When visiting Hong Kong, no one simply leaves out Wan Chai and say that they’ve experienced the city’s nightlife in full. Wan Chai has an extensive collection of bars and clubs. Even though it is not known as Hong Kong’s party central, it is still a good place to grab an ice-cold beer, listen to pop hits, and let loose after a long hard day. If you have never experienced drinking on a dentist’s chair, do yourself a favor and visit Coyote Mexican Bar and Grill. It is the first bar to hit Lockhart Road and it is the last establishment that offers this treatment. For HK$50, they will bring out the chair and let the barman pour Triple Sec and Tequila straight from the bottle and directly to your mouth. The Dusk Till Dawn is a music bar that provides live music performances to their patrons up until dawn. From pop to rock music, the air is constantly filled with good tunes and great drinks. For a more laidback atmosphere with a view, Wooloomooloo Rooftop Bar has got you covered. Spend the night sipping on cocktails while looking out to the gorgeous scenery of Wan Chai. Wan Chai is located near Hong Kong city central, so it is easy to get to. You can take the Metro Train to Hong Kong Central Station and you can easily walk from there. Taxis may be a bit pricey, but they can take you directly to your destination as well. Most of the late night establishments in Wan Chai open from 6:00pm until the early hours of the next day. Trip Guru would like to remind visitors to stay alert at all times and to bring friends along when visiting. Traveling in groups is much safer and it is less likely that you will get into trouble.

Wan Chai

Do not confuse this place with the one in the west, because the Soho in Hong Kong is truly a breed of its own. Located at South of Hollywood Road, this district is one of the city’s major entertainment hubs for both day and night travelers. When the sun is out, fashion boutiques, art galleries and antique shops fill the streets. But when night time falls, it transforms into party central. It is impossible to get bored in Soho, especially since various bars and clubs surround the area. Each venue offers international flavors for your taste buds, as well as a unique late night experience. Cleopatra’s Shisha Bar and Restaurant serves up a list of traditional Persian delights, a large selection of wines and cocktails, and interesting shisha flavors like cappuccino and Red Bull. Another location would be Angel’s Share, which has over a hundred whiskeys from around the world and it is the first of its kind in the city. Lastly, Medusa provides guests a sophisticated air and a softly lit atmosphere – a perfect place to hide and drink cocktails. To get here from the city center, just ride the MTR in Asiaworld-expo, which goes directly to the Hong Kong Central Station. From here, you can simply walk to Soho and begin your nightlife adventure. Alternatively, you may hop on a taxi and it will take you directly to Soho. Most of the late night establishments start their “party hour” past 6:00pm. Trip Guru would like to suggest that you visit the area early in the evening, to ensure that you arrive when the atmosphere is at its best. Also, it is wise to bring a few friends along. Hanging out with your buddies makes your night in Soho even more memorable.

SOHO

Watching a horse race may not be everyone’s definition of fun. But in the city of Hong Kong, nothing makes expats and locals more excited than cheering for their chosen champion in Happy Valley Racecourse. Equestrian enthusiasts will certainly love the venue’s accommodation and appearance. Besides getting a chance to take photos with the horses, you can visit the Hong Kong Racing Museum to learn about the nation’s love for horse racing. This does not mean however, that Happy Valley Racecourse is limited to stallions and steeds. There are establishments within the area that provide a unique late night experience. Located on the 2nd and 3rd floor of the Pavilion Stand, Adrenaline is a stylish bar and lounge that boasts its combination of innovative technology and interactive gaming. With live band performances and themed buffet dinners, watching the race from a pleasant distance is an experience worth keeping. On the other hand, The Beer Garden, located in the forecourt, offers an excellent view of the track. Ice-cold beers and scrumptious barbecues are on the menu. With the right company your night will definitely be complete. To get to Happy Valley Racecourse from the city center, you can take a Metro Train to the Hong Kong Central Station. From here, hop on a bus heading to St. Joseph Primary School on Queens Road – it is a few minutes’ walk from here. Taxis are always available, but the price will determine the amount of traffic. Races are usually held from September to July every Wednesday (sometimes on the weekends). The first race starts around 7:30pm and the gates open an hour before that. A HK$10 entrance fee is required, HK$20 if you want to sit in the seated public area. Trip Guru would like to remind future travelers that if you plan to gamble, gamble within the provided laws. A hefty fine is paid if you are caught gambling illegally.

