Top Attraction 1
The Star Ferry. Take in the superb harbour views aboard one of these appealingly old-fashioned vessels. At HK$2.50 for the upper deck, this is one of the world’s great travel bargains, and a must for all visitors to Hong Kong. For more information, click here.
Ming Tang-Evans/Apa Publications
Top Attraction 2
Tsim Sha Tsui and Yau Ma Tei. Quintessential Hong Kong: shops, restaurants, crowds and neon everywhere. Temple Street Night Market is a great place to get acquainted with the local vibe, but watch out for fake merchandise! For more information, click here.
Ming Tang-Evans/Apa Publications
Top Attraction 3
The Outlying Islands. In complete contrast to the crowded urban areas, Hong Kong’s 230 Outlying Islands – such as Lamma – are largely rural, and lack buildings over three storeys tall. Most also lack roads. There are some beautiful beaches and great hiking. For more information, click here.
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Top Attraction 4
Wan Chai and Causeway Bay. Two of Hong Kong’s most dynamic and colourful neighbourhoods, crammed full of bars, restaurants and shops. For more information, click here.
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Top Attraction 5
Po Lin Monastery. A spiritual retreat high in the mountains of Lantau. The Big Buddha statue draws the crowds, and the area can be accessed by cable car from Tung Chung. For more information, click here.
Ming Tang-Evans/Apa Publications
Top Attraction 6
The Peak. Gaze down from these wooded heights and take in one of the world’s greatest vistas, accessed from Central by the Peak Tram – an attraction in itself. There are some wonderful walks from the tram terminus. For more information, click here.
Ming Tang-Evans/Apa Publications
Top Attraction 7
Hiking in the hills. A surprisingly high proportion of Hong Kong is covered by country parks, largely uninhabited tracts of land consisting of big grassy hills and patches of woodland. The Sai Kung area in the eastern New Territories is one of the most attractive, and is well-endowed with fabulous hiking trails. For more information, click here or click here.
Ming Tang-Evans/Apa Publications
Top Attraction 8
Man Mo Temple. Hong Kong’s most atmospheric temple – all clouds of pungent incense and mysterious statues looming out of the darkness. For more information, click here.
Ming Tang-Evans/Apa Publications
Top Attraction 9
Hong Kong Island views. Like nowhere else on earth, the urban strip along the north coast of the island is a mass of skyscrapers wedged against tall green mountains. For more information, click here or click here.
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Top Attraction 10
Happy Valley. Encircled by twinkling apartment blocks, the Happy Valley horse racing track is a fantastic amphitheatre of sporting and cultural drama. The astonishing gambling passions of locals are on display most Wednesday nights, September to July. For more information, click here.
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