Things to do in Hong Kong
With its blended English and Chinese heritage, visitors to Hong Kong will not be surprised that it offers a diverse range of attractions and things to do. Tourists can divide their time between the urban hustle and bustle and the spiritual tranquillity of the still unspoilt countryside, choosing to worship ancient Chinese gods or Mickey Mouse at China's only Disneyworld.
For the most breathtaking introduction to the city of Hong Kong, visitors are advised to take a Star Ferry across the harbour, offering stunning sightseeing opportunities of one of the most dramatic cityscapes in the world. If sightseeing is their thing, visitors should also make sure they visit Victoria Peak, the summit of which offers dramatic views across the city and harbour, all from a positively dizzying height of 552 metres. The peak tram offers a lazy - or efficient depending on your point of view - route above the city's rooftops and tourists should make sure they sit on the right-hand side to catch all the best sights.
The HSBC Tower is also a popular attraction to tourists, representing the city's twin loves of business and spirituality. While erected as a modern day monument to banking, it is also one of the most feng shui'd places in the city, so any spiritually inclined tourists in need of a little "centring" may find it beneficial to wander around the public spaces at the foot of the imposing tower.
Those who like their spirituality on the more traditional side should visit Man Mo Temple, one of the oldest and most popular temples in Hong Kong. Built in 1847, it is dedicated to the Chinese gods of literature and war; with Man meaning literature in Cantonese and Mo referring to martial arts. Worshippers traditionally visit the temple when they need intellectual or physical strength - although it's also popular among those looking for some decent holiday snaps.
Sheung Wan in old Hong Kong is the Chinese heart of the city, a vibrant centre, which is best explored on foot. Nearby the Hollywood Road is a popular shopping district, flowing into SoHo with an exciting collection of trendy bars and restaurants. Visitors can travel over all three areas aboard the world's longest escalator.
Despite its reputation as a throbbing urban centre, the city of Hong Kong does provide some secluded green spaces for those feeling the need for a little peace after sampling the city's nightlife. The Kowloon Walled City Park is a popular haunt with tourists, while many visitors flock to the Hong Kong Zoo and Botanical Gardens, home to birds, animals and hundreds of species of flora.
Those who want to get even closer to nature should head out of the city proper. Although the islands have been heavily urbanised, many unspoilt areas of countryside remain, while the often-overlooked beaches along the north-east are amazing and well worth the journey. Hiking is also popular and Ma On Shan, or Saddle Hill, offers one of the best climbs - and at just 700 feet is accessible to beginners.
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Things To Do
