A few days or a week are just enough to get you to explore the bustling city of Hong Kong. Whether you’re a first-timer or going into your second trip, the city of lights will welcome you with its ever-growing number of skyscrapers and modern wonders around you at every turn. Immerse yourself in the dynamic cultural landscape of the east and the west that will make you fall in love with the vibrant city.
Credit: Skyscraper City
1. The Peak
If you can’t decide where to go on your first day, go to The Peak. Known as the pinnacle of Hong Kong, the lookout boasts a panoramic view of the Hong Kong island, offering breathtaking views of the harbour and the city. Riding the iconic Peak Tram is indisputably the best way of arriving at The Peak, and the most stylish too! ?
Get a Peak Tram Sky Pass for exclusive access to the Sky Terrace 428, where you'll be able to enjoy views of the city’s most exclusive neighbourhood from the highest 360° viewing platform in Hong Kong!
Credit: @madametussaudshongkong on Instagram
While at The Peak, look out for Madame Tussauds, where you’ll be able to see the wax figures of your favourite celebrities ?
#HHWT Tip: Skip the queues with the Peak Tram Fast-Track Pass, and opt for a combo package that includes a Madame Tussauds entry ticket for even more savings!
Price: For return trip, ticket is priced at HK$88 for adult, HK$42 for child (aged 3-11). For single trip, ticket is priced at HK$75 for adult, HK$34 for child (aged 3-11).
Address: 118 Peak Rd, Hong Kong
How to get there: You can reach The Peak via the Peak Tram that departs from its terminus on Garden Road. The nearest MTR station would be Central. Visit before sundown and watch as the city lights sparkle at night.
Operating Hours: Monday - Sunday, 7am - 12am.
2. Trick Eye Museum
Credit: Trick Eye Museum Hong Kong
Once you’re done taking in the spectacular view of Hong Kong, make your way to Trick Eye Museum at the Peak Galleria Mall where you can see a collection of artwork with 'trompe l'oeil' techniques that give each 2D art piece the illusion of being in 3D. Become part of an imaginative world and complete your own visual narrative with crazy and creative poses.
#HHWT Tip: It can get pretty crowded, so be patient and plan out your poses beforehand. And don’t cut queues :P
Price: HK$135 for adult, HK$90 for child (aged 3-11), HK$90 for senior citizen.
Address: Level 3, The Peak Galleria, The Peak, Central, Hong Kong
How to get there: You can reach The Peak via the Peak Tram that departs from its terminus on Garden Road. The nearest MTR station would be Central. The Peak Galleria sits opposite The Peak’s tram station.
Operating Hours: Monday - Sunday, 10am - 10pm.
3. Ladies’ Market, Mongkok
Credit: ORAZ Studio on Flickr
One of the most popular markets in Hong Kong for its bargain-priced clothes and the likes, you’ll find everything you need at Ladies’ Market, located in the heart of Kowloon. Despite its name, this market is not only catered for the ladies, but you can find a variety of items for men as well. You name it - souvenirs, watches, clothes, bags, even pets!
Credit: Phil Calvert on Flickr.
Practice your haggling skills at this one-kilometre stretch in one of the densest parts of the world. This is where you’ll get a slice of the real Hong Kong.
Address: Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon
How to get there: If you’re coming via MTR, embark from Mong Kok Station and exit via E2. Walk along Nelson Street for two blocks and you’ll find Ladies’ Market.
Operating Hours: Monday - Sunday, 4pm - midnight.
4. Tsim Sha Tsui
Credit: Colin Tsoi on Flickr
Even if you’re not planning to shop, stroll along the famous Nathan Road of Tsim Sha Tsui and discover the glittering bazaar worthy of an Instagram post at least ? This urban area is not just like any other district. Tsim Sha Tsui is a major tourist hub with many high-end shops and restaurants catered for tourists. If you’re familiar with Shibuya, you’ll definitely enjoy Tsim Sha Tsui for its crazy street crossings.
Credit: Stripped Pixels
The best part of this iconic realm is that you can get easy access to halal eateries almost everywhere. Drop by the Chung King Mansions along Nathan Road where you can find low cost halal food to satisfy your happy tummy. Try the nasi lemak at the famous Malaysian chain, Syed Bistro, or the scrumptious kebabs at Bismillah Kebab House.
#HHWT Tip: You can also drop by Hong Kong’s biggest and oldest mosque, Kowloon Mosque right in the middle of the bustling district.
Address: Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
How to get there: Take the MTR and disembark at Tsim Sha Tsui station and begin your journey from there.
