What are the essential must-see attractions in Hong Kong, and what next, especially if it’s my second or third visit to the city? That’s a great question. Hong Kong’s top attractions that are well publicised, and I will list them here too, but what about alternatives, what about getting off the well-beaten path, and what about taking a deep-dive into local culture?
I’m going to answer that right here with a one-page mega-list of attractions, things-to-do, cultural and heritage sites, natural scenery, hiking trails and more.
Jump to: Essentials – Theme Parks – Temples – Heritage – Museums – Parks and Nature Reserves – Hiking Trails – City Walks – Islands – Beaches
The Essentials
Let’s start this list with the most popular attractions, sights and things to do.
The Peak & The Peak Tram
Ride the historic “Peak Tram” and take in amazing views of Hong Kong Harbour at The Peak. At the top, you can enjoy Sky Terrace 428, dining options, Starbucks and Pacific Coffee are there, wander to Lugard Road Lookout or the Lions Point View Pavilion, or even take the 3.5-kilometre Peak Circle Walk.
Address: Catch the Peak Tram at Cnr Garden Road and Cotton Tree Drive, Mid-Levels, Hong Kong
Web: www.thepeak.com.hk
Ticket: Adult HK$ 99 (Two way – Inc. Sky Terrace 428) – Adult HK$ 52 (Two way – Not inc. Sky Terrace 428) Discounts offered for Children and Seniors
Hours: 7 am to 12 midnight – Sky 428 closes at 11 pm.
Hong Kong Disneyland
If you are a Disney fan, or you have kids, then you’d better add this to the list. It’s everything you’d expect from Disney but keep in mind it’s very tailored to the main visitor which is, of course, local Chinese.
Address: Hong Kong Disneyland, Lantau Island, Outlying Islands (take the MTR to MTR Disneyland Resort Station)
Web: www.hongkongdisneyland.com
Tickets: Starting from HK$ 619
Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (please check park website as hours change)
Ocean Park Hong Kong
Ocean Park is massive marine-life focused park also featuring animal exhibits, Hong Kong cultural exhibits, and numerous thrill rides.
Address: Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong Island (MTR Ocean Park Station)
Web: www.oceanpark.com.hk
Tickets: Adults HK$ 480 Children (3-11) HK$ 240
Hours: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Star Ferry
An icon of Hong Kong and the best value way to cross from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon. They also offer scenic cruises.
Address: Star Ferry Pier, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Web: www.starferry.com.hk
A Symphony of Lights
The 8 pm nightly light show that illuminates the bayfront towers and Victoria Harbour.
Address: You can watch the show from Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, Golden Bauhinia Square, from a cruise boat, or from a high-rise with harbour views.
Tickets: No ticket required
Hours: Nightly at 8 pm for 15 min.
Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
Go for a stroll along the waterfront, admire the amazing towers of Central, and the boats passing by. Start at the Clock Tower and wind around past the museums and you’ll be at the Avenue of Stars.
Address: Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Hours: always open
Ticket: free
Avenue of Stars
Celebrating HongKong’s film industry through statues, and handprints.
Address: Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Hours: always open
Ticket: free
Web: www.avenueofstars.com.hk
Clock Tower
Once the old train station, now it’s a landmark of Hong Kong’s colonial heritage. No ticket required, take it in prior to visiting the Promenade and the Avenue of Stars.
Address: Star Ferry Pier, Kowloon Point, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Noah’s Ark Hong Kong
Features 67 life-sized animal sculptures, 4D cinema, Solar Telescope, treasure house with games, and eco-education activities/displays.
Address: 33 Pak Yan Road, Ma Wan, New Territories
Web: www.noahsark.com.hk
Ticket: Adult HK$ 168 Child (3-11) HK$ 138
Hours: 10:00 – 6:00 pm
The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery
Located among the scenic beauty of Lantau Island, the bronze Big Buddha stands at 34 meters tall overlooking all. Po Lin Monastery is the center of Buddhism in Hong Kong and also features a popular restaurant.
Address: Ngong Ping, Lantau Island (bus 23 from Tung Chung Town Center or the Ngong Ping 360 cable car)
Web: www.plm.org.hk
Ticket: Free – Exhibition Halls HK$ 30 to 78 inc meal at the restaurant.
Hours: 8 am to 6 pm
Ngong Ping 360
A 25-minute cable car journey taking in amazing coastal views as you head to the Ngong Ping themed village.
Address: Ngong Ping, Lantau Island, Outlying Islands
Web: www.np360.com.hk
Ticket: Standard Cabin Round Trip for Adult HK$ 210 Note: visit the website as there are multitudes of offers.
Hours: Mon-Fri 10:00am – 6:00pm Sat-Sun and Public holidays 9:00am – 6:30pm
Ani-Com Park@Harbour”FUN”
Sculptures representing Hong Kong’s comic icons. Take it in after visiting the Golden Bauhinia.
Address: The promenade and open space near Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai.
Web: www.anicompark.hk
Ticket: Free
Hours: no hours
Golden Bauhinia Square (and HKCEC)
Home to the Forever Blooming Bauhinia Sculpture and site for the daily flag-raising ceremony.
