Things To Do
in Hong Kong
Hong Kong, officially known as the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, is a vibrant and densely populated metropolitan area located at the southeastern tip of China. It is renowned for its skyscraper-studded skyline, deep natural harbor, and is a global financial hub with a significant cultural fusion of Eastern and Western influences.
Despite its small area, Hong Kong boasts a rich blend of traditions, futuristic architecture, and lush landscapes, making it a unique and dynamic world city.
- "Neih hou" - Hello
- "M̀gōi" - Thank you
- "M̀hōi" - You're welcome
- "Hái" - Yes
- "M̀hái" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $100
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $8
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Hong Kong and check into your hotel. Grab breakfast at a local café and get ready to explore the nearby area.
Visit the iconic Victoria Peak for panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the restaurants overlooking the skyline.
Stroll around the bustling streets of Central. Dine at a popular dim sum restaurant and soak in the vibrant nightlife.
Head to Lantau Island in the morning and visit the Ngong Ping 360 cable car for stunning views. Explore the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery afterward.
Take a hike on the trails around Lantau Island to enjoy the natural scenery. Have lunch at a local spot in Ngong Ping village.
Return to the city and enjoy a quiet dinner on the waterfront at Tung Chung. Experience the peaceful atmosphere as the sun sets.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant economy and job opportunities
- World-class healthcare and education systems
- Extensive public transportation network
- Rich multicultural environment and a blend of Eastern and Western cultures
- Low tax regime attracting businesses and expatriates
- Proximity to mainland China for business and travel
- High cost of living, especially housing prices
- Limited space leading to overcrowding
- Political tensions and social unrest
- Long working hours and high work pressure
- Environmental issues such as air pollution
- Limited personal freedoms compared to other global cities
Best Activities in Hong Kong
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the many hiking trails in the countryside and coastal areas of Hong Kong, such as Dragon's Back and Lantau Peak.
Try rock climbing at popular spots like Tung Lung Island and Beacon Hill.
Enjoy water sports, swimming, and relaxation at beaches like Repulse Bay and Shek O.
Ride along dedicated cycling paths or take on challenging mountain biking trails in areas like Tai Lam Country Park.
Participate in or watch this traditional Chinese water sport at events like the Dragon Boat Festival.
Experience the thrill of flying over scenic landscapes at locations like Ma On Shan and Lantau Island.
Tours
Uncover the best of Hong Kong with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hong Kong
Visit one of these nice places.
A high vantage point offering breathtaking panoramic views of Hong Kong's skyline and Victoria Harbour.
A waterfront promenade with stunning views of the Hong Kong Island skyline and a perfect spot for photographing the Symphony of Lights show.
A popular hiking spot with rewarding views of the city, harbor, and surrounding mountains.
The highest bar in the world, located on the 118th floor of the Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong, offering breathtaking views of the city and Victoria Harbour.
A cable car ride offering stunning aerial views of Lantau Island, the airport, and the South China Sea.
Food in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try in Hong Kong, consisting of small, bite-sized portions of dumplings, buns, and other delights. One of the best places to sample dim sum is at Tim Ho Wan, the world's cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant.
Must-Try!
This local specialty is characterized by its crispy skin and succulent meat. Yat Lok is a popular restaurant where you can savor this dish at its finest.
These unique egg-shaped waffles are a popular street snack. For some of the best egg waffles, head to Lee Keung Kee North Point Egg Waffles.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Hong Kong better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling night market offering a wide array of street food, including seafood, noodles, and skewers. It's a great place to experience the vibrant street food culture of Hong Kong.
This escalator system is lined with numerous street food stalls and small eateries, making it a fantastic destination to explore a variety of local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hong Kong, maintaining 'face' is crucial, and this involves showing respect and consideration towards others, avoiding public embarrassment, and preserving harmony in social interactions.
Hong Kongers value personal space and expect others to maintain a certain distance in crowded places, as well as adhere to orderly queues in public places such as MTR stations and bus stops.
Respect for traditional customs, such as respecting elders, offering and receiving business cards with both hands, and observing proper dining etiquette is highly regarded in Hong Kong.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Hong Kong with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Hong Kong
Ensure a smooth experience
In Hong Kong, tipping is not a common practice, and it is not expected in most service industries. However, in some high-end restaurants or hotels, a 10% service charge may be included in the bill, so additional tipping is not necessary.
