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Taking a holiday to Hong Kong is often on people’s lists of ‘things to do before you die’, right up there with visiting Niagara Falls and swimming with dolphins. Some question it as such a spectacle, but I don’t need convincing that a city break to Hong Kong may be one of the most amazing things you ever do. Here’s five reasons why.
5. Victoria Peak
Located on Hong Kong Island itself, Victoria peak offers the best panoramic views of the province as a whole. While the top of the mountain is taken up with ugly communications antennae, there are areas close to the summit which afford breathtaking sights and a more relaxed feel; high above the main – and sub-tropical – part of Hong Kong, holidays should include at least one trip up the mount for the remarkable change in climates. The peak also has two major shopping centres, a funicular railway, and the Zoological botanical gardens of Hong Kong – holiday enough for anyone, even without the rest of the province!
4. Government House
Government House is well worth a visit, especially on one of its six open days a year. If possible, plan your Holidays in Hong Kong to fit around one of these days at the beginning, middle or end so you can go into the building itself. The house was the home of the British governor from 1855 to 1997, and is stylistically and historically interesting. It was heavily augmented during the Japanese occupation during World War Two, and is controversial in placement, specifically in terms of its Feng shui – a popular Asian belief in fortune being drawn from architectural positioning. Visiting is a must on any city break to Hong Kong.
3.The Tian Tan Buddha
The Tian Tan Buddha is a huge bronze statue of the Buddha. Situated on Lantau island, it is the world’s tallest bronze, outdoor and seated Buddha and is a regular site for pilgrimages as well as people on holidays. Hong Kong is to a large extent Buddhist and experiencing the culture of the province isn’t complete with an exploration of all of the aspects the state has to offer.
2. Avenue of Stars, Hong Kong
The Avenue of Stars in Hong Kong is Asia’s equivalent of Hollywood Boulevard. Visiting the site while on holiday to Hong Kong is almost mandatory if you’re a fan of Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Michelle Yeoh, John Woo or Chow Yun Fat. A star on the broad walk of famous Asian actors, directors and stars are a treat for any fan, and those who are history buffs as well will love the history of Hong Kong’s 100 year old cinematic industry as laid out on nine red pillars.
1.Star Ferry
The Star Ferry is famous as the passenger ferry service in Hong Kong. The cheap and wonderful journey around the islands in Hong Kong is utilitarian and magical in equal measure, and you’ll be side by side with Hong Kongers and tourists alike. An icon on a par with the Staten Island or Maid of the Mist Ferries, The Star Ferry is the perfect beginning and introduction to the state, or the ideal end to a memorable Hong Kong city break.
Kieron Sellens is the marketing manager of the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AiTO). With Hong Kong holidays from AITO, you can tailor-make the dream holiday.
Hong Kong, officially known as the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, is a part of the Guangdong Province, and is one of the China’s two special administrative regions, another being Macau.
In other words, Hong Kong is a thriving metropolis where modern western lifestyle is combined with ancient as well as traditional Chinese culture. Until the 19th century, Hong Kong was just a sleepy fishing village, which later saw tremendous changes when it became a colony and was under the British till it was handed over to China in 1997.
Occupying an area of about 1099 square kilometers and located on the south east coast of China, Hong Kong is now regarded as a gateway to the country, and serves as a center of international transportation, commerce, and communication. Hong Kong is made up of four sections such as Hong Kong Island, Kowloon Peninsula, the Outlying Islands, and the New Territories.
When comes to attractions and things to do, Hong Kong provides endless options, which at the same are also unique. For instance, the Victoria Harbor that separates the glass towers of the island and the bustling streets of Kowloon Peninsula is one of the most magnificent waterways of the world. Perhaps the greatest of all the attractions in the city would be Victoria Peak, otherwise known as the Peak. Until the opening of the Peak Tram in 1880, the only way to reach the Peak was via walking or by taking a potholed ride in a sedan chair.
An interesting thing is that the Peak Tram is still in operational and taking a ride in it is a great way to enjoy the breathtaking vistas of Hong Kong Island as well as the Kowloon Peninsula. Attractions in the Peak also include the Peak Tower, which is a shopping center with a remarkable terrace, from where you can enjoy the magnificent views of whole of the island.
Another not to miss attraction in Hong Kong is Tsim Sha Tsui Waterfront, an awesome promenade, a stroll along which would be a great way to savor the incredible beauty of the place. Must-visit attractions in the city also include Temple of Ten Thousand Buddha, where to reach you will have to climb about 400 steps; Tian Tan Buddha, which is the largest statute of seated Buddha in the world; Hong Kong Heritage Museum, which has on display an amazing selection of antique Chinese artifacts; and Sam Tung Uk Museum, which is in the center of Tsuen Wan in the New Territories.
A visit to Hong Kong would not be complete without taking a tour to destinations such as Disneyland and Ocean Park, whose facilities are an eclectic mix of entertainment and education; Repulse Bay, which is much famed for its white sandy beaches and sub-tropical backdrop; and Golden Bauhinia Square, which marks the most prominent occasion in the history of China, ie, the return of Hong Kong by the British and the establishment of the city as the Special Administrative Region on 30 June 1997.
The city has something for everyone. For instance, for culinary enthusiasts, the city boasts of a mind blowing array of restaurants serving delicacies like chicken lo mein, dim sum, Tong Cho oysters, tofu, and Peking duck.