Address:1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island
Ticket: Free
Hours: no hours
Harbour Cruises
In my mind at least, the harbour is the star attraction of Hong Kong and what better way to enjoy than a cruise. There are numerous options including Star Ferry’s Harbour Tour ( www.starferry.com.hk), DukLing a traditional Chinese Junk (www.dukling.com.hk), Symphony of Lights Dinner Cruise (www.cruise.com.hk), and the Aqua Luna another traditional Chinese Junk (aqualuna.com.hk).
Hong Kong Observation Wheel
A 60-meter-high wheel, or “eye”. Located on Victoria Harbour offering superb views from its gondolas during the 15 min ride.
Address: 33 Man Kwong Street, Central, Hong Kong Island
Web: www.hkow.hk
Tickets: HK$ 21
Hours: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
Ocean Terminal Deck
An observatory deck that offers panoramic views of Victoria Harbour. Great sunset spot.
Address: Ocean Terminal Deck, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui
Web: www.harbourcity.com.hk
Ticket: free
Hours: 07:00 am – Midnight
sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck
Head up to the 100th floor of Hong Kong’s tallest building, the ICC. Enjoy views of the harbour and beyond.
Address: 100/F International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon
Web: www.sky100.com.hk
Ticket: HK$ 188 – go online for HK$ 169 tickets, and discounts for children and seniors and discounted nighttime couples tickets.
Hours: Sun-Thu 10:00 am – 9 pm Fri-Sat 10:00 am – 10:30 pm
Ladies’ Market
Lots of souvenirs, the odd “copy product”, artworks, bags, shoes, light fashion, and gadgets. Fa Yuen Sneaker Street market is also nearby.
Address: Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon
Hours: 1pm – 11pm
Temple Street Night Market
The market is similar to Ladies Market in the goods it keeps but you can find some more oddities here. The area itself is loaded with character and it’s a great place to try out local foods at the street stalls.
Address: Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon
Hours: 5 pm to 11 pm
Lan Kwai Fong
Looking for nightlife? Here is the spot and there are over 90 bars and restaurants to choose from here.
Address: Lan Kwai Fong St., Central, Hong Kong Island
Web: www.lankwaifong.com
Hours: 2 pm – 6 am
Themed Attractions and Theme Parks
Here are the three big parks in Hong Kong, while Disneyland is the star of the show, Ocean Park offers incredible value, and Noahs Ark and eco-experience.
Hong Kong Disneyland
If you are a Disney fan, or you have kids, then you’d better add this to the list. It’s everything you’d expect from Disney but keep in mind it’s very tailored to the main visitor which is, of course, local Chinese.
Address: Hong Kong Disneyland, Lantau Island, Outlying Islands (take the MTR to MTR Disneyland Resort Station)
Web: www.hongkongdisneyland.com
Tickets: Starting from HK$ 619
Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (please check park website as hours change)
Ocean Park Hong Kong
Ocean Park is massive marine-life focused park also featuring animal exhibits, Hong Kong cultural exhibits, and numerous thrill rides.
Address: Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong Island (MTR Ocean Park Station)
Web: www.oceanpark.com.hk
Tickets: Adults HK$ 480 Children (3-11) HK$ 240
Hours: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Noah’s Ark Hong Kong
Features 67 life-sized animal sculptures, 4D cinema, Solar Telescope, treasure house with games, and eco-education activities/displays.
Address: 33 Pak Yan Road, Ma Wan, New Territories
Web: www.noahsark.com.hk
Ticket: Adult HK$ 168 Child (3-11) HK$ 138
Hours: 10:00 – 6:00 pm
Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
The world-famous wax museum with over 100 lifelike wax figures. Take this in on a trip to The Peak.
Address: Shop P101, The Peak Tower, 128 Peak Road, The Peak
Web: www.madametussauds.com
Tickets: HK$ 280 – go online for HK$ 220 and Peak Tram combo offers.
Hours: 10am – 10pm
Temples
The city has deep roots in ancient religions inc Taoism and Buddhism. The pick of the temples are Po Lin Monastery, Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden, and Wong Tai Sin Temple.
Hong Kong Island
Hung Shing Temple at Wan Chai
Once a seaside temple for the God of Ocean and Weather. Land reclamation has seen it become an inland temple. Originally built around 1847-1852.
Address: 129-131 Queen’s Rd E, Wan Chai
Lo Pan Temple
Dedicated to the patron saint of Chinese builders and carpenters. Dates back to 1884.
Address: 15 Ching Lin Terrace, Kennedy Town
Man Mo Temple
It was built in 1847 and is part of a complex that comprises three adjacent blocks namely Man Mo Temple, Lit Shing Temple and Kung So.
Address: 124-126 Hollywood Road, in Sheung Wan
Pak Tai Temple at Wan Chai
Built in 1783, the temple is dedicated to Pak Tai, a martial deity, and houses a 10-foot (3 meter) Ming Dynasty (1604) statue of Pak Tai.
Address: 2 Lung On St, Wan Chai
Shing Wong Temple
Traditional 1877 temple dedicated to the worship of Shing Wong, the deity who watches over cities.
Address: Temple Street, Hong Kong
Tam Kung Temple
Built in 1862, in the late Qing Dynasty, the temple is dedicated to the Tam Kung who is a local god of fishing.