In Hong Kong, cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger establishments. Mobile payment methods such as Octopus card, Alipay, and WeChat Pay are also popular for daily transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Hong Kong.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Hong Kong as the weather is usually mild and dry. You can expect blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Summer in Hong Kong is hot and humid, with occasional typhoons. It's a popular time for beach activities and water sports, but be prepared for high temperatures and humidity.
Autumn brings cooler and drier weather to Hong Kong. The city is often shrouded in mist during this time, creating a mystical atmosphere. It's a great time for hiking and exploring nature.
Winter in Hong Kong is mild and dry, with occasional cold fronts bringing cooler temperatures. It's a good time for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor markets and festivals.
Hong Kong at Night
Hiking in Hong Kong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of Shek O and the South China Sea. The trail is about 8.5 kilometers long and is suitable for all skill levels.
This hike provides panoramic views of Hong Kong's skyline and is a favorite among local hikers. The trail is approximately 7 kilometers long and features steep sections.
A scenic trail spanning 70 kilometers around Lantau Island, featuring various terrains, including coastal paths, forests, and mountainous areas. The trail can be completed in sections.
The highest peak in Hong Kong, Tai Mo Shan offers trails leading to breathtaking views and a chance to see unique flora and fauna. The hike is about 12 kilometers round trip.
Renowned for its beautiful beaches, this hike leads to a remote bay area. It usually starts from a nearby village and covers approximately 10 kilometers.
A hike that takes you to the iconic Tian Tan Buddha statue and the charming Ngong Ping village. The trail is about 5 kilometers long and is family-friendly.
A 100-kilometer trail that crosses the New Territories, this is one of Hong Kong's most famous hiking routes. It is typically completed in multiple stages.
Known for its sharp summit, this challenging hike offers stunning views and a true adventure for experienced hikers. The trail is approximately 9 kilometers long.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Hong Kong through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Hong Kong by plane.
The main airport serving Hong Kong, located on Lantau Island, it is one of the busiest international airports in the world.
Located in Shenzhen, China, this airport serves as a major hub for international flights and is approximately 40 km from Hong Kong.
Situated in Guangzhou, China, this airport is about 120 km from Hong Kong and is a key gateway to southern China.
Located in Macau, only about 60 km from Hong Kong, this airport serves as an entry point for international travelers visiting the region.
Taiwan's main international airport, located about 800 km from Hong Kong, serves as a significant hub for travelers in and out of Taiwan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Hong Kong, comprising over 90% of the population, primarily of Cantonese descent.
Includes groups such as Filipinos, Indonesians, and other South Asian communities. They make up a significant portion of the population, particularly in the service and domestic sectors.
Various foreign nationals living in Hong Kong, including professionals from Western countries, as well as other regions such as Japan and Korea.
Primarily female workers from countries like the Philippines and Indonesia, who are employed in households across Hong Kong.
An increasingly significant demographic, reflecting the aging population. Seniors (aged 65 and above) make up a growing proportion of the population.
The Soul of Hong Kong
Discover the essence of Hong Kong through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport in Hong Kong, with numerous local leagues and a passionate fan base.
Basketball enjoys considerable popularity, with many courts available and a strong youth participation.
Cricket has a vibrant community in Hong Kong, bolstered by expat involvement and local competitions.
Rugby is well-supported, with both union and league formats played, including the annual Hong Kong Sevens.
Badminton is played recreationally and competitively, enjoying popularity in schools and clubs.
A favored indoor sport in Hong Kong, table tennis sees both casual and competitive play among various age groups.
Running events, including marathons and fun runs, are very popular due to the city's scenic routes.
Cycling has gained momentum in recent years, with more cycling paths and events promoting the sport.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Hong Kong has a strong meat-based culinary tradition, there are numerous vegetarian and vegan restaurants available, especially in areas like Central and SoHo. Some notable options include LockCha Tea House for vegetarian dim sum and Pure Veggie House for creative plant-based dishes.
Several restaurants in Hong Kong cater to gluten-free diets. Among them, Mana! Fast Slow Food provides an extensive menu of gluten-free offerings, including wraps, salads, and cold-pressed juices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Hong Kong with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hong Kong.