Happy Valley Racecourse

Hong Kong is always full of surprises. Though majority of the crowd knows about its bustling city – be it day or night – there are a few off beaten destinations, which gladly open their doors to those who would give it a try. In the vicinity of Lantau Island, there are two sites wherein travelers can visit within a day: The Big Buddha (also known as Tian Tan Buddha), and the simple fishing village of Tai O. Atop a small hill, with a narrow stairway as its only entrance way, the Big Buddha of Hong Kong calmly looks upon his guests as they climb up the stone steps to join him. This image of monumental proportions symbolizes the harmonious relationship between man and nature, people and faith. Standing 34 meters tall, travelers who flock to his side are treated with not only an impressive close up shot of the Buddha himself, but also a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and trees, and a full picture of the Po Lin Monastery below. Travelers, who might be weary after the climb, should head to the nearby fishing village of Tai O. It is a quaint picturesque place with houses standing on top of water with the help of stilts. Visitors will enjoy viewing the boats traveling through the seaweed green waters, as their senses are awoken by fresh seafood and local treats. Trip Guru would like to suggest to future visitors that if they plan to visit any of these destinations, it is better if they visit the Big Buddha first. This site is only open from 10:00AM to 7:00PM, and even if the outside is free of charge, there is an admission fee of 25 HKD. Also, visiting the village after the climb is a great way to end your journey with a good note. To get to the big Buddha, travelers can take the MTR from and head to Tung Chung station. From there you can either take a round trip gondola ride (125 HKD), or take a bus (17.20 HKD) to get to your destination. However, if Tai O village is the only site you are visiting, take a ferry from Central Pier 6 to Mui Wo, and then take Bus No. 1 to Tai O.

Tian Tan Big Buddha

Want to see that iconic skyline view of Hong Kong, often captured in postcards? Then make sure to plan a visit to the Kowloon side of the territory. Set sail across Victoria Harbour and towards Tsim Sha Tsui, the arts and culture center of Hong Kong. While the area is best known for the promenade that leads to the Avenue of the Stars, the Cantonese version of Hollywood’s Walk of Fame (closed for renovation until 2018), Tsim Sha Tsui is also home to many of Hong Kong’s museums and galleries. These include the Hong Kong Museum of Art (to reopen in 2018), Hong Kong Space Museum, and the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. All are located just a few meters from the Avenue. Another popular landmark, the Clock Tower, is also near the Avenue; it was once the terminus of the Kowloon-Canton Railway. And it doesn’t end at the wharf area—cross the street to see another batch of iconic buildings in Hong Kong, which include the Peninsula Hotel, the 1881 Heritage shopping arcade (former Marine Police Headquarters), and the Chungking Mansions (along Nathan Road). As one of Hong Kong’s popular tourist hubs, expect the area to be quite busy, especially on weekend nights. If you want to avoid the crowds, go during daytime; buskers and street performers are also a common sight at the waterfront during nighttime. On the other hand, professional photographers have set up shop along the waterfront, offering to take souvenir photos with Hong Kong’s iconic skyline as your background. And make sure to wear comfortable footwear, as there’s lots of walking to be done in the area. Of course, with these attractions being located at the waterfront, the best way to reach them would by ferry. Just take the Star Ferry from two piers: one at Central, right beside IFC; and another at Wan Chai, near the Hong Kong Convention Centre. These ferries, which depart every 10 to 20 minutes, dock right at the Tsim Sha Tsui pier located beside the Clock Tower. They are also the cheapest yet most scenic way to reach the area, with a weekday trip costing only HKD 2.50 one-way (HKD 3.40 on weekends) and offering stunning views of the skyline at night. Other options are by MTR and bus. By MTR, simply disembark at Tsim Sha Tsui or East Tsim Sha Tsui stations; walkways connect both stations to the waterfront. Meanwhile, a number of bus routes have stops at the Star Ferry pier, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, and the Hong Kong YMCA (near 1881 Heritage).

