Top 10 things to do in Hong Kong When You Visit

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Hong Kong is an autonomous territory of China. However, as a former British colony, the city is a mix of West meats East. Hong Kong is densely populated and vibrant urban city highlighted by it being a global financial center filled with skyscrapers. For visitors, there are a lot of things to do when visiting Hong Kong. Check out below the top 10 things to do in Hong Kong.

#10. Take the Tram up to the Peak

One of the most popular things to do in Hong Kong is take the tram up to the Peak. This spot is the highest point in the city at around 1,300 feet above sea level.^[1]Time Out – The Peak It has the best views of Hong Kong due to the panoramic view from the top. The best views can be taken at the anvil shaped Peak Tower.

The easiest way to reach the top is by the Peak Tram. However, for the more adventurousness and those who have a bit of time, you can also hike up to the top by taking the 2.17 mile Peak Circle Walk. However, be warned as the hike is pretty steep.

#9. Eat some Michelin quality dim sum on the cheap

One of the best things to do in Hong Kong is try the local cuisine. One of the most popular is the dim sum. If you want to get some Michelin star quality food, head over to Tim Ho Wan.^[2]Time Out – Tim Ho Wan (Sham Shui Po) It is one of the best dim sums restaurants in all of Hong Kong. In addition, you won’t have to worry about spending too much money, as it also happens to be one of the cheapest Michelin star restaurants in the world. There is not a lot to choose from on the menu, as it mostly focuses just on dim sum; however, don’t be worried as everything is very tasty. Consider trying their most popular dim sum, the char siu bao, which is made with barbecued pork.

#8. Charter a junk boat

One of the popular things to do in Hong Kong, especially for locals, is to charter a junk boat. Originally, the term “junk” referred to traditional Chinese fishing vessels, but today it can refer to any motorized boat.^[3]Fodor’s Travel – 20 Ultimate Thing to Do in Hong Kong These junk boats normally provide food and drink while showing you the sites around

#7. The 10,000 Buddhas Monastery

One of the most unique things to do in Hong Kong is visit the 10,000 Buddhas Monastery. To get to the monastery, you must climb 431 steps.^[4]Time Out – 10,000 Buddhas Monastery Along the path, you will be greeted by 10,000 gold painted, life sized Buddha statues. Each of these statues are unique with different expressions and poses.

Once you reach the monastery, Man Fat Sze, there is also a lot to see. The monastery is exentuated by beautiful pavilions and a pagoda. In addition, you will also be greeted by an additional 12,000 statues.

#6. Enjoy a night at the Cantonese opera

For the culture lover, one of things to do in Hong Kong is see Cantonese opera show. Cantonese opera is one of the major forms of Chinese opera. It is easily recognizable due to its over the top headdresses, ornate costumes, and red/white/black face paints.

The best place to do it in the city is the historic Yau Ma Tei theatre, which exclusively shows Cantonese opera. What makes this place so great is that it is an intimate venue, allowing visitors to get up close to the actors to really get the full experience. In addition, they also provide English subtitles so that you can fully appreciate the opera experience.^[5]Time Out – Yau Ma Tei Theatre

#5. Go to the Temple Street Night Market

Unlike Thailand or other south east Asian countries, Hong Kong does not have a lot of night markets. However, one of the things to do in Hong Kong is visit the most famous night market in the city, the Temple Street Night Market.^[6]Time Out – Temple Street Night Market In fact, the night market has such a distinct local Hong Kong atmosphere, that it has been featured in many movies.

While walking around the market, you can buy a whole bunch of different things such as electronics, tea ware, menswear, watches, trinkets, antiques, and jade. When you are done buying souvenirs, you can then move on to great street food such as noodles and other local delicacies.

#4. Relax in the park

If you want to escape from the hectic hustle and bustle of city life, one of the best things to do in Hong Kong is visit one of the beautiful local parks. In fact, there are a lot of great green spaces in the city.

Hong Kong Park is located right in the center of the city. It is a large park with a mix of leafy pathways and rock gardens. This is a great local place to hang out and read a book or watch some people practice tai chi.^[7]Fodor’s Travel – HONG KONG PARK
Victoria Park is the largest urban green space in Hong Kong and is a great place to go for those wanting to get in a bit of activity. In fact, the park has plenty of recreational facilities including areas for tennis, lawn bowling, swimming, basketball, and soccer.
Nan Lian Garden is perhaps the pretties garden in all of Hong Kong. It is a 8.6 acre park in the traditional Chinese Tang Dynasty style of landscaping and architecture.

#3. Drink on a rooftop

After a long day exploring the city, one of the best things to do in Hong Kong is relax at a rooftop bar, have a drink, and enjoy the beautiful city lights. Fortunately, no matter the time of year, the weather is usually good in Hong Kong, making it great to sit out in the fresh air and have a drink. In addition, no matter what you like, be it cocktails, beer, or wine, there is a good rooftop bar in Hong Kong for you. Some popular locations include Armani/Privé, Sugar, and Sevva.^[8]Sevva

#2. Escape to the beach

One of the most popular things to do in Hong Kong is go to the beach. It is impossible to not do it when practically the whole city is located on the water. Unlike many other beach locations, Hong Kong has many different types of beaches that can appeal to everyone whether it be families, party people, or surfers. Some of the most popular Hong Kong beach destinations include Shek O, Stanley, and Repulse Bay.^[9]Drone & DSLR – SHEK O – HONG KONG’S FAVOURITE BEACH However, if you want to get away from the crowds, head over to Tai Long Wan on the eastern coast of Sai Kung Peninsula. This pristine beach is one of the most beautiful ones in all of Hong Kong.

#1. Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade

Hong Kong is home to one of the best city skylines in the whole world. One of the best ways to see it by walking along the Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade where you can get an uninterrupted view.

In addition, one of the most popular parts of the promenade is the Avenue of the Stars. Similar to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, this area pays tribute to Hong Kong’s film industry and stars, such as Bruce Lee.

While it is great to walk around the promenade during the day, it really comes alive at night. Each evening, the Symphony of Lights plays. This spectacular light and sound show incorporates 44 buildings in the Hong Kong skyline, making for a truly breathtaking experience.^[10]lonely planet – Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade In addition, some other great events that take place here include the fireworks displays during Chinese New Year in late January and early February as well as the Dragon Boat Festival in June.