Further, Hong Kong is a haven for shopping, with shops and stalls in such destinations as Stanley Village Market, from where a variety of branded items can be shopped at bargain prices. Likewise, if you are flower lover, then head to flower market, where a unique selection of flowers and plants can be seen. Further, a visit to the Bird Market would be an excellent option for bird lovers. Also, while your stay at Hong Kong, take a tour to the fish market in the city, which boasts of aquariums consisting of exotic fish varieties. Above all, exciting as well as lively is the nightlife of the city, which is primarily concentrated around the twin districts of Wan Chai and Lan Kwai Fong.
With these amazing varieties of attractions, it is not a wonder why tourists from across the world flock to this wonderful destination. Hence, the city has accommodation choices to cater to every type of travelers. If you are well healed, then you can go for such accommodation options that are attached with high facilities and comforts. Even these hotels provide superb facilities in the form of excellent fitness rooms and award winning spa treatments. There are also some hotels providing services of expert nutritionist which helps to develop healthy as well as sumptuous menus for guests.
Hong Kong developed from small fishing village, is replete with busy harbor, high rises and is considered one of an important economic and financial center. With good sense of modernization, it has many industries in the field of technology, entertainment, life style and transportation. In addition shopping in Honk Kong is also becoming famous with numerous of shopping malls and markets.
Hong Kong is also gaining name and fame in tourists’ destinations. It has become the choice of the tourists in today’s world as the increasing numbers of Hong Kong attractions have laid the charismatic influence over the travelers. Their architectural beauty and designs are really marvelous. Hotels here have also made good arrangements for their accommodation, thus, in every way; Hong Kong is serving tourists at its best. Some of the main places to visit in Hong Kong are:-
Hong Kong island- it is the island in the southern part of Hong Kong, whose central area is the major historical, economic and political centre of Hong Kong. To the southern side of this island, there is Aberdeen Island, whose Sampan tour is worth visiting. The most popular beach Repulse Bay is also on the southern side of the island and is generally crowded on the weekends. The Old Man Mo Temple and botanical and zoological are gardens are some of the main attractions of the island.
Kowloon- there is a famous tourists region, known as Tsim Sha Tsui, at the tip of Kowloon peninsula, consisting of bars, shops, restaurants, pubs and camera stores. It is also a home to the Hong Kong Cultural centre, museum of history, famous peninsula hotel and the space museum. There is a great place for stroll, the Promenade, in East Tsim Sha Tsui, from where spectacular views of Victoria harbour can be enjoyed.
Victoria Peak- a trip to Victoria Peak in Hong Kong should not be missed as it presents beautiful scenic views in every direction. The roof of large shopping mall also displays the main Hong Kong style.
Hong Kong Ocean Park- it is located on the South end of Hong Kong Island. It is one of the largest ocean parks in the world. It is considered on of the biggest amusement area in Southeast Asia, covering an area of 170 acres. It has two entrances, connected together by a cable car. Shark’s hall Ocean theatre and Ocean hall offer a chance to explore mysteries of the ocean.
Hong Kong is a wonderful travel destination. Visitors will certainly never get bored as there are so many excellent Hong Kong tourist attractions for them to enjoy and visit. The most popular attraction in Hong Kong is definitely the Hong Kong Disneyland which opened several years ago and which attracts visitors from around the globe.
There are so many places to visit in Hong Kong and unfortunately most tourists only spend a couple of nights in Hong Kong. We have listed for you the most popular tourist attractions of Hong Kong and if possible you should try to visit all of them during your stay in this former British colony.
Hong Kong Disneyland
No visit to Hong Kong can possibly be complete without a visit to the Hong Kong Disneyland. If you are visiting Hong Kong with your children then they will never forgive you if you don’t take them to this amazing Hong Kong tourist attraction. Hong Kong Disneyland is located on Lantau Island and there are a number of Hong Kong hotels and resorts located nearby to this popular tourist attraction.
Ocean Park
Ocean Park has been one of the most popular Hong Kong tourist attractions for some time now. This excellent theme park is popular with both local residents as well as tourists. There are all sorts of attractions and activities at the Hong Kong Ocean Park including a shark aquarium and various rides and roller coasters. If you are interested in visit the Ocean Park during your visit to Hong Kong then please note that Ocean Park is located on the south section of Hong Kong Island. Opening hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 until 18:00.
Victoria Peak
One of the most beautiful places in Hong Kong is Victoria Peak. It is located at a height of just over 550 meters and many tourists visit Victoria Peak so as to enjoy the Hong Kong from above. Be sure to take your camera when visiting this popular Hong Kong tourist destination. If you are interested in visiting the Victoria Peak then please note that you should take the Peak tram which will take you all the way to the top and takes only eight minutes.
Wong Tai Sin Temple
Hong Kong is home to some rather stunning temples and one of the most popular of these Hong Kong temples is the Wong Tai Sin Temple. This popular Hong Kong tourist attraction is especially very popular with Chinese people visiting from abroad. The Wong Tai Sin Temple is a Taoist temple and was build in 1921.
James is travel consultant living on Phuket and is working on a number of projects. If you are looking for information about Phuket then be sure to visit his Phuket guide which includes an excellent section on Phuket Real Estate.
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