While your visit to Hong Kong might be focused on attending a trade fair or exhibition, the city offers a world of experiences beyond the convention hall. Taking some time to see the sights can transform a business trip into a memorable adventure.
From serene temples and bustling markets to scenic hiking trails and world-class theme parks, Hong Kong is a city of incredible contrasts and endless activities. Stepping out to see what the city has to offer provides a deeper appreciation for its unique culture and energy.
To help you organize your entire trip, from getting around to finding the best places to eat, our complete Hong Kong Visitor’s Guide is an excellent starting point for all your planning needs.
A Glimpse into Hong Kong’s Diversity
Make the most of your downtime by experiencing the different facets of this vibrant city. This guide highlights the best spots for every interest.
- Cultural Sites: Connect with the city’s spiritual and historical roots by visiting its beautiful temples, insightful museums, and important landmarks. These places offer a peaceful counterpoint to the city’s fast pace.
- A Shopper’s Paradise: Hong Kong is famous for its shopping. You can find everything here, from the latest luxury goods in glamorous, air-conditioned malls to unique bargains and souvenirs in lively, open-air street markets.
- The Green Side of the City: Many are surprised to learn that about 40% of Hong Kong’s territory is dedicated to country parks and nature reserves. Escape the urban environment by hiking along scenic trails or relaxing on a sandy beach.
- Fun for the Whole Family: If you’re traveling with family, Hong Kong has you covered. The city is home to major theme parks and a variety of interactive museums that provide entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Sites of Culture and Heritage
Hong Kong’s modern skyline has many historic places. These sites reveal its rich history and spiritual traditions. Visiting them offers a calming and enriching experience.
One awe-inspiring landmark is the Tian Tan Buddha. It is often called the Big Buddha on Lantau Island. To reach it, take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car. This ride offers stunning views of the mountains and sea.
Once you arrive, you will climb 268 steps. This takes you to the base of the massive bronze statue. Nearby is the beautiful Po Lin Monastery. It is an active Buddhist monastery. You can enjoy a vegetarian meal there. The atmosphere is very tranquil.
These iconic locations are incredibly photogenic, and you’ll see many people capturing the moment. This mirrors the professional world, where powerful event photography is crucial for marketing and engagement.
Back in the city, you’ll find Man Mo Temple. It is on Hollywood Road in Sheung Wan. This is one of Hong Kong’s oldest and most famous temples. It honors the gods of literature (Man) and war (Mo).
Inside, you will see large, hanging incense coils. Their sight and scent create a mystical mood. It’s a wonderful place to witness local traditions. You can find peace from the urban bustle here.
Are you interested in the city’s past? Visit the Hong Kong Museum of History in Tsim Sha Tsui. It provides a walk through the region’s story. This story spans from prehistory to 1997.
The M+ museum is another fantastic option. It is in the West Kowloon Cultural District. This museum focuses on modern visual culture. This includes design, architecture, and moving images.
From Luxury Malls to Street Markets
Shopping in Hong Kong is an activity in itself, offering a spectrum of experiences from high-end luxury to vibrant market haggling.
For a premium shopping experience, head to the glamorous malls in Central, such as LANDMARK, or the sprawling Harbour City in Tsim Sha Tsui. These complexes house flagship stores for the world’s leading luxury brands, all in a comfortable, climate-controlled environment. In Causeway Bay, you’ll find a mix of large department stores, like Sogo, and multi-story shopping centers filled with fashion, electronics, and cosmetics.
As the shops in Central begin to close, the area transforms into the city’s premier entertainment district. Explore what to do after dark with a Guide to Nightlife in Hong Kong.
For a more local and atmospheric shopping trip, the city’s street markets are a must-visit. The Temple Street Night Market in Jordan comes alive as the sun sets. Here, you can browse a wide array of goods, from clothing and electronics to tea sets and souvenirs. You can also have your fortune told or listen to impromptu Cantonese opera performances.
After exploring the vibrant Temple Street Night Market, you’ll be surrounded by some of the city’s most authentic local food. Our Dining Guide for Hong Kong Visitors can help you choose the perfect spot for dinner.
The Ladies’ Market in Mong Kok is another famous spot, known for its long stretch of stalls selling women’s clothing, accessories, and novelty items. Remember that bargaining is part of the experience in these markets, so feel free to negotiate prices politely.
Getting in Touch with Nature
It may be a surprise, but Hong Kong offers incredible opportunities for outdoor activities. The city’s country parks provide a welcome escape with well-maintained hiking trails and beautiful scenery.
One of the most popular and accessible hikes is the Dragon’s Back trail on the south side of Hong Kong Island. This trail is known for its stunning panoramic views of the coastline, beaches, and surrounding islands. It’s a relatively easy hike, making it suitable for most fitness levels, and it ends near Shek O, a charming coastal village with a lovely beach and several good restaurants.
If you’d rather just relax by the water, Hong Kong has numerous sandy beaches. Repulse Bay is one of the most famous, with its wide, crescent-shaped beach and collection of beachfront cafes. For a more laid-back vibe, you can take a ferry to one of the outlying islands. Lamma Island, for example, has no cars and offers pleasant walking trails and clean beaches, along with excellent seafood restaurants in its main villages.
Even within the urban core, you can find green spaces. Kowloon Park is a large oasis in the middle of Tsim Sha Tsui, complete with a swimming pool, an aviary, and tranquil Chinese gardens.
Fun Spots for the Family
If you are traveling with children, Hong Kong has several world-class attractions that will keep the whole family entertained.
Ocean Park Hong Kong is a marine-life theme park, animal sanctuary, and amusement park all rolled into one. It’s located on the southern side of Hong Kong Island and features thrilling roller coasters, a giant panda habitat, and one of the largest aquariums in the world. The park is spread across two main areas connected by a scenic cable car, offering fantastic views along the way.
For fans of classic characters and stories, Hong Kong Disneyland on Lantau Island provides a magical experience. The park features seven themed lands, spectacular shows, and daily parades. It’s easily accessible via its own dedicated MTR line, making it a convenient day trip.
For a more educational but equally engaging outing, the Hong Kong Science Museum in Tsim Sha Tsui is an excellent choice. It features hundreds of interactive exhibits that allow children to learn about science and technology in a hands-on way. It’s a great option for a rainy day or for families looking for an alternative to theme parks.
A City of Endless Experiences
Beyond the business meetings and exhibition halls, Hong Kong presents a rich tapestry of sights and activities. Taking the time to see even just a few of its attractions will give you a fuller picture of this remarkable place. Whether you find yourself captivated by the serenity of a temple, the thrill of a market, or the beauty of a mountain view, these experiences are what make a trip to Hong Kong truly special.