Address: Tam Kung Temple Road, A Kung Ngam
Tin Hau Temple at Shau Kei Wan
Built in 1873, this Chinese temple featuring woodcarvings & murals honors the goddess of the sea.
Address: 53 Shau Kei Wan Main St E, Shau Kei Wan, Hong Kong
Kowloon
Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden
Chi Lin Nunnery is a large Buddhist temple complex located in Diamond Hill, Kowloon, Hong Kong. It was founded in 1934 as a retreat for Buddhist nuns and was rebuilt in the 1990s following the traditional Tang Dynasty architecture.
Address: 5 Chi Lin Dr, Sheung Yuen Leng, Hong Kong
Web: www.chilin.org
Hau Wong Temple
Believed to have been built in 1730, it features a wealth of cultural artifacts including Shek Wan pottery and Chinese calligraphy.
Address: 130 Junction Rd, Pak Hok Shan, Hong Kong
Tin Hau Temple at Yau Ma Tei
A temple built for the Goddess of the Sea, in the middle of the city.
Address: 56-58 Temple St, Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong
Wong Tai Sin Temple
A Taoist, Buddhist and Confucian temple honoring a legendary monk. Wong Tai Sin Temple is a major tourist attraction in Hong Kong.
Address: 2 Chuk Yuen Village, Wong Tai Sin, Kowloon
Web: www.siksikyuen.org.hk
New Territories
Che Kung Temple at Sha Tin
Che Kung Miu also called Che Kung Temple, are temples dedicated to Che Kung, who was a general during the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279) in ancient China.
Address: 7 Che Kung Miu Rd, Tai Wai (Che Kung Temple Station on the Ma On Shan Line)
Hours: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
Web: www.ctc.org.hk
Che Kung Temple at Ho Chung
As per the above, this temple dates back to the early Ming Dynasty.
Address: Ho Chung Village, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
Ching Chung Koon
A large and beautiful Taoist temple that also features several ancient imperial relics.
Address: 8 Tsing Chung Path, Tuen Mun (Siu Hong Station or Tuen Mun Station on the West Rail Line)
Hours: 11:30 am–4:30 pm
Fung Ying Seen Koon
A Taoist temple that’s highly regarded for its architecture.
Address: 66 Pak Wo Rd, Fanling
Hours: 8 am–5 pm
Hung Shing Temple at Kau Sai Chau, Sai Kung
Originally built in 1889 and situated on Kau Sai Chau (Island), Sai Kung.
Address: Sai Kung Estate, Sai Chau, New Territories
Hours: 6 am to 6 pm
Tin Hau Temple at Lam Tsuen
The temple is famed for its two wishing trees and was built during the reign of Emperor Qianlong (1736–1796).
Address: Lam Tsuen, Hong Kong
Hours: 9 am–4:30 pm
Yuen Yuen Institute
Yuen Yuen Institute was founded to spread the principles of Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism.
Address: Sam Dip Tam, Tsuen Wan, New Territories (MTR Tsuen Wan Station)
Hours: 8:30 am – 5 pm
Outlying Islands
The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery
Located among the scenic beauty of Lantau Island, the bronze Big Buddha stands at 34 meters tall overlooking all. Po Lin Monastery is the center of Buddhism in Hong Kong and also features a popular restaurant.
Address: Ngong Ping, Lantau Island (bus 23 from Tung Chung Town Center or the Ngong Ping 360 cable car)
Web: www.plm.org.hk
Ticket: Free – Exhibition Halls HK$ 30 to 78 inc meal at the restaurant.
Hours: 8 am to 6 pm
Golden Flower Shrine
Located on the island of Peng Chau the shrine sits under a Banyan tree and was built in honor of the Lady Golden Flower aka Goddess KamFa.
Address: Inside the lane adjacent to Wing On Street, Peng Chau
Kwan Kung Pavilion
Kwan Kung Pavilion is a temple on Cheung Chau island and is dedicated to the god of war and wealth Kwan Tai.
Address: Kwun Yam Wan Rd, Cheung Chau
Lung Mo Temple
The Dragon Mother’s temple on Peng Chau island. Lung Mo is a goddess of water.
Address: 15 Chi Yan Street, Tung Wan, Peng Chau, Outlying Islands
Pak Tai Temple at Cheung Chau
A Taoist temple built 200 years ago in traditional style.
Address: Pak She St, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong
Seven Sisters Temple
People come here to pray for fertility.
Address: Pak Wan, Peng Chau, Outlying Islands
Tin Hau Temple at Sai Wan
200-year-old temple dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea.
Address: Tin Hau Temple, Sai Wan, Cheung Chau, Outlying Islands
Tin Hau Temple at Yung Shue Wan
East meets West at this Lamma Island temple.
Address: Tin Hau Temple, Yung Shue Wan, Lamma Island, Outlying Islands
Heritage
Heritage is often overlooked, especially the traditional heritage of the original inhabitants, the Hakka people, and early Chinese settlers. Regardless, the colonial heritage looms large, and together they offer a journey into east and west.
Ancient Chinese Heritage
Cheung Po Tsai Cave
The hiding place of the famous pirate of the South China Sea, Cheung Po Tsai.
