Hong Kong Top Ten

Flying visit to Hong Kong? Here are some of our suggested must-sees to fit in:

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When Hong Kong (meaning fragrant flower) ceased to be a British Colony in 1997, everyone thought the city would languish. Nothing could be further from the truth. Hong Kong is frenetic with energy and activity, new high rises continue to erected, especially in Kowloon, and commerce and industry is blossoming. The city, jam-packed with seven million people, is distinctly divided into four sections: Kowloon - the place to go for retail therapy, especially the street markets, Hong Kong Island, the New Territories and the Outlying Islands. It would be difficult to fit it all in in the same trip, but here are some suggested top places to visit or do:

1 The Peak Tower
This is undoubtedly Hong Kong’s number one tourist hot spot and gives you an instant orientation of the city below. Get there in 7 minutes by cable car and at the summit 396 metres high, is the city’s most unusual wok shaped building The Peak Tower. Viewing terraces on different levels of the tower offer magnificent views over Hong Kong and Kowloon.
www.thepeak.com.hk

2 Statue Square
This is Hong Kong’s administrative centre, an amalgamation of contemporary architecture with some spectacular designs. Check out the Bank of China Tower.

3 Happy Valley Races
Happy Valley is the horse racing playground of the locals.
www.hkjockeyclub.com

4 Star Ferry
For a great contrast take the Star Ferry across the water. It is a great way to cross the water between Hong Kong and Kowloon.
www.starferry.com.hk

5 Temple Street Night Market
An atmospheric night market where you can haggle all the way to Yau Ma Tei. Get there after 7pm.

6 Heritage Museum
This is a must-see museum full of splendid high-tech audio-visual displays telling all about the region’s heritage and natural history.
www.heritagemuseum.gov.hk

7 Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery
The seated Big Buddha is quite an extraordinary landmark seen from miles around. Its located in the middle of Lantau island and faces the monastery.

8 Cheung Chau Island
Probably one of the prettiest islands around Hong Kong. Accessible by half hourly ferries.

9 Stanley
For a dip into colonial history this old fort is perfect. It is also very peaceful and a great diversion from the madding crowds.

10 Tai Long Wan Coastline
Mix your city break with time out on the beach. Some of the finest are along this coastline.