Things To Do
in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a vibrant, densely populated urban center known for its impressive skyline punctuated by towering skyscrapers, all set against the backdrop of Victoria Harbour. It is a major global financial hub, rich in culture, and boasts a unique mix of Eastern and Western influences, reflected in its food, architecture, and traditions.
Hong Kong's diverse landscape also includes lush mountains and parks, offering a contrast to its bustling street markets, shopping districts, and high-tech lifestyle.
- "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 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Hong Kong Museum of History to learn about the rich cultural past. Follow this with a visit to the nearby Kowloon Walled City Park for a peaceful stroll amid historical ruins.
Head to the bustling streets of Tsim Sha Tsui and explore the local shops and eateries. Don't miss the iconic Star Ferry ride across Victoria Harbour for stunning views.
Experience the Symphony of Lights show from the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront. Finish your day with dinner at a popular dim sum restaurant in the area.
Start your day at the famous Ladies’ Market in Mong Kok where you can shop for unique souvenirs. Enjoy fresh street food while you browse the stalls.
Visit the upscale shops in Causeway Bay and enjoy a lunch of local specialties. Wander through the vibrant streets and enjoy some people-watching.
Savor a delightful dinner at a rooftop restaurant in Central, offering stunning views of the skyline. Afterwards, explore the nightlife at Lan Kwai Fong, known for its lively atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant economy with a strong financial sector
- Culturally diverse with a mix of Eastern and Western influences
- Excellent public transportation system
- Beautiful skyline and natural landscapes
- High standard of living and quality healthcare
- Low tax rates and favorable business environment
- High cost of living, particularly housing
- Limited living space and high population density
- Political tensions and concerns over autonomy
- Environmental issues such as air pollution
- Challenging job market for non-native speakers
- Potential for natural disasters like typhoons
Best Activities in Hong Kong
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails and beautiful countryside of the New Territories, such as the famous MacLehose Trail or the Dragon's Back hike.
Relax on the sandy shores of Shek O Beach, known for its clear waters and laid-back atmosphere.
Take a cable car ride to Lantau Island to visit the Tian Tan Buddha and explore the picturesque landscapes.
Paddle through the stunning coastline and scenic islands of Sai Kung, a great way to enjoy Hong Kong's natural beauty.
Tours
Uncover the best of Hong Kong with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hong Kong
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city skyline and Victoria Harbour. It's one of the best spots for photography in Hong Kong.
The iconic harbour provides stunning views, especially during the Symphony of Lights show in the evening.
Promenade along the waterfront with great views of Hong Kong Island's skyline and the Avenue of Stars for photo opportunities.
Food in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A selection of small, bite-sized dishes served in bamboo steamers or on small plates, including dumplings, buns, and rolls. Recommended spots: Tim Ho Wan, Maxim's Palace, Lin Heung Tea House.
Must-Try!
A succulent and flavorful dish with crispy skin and tender meat. Must-try at Yat Lok or Yung Kee Restaurant.
Egg noodles in a clear broth with tender wontons, often served with barbecued pork. Visit Mak's Noodle or Ho Hung Kee for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Hong Kong better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market for an array of street food options such as seafood, stinky tofu, and assorted skewers.
Discover a variety of street food including fish balls, egg waffles, and other local snacks amidst the vibrant market atmosphere.
The escalator route is lined with street food stalls offering everything from fresh fruit to hot snacks. Don't miss Kau Kee Food Cafe for beef brisket noodles.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hong Kong, it's important to respect personal space and avoid touching, hugging, or kissing in public. Maintaining a polite distance when interacting with others is considered respectful.
When dining in Hong Kong, it's customary to wait for the host or the eldest person to start eating before you begin. Also, it's polite to use chopsticks appropriately and not stick them upright in a bowl of rice, as this symbolizes death.
Greetings in Hong Kong often involve a slight bow or nod of the head, especially when meeting someone for the first time. Handshakes are also common, but it's best to let the person of higher status initiate the handshake.
