Hong Kong, from the moment you arrive, your senses are engulfed by the perfect blend of East meets West, a city of commerce, natural beauty, 10 trillion stares above one of the world’s most impressive and stunning skylines, and some of the greatest food you will find anywhere on earth.
It’s impossible to visit this incredible city and not leave in some way changed by it. Every time I visit, I discover some new hidden treasure, some new delectable meal, and some new fascinating pocket in this ever-changing, ever-growing urban wilderness. So come with me as I show you what to do, where to stay, and of course, what to eat in the Pearl of the Orient.
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How To Get Around?
Tip number one is how to get around, when you fly into Hong Kong, you’ll be landing in the impressive Hong Kong airport. From here, the simplest and absolute best way to get into the city is the airport express for Hk$115. It takes you directly from the airport to Kowloon or Hong Kong station in about 25 minutes. Once in the city, there are a number of ways to get around. The public transportation system is efficient, immaculately, clean, and gets you pretty much everywhere you need to be.
And maybe the most important thing you can do to get around the city in terms of convenience is to get an octopus card, which will work on trains, and buses, The double-decker trams are really fun to ride on! They go around the city quickly and are a very easy way to get around. The card also works on ferries, it’s 711 vending machines and can even be used to hire a live donkey to carry your bags around town.
I’m being informed that that is untrue. You cannot hire a donkey, but even with your handy nondonkey renting octopus card in hand, hong Kong is actually quite walkable. Plus, walking gives you the opportunity to stare up and marvel at the towering cityscape rising high above you.
Just don’t become so enamored by the buildings that you accidentally walk into traffic. I know that seems like an obvious tip, but I’ve seen it happen.
Sorry. And while you’re walking around, just be prepared for the many hills. This city is like San Francisco on steroids. So if you have a roller board suitcase, maybe use public transportation or even splurge on a taxi instead of trying to drag your bag all the way up the hill, it will never end well. That’s pretty.
And speaking of taxis, compared to most cities of its ilk like New York or London, hong Kong taxis are surprisingly affordable. You can also use the brilliant Midlevel Escalators if you’re staying in Central, but I personally think walking up all the hills and stairs is awesome. Why did nobody tell me about these hills?
Where To Stay?
Tip number Two is where to Stay so let me get this one right out of the way and let you know that Hong Kong is not a cheap city. In fact, depending on how you like to travel, it can be downright what’s the word?
Crazy expensive. You don’t have to be afraid of the budgeting process. There are ways to get the money you need without breaking the bank. I found my room at the charming Hong Kong Mini Hotel for around $80 a night on Expedia or one of those aggregate sites. Was it fancy? No, it was, well, many.
But it was clean, centrally located, and had a surprisingly fantastic view. The next big question is in which part of the city do you want to stay? Unless you’re staying in the New Territories, you’ll likely be staying in either Kowloon or Hong Kong Island. Both are wonderful. Both have their own unique and distinct vibes, so it really comes down to personal taste.
If you want markets and shopping, calooon is your best option. If you want to be right in the middle of everything, surrounded by those famous skyscrapers in the historic hilly streets, I’d choose Hong Kong Islands. I always stay on Hong Kong Island because I just love the vibe there. Kowloon is a great place to visit because it is easy to get to. But if you truly can’t decide, stay a couple of nights in both and decide which side of the harbor you like better.
Where To Eat?
Tip number three was to eat a whirlwind of edible delights, a kaleidoscope of delightful flavors, and other cool descriptions as well. You can’t walk more than 10ft in this city without bumping into something delicious. Yes, that’s a fact. 10ft. I read that on some guy’s Twitter.
I love spending time in the city, but I can only feature a few of my favorite spots here. So, if you’re ever in the area, be sure to check these places out! So if I did leave off your favorite spot, throw it in the comments below.
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Anyway, my first spot is in no way a secret, but it’s so good, I had to include it himhon on the second level of Hong Kong stations, it’s one of the cheapest Michelin restaurants in the world. The line to get in will be long, but it will be worth it.
I promise you, it’s worth it. Everything on the menu is incredible. But if there is one must-hit item, here it is the baked barbecue pork buns. A perfectly baked semisweet flaky rolls stuffed with succulent tender barbecue pork. These little things are worth the 13 hours of flight to Hong Kong by themselves. Yes, this place has a lot of hype, and yes, it lives up to it.