Address: Cheung Po Tsai Road, Cheung Chau
Kat Hing Wai Walled Village
An ancient Hakka village that dates back to the Ming Dynasty.
Address: Kam Tin, Yuen Long, New Territories
Kowloon Walled City Park
Once a garrison in the Qing Dynasty days it became a high-rise enclave of crime and hardship intertwined into a tight community, the are was later demolished and converted into a large park.
Address: Tung Tsing Road, Kowloon City, Kowloon
Tai Fu Tai Mansion
An opulent ancient family home dating back to the Qing Dynasty.
Address: Wing Ping Tsuen, San Tin, Yuen Long, New Territories
Lai Chi Wo
A 400-year old Hakka village within the Geopark area.
Address: Plover Cove (Near Yan Chau Tong Marine Park), Sha Tau Kok, New Territories
Lung Yeuk Tau Heritage Trail
A route that takes you through ancestral halls, temples, and relics of the Tang family, one of Hong Kong’s most powerful clans.
Address: Fanling, New Territories
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Ping Shan Heritage Trail
A trail that leads through ancient ancestral halls, temples, and more dating back to the Yuan dynasty (1271–1368).
Address: Ping Shan, Yuen Long
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Colonial heritage
1881 Heritage
Step back into the Victorian-era at the former Marine Police Headquarters now converted into a luxury shopping and dining precinct. It’s also the site of an exhibition hall, the Time Ball Tower, Former Fire Station and Stable Blocks.
Address: 2A Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Web: 1881heritage.com
Antiquities and Monuments Office
A Victorian-era English school now used for government offices.
Address: 136 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Asia Society Hong Kong Center
The site features four former military buildings that were set up by the British Army in the mid-19th century for the production and storage of explosives and ammunition.
Address: 9 Justice Drive, Admiralty, Hong Kong
Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 11 am – 6 pm. Closed on Mondays
The Blue House Cluster
Comprising the vibrantly colored Blue, Yellow and Orange Lignan style houses, the group of tenement buildings showcases century-old architecture and exhibitions in the Hong Kong House of Stories.
Address: 72, 72A, 74 & 74A Stone Nullah Lane (Blue House)
2, 4, 6 & 8 Hing Wan Street (Yellow House), 8 King Sing Street (Orange House), Wan Chai
Ding Ding Tram
The tramways have been servicing the main thoroughfare of Hong Kong since 1904.
Web: hktramways.com
Clock Tower
Once the old train station, now it’s a landmark of Hong Kong’s colonial heritage. No ticket required, take it in prior to visiting the Promenade and the Avenue of Stars.
Address: Star Ferry Pier, Kowloon Point, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Court of Final Appeal
Built by the British in 1912 it is a neo-classical treasure among the modern skyscrapers.
Address: 8 Jackson Road, Central, Hong Kong Island
Duddell Street Steps & Gas Lamps
Alighting a beautiful set of steps are two old gas lanterns dating back to some time between 1875 and 1889.
Address: Duddell Street, Central
Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware
Located on the grounds of Hong Kong Park is Flagstaff House, an attraction in itself for its colonial architecture, inside you’ll find a museum for Chinese teaware.
Address:10 Cotton Tree Drive, (inside Hong Kong Park), Central, Hong Kong Island
The Foreign Correspondents’ Club & The Fringe Club
A members-only club in a historic building which was once the Old Dairy Farm Depot. Also located in the building is the Fring Club, an art gallery, and exhibition space.
Address: 2 Lower Albert Road, Central, Hong Kong Island
Web: fcchk.org – www.hkfringeclub.com
Tai Kwun – Former Central Police Station Compound
A majestic building that has been developed to become an arts and heritage precinct.
Address:10 Hollywood Road, Central
Web: www.taikwun.hk/en/
Former French Mission Building
The former French Mission is now a declared monument, a historical building in Edwardian architecture.
Address: 1 Battery Path, Central, Hong Kong IslandWebsite:
Government House
Built in the 1850’s it was the former residence of 25 colonial governors.
Address: Upper Albert Road, Mid-Levels
Web: www.ceo.gov.hk/gh/eng/
Green Hub
Reconnect with ‘soil, soul, and society’ at the Green Hub located within the Old Tai Po Police Station.
Address: 11, Wan Tau Kok Lane, Tai Po, New Territories
Jao Tsung-I Academy
Once a customs station during the Qing Dynasty, the cluster of historic buildings have served many purposes and now are open to the public with tea house, cafe, and guest rooms.
Address: 800 Castle Peak Road, Sham Shui Po
Web: www.jtia.hk/en/
Kamikaze Cave
A Japanese hideout from WWII.
Address: Sok Kwu Wan, Lamma Island
Lui Seng Chun
A restored historical building from the colonial era. Ground floor is open to the public.
Address: 119 Lai Chi Kok Road, Mong Kok, Kowloon
Murray House
A beautiful 160-year-old Colonial building originally located in Central and moved, brick by brick, to Stanley.
Address: Stanley Plaza, 23 Carmel Road, Stanley
Web: stanleyplaza.com/../
Noon Day Gun
Exactly what it says on the tin, a gun that fires at noon every day. The story is far more interesting, it was punishment for randomly firing salutes bestowed on the company by a British Naval Commander. The punishment, which was to fire the gun/cannon every day at noon has been a continuing tradition.