Avenue of Stars

While entering a temple or a mosque that has withstood the test of time may not be the center of excitement or rustling activities, experienced travelers know that these powerful monuments are not only a symbol of the country’s major religion, but are places worth visiting. They hold an unknown force that is able to calm the body, mind, and soul. Much like Hong Kong, where it is known to be buzzing with life, there are special areas, like the Ten Thousand Buddha Monastery, where people can just pause from their busy schedules and offer a silent prayer. Located in 220 Pai Tau Village in Sha Tin, the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery welcomes those who want to escape the bustling city life and enjoy a moment of peace. Adorned with numerous golden images of the venerated Buddha, this site never fails to mesmerize first time and returning travelers. Of course, its spotlight is the monastery itself, but one cannot say that the journey to the top is nothing short of spectacular. As travelers climb the 430 steps that lead them to the main structure, they are surrounded by more glistening statues of Buddha, who are silently cheering on. If they are lucky enough, they can even share the path with a wild monkey or two. Once visitors make it to the top, they are given a spectacular view riddled with even more images of Buddha inside its main hall, a 4-floor pagoda that pierces the sky, and other statues of famous and/or mythical characters. Since getting to the main monastery does prove to be challenging, Trip Guru would recommend future travelers to wear light clothing and bring a few essentials (e.g. extra water, a hand towel, etc.) If you wish to visit the monastery during your stay in Hong Kong, it is better to arrive on the site during the early morning. The site is also known to close during heavy rains, so if it starts pouring, it is best that you visit the monastery at another date. The Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery is free of charge. To get here, take the MTR East Railline to Sha Tin station and take Exit B. From here walk towards a slope with the Home Center at your left side, and then cross the street and turn left into Pau Tai Street. Walk towards the Sha Tin government building, and then enter Sheyng Wo Che streets. Walk towards the end, and you will see the site’s entrance.

Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery

Getting to know the locals is one of the best ways to understand the foreign destination. From going where they shop, eat, pray and meditate, travelers are able to get a glimpse of how these people go on about their daily lives. This feeling can be achieved to those who find themselves in the heart of Hong Kong, because the center point is where the people meet. At Hong Kong’s center, travelers can experience a day in the life of a local, from the early hours of the morning, up until the late evening. They can begin their journey by purchasing fresh produce at Graham Street. Boasting as one of the oldest markets in Hong Kong, Graham Street provides the right ingredients to create scrumptious local delicacies such as Sweet and Sour Pork, and Wontons. After gastronomically enticing the senses, visitors may want to take a break and follow the spiritual path, and visit the Man Mo Temple. This structure is dedicated to the God of Literature (Man) and the God of War (Mo), who looks after students taking the civil examination. Greeting their guests with a large maroon gate in the entrance, travelers will feel dignified as they stroll through its hall. To perfectly end the Hong Kong adventure, visitors need to head down to Soho, and fill their stomachs with fine wine and exquisite meals. During the day, Soho is riddled with boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops, which caters to people breathing a sophisticated air, but it is during the evening wherein both tourist and locals gather together, to share a table and catch up with one another. With the night sky filled with glitz and glamour, Soho is the place to be, for those who want to have a piece of the hip scene. Hollywood road is the best place to start this Hong Kong filled journey. Trip Guru suggests that travelers should take the train, for a more pleasurable ride. First, you need to walk towards Chuen Lung and take a bus to Muk Min Ha Tsuen. From there you need to walk to Tsuen Wan Station, and then ride to Admiralty Station, then get off at Sheung Wan Station. Finally, you can walk to Hollywood Road by making your way to Queen’s road, before turning left onto Shing Wong Street, until you take a final right to Hollywood Road.

Soho Area & Man Mo Temple

The best places to feel the sun shine upon your cheek are of course, beaches and tropical islands. Surrounded with nothing but clear blue skies and the cerulean waves, there is no better feeling than relaxing on the warm sands, with this perfect scene embracing. In Hong Kong, the islands of Cheung Chau and Lamma do offer this kind of atmosphere, but unlike most sunny side landscapes, each island has something extra to offer, to those who want to do more than just soak up the heat. Cheung Chau Island is located 10 km southwest of Hong Kong. Also known as the “dumbbell island” – because of its shape - it is the livelier destination between the two. Besides surfing through the powerful waves, you can head down to its many streets and find your favorite spot which can definitely sate whatever craving you need. Want to eat fresh seafood? No problem! Trip Guru suggests that you stroll down at Cheung Chau’s seafood street and let your senses revel with joy with the sights, scent, and sounds of Hong Kong’s favorite fish dishes. If you prefer to do something more adventurous, then the Cheung Po Tsai Cave is ready for you to explore. Lastly, if you have booked your vacation on the right moment, you can celebrate the Cheung Chau Bun Festival with the locals, and marvel at their papier-mâché effigies. Lamma Island, on the other hand, is more laid back. Here, you can visit their Fisherfolk Village, and see at firsthand how the locals catch their daily livelihood. For travelers who have an interest in hiking, they can explore the area’s rustic villages whilst enjoying a magnificent view of the island’s coast; and finally, end the Lamma adventure by brushing up your bargaining skills at the Yung Shue Wan Main Street. To get to Chung Chau from Hong Kong, you can take a ferry from Central Pier 5. The ferries are open from 00:30AM-11:45PM from Mondays to Saturdays, while it closes at 11:55PM during Sundays and public holidays. Tickets cost around 11.3HKD for the slow ferry 22.2 HKD for the fast one. To get to Lamma, you take a ferry on Pier 4 to Sok Wu Wan.