Continuing our tour of dim sum, we arrive at another Hong Kong staple the Lucky Tea House. Early in the morning, go hang out with locals and have some tea. After that, go eat some delicious dim sum. And don’t miss the always popular Linhuang Tea Room, where you can navigate through the crazy crowds to grab some authentic and old-school dim sum. Next up, Hong Kong is the capital of earth-shatteringly delectable roast meats.
And for that, I have two favorite spots. The roast duck at Cams is arguably the best you’ll find anywhere in the world. Crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. There is a reason that this place has a Michelin star. Also, their suckling pig has perfectly crispy skin.
And beyond tender meat and their pork belly char soup is probably my single favorite thing to eat in the city. There will be a line, and when they run out of meat, they close. So come here early. I also really like the roast meat at Joy because it’s so well-done. Everything I’ve had here is heavenly.
Also, it’s cheaper than cans if you feel like a slightly more affordable pile of roast meat.
Next up, noodles. First, the Hong Kong institution is Mak’s Noodles, a tourist mainstay, but the wonton noodle soup here is great. The secret to their broth is dried flounder, which I guess isn’t really a secret anymore and wasn’t really a secret, to begin with, because I quite easily Googled it. And right across the street from Mak’s is SIM Chaiki, whose wonton noodle soup is, in my opinion, actually better than Max. I know they are fighting words, but I say try both spots and make up your own mind.
My next restaurant is one of my favorite spots anywhere in Asia little Bao. They’re steamed buns with different options of meats that are inventive savory, sweet, spicy, and just plain tasty. Come here. Eat these little pockets of wonder, and wonder how you’ve lived so long without them. Next, Ho Lee Fook.
The food at Ho Lee Fook is just special, no other word to describe it. The wago beef short ribs might be the most tender meat I’ve ever eaten, and their chicken wings are, without question, the best I’ve ever had. This place is a must-hit on any trip to Hong Kong. It may not be the cheapest place in town, but Ho Lee Fook is delicious.
For some truly cheap food, don’t miss Hong Kong’s famous street food. My favorite street food item is the curry fish balls. And to end our food segment, we hit some of Hong Kong’s ROCK YOUR taste buds’ baked goods. First, head to Taichong Bakery for some of the best egg tarts in the city. Egg tarts are basically little custard tarts, but the texture is so perfect and creamy, the crust so crumbly and delicious, and they’re just sweet enough without being clawed.
There are excellent egg tart bakeries all over the city, but Taichung just happens to be my favorite, probably because it was my first. And you never forget you’re first inappropriate. Next, Hong Kong’s unique-looking but totally scrumptious egg waffles.
And last, but certainly not least, we arrive at the famous pineapple bun, a flaky semisweet bun that’s vaguely shaped like a pineapple, hence the name, I guess, and stuffed with an actual stick of butter that melts in your mouth. I wish I could go back in time and erase them from my memory so I can experience them for the first time again.
In my opinion, the best spot in the city is Hong Lin restaurant and Kowloon. Bonus pineapple buns are surprisingly good for you. Okay, they are not good for you, but they are good for you. Diet when you get home. And like I said, this is just a tiny sampling of the food in Hong Kong.
So my advice looks for a crowd. If there’s a throng of eager locals waiting outside a restaurant, chances are you’re in for a good meal.
Explore The Wonderful Neighborhoods
Tip number four explores the many wonderful and colorful neighborhoods of this bustling, ever-changing city. Make sure to check out the central business district for the sheer awe-inspiring buildings that grow around you like a canyon of architectural splendor.
Wan Chai is a great neighborhood with many restaurants, shops, and hotels. Chimpao, Choi, and Kowloon is another excellent neighborhood that’s centrally located with outstanding food and shopping, vibrant energy, a gorgeous waterfront promenade with a perfect view of that iconic skyline line, and close to the many fascinating markets the Kalon has to offer. Don’t miss the Symphony of Lights show every night at 08:00 p.m.
Mong Kok is a fun, busy, and lively area. I also love wandering around the charming Soho area and central on Hong Kong Island. Be sure to have a look at the architecture and feel like you’re living in a different time period.