Address: Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Island
The Pawn
Once home to the Woo Cheong Pawn Shop the restored 1888 era building now houses a classy restaurant and bar.
Address: 62 Johnston Road, Wan Chai
Web: thepawn.com.hk
PMQ
Once a school, then burnt down, then a police quarters, then a school, yup, it’s got some history, and it’s now got creative enterprises, shops, teahouses, and cafes.
Address: 35 Aberdeen Street, Central
Web: pmq.org.hk
Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Tai O Heritage Hotel
A former colonial-era police station that has been converted into a heritage hotel with colonial-style rooms, and rooftop restaurant.
Address: Shek Tsai Po Street, Tai O, Lantau Island
Web: taioheritagehotel.com
The Peninsula
A landmark historic building in the city it is occupied by one of the cities most highly regarded luxury hoteliers. You won’t miss the signature green Rolls Royce Silver Shadows (there is a fleet of 14) parked out front and it’s also incredibly popular (booking required) for its classically British Afternoon Tea offering.
Address: Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Web: hongkong.peninsula.com
SCAD Hong Kong
Once a magistry, the building serves as an education center for arts and design.
Address:292 Tai Po Road, Sham Shui Po, Kowloon
St Andrew’s Church
The Victorian-gothic style church has been standing for over 100 years.
Address:138 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Web: standrews.org.hk
University of Hong Kong
The campus features many colonial-style buildings and is home to the University Museum and Art Gallery which houses many imperial era relics.
Address: Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong Island
Wan Chai Environmental Resource Centre
A small colonial-era building that was once a post office.
Address: 221 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai
Western Market
An Edwardian style building that dates back to 1901 and is Hong Kong’s oldest market. Now featuring fabric, arts and crafts stores and cafe/restaurants.
Address: 323 Des Voeux Rd Central, Sheung Wan
Web: westernmarket.com.hk
Hours: 10 am – 7 pm – restaurant hours may differ
Yau Ma Tei Theatre
The only remaining pre-war cinema, now listed as a heritage building and serving as a Chinese opera house.
Address: 6 Waterloo Road, Kowloon
Web: lcsd.gov.hk/en/ymtt/
Museums
The Hong Kong Museum of History, University Museum & Art Gallery, and the Art Museum CUHK are must-visit for rare antiquities and deep insight into Hong Kong’s backstory.
Arts Museums
Art Museum, CUHK
A showcase of the rich arts, humanities, and cultural heritage of ancient and pre-modern China
Address: Sha Tin, New Territories
Web: cuhk.edu.hk/ics/amm/
Hours: Mon – Saturdays 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. Closed Thursday. Sundays and Public Holidays 1:00 – 5:00 pm
Hong Kong Arts Centre
Promoting contemporary arts and visual arts, featuring galleries, theatres, a 3D cinema and more
Address: 2 Harbour Rd, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Web: hkac.org.hk
Hours: Monday to Sunday 8:00 am – 11:00 pm
Hong Kong Film Archive
A treasure trove for fans of Hong Kong’s glamorous film history
Address: 50 Lei King Rd, Aldrich Bay
Web: lcsd.gov.hk/ce/../
Hours: 10 am to 5 pm
Hong Kong Museum of Art
Address: Tsim Sha Tsui
Hong Kong Visual Arts Centre
Space for local sculptors, printmakers and ceramics artists
Address: 7 Kennedy Rd, Mid-level
Web: lcsd.gov.hk/CE/../
Hours: Monday, Wednesday to Sunday: 10 am – 9 pm
University Museum & Art Gallery, HKU
Has numerous historic collections from the Neolithic period, and from very early Chinese dynasties as far back as 16th BC.
Address: 90 Bonham Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
Web: umag.hku.hk/en/
Hours: Mon – Sat 9:30 am – 6: pm. Sun 1 pm – 6:00 pm
Government Services Museums
Fireboat Alexander Grantham Exhibition Gallery
Historical firefighting vessel
Address: Quarry Bay Park
Web: lcsd.gov.hk/../
Hong Kong Correctional Services Museum
Featuring galleries and exhibits, and a look inside an old colonial jail.
Address: 45 Tung Tau Wan Road, Stanley
Web: csd.gov.hk/emuseum/
Hong Kong Housing Authority Exhibition Centre
Featuring a range of displays and models showcasing the efforts in urban planning and housing.
Address: 4/F, Block 3, 80 Fat Kwong Street, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon
Web: housingauthority.gov.hk/..
Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence
Housed in an ancient defense port they present an insight into a fascinating part of Hong Kong history.
Address: 175 Tung Hei Road. Shau Kei Wan
Web: hk.coastaldefence.museum/..
City Gallery
An insight into the city’s urban planning and infrastructure.
Address: 3 Edinburgh Pl, Central
Web: citygallery.gov.hk
Hours: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm and closed on Tuesdays
Police Museum
All about the Hong Kong Police and the colourful people they’ve dealt with over the years
Address: 27 Coombe Rd, The Peak
Web: police.gov.hk/museum/en/
Dr. Sun Yat-sen Museum
The man who overthrew the Qing Dynasty and began China’s journey into the modern-day.