5. Disneyland
Credit: Niall Kennedy on Flickr
Disneyland knows no age, so whether you’re bringing your kids or going solo, you can experience the best of both worlds with the non-stop excitement that fuels through this wonderland.Reminisce your childhood memories by entering the magical world and meet your favourite characters up close. Muslim travellers may rejoice as they have some Halal franchises within the park itself, made convenient for your hungry tummy. Download the HHWT Travel Planner app to easily find Halal food in HK Disneyland and plan your trip to Hong Kong!
Credit: Of Other Days on Flickr
It’s highly recommended to spend the whole day at Disneyland as you’ll be able to witness a fun parade before the sun sets. Don’t forget to feast your eyes on the sensational fireworks before closing time.
#HHWT Tip: To avoid long queues at the entrance, purchase your tickets online at Klook ahead of your visit!
Price: 1-Day Standard Ticket, HK539$ for adult, HK$385 for child (aged 3-11), HK$100 for senior citizen.
Address: Lantau Island, Hong Kong
How to get there: Take the MTR from any station and disembark at Disneyland Resort Station.
Operating Hours: Monday - Sunday, 10.30am - 7.30pm.
6. Ocean Park
Credit: Martin Lewison on Flickr
Still can’t get enough of Disneyland? Head over to Ocean Park Hong Kong, a marine-life inspired theme park that features thrill rides, animal exhibits and various shows.
A versatile attraction that blends education, conservation and entertainment, it is no surprise that Ocean Park attracts throngs of visitors a day! If you love animals, head over to Amazing Asian Animals where you can see pandas and enjoy watching them eat, sleep and roll around.
Credit: Martin Lewison on Flickr
If you’re a thrill seeker, the Thrill Mountain is definitely for you as you can experience many adrenaline-pumped roller coasters with every twist and turn that will test your tenacity in ways you won’t believe.
#HHWT Tip: Spend a day at the park so you get to explore everything!
Price: HK$385 for adult, HK$193 for child (aged 3-11)
Address: Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong Island
How to get there: Take the MTR and disembark at Admiralty Station, head over to Exit B and alight at the park.
Operating Hours: Monday - Sunday, 10am - 7pm.
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7. Ngong Ping 360
In need of an escape from the busy city? Look no further and unleash your inner adventurer and travel on a cable car to Ngong Ping village. While on the way, you’ll be able to take on the nature milieu from the lush mountains, miles of nature trails and a wide canvas of tranquil green.
Credit: Master Octa on Flickr
Once you disembark at the Ngong Ping village, you’ll be welcomed by the sight of the renowned Tian Tan Buddha (or also knowns at The Big Buddha) that sits at the peak of Mount Muk Yue.
Credit: Xiquinho Silva on Flickr
Conclude your Ngong Ping Village day-out with the breathtaking weather and also some delicious kebabs and pizzas at Ebeneezer's.
Price: Standard Round Trip Cable Car ticket, HK$225 for adult, $170 for child (aged 3-11), $200 for senior citizen. Crystal Cabin Round Trip ticket, HK$325 for adult, HK$245 for child (aged 3-11), HK$275 for senior citizen.
Address: Ngong Ping, Lantau Island, Outlying Islands
How to get there: Take the MTR and disembark at Tung Chung Station via Exit B. Walk for five minutes to the Tung Chung Cable Car Terminal.
Operating Hours: Monday - Friday, 10am - 5pm. Saturday and Sunday, 11am - 5.30pm.
8. The Hong Kong Observation Wheel
Credit: Kenneth Leung on Flickr
Get stunning day-and-night-time views of the spectacular Victoria Harbour on the 60-metre-high Hong Kong Observation Wheel.
Take on the stunning view of the amazing Victoria Harbour by embarking on a 60-metre high Hong Kong Observation Wheel. Whether you opt for day or night view, get comfortable on the luxurious gondola. The best part about the wheel is that it comes fully equipped with Wi-Fi so there’s definitely no excuse for you not to take pictures! ;)
Price: HK$100 for adult, HK$70 for child (aged 3-11), HK$50 for senior citizen, Free for child below 3.
Address: 33 Man Kwong St, Central, Hong Kong
Direction: Take the MTR and drop at Hong Kong Station. Walk towards Exit A2 and walk to the site along Man Yiu Street.
Operating Hours: Monday - Sunday, 10am - 11pm.
8. Kowloon Walled City Park
Credit: Richard Hopkins on Flickr
Familiar with the Kowloon Walled City? Known for its notoriety, the site used to be a military stronghold since the 16th century due to its coastal location.
