Best Things To Do in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of the most dynamic cities in Asia and offers a unique cultural crossroads in the world. Known for its skyscraper skyline and bustling urban life, it has transformed into a tourist destination that combines tradition with modernity, which is reflected in its architecture, markets and temples.

Some of the best things to do in Hong Kong include walking along the Avenue of Stars, sampling local cuisine, visiting the Man Mo Temple and walking through Nan Lian Garden, a site that allows visitors to dive into the history and traditions of this self-governing territory.

Hong Kong is the city of skyscrapers and one of the best alternatives to contemplate its skyline is to reach the top of Victoria Peak, a viewpoint that offers a unique perspective of this destination. From the top of this peak that exceeds 500 meters, the city appears as a mosaic of lights, buildings and natural landscapes that intertwine harmoniously.

During the day, Victoria Peak offers stunning panoramic views, allowing you to appreciate the details of the city's modern architecture and the splendor of Victoria Bay. However, it is at night when the lights of the city take center stage and transform the skyline into a glowing spectacle. You can get there on the Peak Tram.

One of the best ways to discover the night views is through a visit to Sky Terrace 428, the highest viewpoint of Victoria Peak. From there you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama that spans from the skyscrapers of the financial district to the calm waters of the bay.

For those looking for a more leisurely experience, a hike along the trails surrounding Victoria Peak also offers panoramic views of the illuminated city. The viewpoints and nature trails can be reached on your own on the Peak Tram or by purchasing tickets for Hong Kong's night tour bus.

Although Hong Kong is a concrete jungle that stands out for its modern architecture, one of the main attractions you can visit in this destination is the Hong Kong Park, an oasis of tranquility in the middle of the urban bustle. This park, surrounded by lush gardens, features hiking trails, lakes and a wide variety of flora.

In addition, the park houses a collection of ponds, waterfalls and green areas that contribute to the relaxed atmosphere of the place. The Butterfly House is another highlight where you can observe a colorful variety of butterflies in an environment designed to replicate their natural habitat.

Hong Kong Park is also special for its distinctive architecture. Among its facilities are the Environmental Education Center and the Tea Museum, two sites that offer interactive exhibits on sustainability and tea culture in China.

You can also get there if you decide to buy tickets for the Hong Kong sightseeing bus, which includes a stop at this site.

Lantau is the largest island in the region and is filled with scenery ranging from overgrown mountains to sandy beaches. Located west of Hong Kong, this island territory is famous for the Big Buddha, a 34-meter-high bronze statue housed in the Po Lin Monastery.

In addition to the Big Buddha, Lantau also features the village of Ngong Ping, which offers a unique cultural experience with its souvenir stores, exhibitions and traditional activities.

The island is also known for its nature trails and natural areas. Lantau National Park, which occupies a large part of the island, offers hiking trails for all levels, allowing adventurers to explore its mountains, forests and coastline in a safe and organized way. The hike from Ngong Ping to Tai O Beach is especially popular, providing panoramic views of the coastline and the Big Buddha.

On this island you can also visit the fishing village of Tai O, which is an attraction in itself for its houses built on stilts and traditional culture. In addition, if you want to experience the panoramic views of this site, you can opt to buy tickets for the Ngong Ping 360 cable car

Hong Kong is a coastal destination, so one of the best ways to get a different profile of this place is to participate in a boat ride on the bay. During this tour you will have the opportunity to see some of the city's most iconic buildings, such as the Hong Kong Tower and the International Commerce Centre.

You will also discover how Victoria Harbour becomes a dazzling backdrop where cargo ships and passenger cruise ships mingle on their itineraries. If you want to make the most of your visit you can opt for a sunset stroll.

On the other hand, during these walks you can also discover the frenzy of the Symphony of Lights, a show that takes place every night and illuminates the skyline of the city. From the boat you will be able to distinguish the choreography of lights and sounds that bring the buildings to life and create a mesmerizing spectacle that highlights the beauty of Hong Kong and all its modernist spirit.

In addition to the urban sights, booking a boat ride in Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour at sunset will also allow you to appreciate the natural beauty of the bay. The nearby islands and mountains surrounding Victoria Harbour create an interesting contrast to the city, offering a haven of calm amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

Hong Kong is the city of skyscrapers and, therefore, it is also the city of viewpoints. Among them, the most prominent is the Sky 100 building, which is one of the tallest in the city with its 393 meters and offers a 360-degree platform. Located on the 100th floor of the International Commerce Centre, the observation deck is the perfect place to enjoy a unique perspective of Hong Kong's cityscape.

From the heights you will be able to view iconic buildings such as the Bank of China, HSBC Bank Tower and the International Finance Centre, which stand out on the skyline with their unique architectural design.

