The Peak offers more than just indoor activities. You can take a leisurely walk along The Peak Circle Walk, a 3.5-kilometer circular track offering stunning views of the city, or take a hike up to the Lugard Road lookout viewpoint. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the thrilling Peak Tram Sky Pass which includes access to Sky Terrace 428, Green Explorer Augmented Reality Experience, and an exhilarating ride on the Peak Tram.
Best Time to Visit The Peak
The best time to visit The Peak is during summer months from June to August, where clear skies and cool evenings are ideal for taking in the panoramic views of Hong Kong’s skyline. It’s an excellent time to witness the beautiful sunset and the city’s dramatic transformation from day to night.
Photo Credits: Catgirlmutant
Explore the bustling streets of Mong Kok – you’ll find plenty of tasty food and interesting shops
Foodie Paradise
Mong Kok is a foodie’s dream come true. With an array of culinary delights on offer, you’ll be spoilt for choice. For starters, try some of the famous street food like egg tarts, fish balls, and stinky tofu served fresh from the grill. The seafood, Chinese-style roast meats, and hotpot joints will leave you salivating. However, it’s not just Chinese food on the menu; Mong Kok is home to many international eateries, including Korean, Thai, and Japanese. You can also indulge in sweets at traditional teahouses and dumpling shops. To really get a taste for this vibrant district, join a food tour to ensure you’re hitting all the best spots!
Shopaholics’ Paradise
Mong Kok is a shopper’s paradise with something for everyone. The area has the highest concentration of shoe shops, making it the perfect place to find your perfect pair. You can even visit Sneaker Street, which has numerous stores that cater to all sneaker fanatics. The Ladies’ Market is also a must-visit for bargains, fashion finds, and accessories. For vintage lovers, try the Golden Computer Arcade where you can find retro gaming consoles, electronic gadgets, and accessories. For bargain hunters, be sure to visit the Mong Kok Plaza, which has a plethora of bargain shops selling clothing, accessories, and even toys!
Street Art Galore
Mong Kok has evolved into a hub for street art lovers. The neighborhood is home to murals and street art that are both colorful and meaningful. The art changes now and then, so it’s always worth checking out the latest murals that dominate the walls of alleyways and doors of buildings. Be sure to follow street artist Ernest Chang (@little_little_ernest) on Instagram to get tips on where you can discover the best street art in Mong Kok.
Local Festivals and Events
Mong Kok is known for its local celebrations and events, especially during the Lunar New Year. There are also numerous street fairs and celebrations throughout the year, including the Mid-Autumn Festival, Tin Hau Festival, and the Youth Festival. These celebrations are the perfect opportunity to experience Hong Kong’s vibrant culture, so don’t miss them while in Mong Kok.
Transport Connection
Mong Kok is well-connected transport-wise, making it easy to get to and around the district. You can get to Mong Kok by MTR, buses, and minivans. The MTR station is at the center of the area, making it the ideal base for exploring the neighborhood. Additionally, you can use Mong Kok as a starting point to visit nearby areas like Yau Ma Tei, Tsim Sha Tsui, and Sham Shui Po.
Take a trip to Victoria Harbour and admire the spectacular skyline from the Ferry Pier
Before we begin, it is important to know what time to visit. The Harbour is a busy place and offers different views during different times of day. If you want to enjoy the harbour’s picturesque beauty, then you must visit during sunset. The magnificent view of the rising sun and its reflection off the skyscrapers is something not to be missed. Also, if you plan accordingly, you can behold a captivating light show called “A Symphony of Lights,” occurring every evening at 8:00 p.m.
Upon arrival, you will see the hustle-bustle of a bustling pier. Ferries, boats, cargos, and passenger ships traverse the sea, making the site lively and dynamic. The murmur of different languages and the sound of the waves crashing against the pier creates an atmosphere of excitement and energy in the air. Take a moment to savor the scene and capture some photos of the busy harbor. You can also experience some of the cheapest harbor crossings by hopping onto the Star Ferry.
Once you are on the pier, you will witness a breathtaking view of the Hong Kong skyline. The stunning architecture and design of the skyscrapers and buildings are visible from all angles. The International Commerce Centre (ICC), Hong Kong’s tallest skyscraper, and the famous Bank of China building dominate the skyline. Make sure to take a camera to capture the memorable views. And if you’re lucky enough, you may spot a red-sailed junk boat or a Chinese junk boat, a historical symbol of Hong Kong.
As you soak up the spectacular view of Victoria Harbour, you may feel hungry. There are some cafes and restaurants located on the pier where you can enjoy scrumptious food while admiring the awe-inspiring backdrop. But if you prefer to have a more authentic experience, you can try some of the local street food vendors outside the pier. You will find all kinds of snacks, from the famous egg puff waffle to a variety of local delicacies.
