Must Visits In Hong kong

Located on the southeastern coast of China, Hong Kong is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that seamlessly combines traditional Chinese culture with modern influences from the West. With its skyline adorned with towering glass and steel skyscrapers, it is often referred to as a concrete jungle. However, beneath its shiny exterior, Hong Kong has managed to preserve its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a destination that offers a diverse range of experiences.

1. Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak, one of Hong Kong’s most iconic landmarks, is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the city’s breathtaking beauty. Perched majestically atop Hong Kong Island, this elevated vantage point offers unparalleled panoramic views of the mesmerizing city skyline. To reach the summit, visitors can embark on an exhilarating journey on the Peak Tram, which also happens to be Asia’s oldest funicular railway.

At the top, visit Sky Terrace 428, the highest observation deck in Hong Kong, where you can admire the mesmerizing views both during the day and at night. For those who enjoy a leisurely walk, the Lugard Road Lookout trail offers a picturesque and tranquil escape with stunning vistas along the way.

You can also visit another attraction in Victoria Peak. Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, located at Victoria Peak, is a fascinating attraction that offers a unique blend of history, art, and entertainment. Madame Tussauds Hong Kong is home to over 100 lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and cultural icons from around the world. Meet wax figures of global music stars like Michael Jackson, Rihanna, and Lady Gaga. You can even take a selfie with Jackson Wang using augmented reality (AR) technology. The museum is divided into several themed zones, each offering interactive experiences and photo opportunities.

Victoria Peak is not just a sightseeing spot; it’s a place where nature and urban life coexist harmoniously. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, The Peak promises an experience that will leave you spellbound. So, pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to explore one of Hong Kong’s most iconic landmarks.

Best Time To Visit

While Victoria Peak is stunning at any time of the day, visiting during sunset or in the evening is particularly magical. The city lights up with an array of neon colors, creating a breathtaking spectacle that makes for an unforgettable experience.

You can check the latest pricing for the Peak Tram and Sky Terrace 428, please click here. For the opening hours, please click here.

How To Get There?

If you want to take the Tram from lower Terminus to the Peak, You can get off at Central MTR station exit J2. From there, it is a 15-20min walk to the Lower Tram Terminus. Below is the guide map:

Bus: Route No.15 (Citybus) from Central Ferry Pier to the Peak

Minibus: Route No.1 from Central (Two IFC) to the Peak

2. Star Ferry

The Star Ferry is more than just a mode of transportation—it’s a Hong Kong icon and a journey through the city’s rich history. For over a century, the Star Ferry has been connecting Hong Kong Island with Kowloon, offering passengers breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour and the city’s skyline.

A Glimpse of History: Founded in 1888, the Star Ferry has witnessed the transformation of Hong Kong from a bustling trading port to a global metropolis. The fleet’s green and white ferries have become synonymous with the city, carrying both locals and tourists across the harbour.

The Ferry Experience: As you step aboard the Star Ferry, you’ll notice the blend of tradition and modernity. The wooden benches, vintage signage, and the gentle hum of the engines evoke a sense of nostalgia. The upper deck, with its open-air seating, offers the best views. Whether you’re sailing during the day, at sunset, or under the city’s dazzling night lights, the experience is always magical.

Route Highlights:

Central to Tsim Sha Tsui:The most popular route, offering stunning views of both the Hong Kong Island and Kowloon skylines. The journey takes just around 10 minutes, but the memories will last a lifetime.

Wan Chai to Tsim Sha Tsui:A slightly longer route that provides a different perspective of Victoria Harbour and the bustling life along the waterfronts.

You can also visit the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade & Avenue of Stars. This scenic waterfront stretch is perfect for a leisurely walk while soaking in breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong’s iconic skyline. The Avenue of Stars, modeled after the Hollywood Walk of Fame, pays tribute to Hong Kong’s film legends with handprints and statues of famous actors like Bruce Lee. The promenade also features benches, lush greenery, and art installations, making it an excellent spot for photography, relaxation, or watching the mesmerizing Symphony of Lights show in the evening.

A ride on the Star Ferry is a must-do experience when visiting Hong Kong. It captures the essence of the city—blending history, culture, and breathtaking views into one short but unforgettable journey. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the charm of the Star Ferry never fades.

You can check the latest pricing and timetable for the Star Ferry, please click here.