Some of my favorite streets are Wellington Street and the many alleys, old stairways, courtyards, and side streets that branch off from Hollywood Road.
HongKong Markets
Speaking of fascinating places, tip number five makes sure to hit up some of Hong Kong’s truly impressive and phenomenal markets. This is one of the first and most famous markets of Asis. The Temple Street night market in Kowloon. This place will blow your mind with amazing crafts, art, and knickknacks. This, simply put, is one of the most fun markets in the world.
For an awesome dining experience, make sure to get some spicy crab at one of the dipai dongs outdoor eateries that spill out onto the street and then a side corner of the market. Try some truly tempting Nepalese food at Mana Kamala. Next up, is the equally enjoyable Monk’s Ladies Market. Another perfect place to wander, shop, and explore. The antique market on Upper Lascar Road is set on a historic old street and is filled with countless oddities.
And finally, don’t miss my favorite market in Hong Kong the picturesque Stanley Market, located on the waterfront Inn. As fate would have it, Stanley a great place to shop, take in the views of the harbor, grab some food on the shore, and just stare out at the water.
Visit Temples And Monasteries
Tip number six visit some of Hong Kong’s many beautiful temples, monasteries, and sanctuaries. My first spot is one of the most stunning things you can see anywhere in Asia the giant Tian Tan Buddha. This beautiful place shows a huge Buddha statue sitting in the middle of a lush and rugged mountain. The statue is surrounded by mountains, giving it a very beautiful and peaceful look.
Stare up at the glorious statue and let it take your breath away. And right across from the Buddha is a gorgeous complex of temples. Also, getting to the Buddha is an awesome experience in and of itself. Just take the cable car at Tung Chung and enjoy the 20 minutes ride high above the island. The Man Mo Temple is a beautiful temple that is located in the middle of Central on Hollywood Road. It’s a magical and spiritual place where people can go to find peace and happiness.
And finally, don’t miss the impressive 10000 Buddhist monasteries, all of them completely unique. This place is more Buddhist than you can even believe. I dare you to try and count them all. Hint it’s around 10,000. I just took a stab in the dark on that one. These temples offer a lovely respite from the ultra-modern and hectic city.
Visit Hong Kong Park
And speaking of taking a respite from the den of the city, tip number seven make sure to visit Hong Kong Park, located right in the middle of Hong Kong Island’s, business district. This park is a splendid escape gorgeous walkways, cascading, waterfalls, ponds with adorable turtles, and even an aviary full of exotic birds. This is a terrific place to stroll, do some tai chi, or just sit back and take in a completely unique view of the city, reminding you that you’re still in Hong Kong but feel like you’re miles away.
Historic Star Ferry
Tip number Eight for a fun and beautiful way to see the city, try hopping on the historic Star Ferry! This boat ride takes you across the bay, past all of the famous landmarks, and provides some great views of the city. Carrying passengers across the harbor since 1088, the Star Ferry runs from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon and back all day long. It costs next to nothing. I’m talking like 25 cents US. And it offers some of the absolute best views of Victoria Harbor.
The experience is equally worthwhile both day and night. In fact, it’s so much fun and so affordable that I just wrote it back and forth for about an hour.
Victoria Peak
And speaking of views of the city tip number nine taking the breathtaking vistas at the top of Victoria Peak, there are a few ways to get to the top. The tram is a fun, easy, quick trip to the top of the peak, but beware the lines can be Disneyland long, so unless you’re going very early in the morning and probably on a weekday, I’d say just take a taxi. It only takes about 15 minutes to reach the top, and the price is about the same as what you pay for the tram.
Once at the top, there’s a new fancy observation deck built an additional 300ft above the original viewpoint, and I guess it’s worth the 7 or so dollars to check it out. Some people have argued that the original view of the universe is still the best one.
This argument is about the view of the universe that has been around for a long time. It’s still good and people should use it. Walk out to the edge, staring down at the dynamic city glittering far below, and take the incredible vista of one of the most spectacular harbors in the world.
Debauchery Shoes
Tip number Ten get out your debauchery shoes if that’s even a thing because we’re hitting up Hong Kong’s excellent nightlife.
