With Hong Kong officially being one of the most densely populated countries in the world it is no surprise there are numerous of things to do in the city. Containing nature parks, busy markets, traditional Dai Pai Dongs and dazzling skyscrapers, Hong Kong’s to do list can be a bit overwhelming. How do you narrow it down to the must-sees for your visit? Some attractions are highly unique to Hong Kong and can not be found anywhere else in the world. This is a list of those must-visits when traveling to Hong Kong.
1. Victoria Peak
”The Peak”, as it is known by the locals, is one of the most touristic places in Hong Kong and provides you with the greatest view on the world-famous Victoria Harbour. The view also extends to the south over the South China Sea where some of the many other islands in Hong Kong can be seen. The Peak is easy to reach by bus, walk, hike and above all with the historical Peak Tram. The funicular ride commuting since 1888 will bring you to the 552meter high Victoria Peak, which is actually the highest point on Hong Kong Island.
At The Peak there are multiple places to enjoy the view like for example The Sky Terrace on top of the Peak Tower, Victoria Peak Garden near the summit and Lion’s Pavilion. The view is best enjoyed on a clear day and both in the day and at night. The day views are popular for their clear view on the skyscrapers and the busy Harbour. Night views are popular for their stunning light shows of the skyscapers. If you feel like escaping the busyness go for a stroll at Victoria Peak park.
Address: 128 Peak Road
Opening Hours: tram rides from 7AM-12AM
Price: 28HKD one-way
2. The Big Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha)
The Big Buddha is one of Lantau Islands main attractions and is often overlooked with short-stay visitors. The Buddha is a representation of Lord Gautama and is plus the lotus just under 34m high. The statue was finished in 1993 and still holds the record of being the tallest seated bronze Buddha statue in the world. Marvel around the size of the Buddha and pay a visit to the next-door Po Lin Monastery. The Big Buddha can be easily combined with other attractions on the island for a day trip. Click here for a perfect day trip itinerary to Lantau Island.
Address: Ngong Ping Road, Lantau Island
Opening hours: 8AM-6PM
Price: Free
3. Man Mo Temple
Dating from 1847 the Man Mo Temple is the biggest Man Mo Temple and one Hong Kongs most famous urban temples. It is still a commonly used temple for the locals to pray to the god of literature (Man) and the god of war (Mo). Spotted parents are likely to be praying for their children’s school success. On the ceiling you might notice the spirals of incense; their smoke is intended to bring the prayers to the gods.
Address: 124-126 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan
Opening hours: daily from 8AM-6PM (free entrance)
4. Avenue of Stars (Victoria Harbour)
The Avenue of Stars opened in 2004 to celebrate the success of the Hong Kong film industry. This avenue will provide you with the most well known view on Victoria Harbour. Except for the scenery you can find here the Hollywood-like handprints of Jackie Chan and Andy Lau among others. Bruce Lee even has his own statue here. Every night at 8PM there is a light and sound show called the Symphony of Lights.
Address: Avenue of stars, Tsim Sha Tsui
5. Temple Street Night Market
The Temple Street Night Market can be seen as a night equivalent to the Ladies Market. It is the only Hong Kong market to be open after dark. The market opens from 2 to 11PM and stretches out over multiple blocks. If you are in the mood for some street food, head to Woo Sung Street for many of the Dai Pai Dongs parallel to the market. Grab some fresh seafood and pair with some ice cold local beers. Afterwards, go see a fortune teller to have a glimpse of your future (or possible hangover).
Address: Temple Street, Jordan
Opening hours: 2PM-11PM
6. Happy Valley Racecourse
Hong Kong is the only place in China where gambling on horses is allowed. Every Wednesday since 1846 the races take place in Happy Valley (sometimes on Saturday) and Sundays in Sha Tin. Participate in the excitement of placing a bet (there is a very low minimum) by exchanging your HKD’s for betting vouchers inside the stands. Afterwards you can use the machine terminals (english settings & instructions) with help from the stewards if needed. With live music and available bars and restaurants even those who are not excited by gambling can have good time in this unique venue.
Address: 2 sports road, Happy Valley
Opening hours: Wednesday 7PM-11PM
Price: 10 HKD (You can also use an Octopus card)
7. Star Ferry
Cross the Victoria Harbour like they did back in de colonial times? The Starferry was the main facilitation to cross the harbor since the 18th century. The company Starferry was founded in 1898 named after the ferries that all had a star in their name. Even with the existence of the MTR the starferries are still a very common way of transportation. Enjoy the ride with the amazing view both in the day and at night.
Address: Central Ferry Pier 7
Opening Hours: 6.30AM-11.20Pm
Price: Monday – Friday 2.50HKD, Saturday & Sunday 3.40HKD
8. 10.000 Buddhas Monastery
Actually this monastery contains more than 10.000 Buddhas and is located a bit away from most tourist attractions. Hence fewer tourists will be found and you have the opportunity to discover this unique monastery in tranquility. This monastery build in the 1950s contains several halls and pavilions as well as a nine-storey pagoda. There are dozens of life like Buddhas paving the way towards the monastery making the small uphill hike worthwhile. This monastery is unlike any other in Hong Kong and has awell deserved spot on the list.
Address: 221, Sha Tin
Opening hours: 9AM-5PM
9. Nan Lian Garden
Experience the contrast between the ancient and modern Hong Kong in this 35.000 square meters big garden. In 1998 the garden was rebuilt completely of wood, with not a single nail. This demonstrates the harmony of humans with nature. The Nan Lian Garden is made according to the Chinese garden art, in the style of the Tang-dynasty (618-907). Every stone, bridge and plant is placed like this on purpose. The garden is designed in a one-way circular route manner and provides its visitor with the Lotus Pond, the Blue Pond and the Pavilion of Absolute Perfection among others.
Address: 60 Fung Tak Road, Diamond hill
Opening hours: 7AM-9PM
Price: free entrance
10. Tai O Fishing Village
The picturesque village of Tai O definitely gives a different view of Hong Kong and it is hard to remember that the village is a part of Hong Kong at all. Tai O also known as the Venice of Hong Kong is listed on the UNESCO-heritage list and because of its unique appearance has been home for various popular movies. The name of the village is derived from its location, Tai O meaning larger inlet. Take stroll around the village, eat some local seafood and go on a boat trip to spot some pink dolphins.
Address: Tai O, Lantau Island
11. Wong Tai Sin Temple
This shrine is the most well-known and touristic shrine in Hong Kong. The temple is dedicated to Wong Tai Sin, meaning the great immortal Wong. The Taoist temple is famous for the many prayers answered and the claim to answer anyone’s wishes. It dates back to 1921 and covers the 3 major religions in China, taosim, Buddhism, and Confucianism.
Address: 2 Chuk Yuen Road
Opening hours: 7.30AM-4.30PM
12. Ladies Market
Hong Kong’s most famous market is the Ladies Market in Mong Kok. The market can be compared to the Temple Night Market street but in the daytime. The market stretches out almost 1 kilometer long and offers products as souvenirs, clothes and electronics. The market is most famous for its bargain womenswear, hence the name. Be sure to bring your bargain skills, as the sellers certainly bring theirs.
Address: Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok
Opening hours: 12PM-10.30PM
Been there, done that 