3. Temple Street Night Market

Immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s vibrant street life by exploring Temple Street Night Market. This bustling market comes alive as the sun sets, with its maze of narrow streets offering an incredible array of merchandise, street food, and fortune tellers. Savor local delicacies, bargain for souvenirs, and soak up the lively atmosphere while enjoying traditional Chinese opera performances.

Temple Street Night Market is more than just a shopping destination—it’s a cultural experience that showcases the heart and soul of Hong Kong. Whether you’re hunting for bargains, tasting local delicacies, or immersing yourself in the vibrant street life, this market is an essential stop on any Hong Kong itinerary.

Best Time to Visit

Temple Street Night Market opens in the late afternoon but truly comes alive after 7:00 PM. The best time to explore is in the evening when the market is bustling with energy, and the neon-lit streets create a vibrant ambiance.

How to Get There?

The Temple Street Night Market is easily accessible by public transport:

Take the Tsuen Wan Line to Jordan Station exit A and walk a few minutes.
There are several buses which take you to the market also.

4. Big Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, and Ngong Ping Village

Located on Lantau Island, the Tian Tan Buddha, or Big Buddha, is a breathtaking sight. Standing tall at 34 meters, this magnificent bronze statue embodies the harmonious relationship between humans and nature. The base of the statue can be reached after climbing 256 steps. Once you reach, you will be rewarded with a stunning view of the surrounding mountains, and the South China Sea. After visiting the Big Buddha, the serene Po Lin Monastery, with its intricate architecture and peaceful ambiance, is a perfect spot for reflection. Don’t miss the vegetarian meal at the monastery’s restaurant!

The Ngong Ping Village is where the Big Buddha is located. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the charming, culturally-themed Ngong Ping Village. Designed to reflect traditional Chinese architecture and aesthetics, the village is dotted with various shops, tea houses, and restaurants. Key cultural attractions include:

- Walking with Buddha:This multimedia attraction provides a captivating insight into the life of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha), from his birth to his journey towards enlightenment.
- Stage 360:A live performance venue showcasing traditional Chinese acrobatics and kung fu, providing visitors with a glimpse into ancient martial arts and performance arts.
- Motion 360:An immersive and thrilling ride that takes you on a virtual journey through the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Hong Kong.

History Of The Big Buddha

The construction of the statue began in 1981 and was opened on 29^th December 1993. The statue was initially planned to be built using reinforced concrete but due to various factors such as cost and maintenance of quality, the statue was built with bonze. The statue is built on the 479-metre-high peak of Muk Yue Shan. The statue represents the connection between earthly existence and enlightenment, serving as a focal point for Buddhist teachings and worship. The Big Buddha was also constructed to promote peace and prosperity, embodying the values of compassion and morality central to Buddhist philosophy.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit the Big Buddha is during the cooler months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor exploration. Visiting in the morning allows you to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience. Avoid visiting during weekends and public holidays, as it can get crowded. If possible, go on a clear day to enjoy the best panoramic views from the top.

How To Get There?

Cable Car: This is the most popular way to get to Big Buddha. The Cable Car terminal is located near Tung Chung Station Exit B. The 25-minutes ride on the Cable Car offer breathtaking views of Lantau Island. The Cable Car will drop you at Ngong Ping and from there, it is a 10-minutes’ walk to the Big Buddha. Click here to know the pricing of the Cable Car.

Bus: Visitors can take bus No.23 from the Tung Chung Tat Tung Road Bus Terminus. The bus ride is about 50-minutes. The bus fare is HK$20.4/US$2.61 on weekdays and HK$37/US$4.74 on holidays for a single journey. Click here to know for the timetable of the bus from Tung Chung. Click here to know the timetable of the bus from Ngong Ping.

Ferry: You can take a ferry to Mui Wo from Central Ferry Pier No.6, From Mui Wo, You will have to take a bus to get to the Ngong Ping Village. The bus fare is HK$20.4/US$2.61 on weekdays and HK$37/US$4.74 on holidays for a single journey.

Ferry Timetable and Prices

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Ferry Timetable and Prices

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5. Theme parks

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort: Where fairy Tales Come True

Stepping into Hong Kong Disneyland is like entering your favorite storybook. The familiar melodies, enchanting castles, and beloved characters are infused with a unique local touch, creating a nostalgic yet entirely new experience.