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 customary and is often not expected. However, in upscale restaurants and hotels, a 10% service charge may be added to the bill. Additionally, tipping taxi drivers or tour guides is not common.
Credit cards and Octopus cards (a contactless stored value smart card) are widely accepted for payment in Hong Kong. Cash is also widely used, especially for small transactions and in local markets. Mobile payment apps, such as Alipay and WeChat Pay, are also becoming increasingly popular for making payments.
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...
Mild and pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is adorned with blooming flowers and festive celebrations during the Spring Lantern Festival.
Hot and humid weather with occasional typhoons. It's a great time for beach trips and water activities, but be prepared for high humidity and occasional rainshowers.
Cooler temperatures and lower humidity, making it a comfortable time for exploring the city. The Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated with colorful lantern displays and mooncakes.
Cool and dry weather, with occasional chilly spells. It's a good time for shopping and festive activities, including the Chinese New Year celebrations.
Hong Kong at Night
Hiking in Hong Kong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking trail that offers scenic views of the eastern coastline of Hong Kong. The trail is approximately 8.5 km long and is suitable for hikers of all levels.
Famous for its iconic rock formation, this hike offers stunning panoramic views of the city. The trail is about 4 km long and can be challenging in parts.
The highest peak in Hong Kong, offering breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna. The hike to the summit is roughly 10 km and takes about 3 hours.
The second highest mountain in Hong Kong, known for its stunning sunrise views. The hike is about 6 km long and is considered moderate to challenging.
This 100 km trail spans across the New Territories, with various sections offering different landscapes and difficulty levels. It's a great option for multi-day hiking.
A scenic trail that runs along the Hong Kong Island, covering around 50 km. It provides a mix of urban and natural landscapes, making it ideal for a long day hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Hong Kong through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Hong Kong by plane.
The main airport serving Hong Kong, located on Lantau Island.
Located in Shenzhen, China, it is the primary airport serving the city and surrounding region.
Located in Guangzhou, China, it is one of the major airports in Southern China.
Serving the Special Administrative Region of Macau, located approximately 60 km from Hong Kong.
Located in Taoyuan City, Taiwan, it is the main international airport for Taipei.
An important airport in Chongqing, China, located approximately 1,200 km from Hong Kong.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Hong Kong, comprising about 92% of the population.
The largest foreign ethnic group in Hong Kong, playing a significant role in the domestic work sector.
A notable foreign ethnic group, primarily consisting of migrant workers in various sectors.
A smaller demographic group, including expatriates and permanent residents from Western countries.
Includes communities from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal, involved in various trades and professions.
A lesser-known demographic, including both expatriates and local residents of African descent.
Individuals of mixed ethnic backgrounds, including both local and expatriate heritages.
The Soul of Hong Kong
Discover the essence of Hong Kong through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Hong Kong, with many local clubs and a vibrant football community. The Hong Kong Premier League features local teams competing for the championship.
Basketball enjoys immense popularity among youth and adults alike, with numerous courts available across the city. The Hong Kong Basketball Association oversees various leagues and events.
Badminton is widely played recreationally and competitively in Hong Kong, supported by various clubs and national tournaments.
Rugby has grown in popularity, especially through events like the Hong Kong Sevens, which attracts international teams and large crowds.
Cricket has a passionate following, with leagues organized by the Hong Kong Cricket Association and a growing number of participants from various backgrounds.
Running events, including marathons and fun runs, are popular among locals, with many participating in organized races throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hong Kong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian dining options are available in Hong Kong, with many restaurants offering dedicated vegetarian menus. Notable places include LockCha Tea House and Pure Veggie House.
While not as prevalent as vegetarian options, vegan eateries like MANA! Fast Slow Food and Happy V are gaining popularity, offering plant-based dishes.
Several establishments in Hong Kong cater to gluten-free diets, serving dishes free from gluten or offering gluten-free alternatives. Check out Urban Bakery and Pololi for gluten-free options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Hong Kong with these cultural adventures.