Our first destination is Lan Kwai Fong, which is known for its crazy nightlife. And all along Hollywood Road in Central, bars become so busy the crowds start to pile out onto the street. It’s an awesome experience.
Also, for about half the price of the drinks in Central, you can head to Lockhart Road in Wan Chai, where you can get live with the locals, sometimes bad decisions are made, and they can have a negative impact on your life. These bad decisions will stay with you for a long time and you’ll never forget them. It’s a blur.
I got nothing. And finally, make sure to check out some of Hong Kong’s super cool speakeasies. My favorite spot is called Mrs. Pound, hidden behind what appears to be a locksmith shop. I won’t spoil the fun of figuring out how to try to get in it took me so long.
But once you do, you’ll find yourself in a 1950s diner with creative and inventive drinks and surprise, surprise more absolutely enticing food.
Day Trip To Macau
Tip number eleven continues our theme of debauchery, if you have more than a few days in Hong Kong, use one of them to take a day trip to Macau a place that is often called the Las Vegas of Asia. This means that it will have many different things to offer tourists. Macau is set to experience a lot of growth in the coming years, which means that it will have a lot of things for tourists to enjoy. But contrary to its reputation, this is actually a captivating historic city and just an hour away from Hong Kong by ferry. Don’t forget to bring your passport.
When you visit Macau! Once a Portuguese colony, make sure to visit the ruins of St. Paul, check out the beautiful Senado Square, wander the many cobbled streets, visit the old churches, and meander around the historic and bewitching Taipa village. Or if you’re so inclined, try your hand at gambling at one of the many casinos. Just please don’t spend your entire time here. And make sure you don’t leave here without trying one of Macau’s famous Portuguese egg tarts or like 15 of them.
They’re completely different than the Chinese style of egg tart but equally tasty. My favorite egg tarts in the cow are at the famous Lord Stove.
Head Outside The City
Tip number twelve head outside the city and experience some of the splendid nature that surrounds Hong Kong. Let’s start with my two favorite hikes. First up, Dragons Back is a great beginner hike with lofty views of the popular Sheko Beach. If you continue hiking to the end, you’ll be able to see another beautiful beach called Big Wave Bay Beach. I have no footage of this because the day I went it was crazy, foggy, and cold.
Here’s a picture of what I imagined it would look like when using a neural network to understand relationships in data. True artistry. You are welcome. Lion Rock. Definitely more strenuous, but still manageable.
The hike up the gorgeous Lion Rock offers a different but equally breathtaking view of the city. Next, hit up one of the many gorgeous little islands that surround Hong Kong. There are so many, but I adore the laidback and astoundingly beautiful Chungchao Island, a lovely hour ferry ride away from the city. While on the island, explore the lush foliage, visit the many perfect secluded little beaches, and grab some of the best seafood I’ve ever had in my life in the enchanting little main town.
Another alluring spot is the Tai O Fishing Village, also on Lantau Island, located an easy bus ride away from the Chen Tan Buddha. This place is just delightful. Take a boat ride through the village and stare up at the houses built on stilts over the water. Grab some local grub, or just chill out and have a beer.
Hong Kong may be a fast-paced, hectic global city, but maybe the thing I adore about it the most is that just outside the city, you can be completely transported to beaches, mountains, islands, and little villages that feel worlds apart from the bustling city just a few miles away.
Just Get Lost
Simply wander around and take in the sights and sounds of your surroundings – you’ll be surprised at how much you can learn this way! Every corner of the city has some unbelievable place to eat, something amazing to see or do, and some surprise waiting down every alley, market row, or old cobblestone staircase. If you see something interesting, walk towards it. Hong Kong is a spectacle deeply rooted in its history while barreling forward into the future.
The city has certainly changed dramatically since my father was stationed here in the 1960s, when my mother and grandmother visited in 1985, or even since my first visit just five years ago. The street food stalls that once littered the city have almost entirely disappeared.
New buildings seemingly spring up every day. But the heart of this seductive, beautiful, and enthralling city beats on. Some people think that Hong Kong will still be around in 10 years. Other people think that Hong Kong might not be there anymore because of the effects of climate change.
I have no idea. Asia is a beautiful continent with so much to see and do. I can’t wait to visit it again and again!
