A Visitor's Guide to Hong Kong

A look at Hong Kong from pictures and videos on the television, the internet and travel magazines reveals futuristic cityscapes and picturesque landscapes. With sceneries ranging from the giant skyscrapers to the tranquil green spaces, Hong Kong can best be described as the land of contrasts. With most of it bordering the famous harbors of the Kowloon peninsula, Hong Kong Island and New Territories, this city is a densely populated metropolis that is home to a brilliant amalgamation of Chinese culture and modern innovations. With countless tourist attraction sites to behold, you may find it challenging to visit all of them. However, with the help of a well-designed itinerary that features the sites discussed below, you will make your trip to Hong Kong memorable.

Victoria Peak

This is the highest mountain peak in Hong Kong, and definitely the best viewpoint of this city. It is accessible via the Peak Tram that shuttles between the peak and the bottom of the mountain from 7 am to 12 am. If you want to view realistic statues of the legends of Chinese politics, culture and history, then you should check into the Peak Tower. From there, you can pay $11 to access the sky deck, which is believed to be the best observation point of the skyscraper-rich Hong Kong skyline. However, if you don’t have $11 to spare, then you can still get an amazing view from the Peak Galleria Mall. Whether it is daytime or nighttime, the view is as spectacular as you’ve probably only seen in movies.

Symphony of Lights

As simple as it may seem, the Symphony of Lights is an experience that is only seen in Hong Kong. The Symphony of Lights is just as beautiful as an aurora, and you shouldn’t miss it for anything if you spend a night in Hong Kong. Every night at about 8pm, there will be a beautiful display of a colorful combination of laser beams and light rays in the sky. These emanate from both sides of the Victoria Harbor, which reflects onto the water, giving this city a dreamlike appearance at night, especially when viewed from the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. This crowns the beautiful nighttime view of Hong Kong, with beautiful nightlights that accentuate the already beautiful architecture of this city.

Lion Rock

As much as Hong Kong’s appearance shouts class and innovation, there are still spaces and sites that will bring back your connection to pristine nature. The Lion Rock is one of these sceneries where you can go for a hike and thereafter, a picnic after you are done with the long and high hike. At the top of the Lion Rock, you will also get an impeccable picturesque view of the cityscape, landscape and seascape. Form here, you can view the Kowloon Peninsula and Hong Kong Island. It is quieter as compared to other viewpoints of the city, which makes it a great relaxation spot.

Dine in World Class Hotels

Whether it is only dining or accommodation, Hong Kong’s restaurants and hotels offer you a world class touch of hospitality with a hint of Chinese culture. This gives you the chance to enjoy the greatest Chinese delicacies including Chinese tea, Dim Sum and other meals. Although, if you want an even better experience having different Chinese delicacies, then consider hitting the streets and trying out the delightful street food that brings out the authentic Chinese culinary culture. Most hotels, bars and restaurants in Hong Kong such as the Ozone Sky Bar and Hotel Icon will give you a panoramic view of the city; just be sure to choose a room or table from where you can see your favorite sites. You can also visit the beauty parlors and spas in some of these hotels and enjoy the most amazing Hong Kong massage.

Big Buddha

If you are a fun of art and culture, then the Big Buddha, which is a giant statue of Buddha, is a place you shouldn’t miss to visit. You can walk up the long stairs that lead to the Big Buddha that is raised high above the ground, so it can be seen from a wider radius. You can also visit the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery and say a prayer or make a wish. There is also the Museum of Arts, Hong Kong Cultural Center, the City National Park and Tai O Fishing Village, where you can see the best of Chinese cultural and religious practices.

Shopping

Hong Kong is a city that never sleeps. With its markets running well into the night, you have no excuse to leave this beautiful city without a souvenir. You can get electronics, food items, jewelry, clothes and any goods you desire at a bargain, at any time of the day. The most famous markets you should visit for shopping include the Ladies’ Market and Temple Street Night Market, as well as numerous malls for tax-free shopping. Even while you shop, don’t forget to visit Nong’ Ping, where you can enjoy a cable ride, also known as Gondola and a cup of Starbucks coffee.

When visiting Hong Kong, the first thing you should do is get yourself an Octopus card, which is basically a smartcard that you will swipe when making transactions. This will be very handy when using public transport, shopping, ordering food and even paying your hotel bills. This card can be returned to the MTR before you leave the city and any remaining money will be refunded. These are just a few of the memorable experiences you can enjoy in Hong Kong, so go ahead and get your passport and travel ticket ready for your Hong Kong trip.