Best things to do in Hong Kong

21.07.2023 - 07:32 / roughguides.com / Victoria Harbour

An eclectic mix of Chinese, Portuguese and British heritage, Hong Kong has a unique and proudly fierce identity. With its hi-tech infrastructure, buzzing nightlife and marvellous wildlife, there’s something for everyone in this small and mighty region. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a well-seasoned traveller, we’ve got the low down on things to do in Hong Kong.

The information in this article is inspired by Pocket Rough Guide Hong Kong & Macau , your essential guide for visiting Hong Kong .

Temple Street Night Market ripples with a fun, noisy energy. This is where you’ll find countless stalls jam-packed with all sorts of souvenirs and electronic goods. The numerous seafood restaurants make for a good respite from the bustling atmosphere just north of Saigon Street.

At the centre of the square, you’ll find Tin Hau Temple, which originally faced the waterfront and is dedicated to a Chinese sea goddess. Temple Street and the night market stretch on from the far side of the square, where more alfresco dining and gift-worthy bargains await.

Hong Kong is a vibrant and appealing city, with its waterside location and towering skyscrapers, it offers the visitor modernity and tradition, the exotic and efficient. This tailor-made trip to Hong Kong Highlights is perfect for a family break, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained from Central to the New Territories and beyond.

Night market in Hong Kong © Shutterstock

There’s no doubt that the Tian Tan Big Buddha is a must-see attraction on your list of things to do in Hong Kong. Located on Lantau Island, you must take a bus from Mui Wo, Tai O or Tung Chung. If you fancy a more scenic route, though, opt for the cable car which you can catch from Tung Chung.

First, you’ll enter through Po Lin Monastery, the largest Chan (Zen) Buddhist temple in Hong Kong, before reaching a dizzying flight of stairs. At the top, the mighty, bronze-figured Buddha sits 34m high, surrounded by a ring of lotus petals and Buddhist angels known as apsaras. It’s worth the journey, as the views from here are incredible.

Visiting Big Buddha at Lantau Island is one of the essential things to do in Hong Kong © Nussar/Shutterstock

What better way to take in Hong Kong’s iconic city skyline than by boat? Running from Tsim Sha Tsui to Central, ferries have crossed Victoria Harbour since 1898, and the current double-decker, Star Ferry, is styled in an iconic green-and-cream style with wooden decks and seats.

This is the cheapest way to view what’s arguably the most photographed spot in Hong Kong, which gives you all the more reason to treat yourself to a tasty bite to eat once you reach the other side.

Hong Kong Star Ferry @ Shutterstock

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