Must-Do Experience: Top Picks By Author

Mystic Manor: An exclusive attraction at Hong Kong Disneyland, offers a unique twist on the classic haunted house experience. Embark on a journey with Lord Henry and his playful monkey, Albert, as enchanted artifacts come to life. This visually stunning ride is designed to captivate audiences of all ages, providing a delightful and entertaining experience without the typical frights.

Iron Man Experience: Experience the thrill of flying over Hong Kong’s iconic skyline with Tony Stark in the Iron Man Experience. This groundbreaking Marvel-themed ride seamlessly combines cutting-edge technology with heart-pounding superhero thrills, making it the first of its kind in a Disney park.

Hyperspace Mountain: What’s the fun in sitting on a rollercoaster and knowing how it to going to turn? Why don’t you hop on the Hyperspace Mountain where you will get to ride on a rollercoaster in complete darkness.

You can click here to see the ticket prices and information.

Tips:

Download the Disneyland App: Real-time updates on wait times, show schedules, and character meet-and-greets can help you navigate the park like a pro.

Stay for the Nighttime Spectacular: The “Disney Paint the Night” parade and the “Momentous” fireworks show are spectacles of light and sound that shouldn’t be missed.

How To Get There?

By MTR: You can take the MTR from the place you stay and get to Sunny Bay Station. From there, you can interchange to the special train to the Hong Kong Disneyland. Hong Kong Disneyland Resort is only a 30-minute ride from the following MTR stations:

Hong Kong International Airport MTR Station (transfer at Tsing Yi Station and transfer to Sunny Bay Station),
MTR Kowloon Station
MTR Hong Kong Station

Resort: Disneyland Hotel guests may ride Hong Kong Disneyland Resort shuttle buses for free to the Public Transport Interchange (PTI). From the PTI, it is a short walk to the Hong Kong Disneyland.

Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge (HZMB): Visitors coming to Hong Kong through the HZMB can take the shuttle bus to get to the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. The bus connect the resort in just 10 minutes.

Ocean Park: A Fusion of Thrills and Nature

Nestled on the southern side of Hong Kong Island, offers an exhilarating blend of thrilling rides, captivating marine life encounters, and enriching cultural experiences. Beyond the adrenaline-pumping attractions, Ocean Park provides unique opportunities to connect with nature and heritage in unexpected and meaningful ways.

Highlights To Explore

Aqua City: A haven for aquatic enthusiasts, boasts the Grand Aquarium, an awe-inspiring attraction that offers an unparalleled experience. Step into the mesmerizing 13-meter wide acrylic viewing panel, and you’ll find yourself face-to-face with over 5,000 fish, creating an underwater wonderland that feels like diving without the need for a wet suit.

Thrill Mountain: A paradise for adrenaline junkies, offers an exhilarating experience with its awe-inspiring attractions. The Hair Raiser, a floorless roller coaster that overlooks the breathtaking South China Sea, promises to send your heart pounding with its breathtaking views.

Old Hong Kong: Step back in time to the vibrant 1950s and 60s in Old Hong Kong. Immerse yourself in meticulously recreated streets, heritage tramcars, and traditional snacks that evoke the city’s rich past. Experience a charming nod to Hong Kong’s heritage.

Unique Experiences:

Animals in Action: Interactive shows featuring sea lions and dolphins that emphasize conservation and education.

Cable Car Ride: Spanning the park’s expansive grounds, this isn’t just transportation—it’s an attraction in itself, offering panoramic vistas of mountains and sea.

You can click here to see the ticket prices and information.

Unique Experiences:

Neptune’s Restaurant: Dine beside a massive aquarium. It’s surreal to enjoy gourmet cuisine while sharks and rays glide by your table.

How To Get There?

By MTR: You can take the South Island Line of the MTR to get to Ocean Park Station.

By Bus: There are several buses which pass through Ocean Park:

Route 973, Tsim Sha Tsui to Stanley: You can get on this bus from Tsim Sha Tsui (Mody Road) and alight at Wong Chuk Hang San Wai stop and get to the Ocean Park.

Making the Most of Your Visits for both the theme parks

Timing Is Everything:

Avoid Peak Days: Both parks can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. If possible, visit on a weekday to enjoy shorter lines and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Check the Weather: Hong Kong’s weather can be unpredictable. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures, perfect for spending the entire day outdoors.

Embrace the Local Touches:

Festive Celebrations: Both parks host special events during Lunar New Year, Halloween, and Christmas. Experience unique shows, decorations, and limited-edition merchandise that blend international festivities with Hong Kong traditions.