Hong Kong Travel Guide

In this Hong Kong travel guide, you’ll find all the essential information you need about the climate, top attractions, and exciting activities to make your trip to China perfect. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable journey!

General Information

Hong Kong, situated on China‘s eastern coast, is a unique autonomous territory. Recognized as a cosmopolitan metropolis in Asia, its cultural identity blends Chinese traditions with Western influences. Previously under British colonization, it was only in 1997 that Hong Kong was returned to Chinese governance. Emerging from its humble origins as a small farming and fishing village in the 1800s, the city has transformed into a thriving hub of global trade and finance, renowned as one of the busiest centers in the world.

Climate & Best Time to Visit Hong Kong

The weather in Hong Kong can be described as a subtropical climate, characterized by 4 distinct seasons and occasional typhoons.

Spring (From March to May): During spring, Hong Kong experiences mild and pleasant weather. Temperatures range from around 18°C (64°F) to 26°C (79°F), with occasional rainfall. It is a transitional season with blooming flowers and green landscapes.

• Summer (From June to August): During this time, it usually is hot, humid, and prone to typhoons. Average temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) to 31°C (88°F), with high humidity levels. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are common, providing relief from the heat.
• Autumn (From September to November): Autumn in Hong Kong brings relief from the summer heat and humidity. The weather becomes more comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 24°C (75°F) to 29°C (84°F). The skies are clearer, and the rainfall decreases, making it an ideal time to visit.
• Winter (From December to February): Hong Kong’s winter season is relatively mild compared to many other regions. Temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F). While it is generally dry and sunny, occasional cold fronts from the north can bring cooler temperatures and foggy conditions.

The best time to visit Hong Kong are spring (March to April) and pre-winter (October to early December). These months offer pleasant weather with milder temperatures, making it comfortable for outdoor activities and exploration. Additionally, it’s important to be aware that many shops may remain closed during the Chinese Lunar New Year celebration, so it’s recommended to plan your visit accordingly and check for any closures or festivities that may affect your travel plans.

Getting to Hong Kong

By plane

The plane is one of the most convenient ways to get to Hong Kong from foreign countries. Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is one of the busiest airports in the world and serves as the main gateway to the city. It offers direct flights to and from numerous destinations globally. Many major airlines operate regular flights to HKIA, making air travel a convenient option for reaching the island.

By train

If you are traveling from mainland China, taking a train to Hong Kong is a viable option. The Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong High-Speed Rail connects the city with several cities in mainland China, including Guangzhou and Shenzhen. The high-speed train offers a comfortable and efficient means of transportation.

By ferry

Hong Kong is well-connected to neighboring regions via ferry services. Ferries operate between Hong Kong and various destinations such as Macau, mainland China (Shenzhen, Zhuhai, and other cities), and other nearby islands. The ferry terminals are easily accessible and provide an enjoyable journey, particularly for those coming from Macau or nearby coastal areas.

Getting around Hong Kong

Thanks to its well-developed transportation system, getting around Hong Kong is convenient and efficient.

By Mass Transit Railway (MTR)

Hong Kong’s transportation network relies heavily on the MTR, serving as its crucial backbone. It is a fast, reliable, and extensive subway system that connects major districts, tourist attractions, and residential areas. The MTR is an ideal option for traveling within Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories.

By bus

Hong Kong has an extensive bus network that covers almost every corner of the city, including outlying areas. Bus routes are well-marked and provide a cost-effective means of transportation. However, the bus system can be crowded during peak hours, so it’s advisable to plan accordingly.

By train

Hong Kong Island is famous for its iconic double-decker trams, also known as “ding-dings”. These trams run along the northern part of the island, offering a nostalgic and scenic way to explore neighborhoods like Central, Wan Chai, and Causeway Bay.

By ferry

As a city with a harbor, Hong Kong has several ferry services that connect different islands and waterfront areas. Ferries are a popular mode of transportation for reaching outlying islands like Lantau, Cheung Chau, and Lamma Island. They provide a picturesque experience and are particularly enjoyable during good weather.

By taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Hong Kong. You can easily hail a taxi on the street or find them at designated taxi stands. There are different types of taxis, including urban taxis (red) that operate in urban areas, and New Territories taxis (green) that serve the outlying areas. Taxis are metered, and fares are reasonable, but they can be more expensive during peak hours or late at night.

By Ride-hailing services

Popular ride-hailing apps such as Uber and local service providers like Hong Kong Taxi and Lantau Taxi operate in the city. These services offer an alternative to traditional taxis, providing convenience and the ability to book a ride using a smartphone app.