Sky 100 also offers a series of interactive installations and exhibitions that will allow you to learn more about the history and culture of this city, which until 1997 was part of the English Colonial Empire and has since been under the protectorate of China, albeit with certain prerogatives. If you decide to book a full-day excursion to Macau from Hong Kong, you will discover a similar political situation, as this peninsula is under a similar regime.

The experience at Sky 100 is complemented by its strategic location in Kowloon, close to other attractions such as the famous Temple Street Night Market and Kowloon Park. After visiting the observation deck and watching the sunset from above, you can explore these areas and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Tasting Hong Kong cuisine is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have in this city. Noted for its fusion of cultures and flavors, Cantonese cuisine is the most representative, but the culinary diversity of this destination offers a range of options to satisfy all palates.

One of the most emblematic dishes you can't miss is dim sum, a selection of small portions that include dumplings, buns and rolls. This specialty is traditionally served on carts that roam the restaurants, allowing diners to choose from a variety of options. Har gow and siu mai are just some of the favorite preparations of this preparation.

Another iconic dish is roast chicken, known for its crispy skin and juicy meat. This is why many locals recommend visiting a restaurant specializing in roast chicken, where you can enjoy not only chicken, but also roast pork and Peking duck.

Finally, you can not leave Hong Kong without trying the famous egg pie, a sweet and fluffy dessert that has become a symbol of the local pastry. These cakes, with their egg cream filling, are ubiquitous and available in bakeries and cafes throughout the city.

The Man Mo Temple is one of the most important religious sites in Hong Kong, and visiting it will give you an insight into the history and spirituality of the city. This temple was built in the mid-nineteenth century and has become one of the most visited shrines in the region.

The temple, in turn, stands out for its traditional architecture, which combines elements of Chinese culture with influences of the British colonial style. Inside the building you will find carved columns, decorated ceilings and statues representing Taoist figures.

In addition to its historical and architectural value, Man Mo Temple is a cultural center where numerous festivities and rituals are held throughout the year. There you can witness traditional ceremonies such as the Spring Festival and the Hungry Ghost Festival.

You can reach this site by public transport or also by designing an itinerary that includes the temple if you decide to book a private tour of Hong Kong.

The Avenue of Stars is one of the main arteries of Hong Kong and also one of the tourist epicenters of this destination. Located on the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, this avenue pays tribute to the most emblematic figures of the film industry in the region. As you walk along the promenade you will come across tributes to Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan and Maggie Cheung, among many others.

In addition to the commemorative plaques, the Avenue of Stars is adorned with sculptures and monuments honoring movie icons. One of the most prominent attractions is the Bruce Lee statue, which pays homage to the legendary martial artist and actor. This statue is also one of the most photographed spots in Hong Kong.

The Avenue of Stars also offers sweeping views of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong's iconic skyline. As you stroll along , you can enjoy the panoramic view of the skyscrapers towering over the bay. During sunset and after dark, you can also see the Symphony of Lights, a daily spectacle of lights and music that illuminates the cityscape.

On the other hand, the Avenue of Stars is close to other popular attractions, such as the Hong Kong Museum of Art and the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. So you can easily combine your visit to the avenue with a day of cultural exploration.

If you want to know the most authentic profile of traditional Hong Kong you can not miss the Mong Kok neighborhood, which is one of the most distinctive nuclei of this destination. This district is known for its traditional crowded buildings, where apartments and stores are grouped in skyscrapers that seem to touch the sky.

As you walk through its streets, you will be surrounded by a mixture of aromas, sounds and colors that represent the daily life of the city's inhabitants. From the bustle of the markets to the neon lights that adorn the facades, Mong Kok offers a unique sensory experience that reflects the essence of the metropolis without the need to resort to the luxury of the skyscrapers of the financial area that mark the avant-garde pulse of Hong Kong.

One of Mong Kok's main attractions is its street markets, which are a true paradise for shopaholics. The Women's Market is especially popular and there you can find everything from clothing and accessories to beauty and technology items.

Mong Kok is also famous for its restaurants and street food stalls, where you can enjoy authentic Hong Kong cuisine. From dim sum to egg cakes and roast chicken, the options are endless, but all will lead you to discover the true local spirit, which you can discover on your own or also if you decide to book a food tour of Hong Kong.

The Nan Lian Garden is another of Hong Kong's natural wonders and an example of traditional Chinese architecture. The site is adorned with lush greenery, koi carp ponds and landscaped rocks that create a harmonious and relaxing atmosphere, making it the perfect place to escape the fast pace of the city.

One of the main features of the Nan Lian Garden is its careful planning and design. Every element of the garden has been meticulously thought out and the park map includes everything from stone pathways to a trail of fruit trees.

In addition, the garden features traditional architectural elements, such as wooden bridges, pavilions and teahouses, which add a cultural tinge to the natural setting. Within the garden you will also find the Chi Lin Monastery, a prominent Buddhist complex that houses a collection of Buddhist statues and other religious artifacts.