Address: Kom Tong Hall, 7 Castle Rd, Central
Web: lcsd.gov.hk/../
Heritage of Mei Ho House
A museum that traces the beginning and evolution of public housing in HK.
Address: Block 41, Shek Kip Mei Estate, Sham Shui Po
Web: yha.org.hk/en/../
Hours: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm closed on Mondays
The Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre
A restored military barracks that now showcases Hong Kong heritage.
Address: Kowloon Park, Haiphong Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Web: amo.gov.hk/en/..
The Hong Kong Heritage Museum
Featuring 12 different galleries with permanent and special exhibitions that are focussed on early heritage.
Address: 1 Man Lam Road, Sha Tin, Hong Kong
Web: heritagemuseum.gov.hk/../
The Hong Kong Museum of History
Not to be missed, covering Hong Kong and South China history.
Address: 100 Chatham Rd S, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Web: hk.history.museum
Hours: Monday, Wednesday to Friday: 10 am – 6 pm. Saturday, Sunday and public holidays: 10 am – 7 pm. Closed on Tuesdays.
Law Uk Folk Museum
An 18th century Hakka house.
Address: 14 Kut Shing Street, Chai Wan
Web: lcsd.gov.hk/CE/..
Lei Cheng Uk Han Tomb Museum
An accidentally discovered 2000-year-old tomb and its contents
Address: 41 Tonkin St, Sham Shui Po
Web: lcsd.gov.hk/CE/..
Ping Shan Tang Clan Gallery cum Heritage Trail Visitors Centre
Visit the Old Pingshan Police Station and follow a trail that takes in early Chinese heritage and life, temples and more.
Address: Ping Shan House, 10 Ping Shan Ln, Hang Tau Tsuen
Web: amo.gov.hk/en/..
Sam Tung Uk Museum
A 200-year-old restored Hakka village.
Address: 2 Kwu Uk Ln, Tsuen Wan
Web: lcsd.gov.hk/CE/…
Hours: Monday, Wednesday to Sunday – 10 am to 6 pm
Sheung Yiu Folk Museum
Another ancient Hakka village.
Address: Pak Tam Chung Nature Trail, Sai Kung
Web: heritagemuseum.gov.hk/..
Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences
A museum dedicated to the history of Wester and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Address: 2 Caine Lane, Mid Levels
Web: hkmms.org.hk/en/home/
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10 am to 5 pm
Ticket: Adult HK$ 20
Hong Kong Science Museum
A large range of educational and fun displays.
Address: 2 Science Museum Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East
Web: hk.science.museum/..
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday: 10 am – 7 pm Saturday, Sunday and public holidays: 10 am – 9 pm
Ticket: Adult HK$ 20
Hong Kong Space Museum
Featuring planetarium, hall of space science, and space theatre.
Address: 10 Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui
Web: lcsd.gov.hk/..
Other Museums
Hong Kong Maritime Museum
Located on the waterfront it showcases HK’s deep maritime heritage.
Address: Central Pier 8, Central, Hong Kong Island
Web: hkmaritimemuseum.org
Hours: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm (Monday to Friday) – 10:00 am to 7:00 pm (Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays)
Ticket: HK$ 30
The Hong Kong Racing Museum
A journey into 150 years of horse racing in Hong Kong.
Address: 2/F, Happy Valley Stand, Happy Valley Racecourse
Web: corporate.hkjc.com/../
Hours: Monday to Sunday 12 noon to 7 p.m
Hong Kong Railway Museum
Featuring old coaches and models.
Address: 13 Shung Tak St, Tai Po
Web: heritagemuseum.gov.hk/../
Hours: Monday, Wednesday to Sunday 10 am to 6 pm
Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware
Located on the grounds of Hong Kong Park is Flagstaff House, an attraction in itself for its colonial architecture, inside you’ll find a museum for Chinese teaware.
Address:10 Cotton Tree Drive, (inside Hong Kong Park), Central, Hong Kong Island
Jockey Club Museum of Climate Change
Interactive and multimedia exhibition focussed on developments in the study of Climate Change.
Address: 8/F, Yasumoto International Academic Park, Station Rd, Sha Tin
Web: 50.cuhk.edu.hk/en/events/mocc
Hours: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays to Saturdays 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
Parks and Nature Reserves
From urban oasis to the untouched areas of Hong Kong’s nature reserves it’s not hard to escape the hi-rise jungle and touch the natural heart of a beautiful coastal landscape.
Hong Kong Park
Located near the Peak Tram terminus, the park features an aviary, greenhouse, ponds and flowing streams.
Address:19 Cotton Tree Drive, Central, Hong Kong Island
Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens
Hong Kong’s oldest park dating back to 1864 featuring mammals, reptiles, aviary, greenhouse, and heritage works among the landscaped grounds. Admission is free.
Address: Albany Road, Central, Hong Kong
Web: lcsd.gov.hk/en/parks/hkzbg/
Hours: 9 am – 4:30 pm while some sections open early and close later.
Kowloon Park
Featuring a playground, sports center (with pool), Chinese garden, aviary and bird lake.