Cheng Chau & Lamma Island

If your journey calls for a place that proudly displays its fondness for both progress and history, Trip Guru suggests that you head to Hong Kong’s Aberdeen Harbor. Located in Hong Kong Island’s Southern District, the town is best known for its floating village and restaurants. Aberdeen Harbor is a study in contrast. Its neutral-colored condominiums are lined up on a bay that colorful boathouses call home, and traditional structures can be found right beside buildings set almost entirely in glass. This busy image is complemented by gastronomic offerings, the highlight of which is the iconic Jumbo Floating Restaurant. Aside from the floating restaurant, the neighborhood features Asian dining outfits and fast food chains. Here, it is only too easy to feast your eyes on the sights, and then stop by a restaurant for a bit of rest and good food. If you wish to explore the harbor, you can negotiate with a local for a guided tour of the floating village. It is best to settle your rates before you set out. The tour will give you a glimpse of how people still live and make their living on boats. To this day, you can still see some of the boathouse residents drying their catch on the side of their houses. There’s no need to get wet to see this picturesque bay and taste its enticing flavors. Aberdeen Harbor is about 46 km from Hong Kong International Airport. You can commute to the bay by taking an A22 bus from the Ground Transportation Center at the airport. Get off at Valley Road Hung Hom and take a short walk to Ping Chi Street Hung Hom to find the 107 bus station. Get on a 107 bus and get off at Nam Long Shan Road. The harbor is just a 4-minute walk from there. Aberdeen Harbor is best enjoyed in summer, when the sea is mild and clear. It is also a good idea to visit in the morning to see the fish market in full swing, just before the fishes are delivered to the restaurants in the area.

Aberdeen Harbour

Though Hong Kong is also known for its bustling and progressive city life, there are a few areas wherein travelers can get the peace and relaxation they need. From tranquil temples to illuminating hills and mountains, choosing which destination to begin with can be overwhelming. However, if you are looking for a place that not only offers a magnificent blanket of vegetation but also, a waterside view to cool off, then head down to the quaint town of Sai Kung. Here, travelers who love the outdoors can choose between two activities which have become popular throughout the years. They can either view the town from the peak or Sai Wan Village, or wade around the cool waters of Tai Long Wan beach. Experienced hikers may not find the trail to Sai Wan Village as challenging as their previous endeavors, but the rewards are so worth their time. The 45 minute trek offers travelers a full view of the mountain’s vegetative glory under clear blue skies. Whilst being surrounded by the sounds of Mother Nature, they can also get a chance to visit the natural pools, hidden within the trail. If they are more comfortable being in the sea however, the Tai Long Wan Beach is the perfect place to sate all their water related activities. Bathed in the rays of sunlight, this beach is arguably the most radiant area of the whole Sai Kung Peninsula. Visitors are greeted by the crisp breeze and the rolling waves, as they begin their beach adventures with a footprint on the white sand. The most popular activities usually include surfing and a relaxing boat ride, but lying by the shores is always more than welcome. Trip Guru would like to remind fellow travelers to be cautious when visiting these areas. Hiking to Sai Wan Village is known to get extremely difficult during the hottest hours, so please wear the proper attire, bring the right gear, and go out at the right time. Also, if you are planning to do any water related activities, know that the beach has no lifeguards. Only head out to sea if the waters are tame, or else you are exposing yourself to numerous dangerous situations. To get to Sai Kung from central Hong Kong, you can take the MTR to Diamond hill and from there take bus 92 to Sai Kung. The whole journey will take about 40 minutes. Though it is not the fastest method, it is the cheaper option.