Credit: Bionicgrrrl on Flickr
Throughout the century, the site was a haven of crime and corruption. Under the agreement between Hong Kong and People of Republic of China, the Kowloon Walled City was eventually demolished in the 80s and transformed to a park. Today, the park preserves traces of the walled city, offering you eight zones for you to stroll around and embrace the fresh air.
Address: Tung Tsing Road, Kowloon City, Kowloon
Direction: Take bus 1 from the Tsim Sha Tsui Ferry Pier Terminus, and disembark at Tung Tau Tsuen Road where you can you see the park opposite the road.
Operating Hours: Monday - Sunday, 6.30am - 11pm.
9. Clock Tower
Credit: Ikuba on Flickr
As part of the Kowloon-Canton Railway terminal station, the old Clock Tower, now preserved as a monument has attracted many visitors in remembrance of the once-bustling station. This landmark brings a historical significance as millions of Chinese immigrants in the 20th century passed through the terminal station to start new lives in Hong Kong.
Credit: Steve Webel on Flickr
#HHWT Tip: Come at night time as the clock illuminates beautifully while you can enjoy the Symphony of Lights show celebrating the diversity of Hong Kong.
Address: Star Ferry Pier, Kowloon Point, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Direction: Take the MTR and disembark at Tsim Sha Tsui Station via Exit E. Walk towards Salisbury Road, then turn right and take the pedestrian tunnel next to the YMCA to the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. Turn right again and walk straight ahead towards the waterfront.
10. Sheung Wan
Step back into the past and explore the old neighbourhood of Sheung Wan where you can see a mix of traditional and modern. Surrounded by the evolving urban, be amazed by the elegance and hippy sections of the town that offers you an array of handicraft shops, dried foods and Chinese medicines.
If you’re not looking to buy anything, you can walk around the neighbourhood and traverse the many colours of life Sheung Wan has to offer.
Credit: Ding Yuin Shan on Flickr
#HHWT Tip: Hop on the historic Ding Ding tram and cruise around Sheung Wan.
Address: Sheung Wan, Hong Kong.
Direction: Take the MTR and disembark at Sheung Wan station.
11. Hong Kong Museum of Heritage
Credit: DDTai on Panoramio
Your trip won’t be complete if you don’t pay a visit to the Hong Kong Museum of Heritage. Located far from the city, the museum exhibits the early Hong Kong culture in 12 galleries, with each offering stories that express the history and culture.
Credit: Victor P on Panoramio
Once you complete a tour around the museum, don’t forget to stop by the picturesque Shing Mun river, situated right beside the museum for a relaxing stroll along the river as you enjoy the breeze.
Price: Thursday - Monday, HK$20 for adult, HK$14 for groups of 20 persons or more, HK$10 for full-time students, people with disabilities and senior citizen. Every Wednesday, HK$10 for adult, HK$7 for groups of 20 persons or more, HK$5 for full-time students, people with disabilities and senior citizen.
Address: 1 Man Lam Road, Sha Tin, New Territories.
Direction: Take the MTR and disembark at Che Kung Temple station. Walk towards Exit A and the museum is a 5-minute walkway.
Operating Hours: Monday, Wednesday - Friday, 10am - 6pm. Saturday and Sunday, 10am - 7pm. Closes on Tuesdays.
12. Repulse Bay Beach
Credit: Bertrand Duperrin on Flickr
While there are many beaches in Hong Kong, Repulse Bay will definitely attract you the most! This crescent-shaped stretch of sand is one of the most visited beaches in Hong Kong. This dreamy beach boasts of amazingly crystal clear water and picture-perfect bay.
Credit: Thanate Tan on Flickr
Great for strolls if you’re not planning to swim. Simply soak your feet in the soft sand and just enjoy the weather over the seashore.
#HHWT Tip: Swimming is obviously popular at the beach, therefore the entire beach is equipped with shark prevention nets and floating platforms for safety purposes.
Address: Beach Road, Repulse Bay, Hong Kong Island
Direction: Take bus 6, 6A, 6X, 66 or 260 from Exchange Square bus terminus, located near MTR Hong Kong Station via Exit D and alight at Repulse Bay Beach.
Despite the high density of skyscrapers, the active city still offers unforgettable adventures. Even as the sun sets over harbour, Hong Kong's streets stay full. You’ll never miss anything that the vibrant country has to offer. So, are you convinced yet? ;) Well don’t wait too long and start buying the flight tickets. It’s only 3 hours away (from Singapore and Malaysia that is).