Hong Kong is an amazing city. It’s one of the world’s most densely populated cities, yet it has some of the best beaches and natural beauty on earth. The city also offers an exciting mix of modern skyscrapers and colonial architecture that make for great photos. And with over 800 years of history, there are plenty of places to visit if you want to get off the beaten path while still staying within easy reach of all the major attractions. Something interesting about Hong Kong is that many people who live here speak English as a second language because they were born elsewhere but moved to Hong Kong when they were young. So there are a lot of cultural differences between native Cantonese speakers and expats from other countries like England or America. Here are some of the must-see destinations in Hong Kong:
* Victoria Peak
This was once just a hilltop covered by trees where locals went to relax. But today, this peak is packed full of tourists during the summer vacation season. There are many trails up to different parts of the mountain, so you can hike around without worrying about getting lost. You’ll have stunning views of the entire city below, along with cool breezes coming down from the top. If you’re looking for even more beautiful scenery, then head to Lantau Island, which is only 30 minutes away by ferry. This island is home to Disneyland Resort and is filled with lush green mountains and crystal clear waterfalls. At the Victoria Peak summit, visitors will find restaurants serving food from Asia, including Japanese, Thai, Korean BBQ, Italian and Chinese cuisine. They offer everything from snacks to fine dining.
* Visit Ocean Park
Ocean Park is located right next to the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront promenade. It used to be a marine farm before being turned into a theme park back in 1967. Today, it features rides such as ‘Underwater World,’ ‘Wave Swinger,’ and ‘Turtle Cove.’ Other highlights include Shamu Stadium, Penguin Encounter, and Journey to Atlantis. In addition to these main attractions, Ocean Park also hosts regular events throughout the year. For example, every Sunday at 3 pm, guests can watch free performances by local street artists called “Artists Under One Roof.” These performers come together each week to showcase various forms of art ranging from painting to dance. Visitors can enjoy delicious seafood dishes while watching them perform.
* Stanley Market
Stanley market is famous for its fresh produce and traditional foods. Vendors set up stalls selling fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, noodles, rice cakes, and sweets every morning. Many of the ingredients sold here are grown locally on farms surrounding the area. A popular stall sells egg tarts made from eggs laid by chickens living inside the market itself! Another highlight is the variety of fruit juices available. Some of the drinks served here contain herbs and spices added directly from the kitchen garden behind the market. Stanley Market is open daily until 9 pm.
*visit Kowloon Walled City
Kowloon Walled City was built almost entirely out of scrap metal and old tires. When the British took control of Hong Kong after WWII, they decided to build a walled city instead of demolishing what already existed. After decades of abandonment, the government finally demolished the walls in 1997. Nowadays, the site serves as a public housing estate and shopping center. The best way to get there is via MTR Kwun Tong Line or Star Ferry. It would be best if you went through an electronic security gate that scans your ID card to enter the complex. Once inside, you’ll see many shops selling souvenirs and clothing items. Also, check out the Food Street – a row of small eateries offering cheap eats like dumplings, barbecue pork buns, and fried chicken.
*Take a day trip to Macau
Macau has been under China’s sovereignty since 1999 but maintains much of its own culture and traditions. With Portuguese influence still evident all over the place, Macau offers plenty of things to do. Take a walk along Coloane Village, one of the oldest villages in Macau. Here you’ll find cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings featuring ornate balconies and window sills. You can even take part in some Chinese opera shows if you’re lucky enough to catch one during their season. Suppose you want to try gambling, head to Casino Lisboa, where you can play roulette, blackjack, poker, and more. There are several other casinos scattered around town, so make sure to have fun playing games without breaking the bank.
*Visit Tai O Fishing Port
Tai O fishing port is situated about 30 minutes away from Sai Kung Town. This village consists mostly of fishermen who live in wooden houses lining the coastline. They sell freshly caught crabs, lobsters, prawns, squid, and seaweed snacks. Most people visit this village when they are looking for food. However, visitors should not see the nearby Shek Pik Yu Temple, which dates back to 1847. Inside the temple, you will find beautiful Buddhist statues and murals depicting stories from Buddha’s life.
*Explore Lamma Island
Lamma Island is located just off Lantau Island. It features beaches, hiking trails, waterfalls, historic sites, and temples. One must-see destination is Po Lin Monastery. Built at the end of the 19th century, it’s dedicated to Guanyin. Other than religious activities, tourists also enjoy cycling, running, and camping on the island. Lamma provides lots of kid-friendly attractions such as mini-golf courses, adventure parks, and theme parks for those traveling with kids.
* Visit Aberdeen Harbour
Aberdeen Harbour is home to two major landmarks: Aberdeen Harbor promenade and Aberdeen typhoon shelter. Both were designed by architect Sir Norman Foster. The former is a waterfront park with grassy areas, trees, benches, fountains, sculptures, and art installations. The latter is a modernist building surrounded by greenery. It contains exhibition halls, cafes, bars, and retail stores. Aberdeen Harbour offers various dining options, including seafood restaurants serving fresh oyster dishes, dim sum places, and coffee shops. Visitors may also opt to rent bicycles and cycle around the harbor area.
Bottom line
The destinations mentioned above are among the most popular ones in Hong Kong. But there are hundreds of others worth checking out. So you can be assured that visiting Hong Kong will never get boring since new experiences await every time you step foot outside your hotel room!