Address: 22 Austin Road
Web: lcsd.gov.hk/en/parks/kp/
Hours: 5:00 am to midnight, while some sections open early and close earlier.
Victoria Park
The largest park on the island also featuring a statue of Queen Victoria.
Address: 1 Hing Fat Street, Causeway Bay
Web: lcsd.gov.hk/en/parks/vp/
Hours: 24 hrs
Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park
A large sheltered bay that is becoming more and more popular with swimmers and divers who want to explore the picturesque coral and mangroves.
Address: Hoi Ha Wan, Sai Kung
Web: afcd.gov.hk/…
Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark
A massive coastal area packed with uniques land formations from the prehistoric volcanic times. You can take boat tours, visit discover centers, or take on hiking trails.
Address: East and Northeast New Territories
Web: geopark.gov.hk
Hong Kong Wetland Park
The Hong Kong Wetland Park is a world-class conservation, education and tourism facility. It demonstrates the diversity of the Hong Kong’s wetland ecosystem
Address: Wetland Park Rd, Tin Shui Wai
Web: wetlandpark.gov.hk/en/
Hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Closed Tuesdays
Tickets: HK$ 30 with concession tickets available
Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden
Featuring beautiful gardens, organic farming, exotic animals and relics of bygone farming.
Address: Lam Kam Road, Tai Po, New Territories
Web: kfbg.org/eng/
Hours: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
Mai Po Nature Reserve
A refuge for winter migrating birds
Address: Mai Po, Yuen Long, New Territories
Website: wwf.org.hk
Hiking Trails
Lovers Walk
A 3km (1.5 hr walk) that takes in leafy tree-lined streets, the transition from urban to green-belt, Lover’s Rock, and the famous Police Museum.
Address: Begins at Lee Tung Avenue, Wan Chai District
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Tai Tam Country Park to Quarry Bay
An 8km (3 hr walk) that takes in the natural scenery surround two of Hong Kong’s reservoirs, remnants of World War II and a mansion converted into a gallery for biodiversity and conservation.
Address: Begins at Wong Nai Chung Reservoir, Tai Tam
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Plover Cove Country Park (Bride’s Pool to Lai Chi Wo)
This 7.5 km trail inc bus ride and ferry ride and some hiking, takes around 3 hours. Its a complete escape from urban Hong Kong and you can see the waterfall on Bride’s Nature Trail, the quaint rural villages, coastal views, and an ancient Hakka village.
Address: begins at Bride’s Pool, Tai Po
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Sunset Peak
A 9km (4 hr walk) that takes in amazing coastal views, historic mountaintop stone houses built by early British missionaries, and more.
Address: Pak Kung Au, Lantau Island
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Dragon’s Back
One of the most popular hiking treks, It’s 8.5 km (4 hours walk) and offers up amazing coastal views.
Address: Begins at Shek O Road, Tei Wan Village
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Peak Circle Walk
a 3.5 km walk around the top of The Peak. A shorter version of the next trek.
Address: Begins at the Peak Tram station
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
The Peak to Lung Fu Shan Country Park
After taking a ride on the famous Peak Tram, here is a 4.5 km (2 hr walk) trail that takes in historic buildings and paths, spectacular views, an old WWII coastal defense battery, ending at the University of Hong Kong.
Address: Begins at The Peak Tram
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Wilson Trail (Hong Kong Parkview to Stanley Gap Road)
4.8 km (3 hour) a trek for the physically fit that offers up superb views of Stanley and it’s coastline.
Address: Wong Nai Chung Reservoir Park, Tai Tam
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Sha Tin Pass Road to Kowloon Reservoir
Enjoy the most splendid Hong Kong panorama.
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Hong Kong Wetland Park and Tsim Bei Tsui
Take a stroll into Hong Kong’s lush biodiversity.
Details:.discoverhongkong.com/…
Lung Yeuk Tau Heritage Trail
A scenic journey into the history of one of Hong Kong’s most powerful clans.
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
MacLehose Trail Stages 1 & 2
Wonderful landforms and beautiful beaches
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Ping Shan Heritage Trail
Windows into the lives of Hong Kong’s early clan settlers
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Nam Sang Wai
A secret paradise of Hong Kong uncovered
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Sai Kung Peninsula Hike
Where prehistoric landforms and modern dams share space
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Sharp Island
Enjoy geological spectacles, a short hike and a dip in the sea.
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Tai Mo Shan to Shing Mun Reservoir
A leafy trail through Hong Kong’s flora and fauna
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Tai Mo Shan
A stroll to the summit of Hong Kong
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Tap Mun
Discover the idyllic beauty of Hong Kong’s fishing heritage on this remote island.
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Tung Ping Chau
A natural wonder in the sea
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Sok Kwu Wan to Yung Shue Wan
A serene medley of tucked-away scenery
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Lantau Peak
Rise and shine with Hong Kong’s best sunrise vantage point.
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Ling Kok Shan Hiking
Rustic villages and coastal scenery
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Peng Yu Path
Ocean views and deserted beaches
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Po Toi Island
A colourful gallery of peculiar rock shapes
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Tung Chung to Tai O
From modern mega structures to ancient villages
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
City Walks
A Century of Architecture
Enjoy the contrast of modern and colonial architecture in Central.
