So, you’ve finally booked your bucket list trip to Hong Kong. Your dream itinerary is pages long, but you can’t decide what to do first!. The best tourist attractions in Hong Kong is a list that could go on forever but if you want to make the most of your time in this vibrant city, we’ve put together 10 experiences you can’t miss out on.
Victoria Peak
The number one location that should be on every Hong Kong itinerary is Victoria Peak. As the highest point on Hong Kong Island, Victoria Peak provides a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the cityscape.
At dusk, the blue sky melts into pink and orange and as night falls, the cityscape turns into a dazzling galaxy of light. During the day, your view can stretch across the skyscrapers to Victoria Harbour and beyond to the New Territories.
The best way to reach Victoria Peak is the aptly named Peak Tram. The tram is one of the world’s most famous and oldest funicular railways, opened in 1888.
Nowhere else in Hong Kong will you find such a spectacular view, making Victoria Peak one of the best tourist attractions in Hong Kong.
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Lantau Island
Lantau Island is the largest island in Hong Kong and is home to a number of must-see tourist attractions. For nature lovers, there are picturesque ocean views, phenomenal hiking trails and unspoiled beaches.
If you’re still in the mood for amazing views after visiting Victoria Peak, the Ngong Ping cable car is a necessity.
You can explore the traditional Tai O Fishing Village, the earliest developed fishing village on the island. The canals between the traditional stilt houses have dubbed this little oasis the “Venice of Hong Kong”.
You can’t leave Lantau Island without visiting the Tian Tan Buddha. This 26.4-meter high bronze statue sits atop 268 steps and represents Buddha Shakyamuni, symbolising the harmonious relationship between man and nature, people and faith.
Hong Kong Disneyland
While you’re visiting Lantau Island, it is also worth stopping by Hong Kong Disneyland.
The Happiest Place on Earth is a popular tourist attraction all over the world, and Hong Kong Disneyland must be one of the happiest.
Some may think that Disneyland is only for families with children, but we argue that even the young at heart will enjoy exploring Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, and Adventureland.
Get your heart pumping on Hyperspace Mountain or take in the lights and colours of the Paint the Night parade.
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Avenue of Stars & Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
If all the excitement of Hong Kong is overwhelming, the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade is a must-see tourist attraction in Hong Kong. The beautiful views of Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong skyline make this relaxing stroll one of the best things to do in Hong Kong.
To begin your walking journey, we recommend setting off from the old Kowloon-Canton Railway Clock Tower, a landmark of old Hong Kong. You will pass the Hong Kong Cultural Centre and the Museum of Art, which are well worth visits in their own right.
Soon you’ll come to the Avenue of Stars, Hong Kong’s answer to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and a tribute to the brilliant Hong Kong film industry. For kung-fu movie buffs, the 2.5-meter tall statue of kung-fu legend Bruce Lee is worth seeing.
If you’re still exploring the sights of the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade after 8pm, hang around and watch the Symphony of Lights – the world’s largest permanent laser light show – during which lights are projected from atop 42 skyscrapers.
Wong Tai Sin Temple
This busy Taoist temple is a destination for all walks of Hong Kong life, from students, pensioners, and businesspeople to parents and young professionals.
Built in 1973, this temple is dedicated to a healer named Wong Tai Sin who was said to have transformed boulders into sheep. Locals visit the temple to pray for good health, and some to divine the future with ‘chim’ (bamboo fortune sticks).
If you have time, take a walk in the nearby Good Wish Gardens, filled with pavilions, traditional zigzag bridges, and carp ponds.
Hong Kong Museum of History
The many museums scattered around the city are must-see tourist attractions in Hong Kong.
If you only have time to visit one, however, make it the Hong Kong Museum of History. Hong Kong has had a long and fascinating history since the last emperor of the Song Dynasty fled there 700 years ago.
The Hong Kong Museum of History is home to more than 4,000 exhibits covering over 400 million years, from fossils and ancient carvings to folk costumes and cannons.
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Ocean Park
The second-largest amusement park in Hong Kong, Ocean Park is a worthwhile entry on our list of amazing tourist attractions in Hong Kong.
Ocean Park has tons to offer to visitors since the park is an oceanarium, aquarium, animal theme park and amusement park rolled into one. This attraction boasts a huge aquarium dome, home to thousands of fish from over 400 different species. There are also orcas and dolphins. For those whose interests lie above the waves, the park’s resident Giant Pandas, Ying Ying and Le Le are major draws.
If you’re looking for a boost of adrenaline, you can find that here too. The Hair Raiser rollercoaster will get your heart pumping as well as provide incredible views – though you’ll probably be going too fast to enjoy them.
Temple Street Night Market
As night falls, the neon lights of Temple Street Market buzz to life, and quickly the street fills with locals and fellow travelers. Temple Street extends from Man Ming Lane in the north, to Nanking Road in the south and is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in the daily life of Hong Kong.
You can find almost everything you could imagine here at the Night Market. Savour the delectable street food on offer from the dai pai dongs and do some shopping. Follow the locals’ example and haggle with the vendors over everything from clothes, watches, footwear, cookware, and almost everything else you could imagine.
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Repulse Bay
You might not think of ‘beaches’ when you think of Hong Kong, but perhaps you should. Some of the best tourist attractions in Hong Kong are its incredible stretches of soft, golden sand and cool water.
The beach at Repulse Bay is particularly popular among locals. With the beautiful views and excellent swimming conditions, it can be crowded at times but, if you time your visit right, it can also be relaxing.
Considering all the exciting things to do in Hong Kong, you might not think much about relaxation. However, the oceanfront is lined with trendy restaurants and shops, too. The hills surrounding Repulse Bay are home to luxury apartment blocks, making this little area home to some of Hong Kong’s richest residents.
Man Mo Temple
The oldest temple in Hong Kong, built-in 1847, you will likely smell the incense emanating from Man Mo Temple long before you see it. Located along the famous Hollywood Road, in this temple worshippers pay tribute to Man, the god of Literature and, Mo, the god of War.
Perhaps an odd pairing, but you will often find the temple packed with students cramming for exams. While there are many Man Mo Temples in Hong Kong, the one on Hollywood Road is the largest and most famous.
It is easy to see why the peaceful and atmospheric vibe of the temple is a pleasant escape from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong’s streets. Man Mo Temple is one of the best tourist attractions in Hong Kong, making it a must-add to any traveller’s itinerary.
Which incredible tourist attraction in Hong Kong do you most want to visit? Let us know in the comments below! Or, if you’re still looking for inspiration, head to our website so you can read more about how you can discover the best things to do in Hong Kong when you travel with Trafalgar.