On foot

Hong Kong is a compact city with pedestrian-friendly streets, especially in areas like Central, Tsim Sha Tsui, and Causeway Bay. Walking is a great way to explore the city, particularly when visiting nearby attractions or shopping areas.

Accommodation in Hong Kong

The cost of accommodation in Hong Kong can vary significantly depending on several factors such as location, type of accommodation, and the time of year. Generally, Hong Kong is known for having a high cost of living, including accommodation expenses. Here are some approximate price ranges for different types of accommodation to reference:

• Budget Accommodation: Hostels and guesthouses can range from around HKD 150 to HKD 400 per night for a dormitory bed or a basic private room.
• Mid-Range Hotels: Mid-range hotels typically charge between HKD 600 and HKD 1,500 per night. These hotels usually offer comfortable rooms and standard amenities.
• Luxury Hotels: Upscale hotels and luxury accommodations in Hong Kong can range from HKD 2,000 to HKD 10,000 or more per night. These establishments often provide top-notch services, luxurious amenities, and breathtaking views of the city.

It’s important to note that prices can fluctuate based on factors like location (hotels in popular areas tend to be more expensive), seasonality (prices may increase during peak travel periods), and any special events or festivals taking place during your visit.

Best Places to Visit in Hong Kong

Victoria Peak

The city’s crown jewel is undoubtedly Victoria Peak, offering an elevation of 552 meters and captivating tourists with its breathtaking vistas of metropolitan Hong Kong. Numerous coin-operated telescopes are strategically placed, providing opportunities for observation. Whether it’s the bustling Victoria Harbor during the day or the brilliantly illuminated Hong Kong skyline at night, The Peak never fails to impress. Ascending to this magnificent vantage point is made effortless by the iconic Peak Tram, which boasts a remarkable 120-year history. To commemorate the tram’s significant role in the city’s history and heritage, the Peak Tram Historical Gallery stands as a tribute.

Victoria Harbour

Victoria Harbour is nestled between Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula, and its historical significance as a hub for fishing villages is evident in the abundant natural resources it once provided to the city. Today, the Harbour continues to hold a central position in the heart of the city. A memorable experience for your children would be taking a ride on the iconic Star Ferry, traversing the Harbour, and creating lasting memories. For movie enthusiasts, the Avenue of Stars is a captivating destination, that showcases Hong Kong’s rich cinematic heritage. From this vantage point, you can witness the mesmerizing Symphony of Lights, an extraordinary illumination spectacle that immerses you in the vibrant ambiance of the city.

Lantau Island

Lantau Island, the largest island in Hong Kong, offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city, providing a plethora of recreational parks, nature reserves, and trekking sites. For trek lovers, the Ngong Ping Plateau, home to the Giant Buddha and Po Lin Monastery, presents a breathtaking vista of the largest Buddhist center in the region. Additionally, the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car provides a bird’s-eye view of the mountainous terrain, offering a unique perspective of the area. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the enchanting Tai O Fishing Village and indulge in the magic of Hong Kong Disneyland Park, both of which are well worth a visit.

Hong Kong Disneyland Park

Let your children indulge in a wonderland at Disneyland Park, where their imaginations will come alive. They’ll have the opportunity to meet beloved cartoon characters, engage in exciting games, witness captivating live performances, and receive delightful souvenirs. Giant parades, adorable mascots, and dazzling fireworks displays will undoubtedly enchant your little ones. Located on Lantau Island, this park provides the perfect outdoor retreat amidst the island’s majestic mountains, picturesque parks, and serene beaches. It’s an ideal destination for a family getaway where magic and adventure await.

Lan Kwai Fong

Renowned as a vibrant hub of Hong Kong’s nightlife, this destination is brimming with an array of restaurants, bars, pubs, and nightclubs. It owes its popularity among international tourists, in part, to Hong Kong’s thriving movie industry. This locale offers a unique culinary experience, blending Western and Asian cuisines for your indulgence. The street food scene, characterized by its affordability and delectable flavors, attracts both tourists and locals alike. This lively area hosts a multitude of festivals and parties, serving as a gathering place for expatriates, tourists, and residents each night.

Ocean Park Hong Kong

Ocean Park, one of the famous animal theme parks, showcases a captivating blend of marine species, exhilarating rides, and entertaining shows. Alongside Hong Kong Disneyland Park, it stands as one of the city’s largest and most renowned theme parks. The park is divided into two distinct sections: The Summit and The Waterfront. Adventure Land, located in The Summit, attracts a lively crowd due to its thrilling roller coaster. Beyond its entertainment value, Ocean Park also owns educational departments and research laboratories, fostering a commitment to learning and scientific exploration.

