Highlights
Temples
Alongside its strikingly modern skyline, chic restaurants and luxury malls, Hong Kong still boasts a number of Chinese cultural sites and intricately-designed Taoist temples. One of the city’s oldest and a declared monument, Man Mo Temple – built in 1847 during the Qing dynasty - is fascinatingly dedicated to the gods of literature (‘Man’), holding a writing brush, and of war (‘Mo’), wielding a sword. Meanwhile, the artfully crafted Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple boasts vibrantly coloured pillars, detailed lattice work, exotic flowers and aromatic incense.
Country Parks
Beyond the towering skyscrapers of urban Hong Kong, 70% of the region comprises sprawling country parks, bursting at the seams with geological and historical gems. Take a trip to the marvellous Hong Kong Global Geopark – part of the UNESCO Network – and spot the staggering 400million year old rock formations; a spectacular sight to behold, no matter how much you know about geology! The 60-hectare Hong Kong Wetland Park showcases the fascinating wetland ecosystems of the New Territories – perfect for bird watching – whilst Lai Chi Wo is an enchanting, 400-year-old walled village, complete with intact feng shui woodland, within Plover Cove Country Park.
Cuisine
A city that is a true culinary gem, Hong Kong offers everything from fresh, authentic street food to Michelin star fine dining. Stroll through one of the wonderfully chaotic markets and soak up the smells and tastes on offer from the dai pai dongs (open air street stalls), sampling classic noodles, fresh seafood or stranger delicacies, such as trusted Snake Soup. For a gourmet gastronomic journey, taste the Cantonese delights at Michelin-star-awarded Spring Moon at The Peninsula Hong Kong, or book a table at one of the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong’s spectacular ten restaurants, boasting an impressive three Michelin stars between them.
Victoria Peak
Experience exciting Hong Kong from the very best view in the city: Victoria Peak, standing tall at an impressive 552m. Sit back in the 125-year-old gravity-defying Peak Tram – the oldest in Asia - as you ascend the mountain almost vertically, before being truly awestruck by sweeping views of the bustling metropolis, over sparkling skyscrapers and the harbour, all the way to the green hills of the New Territories. Located at Lower Terminus, The Peak Tram Historical Gallery is a way of paying tribute to the fascinating tram’s heritage and the history of Hong Kong, whilst The Peak Galleria boasts a spectacular admission-free viewing deck.
Shopping
Described as a place of pilgrimage for shoppers, Hong Kong boasts a truly eclectic and world-class shopping scene – offering everything from designer clothing to colourful Chinese antiques. Soak up the energetic local atmosphere at The Tung Choi Street Market, or feel the buzz of vendors, opera singers and fortune tellers at the traditional Temple Street Night Market. Shop for the finest global designer brands in the sleek, air-conditioned malls – such as the IFC and the Landmark in Central – or explore Hong Kong’s cool independent shops for something a little more unique.