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20 Ultimate Things to Do in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a dazzling fusion of modern skyscrapers, lush mountains, and vibrant street life. From iconic skyline views to hidden cultural gems, here’s the ultimate list of experiences you can’t miss.
1. Ride the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak
- Why? The best panoramic view of Hong Kong’s skyline and Victoria Harbour16.
- What to do:
- Take the historic funicular tram up to the Peak.
- Visit Sky Terrace 428 for 360° views.
- Hike the Morning Trail for quieter vistas.
- Pro tip: Go at sunset for day-to-night transitions16.
2. Visit Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) on Lantau Island
- Why? A 34m-tall bronze statue atop Ngong Ping Plateau16.
- What to do:
- Climb 268 steps to the base.
- Explore Po Lin Monastery and try vegetarian meals.
- Ride the Ngong Ping 360 cable car for aerial views16.
3. Explore Temple Street Night Market
- Why? Hong Kong’s most famous night bazaar with street food, fortune tellers, and trinkets16.
- What to buy:
- Electronics, jade, and vintage posters.
- Try claypot rice and stinky tofu6.
4. Cruise Victoria Harbour on the Star Ferry
- Why? A budget-friendly way to see the skyline16.
- Best route: Tsim Sha Tsui ↔ Central (8-minute ride).
- Time it right: Sunset or 8pm for the Symphony of Lights show6.
5. Hike Dragon’s Back Trail
- Why? Voted Asia’s best urban hike with coastal views6.
- Route: 8.5km from Shek O to Big Wave Bay.
- Bonus: End with a swim at Big Wave Bay Beach6.
6. Ride the Central–Mid-Levels Escalators
- Why? The world’s longest outdoor escalator system (800m)6.
- Stop at:
- Soho for trendy bars.
- Gough Street for indie boutiques6.
7. Discover Man Mo Temple
- Why? A 19th-century temple dedicated to gods of literature and war6.
- Don’t miss: The coiled incense hanging from the ceiling.
8. Shop at Mong Kok’s Markets
- Markets to hit:
- Ladies’ Market (clothing, accessories).
- Goldfish Market (aquariums in plastic bags)6.
9. Eat Dim Sum at Tim Ho Wan
- Why? The world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant1.
- Must-order: Baked BBQ pork buns and shrimp dumplings.
10. Visit Hong Kong Disneyland
- Unique rides: Mystic Manor (HK-exclusive haunted house)5.
- Pro tip: Catch the “Momentous” nighttime show5.
11. Explore Tai O Fishing Village
- Why? A stilt-house village with pink dolphin sightings6.
- Try: Saltwater egg custard tarts.
12. Drink at a Rooftop Bar in Lan Kwai Fong
- Best spots: OZONE (highest bar in the world) or Sevva6.
13. Take the Tram to Kennedy Town
- Why? A local experience on Hong Kong’s 110-year-old trams4.
14. Visit the Chi Lin Nunnery & Nan Lian Garden
- Why? A serene Tang Dynasty-style garden in Kowloon6.
15. Try Egg Waffles (Gai Daan Jai)
- Where? Lee Keung Kee North Point (best in town)1.
16. Explore PMQ
- Why? A revamped police dormitory with indie designers6.
17. Visit the Hong Kong Museum of History
- Highlight: The 8 galleries tracing 6,000 years of history6.
18. Take a Junk Boat to Sai Kung
- Why? Seafood feasts on floating restaurants6.
19. Experience the Mid-Autumn Festival
- Where? Victoria Park for lantern displays8.
20. Ride the Crystal Bus
- Why? A blinged-out double-decker touring 26 landmarks4.
Final Tips
✔ Best time to visit: October–December (cool, dry weather)28.
✔ Transport: Use the Octopus Card for MTR, buses, and ferries2.
Hong Kong is non-stop energy—whether you’re hiking mountains or bargaining in night markets, these 20 experiences will make your trip unforgettable!
Would you like recommendations for hidden neighborhoods or day trips? 😊