Hong Kong Heritage Museum

The Heritage Museum stands as a remarkable institution, boasting a distinctive architectural design that features 12 individual exhibition galleries, each adorned in vibrant red and yellow. Within its walls, thousands of antiques, paintings, and artifacts are on display, offering a captivating glimpse into the rich history and culture of Hong Kong. Among the museum’s highlights, the Bruce Lee Exhibition shines brightest. As a legendary figure in the Hong Kong movie industry, Bruce Lee holds a significant place in popular culture, having played a pivotal role in introducing Chinese traditions to the world.

Wong Tai Sin Temple

Situated in the northern region of Kowloon, Wong Tai Sin Temple stands as a grand Taoist complex, housing a multitude of revered shrines, temples, and exquisite gardens. Constructed by feng shui principles, this complex encompasses all five geomantic elements: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. Year after year, visitors flock to this temple seeking blessings of prosperity and happiness. The temple is also a gathering place for numerous fortune-tellers, offering you the opportunity to gain insights into your future.

Must-Try Activities in Hong Kong

Embark on an Island Adventure

Covering a vast area of over 2,500 square kilometers, Hong Kong comprises several distinct regions, including Hong Kong Island, the Kowloon Peninsula, the New Territories, and a cluster of over 200 offshore islands. Here are some noteworthy highlights worth visiting:

• Lantau Island: This is the largest island in Hong Kong, and offers a serene escape from the bustling city. It boasts recreational parks, nature reserves, and picturesque trekking sites. Don’t miss the mesmerizing Ngong Ping Plateau, the charming Tai O Fishing Village, and the magical Disneyland Park.
• Macau Island: Located just an hour away from Hong Kong, Macau is renowned as a premier destination for luxurious resorts and world-class casinos, making it a prominent hub for entertainment and opulence in Asia.

Exploring the Magnificent Architecture of Hong Kong

From majestic skyscrapers and shopping malls to colonial architecture, this vibrant city offers many attractions for you to discover.

• Victoria Peak: Offering breathtaking views of metropolitan Hong Kong from its 552-meter altitude, Victoria Peak captivates tourists with its majestic splendor.
• Convention and Exhibition Centre: This cutting-edge exhibition facility stands as the epitome of modernity in Asia, attracting countless business professionals each year.
• Wong Tai Sin Temple: Nestled in the northern region of Kowloon, Wong Tai Sin Temple is a sprawling Taoist complex, boasting serene shrines, temples, and picturesque gardens.
• Hong Kong Heritage Museum: Immerse yourself in the vibrant history and culture of Hong Kong through the vast collection of antiques, paintings, and articles on display at the Heritage Museum. The Bruce Lee Exhibition, in particular, stands out as a major attraction.
• ICC Tower (International Commerce Center Tower): As the tallest building in Hong Kong, the ICC Tower offers a panoramic vantage point to admire the city’s mesmerizing light displays.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant Nightlife of Hong Kong

Situated in the renowned Cantonese culinary region, Hong Kong stands as a gastronomic paradise, offering an array of dining options. A must-try delicacy in this city is Dim Sum, which translates to “touch the heart” in English. Local dim sum is meticulously crafted, with bite-sized dishes elegantly presented in small steamer baskets. A traditional dim sum meal typically features an assortment of dumplings, rolls, buns, and delectable egg tarts for dessert.

After satisfying your taste buds, you can delve into the vibrant nightlife of Hong Kong, renowned for its lively pubs, bars, and nightclubs. Lan Kwai Fong, Wan Chai, and Tsim Tsa Tsui are bustling districts where you can discover the pulsating energy of the city, often depicted in movies and dramas. For a panoramic view of the city, make sure to spend some time at a rooftop bar, where you can take in the breathtaking vistas of the entire cityscape.

Take your children to some kid-friendly places

Hong Kong unquestionably stands as an ideal choice for China family vacations, offering a plethora of recreational parks, captivating museums, and serene nature reserves.

• Hong Kong Disneyland: Transport your children to a magical fairy tale world at Hong Kong Disneyland Park, where enchantment awaits at every corner.
• Ocean Park: Immerse yourself in the wonders of Ocean Park, an animal-themed paradise showcasing marine species, thrilling rides, and captivating shows.
• Zoological and Botanical Garden: Delight in the diverse collection of birds, mammals, reptiles, and plants at the Zoological and Botanical Garden, providing a perfect opportunity to explore and appreciate nature’s wonders.
• Hong Kong Maritime Museum: Uncover the rich history of maritime endeavors, ship technology, and trade in Hong Kong at the Maritime Museum.