Photo Credits: acircleblue
Admire the beautiful Tian Tan Buddha at Ngong Ping Village – it’s one of Asia’s largest outdoor bronze Buddha statues
The Tian Tan Buddha stands at an impressive 34 meters high and is located in the midst of the beautiful landscape of the Ngong Ping Plateau. To get there, you will need to take the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, which is just a 25-minute ride from Tung Chung Cable Car Terminal. The view of the countryside and the sea from the cable car is mind-blowing, and it feels like you are traveling to another world altogether.
As you approach the Tian Tan Buddha, you will notice the six smaller bronze statues flanking the podium. These statues are known as “The Offering of the Six Devas” and represent offerings to the Buddha – incense, fruits, flowers, lamp, ointment, and music. You can choose to give offerings too if you wish by buying them at the souvenir shops located nearby.
Once you get to the Buddha, you will notice all the intricate details and the serene expression on his face. You can either walk up the 268 steps to the top or take the elevator up to the statue’s highest point. From there, you can enjoy panoramic views of Lantau Island, Hong Kong International Airport, and even the South China Sea in the distance.
Photo Credits: Meckl Antal
The outdoor statue of Tian Tan Buddha was built to symbolize the harmonious connection between man and nature, and it has become a spiritual haven for Buddhists from all over the world. You will see that the statue is surrounded by lush greenery and temples that you can explore as well. You can spend a whole day just basking in the beauty and tranquility of the Ngong Ping Village.
Go on a shopping spree in Causeway Bay and enjoy some retail therapy while you’re there
Causeway Bay Shopping Malls: Start your shopping spree at one of Causeway Bay’s numerous shopping malls. The district is home to some of the city’s largest malls, including Times Square, Lee Gardens, and Hysan Place. You’ll find every international brand you can imagine and explore the latest trends and fashion. These malls cater to diverse budgets, so whether you’re looking for perfect luxury boutiques or shops to save a few bucks, you will find it here.
Street markets: Take your shopping to the next level and bargain for a good deal. Hong Kong’s street markets offer everything from electronic gadgets, watches, and jewelry to clothing and home decor. Some of your must-visit street markets in the area include the famous Ladies’ Market, Sogo Fresh Market, and Jardine’s Crescent.
Browsing local brands: Causeway Bay is also home to a selection of local brands, offering Hong Kong’s shops a unique flair. Don’t miss visiting Handmade Hong Kong, a temporary shop and studio that showcases local craft makers and artists. You’ll also find smaller boutiques, like Goods of Desire and Kapok, that offer a variety of locally made items from everyday bags to home decor.
Luxury Shopping: Luxury shopping is one of the key attractions in Causeway Bay. You’ll find high-end luxury brands such as Chanel, Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton, all of which are located in the district’s prime shopping malls. While it’s tempting to spend all your savings on luxurious items, you might want to take a moment to enjoy Hong Kong’s stunning sights and experiences without breaking the bank.
Finishing touches: Right after you’ve visited the shopping malls and local boutiques, head to the beauty section. Visit Cosmed and Sasa makeup stores to find affordable beauty essentials. You can purchase goodies such as local facial masks and anti-aging creams which you can’t find anywhere else.
Wander around Lantau Island and discover its serene temples, beaches, and mountainside hikes
Explore The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery
One of the must-visit places on Lantau Island is The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. You will be awed by the 34-meter-tall statue of Buddha that sits atop the mountain. The Po Lin Monastery is home to exquisite Buddhist architecture and art treasures. Be sure to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
Enjoy the Picture-Perfect Beaches
The Lantau Island is home to some of Hong Kong’s best beaches. Cheung Sha Beach, Pui O Beach, and Tong Fuk Beach provide perfect spots to bask in the sun, have a picnic, or enjoy some water activities. You can also go for a hike on a nearby trail and then cool off in the refreshing sea waters.
Hike The Lantau Trail
The Lantau Trail is a beautiful 70-kilometer hiking trail that takes you on an adventure across the island’s mountain ranges, country parks, and awe-inspiring views of the South China Sea. You can choose to do the entire trek or choose different sections based on your interest and fitness level. Be sure to carry enough water, snacks, and comfortable hiking gear.
Take A Ride On The Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car
Another way to discover the beauty of Lantau Island is by taking a ride on the Ngong Ping 360 cable car. The cable car takes you from Tung Chung to the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. The panoramic views of the mountains, sea, and the surrounding villages are breathtaking. Alternatively, you can hike to the monastery to enjoy the views and have an authentic experience.
Visit Tai O Fishing Village
Tai O Fishing Village offers a glimpse of traditional Hong Kong life. The village is known for its stilt houses, unique fishing culture, and local food delicacies. You can take a boat ride to see the Pink Dolphins, visit the heritage trail and learn about the village’s history, or shop for trinkets and souvenirs. The village is an excellent place to spend a day relaxing and connecting with nature.
Photo Credits: Yuhan Du
Hong Kong is a city that has so much to offer. From the bustling streets to the serene temples, there is something to see and do for everybody. Make sure you plan your trip carefully and don’t miss out on these top attractions. With these must-see attractions in Hong Kong, your trip to this city will be exceptional.
Photo Credits: Andres Garcia
A Must-See Attractions in Hong Kong That Will Make Your Trip Exceptional