Sai Wan Villeage & Tai Long Wan

Hong Kong is known around the world as a shopping mecca, and rightly so: the vibrant metropolis is home to countless malls and street markets, showcasing local wares and international brands side-by-side. To see this exciting contrast of East and West in action, TripGuru recommends going to the areas of Yau Ma Tei and Mong Kok, home to the territory’s most popular night markets. First up is the Mong Kok area, popular for the Ladies’ Market and Sneakers Street. Despite the name, the Ladies’ Market on Tung Choi Street doesn’t just sell items for women. There’s a wide variety of apparel for men and women, plus souvenirs on sale. Meanwhile, Sneakers Street (officially Fa Yuen Street) is just a block away; true to its name, it’s basically a long row of shoe stores selling top brands at great prices. Contrast this with the Yau Ma Tei area, which has more traditional markets. One such night market is the one on Temple Street, named as such for the Tin Hau Temple in its heart; and the Jade Market, where the lucky stone is available in abundant quantities. These stark contrasts between the markets are due to the areas’ different natures. The Mong Kok area is a very commercial part of town, with electronics and cosmetics stores lining its streets, their bright and flashy neon signs lighting up the night. Meanwhile, the Yau Ma Tei street markets cater more to residents, with some stalls even selling fresh food and produce. That said, it’s best to practice haggling for goods in both markets. Shopkeepers would often show you the price of items by punching it in on a calculator, while buying items in bulk can help you in negotiating for a good discount. Since these street markets are popular among locals and travelers alike, several MTR stations service these areas. For Mong Kok, simply disembark at Mong Kok MTR station and walk east to reach the Ladies’ Market and Sneakers Street. Meanwhile, the markets at Yau Ma Tei can be reached by either walking from Yau Ma Tei or Jordan MTR stations. Several bus and mini-bus routes also connect these two areas to each other and the rest of the territory. It’s also best to visit Mong Kok on a weekend night—while there are more crowds, you can also watch street performers show off their talents as streets are closed to vehicular traffic. The Yau Ma Tei markets, meanwhile, are great to explore any day of the week starting in the late afternoons.

Mong Kok & Yau Ma Tei

Normally, when people think of a holiday trip in Macau, it means that they're ready to burn through their money in the city affectionately named the "Las Vegas of the East." But it's so much more than casinos in every corner. It's about a mixture of history, casinos and maybe a bit of delicious egg tarts. If you're looking for an adventure with plenty of picturesque backgrounds and buildings for your most memorable photographs, Trip Guru invites you on a journey to Macau! It's completely worth it to walk through Macau's Historic Center--it's a World Heritage Site, meaning it's well-maintained and still has all of the old-world charm. Walking through these beautiful cobblestone streets and looking at Chinese temples and barracks hint at the complexity of Macau's culture. Some of the places to visit at the Historic Center include the A-Ma Temple, where the beliefs of Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism and other folk beliefs tend to dominate. You can also take a look at the Lilau Square, a beautiful Portugese residential area in Macau, with a water fountain full of natural spring water. If you are interested in a bit of gambling however, Macau is the perfect place for it, with people from all corners of the world appearing to make their fortune. Decorated with crystal chandeliers, the richest gaming rooms and with high-class hotel facilities, these are easily found in Macau and Taipa. Some of their flagship casinos are the Hotel Lisboa Casino, Galaxy Waldo Casino and the first casino that Las Vegas itself has invested in--Sands Macau. They have roulette tables, blackjack, poker, slot machines for those who prefer to drop their spare change in the hopes of striking it big. Who knows, you may just get lucky. You can get a ferry to Macau from two prime locations: either the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal in the Shun Tak Station in Hong Kong Island, and the China Ferry Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui on Kowloon. Make sure to leave early in the morning to maximize your entire day. Dressing smart is recommended, and the minimum age requirement is 18 for visitors but 21 for locals in every casino.

Day Trip to Macau

Another essential stop for your southside Hong Kong tour is Repulse Bay. It may be an expensive area to live in, but it’s an affordable place to visit closeby to Stanley. Locals stroll to the waterfront in the early mornings, and any sensible Hong Kong travel guide will tell you to join them Pro tip: There’s a lovely new promenade connecting Repulse Bay to Deep Water Bay, some 3km of walking along the waterfront. If you’re staying at Repulse Bay, enjoy the crescent beach and its newly built strip of restaurants and shops. Jutting out to the sea are statues of the Kwun Yam and Tin Hau deities, important figures in Chinese culture. Set around them are gorgeous flower gardens that run towards the beach. For a free and sporty activity in Repulse Bay , hike to Shek O, covering a famous trail called the ‘Dragon’s Back’ hike – once awarded TIME’s best urban trail. This beautiful coastal walk takes in views of the South China Sea and takes around 3 hours depending on your speed. Take a Hong Kong tour or go solo, just don’t miss it during your Hong Kong trip!