Details discoverhongkong.com/..
A Popular Temple and a City Transformed
Immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s most popular temple in Wong Tai Sin and wander through the remnants of Kowloon City — an infamous walled city.
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Comic Culture Walk
Interact with classic characters in Wan Chai and immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s local lifestyle.
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Cornucopia of Delights
All the pleasures of Hong Kong in the neighbourhood of Tsim Sha Tsui
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Dr. Sun Yat-sen Historical Trail
Retrace the footsteps of one of the founders of the Republic of China during his years in Hong Kong.
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Evolvement of a Fishing Village
Experience age-old traditions alive in the modern city at Shau Kei Wan.
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Markets for Leisure and Pleasure
Dive into some of the world’s most fascinating street scenes in Yau Ma Tei and Mong Kok.
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
The First Heritage Trail in Hong Kong
Step back in time and revisit the early days of Hong Kong on the Ping Shan Heritage Trail in Yuen Long.
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Travel Through Time
Catch intriguing glimpses of daily life in the historical districts of downtown Central and Sheung Wan.
Details: discoverhongkong.com/..
Walled Village
A scenic journey through Fanling, into the history of one of Hong Kong’s most powerful clans
Details: discoverhongkong.com/…
Where Modern Classics Meet Historical Charm
Take a stroll through Wan Chai — an area steeped in the city’s multicultural heritage while reflecting its vibrant contemporary lifestyle.
Details: .discoverhongkong.com/..
Islands
Lantau Island
The Island is home to the airport, Asia World Expo Center, Nong Ping 360, the Giang Buddha and Po Lin Monastery, Hong Kong Disneyland, Cheung Sha beach, Shui Hau coastal area, Silvermine Waterfalls, Tai O Fishing Village, The Bounty (colonial era ship), and Yam O scenic area.
Lamma Island
Home to Hung Shing Yeh Beach and fishing villages.
Cheung Chau
Home to Cheung Po Tsai Cave, Kwan Kung Pavilion, Pak Tai Temple at Cheung Chau, Tin Hau Temple at Sai Wan, and Tung Wan Beach & Kwun Yam Beach.
Peng Chau
Home to the Former Lime Kiln and Match Factory, Former Peng Chau Theatre, Golden Flower Shrine, Lung Mo Temple, Seven Sisters Temple, along with its coastal vistas.
Hong Kong Beaches
Hong Kong has some really beautiful beaches, some busy beyond imagination on a weekend, some almost untouched. See more here.
Repulse Bay
Repulse Bay is an upscale community and the public beach features change rooms toilets, showers and lifeguard tower.
Address: South of Taiping Mountain, South District, Hong Kong, China
Shek O
A popular spot with trekkers who hike the panoramic ridge that is Dragons Back. The beach is beautiful offering clean water and nearby facilities inc. restaurants plus showers, change rooms, BBQ areas. You can also rent chairs and umbrella’s on-site.
Address: Shek O Road, Hong Kong, China
Big Wave Bay Beach
Another beach near Dragons Back. Life-saving services are available from April to October. Public shower and changing rooms are available and BBQ pits.
Address: Big Wave Bay Rd, Shek O, Hong Kong
Clear Water Bay First and Second Beach
A choice of two beaches both with showers, toilets, snack stalls, and change rooms.
Address: Clear Water Bay Road, Hong Kong
Sharp Island and Hap Mun Beach
A sleepy little spot. Connected to a second island via low-tide only rock path. Hap Mun Beach is small, good for swimming and snorkeling.
Address: Sai Kung, Hong Kong
Lower Cheung Sha Beach
Nice relaxing beach with soft sand and great views.
Address: S Lantau Rd, Lower Cheung Sha Village, Hong Kong
South Bay (Hongkong Island)
A nearby alternative to Repulse Bay offering calm water and few people.
Address: South Bay Road, Southern District, Hong Kong
St. Stephen’s Beach
Near to Stanley Beach, its sheltered with a cafe and changing facilities.
Address: West Stanley Bay, Hong Kong
Turtle Cove Beach
Small beach with cafe, shower, change rooms, and BBQ facilities.
Address: Tai Tam Road, Hong Kong
Long Ke Beach
Remote and few people if any depending when you go. Beautiful scenery, clear waters, and white sand.
Address: Long Ke Wan, Sai Kung East Country Park, Hong Kong
Tong Fuk Beach
Near to Cheung Sha beach.
Address: S Lantau Rd, Lantau, Hong Kong
Golden Beach
An artificial beach nearby the Gold Coast Hotel. Great for morning walks and nice sunsets.
Address: 43 Castle Peak Road, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong
Tung Ping Chau
There are two restaurants on the island (open on weekends), a beach and beautiful hiking opportunities. A popular place for scuba diving/ snorkeling.
Getting There: Tung Ping Chau
Where to Stay in Hong Kong?
I like to be close to the MTR and a couple of my favorite places are Metropark Hotel Mongkok and Brighton Hotel Hong Kong. See my other top picks for hotels and amazing value hotels near MTR stations and if you want to splurge, here are the top 5-Star hotels and I also have picks for the top hostels in Hong Kong.