Why You Should Visit Hong Kong Yesterday!

I love Hong Kong. It has a little bit of everything. From great hikes to big city life to waterfront views to shopping to the magnificent skyline, it is impossible to be bored! Hong Kong is one of my favourite cities in the world and here’s why.

Green Space

There are trees everywhere in Hong Kong. Even in the busiest urban areas, the city has found a way to plant trees and create green spaces. Not only does it make Hong Kong aesthetically pleasing, but improves the air quality at the same time.

Interesting Neighbourhoods

Hong Kong is spread out over multiple islands and each area has its own character, atmosphere and vibe. The busy and thriving Central feels a lot like other big cities around the world, while a short ferry ride can take you to Lamma Island full of quiet hiking trails. It is fun to trek through contrasting neighbourhoods, such as the rustic, market-filled Mong Kok, to the calm and serene Sai Kung. There is always something new to see and experience.

The Food is Amazing

With culinary influences coming from many areas of the world, Hong Kong is a foodie’s delight. Of course, no visit is complete without some delicious dim sum! We recommend checking out One Dim Sum in Mong Kok for a delicious and affordable meal.

Also, do not visit Hong Kong without indulging in some custard tarts and pineapple buns (they don’t taste like pineapples, just look like them). They are best enjoyed warm and Sai Kung Bakery is one of the best we’ve tasted!

Public Transportation is Efficient, Cheap and Effective

Hong Kong is a sprawling city, spread out over multiple islands. Despite being so spread out, the transportation system is surprisingly efficient. The combination of ferries, subways and buses can get you anywhere in the city pretty easily, with payment all being integrated using the Octopus card (it can be purchased at the airport). We had a lot of fun sitting in the front seat in the upper deck of a British style double decker bus or tram, and taking the Star Ferry from Kowloon to Hong Kong. The price of the tram and ferry are really cheap, less than $3 HKD.

Markets

There are so many unique markets in Hong Kong. Fish markets, flower markets and bird markets are only but a few of the unique markets to visit around town.

There are also a number of markets to buy knock-off goods and knick knacks, as well as an entire street dedicated to sneakers!

The Magnificent Skyline

A signature part of Hong Kong is its amazing skyline. Every night, the buildings light up and give the downtown a new energy. Although it is super touristy, Victoria Peak is one of the best places to go in Hong Kong to see the amazing skyline from above. You can take a scenic funicular to the top at a cost of $99 HKD for the round trip. You can also take the much less expensive bus or use your own two feet and hike up. Either way, it’s totally worth the visit, especially at sunset.To get another perspective of the incredible skyline, take the Star Ferry at night to get up close to the buildings. Also, you can join the hordes of tourists every night at 8pm on the Avenue of Stars to watch the “Symphony of Lights”. Although it is admittedly rather underwhelming, the synchronized light show is something that every new visitor to Hong Kong should watch at least once.

Hikes

There are awesome hikes all over Hong Kong, from leisurely walks to advanced treks. On our recent visit, we took a nice, quiet and easy hike on Sharp Island near Sai Kung. The views were beautiful and it was a good way to escape the hustle and bustle of the downtown area.

No Shortage of Things to Do

Whether you want to dine at some great restaurants, shop at high-end stores, bargain at local markets, hike on easy or challenging trails, visit a giant buddha, gamble in Macau or even go to Disneyland, you need to visit Hong Kong! Acquainting yourself with the city and its history with the free walking tours of Tsim Sha Tsui and Hong Kong are a great place to start.

This was all but a snapshot of the wonderful things that Hong Kong has to offer. Its beautiful mountainous landscapes coupled with a big city energy makes it one of the best cities in the world to visit.