Eating out in Hong Kong

For those with a passion for food, Hong Kong is an absolute gastronomic haven. Situated in the eastern part of China and influenced by its British colonial past, its cuisine offers a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from Beijing and Chengdu. Known for its lighter, milder flavors, Hong Kong dishes are crafted with fewer seasonings, chili, garlic, and sauces, making them particularly appealing to Western palates. The fusion of cultures in Hong Kong has nurtured a diverse culinary scene, where talented chefs blend the essence of mainland Chinese cuisine with international tastes. The city boasts an array of Japanese, Indian, Korean, French, and Italian restaurants, allowing you to embark on a global culinary journey without leaving the city.

Dim sum

Dim sum, meaning ‘touch the heart’ in English, is an essential culinary experience in this city. Local dim sum is meticulously crafted, with an exquisite array of bite-sized dishes presented in charming bamboo steamer baskets. A traditional dim sum meal typically features a delectable assortment of dumplings, rolls, buns, and a delightful egg tart to conclude the feast.

What makes dim sum even more appealing is its healthy cooking method—mainly steaming, which involves minimal oil. Typically served in portions of four to six pieces per dish, the small servings allow you to sample a wide variety of flavors, culminating in delightful desserts such as pudding or sweet soups. To complement your dim sum experience, be sure to order a pot of fragrant Chinese tea, known for its digestive benefits.

Seafood

Owns coastal locations and abundant islands, it comes as no surprise that seafood holds a prominent place in Hong Kong’s culinary scene. From delectable crabs and succulent shrimps to flavorful lobsters and an array of fish, seafood lovers are in for a treat. While you can find seafood restaurants throughout the city center, it is the quaint eateries nestled in the islands that truly capture the essence of freshness. The preparation of seafood in Hong Kong focuses on preserving its natural sweetness, employing simplified cooking techniques that allow the flavors to shine. Whether it’s steaming, stir-frying, or savoring in a hotpot, each method is carefully chosen to enhance the taste of the seafood.

Hotpot

Hotpot presents a unique dining experience, allowing you to personalize your meal by selecting your preferred ingredients and cooking them to perfection. At the center of the table, a bubbling pot brimming with flavorful broth awaits, ready to infuse your chosen ingredients with its rich essence. From chicken, pork, and beef to an assortment of seafood, vegetables, mushrooms, and tofu, the options are plentiful.

Wonton Noodles

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering dish that combines yellow noodles, green vegetables, and seasoned Cantonese-style wontons. In traditional establishments, the noodles’ dough is skillfully handmade using duck eggs, meticulously kneaded and rolled by hand to achieve the ideal texture. The wontons themselves are a culinary masterpiece, filled with a delectable mixture of ground meat, succulent shrimps, and a touch of peppercorns, all encased in delicate rice wrappers.

Chinese Barbecue (Siu Mei)

Siu Mei, a popular delicacy in Hong Kong and Macau, captivates diners with its enticing display of reddish roasted meats. Varieties such as pork, chicken, duck, or goose are skillfully roasted over an open fire or a sizable rotisserie oven. The true essence of this dish, however, is realized when Siu Mei is savored alongside a delectable plum sauce, enhancing its flavor to perfection.

Crispy Fried Chicken

The preparation of this dish demands a substantial amount of time, typically spanning an entire day. Firstly, the chicken is gently simmered in a fragrant broth infused with anise, cinnamon, peppercorn, ginger, and fennel, allowing it to absorb delightful flavors. Then, it undergoes a meticulous process of drying, followed by a seasoning of vinegar and another round of drying, resulting in a delectably crispy skin. Finally, the chicken is deep-fried to perfection and served with white rice.

Chinese Pastry

For sweet lovers, this city presents an array of options to satiate your sugar cravings. Every restaurant tempts you with delightful treats such as egg tarts, pineapple buns, tofu pudding, coconut pudding, mango pudding, and more. An exquisite dessert worth savoring is the sweet soup, known as tong sui, prepared with seeds, root vegetables, and a touch of sugar. If you have the chance to visit Hong Kong during the Mid-Autumn Festival, be sure to sample the delectable Chinese moon cakes.

Hong Kong offers a diverse and exciting tourism experience, blending modernity with tradition, and catering to a wide range of interests. Whether it’s exploring the city’s landmarks, immersing in its culture, savoring its cuisine, or enjoying its natural beauty, Hong Kong has something to offer every traveler. If you have intentions of visiting Hong Kong, don’t hesitate to contact us for further information.