Hong Kong, a former British protectorate now ruled by mainland China, is an urban metropolis of glistening skyscrapers, but also with quick access to nature and the outdoors. Travelers can visit the spectacular harbor and high-end Central shopping district, and then hike around the Dragon’s Back trail. Hong Kong is a great stopover as part of a larger
China trip.
With great nightlife, mouthwatering cuisine, stunning city views and an intriguing East-meets-West culture, Hong Kong a can't-miss destination. Only problem is you may never want to leave!
Hong Kong Food Tours
Hong Konghas the highest ratio of restaurants to people in the world. In the city center, every type of food imaginable is readily available. It’s no surprise that many people come to Hong Kong with the main objective to try some exotic and incredible food - and going a culinary tour can help you just that. On a food tour, you can expect to be traveling with a small group (some food tours cap at 6 people), and with a guide who is bilingual.
For the food, you will be certain to try delicacies from many “hole in the wall” places off of the tourist map. You are sure to try some dim sum, where diners can try several dishes at once. Other Hong Kong specialities include wontons, roast goose, steamed dumplings, fish balls, pineapple bread, -- but with thousands more dishes served, you can only be sure what you will eat once you get there!
Nightlife in Hong Kong
Going out in Hong Kong is safe, fun, and relatively easy for foreigners, which makes it a popular activity. This massive and modern city has every type of bar imaginable, from high end whiskey bars, to rooftop bars with amazing views, to more casual karaoke bars primarily targeted at young people.
Lan Kwai Fong used to be the hotspot for partying in Hong Kong, and although this has begun shifting in recent years, you can still find plenty of fun venues there. The Wan Chai are is a great spot for higher-end drinking venues, and Soho is the spot for nightclubs. For a non-alcoholic alternative, try a local ying-yang tea.
Hong Kong Shopping
Hong Kong is China’s heart of retail, and shopaholics will fall in love with the city's many, many shopping malls, where all sorts of high end clothes and goods are available. Any big international clothing or technology brand will have a shop in Hong Kong, although you shouldn’t expect any significant markdown on prices.
If you are looking to spend a little more on your souvenir, Hong Kong also has an expansive art and antiques market. Because there are so many reproductions, the best way to ensure what you’re buying is genuine is to visit one of the many respected antique and art houses in the city.
Antique houses are fun to visit even if you aren’t buying -- they will have some of the most interesting and valuable rarities on display, and a collection with origins in many different Asian countries.
If you don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on a genuine antique but love the look of traditional Chinese and Japanese furniture, for example, then consider getting a reproduction of those pieces. Many antique houses will hire artisans to craft copies of furniture, pottery, and other trinkets using the process of the period and sell these at a marked down price.
Hong Kong also a vibrant and competitive contemporary art scene, which is still growing and aims to compete with the likes of New York and London.
For your more typical souvenirs, visit Ladies' Market or the nearby Night Market. To see some of Hong Kong’s particularly unusual shopping encounters, visit the Jade Market or the Goldfish Market.
Sightseeing in Hong Kong
Take a stroll up Hollywood road to take in some Hong Kong sights, such as Man Mo Temple, known for its abundance of incense. Another popular stop is at the some of the aforementioned art galleries, for example, visit the PMQ (Police Married Quarters), where local artists showcase their work.
If you are on a
family friendly tour of Hong Kong, you may be directed to the free Zoological and Botanical Gardens in your free time. The Gardens have a spectacular collection of apes, reptiles, and an abundance of plants native to China and from around the world..
To get the best view of Hong Kong’s skyline, your best chance is at night. The views of Hong Kong aren't all that great during the day, when smog blankets the city and results in poor visibility. At night, however, the skyscrapers are lit up against a clear sky and reflected in the water, making for some incredible views.
One of the most popular viewpoints is Victoria Peak, which can be accessed by taking a tram up the hill. The top of the IFC is another common spot from which to view the city. Or, choose from one of Hong Kong's many rooftop bars, and take in the view while enjoying a drink.
Another way to get some of the best views in Hong Kong from the water is to take the Star Ferry from Tsim Sha Tsui to Central Hong Kong. This short boat ride offers a view of the city skyline that is particularly scenic as the sun is going down.
Day Trips from Hong Kong
On a multi day tour of Hong Kong, you are sure to go outside of the city and explore the surrounding areas. However, if your tour ends within the city, and If you have more time to spend in Hong Kong, try a visit to the New Territories, such as Sai Kung island, where you can take scenic boat trips or enjoy seafood on the promenade. Or take a cable car to see the Giant Buddha on Lantau island.
Disneyland is a popular attraction for younger children. Though it is smaller than those in other countries, it makes for a nice day trip, especially for families. Alternatively, you can visit Ocean Park, a theme park that also features marine life.