10 Exciting Things To Do in Hong Kong
As one of the most cosmopolitan and dynamic cities in the world, Hong Kong has something for everyone. Whether it is sightseeing beautiful Chinese architecture, having a fun day out at theme parks, or bargaining in shopping paradise, Hong Kong has all of this and more. Here are 10 fun things not to be missed in Hong Kong.
#1 Try Your Bargaining Skills in Temple Street.
Bordering Jordan and Yau Ma Tei in Kowloon, Temple Street is one of the best known night markets with almost everything available for sale, from men’s fashion to popular street food. Markets open at 2pm daily but the best experience happens at dusk. Test your bargaining skills to get the best prices for local fashions, electronics, and antiques.
While you are at the night markets, don’t forget to grab some classic street food, such as fish balls and clay pot hot-pot rice in the food bazaar. Also while you are there you can enjoy the traditional Cantonese opera outdoors.
#2 Marvel at Panoramic Views of Lantau on Cable Cars
From Tung Chung Terminal to Ngong Ping, Ngong Ping 360’s 25-minute cable car ride is a refreshing break from busy city life. The journey begins with breath-taking sights of South China Sea and Tung Chung Valley, and ends at connections to other landmarks like The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery.
In addition to standard cabins, you can opt for glass floors in crystal cabins for an additional charge and experience Chinese tea and theatre culture at Ngong Ping teahouse and The Monkey’s Tale Theatre. Ngong Ping offers many attractive tour packages so be sure to check them out first before you purchase.
#3 Have a Fun Day Out at Ocean Park
As Hong Kong’s homegrown theme park, Ocean Park is home to exciting rides and an extensive collection of animals. Test your limits with the floorless “Hair Raiser” and speedy “Dragon” rollercoasters, or travel under the sea with jellyfish and to Polar regions with penguins in the Marine Zone and Polar Adventure.
The Rainforest expedition and Panda Village also have exotic shows and tours, while Whiskers Harbour is perfect for little ones with merry-go-rounds, Toto-the-Loco train, and shadow plays. Admission can be purchased at 7-11 stores or Ocean Park and it’s free for children under 3 and adults over 65.
#4 Take a Zen Break at Nan Lian Gardens
While The Big Buddha is a popular attraction, the Nan Lian Gardens beside Chi Lin Nunnery is a hidden gem of Chinese architecture. Established in 1934 and built in Tang dynasty styled architecture, the Nan Lian garden is a serene oasis with relaxing lotus ponds and lush arrangements of plants.
Nan Lian Gardens are carefully designed to relax the mind with Zen principles of contrast, extension, and balance. There is also a modern vegetarian cuisine.
#5 Shop at Island Beverly and Argyle Center
There is no doubt that Hong Kong is a shopping paradise with many great malls, but what you don’t get in the malls is hip local designs and the latest Asian fashions.
Explore the trendy Korean fashions and homemade accessories on Island Beverly and catch the latest Asian fashion and jewelry at affordable rates in the small stalls in the Argyle Centre. However, do note that not all stores have changing rooms.
#6 Savour Traditional High Tea in The Peninsula Hotel
Formerly a British colony, Hong Kong still retains English tradition and old world glamour with many high tea options in the many hotels. Indulge the luxurious feast of 3-tiered high tea with a delicious assortment of sandwiches and patisserie with coffee and tea in The Lobby at The Peninsula Hotel and bask in the beauty of its magnificent columns.
High tea starts at 2pm and is served on a first come, first served basis. There is a 10% service fee in addition to the high tea.
#7 Ride on the Ferries
Described as a once in a lifetime experience by National Geographic, hop on the ferries to have a great experience between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Enjoy the beautiful harbour views and see how these ferries have won the affection of locals. Ferries terminals are at Central, Wanchai, and Tsim Sha Tsui.
#8 Experience Karaoke Hong Kong Style
What sets Hong Kong’s karaoke scene apart is the one-stop-shop entertainment that it provides. With spacious suites for as little as HKD $140 per hour, sing your heart out to popular tunes in various languages. There are also Nintendo and trivia games available, and if you catch the right time slot, you can enjoy $1 karaoke!
#9 Party it up in Lan Kwai Fong
On the L-shaped junction stretching from D’Aguilar Street to Wo On Lane, Lan Kwai Fong is home to numerous bars, clubs and restaurants. While it is sleepy during the day, it bursts into life by the evenings. From the light drinkers to heavy partygoers, there is something for everyone. Dance until dawn, hang out with friends and party it up!
#10 Learn about Hong Kong’s History
Hong Kong has a colourful past from being first inhabited during the Han dynasty to becoming a major finance hub in modern times. Learn about Hong Kong’s unique geography at the Hong Kong History Museum, experience the folk culture of Cantonese Opera, and Hong Kong’s evolution to the modern metropolis of China today.