Repulse Bay

Movie fans visiting Hong Kong will want to visit the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade , a bustling waterfront along Victoria Harbour. Known for its many museums, cultural attractions and the iconic Avenue of Stars, a stroll in this beautiful walkway is a must. The impressive skyline view rising above the boats is yet another reason to wander the TST promenade. Visitors to the area can begin at the Clock Tower , built in the colonial era, and walk towards urban Hung Hom, on the east of the peninsula. Along the way, you’ll pass the Avenue of Stars, which measures 440 meters from Hong Kong Museum of Art to the New World Centre . Avenue of Stars , a major attraction on the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, is dedicated to key players in Hong Kong cinema. Modeled after Los Angeles’ Hollywood Avenue of Stars, it features the handprints of Hong Kong cinema celebrities. Here guests can pay homage to Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee, as well as learn about the movies through exhibits and free shows that play out by the waterfront. Featured Tour: Hong Kong Movie Theme Tour – Full Day Other attractions including Hong Kong Cultural Centre which hosts cultural activities like concerts, operas, dance, and theatre shows. Hong Kong Space Museum , an egg-shaped building on the waterfront, is the place to be for astronomy exhibits, planetarium projections, sky shows and more. Once visitors have made the journey from one end of Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade to the other, they can finish the day watching the Symphony of Lights Hong Kong. This long-running show starts at 8pm each night, inspiring the likes of Gardens By The Bay Light Show in Singapore around the region. The multimedia display has been running since 2004 and sees the whole harbor illuminated after the sun has set. With lasers, LED screens and a play on colors, this impressive audiovisual act attracts hundreds of travelers each night. Since 2017, a new soundtrack has been introduced courtesy of the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra. An additional 2018 update to the show has also seen even more buildings incorporated into the light spectacular, bringing the total up to 42 buildings in total.

Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade

Looking for nightlife in Hong Kong? Lan Kwai Fong and Soho are the city’s most popular spots with cafes, clubs, bars and restaurants aimed at every type of traveler. Lan Kwai Fong is located along an alleyway west of D’Aguilar Street and spills onto Wyndham Street. Lan Kwai Fong and D’Aguilar Street downhill serve a rowdier crowd of party-goers and tourists. Uphill on Wyndham Street meanwhile, a young and hip clientele can usually be found sipping cocktails at cosmopolitan wine bars, stretching all the way to Soho. Clubs play modern music in Lan Kwai Fong and serve drinks slightly on the higher end of Hong Kong prices. It’s also a popular place for city workers to shake off the day come the weekend. On Thursday nights, watch out for bars that serve free drinks to ladies. Travelling south of Hollywood Road will bring you to Soho , an area known for art galleries and antiques as its nightlife. There are plenty of restaurants and bars worth checking out in this area, and some outfits run Soho bar crawls to help travelers find the best ones. Besides nightlife, there are several other things to do in Soho and Lan Kwai Fong. One of these is Tai Kwun , or the former Central Police Headquarters. The revived colonial building is now an arts complex with restaurants, bars, museums and a spacious open courtyard. Definitely worth a visit even late at night! Get there : MTR Central Station, Exit D2

Lan Kwai Fong & SoHo

Quarry Bay is a densely-packed neighborhood in Eastern Hong Kong, traditionally known for being a residential and run-down part of town. The last decade has seen much gentrification, however, with new skyscrapers and office spaces being built up. While countless locals travel there each day for work, there’s one main reason tourists visit: The Monster Building Hong Kong. The Monster Building isn’t a building per se but a complex made up of five different buildings. These are Yick Fat Building, Montane Mansion, Oceanic Mansion, Fook Cheung Building and Yick Cheong Building. Despite having names like ‘mansion’, these low-income houses were built by the government during a population boom during the 1960s. With rapid inflation of prices in Hong Kong as well as a growing population, there was a sudden need for additional housing which didn’t take up a great deal of space. Thus, the Monster Building was born. The Monster Building is the most popular reason for tourists to visit Quarry Bay. The five high-rise buildings around the outside of the estate create a tunnel effect when standing at the bottom looking up. Many Instagrammers, photographers and bloggers make the pilgrimage from Central Hong Kong to the Monster Building since it’s become known as one of the best Hong Kong instagram spots. Major movies like Transformers and Ghost in The Shell have been shot at The Monster Building. Due to the increased popularity among tourists, there has been a recent ban on photography from within the courtyard. It’s still possible to visit and photograph the symmetrical estate from the outside, however. To find the Monster Building, take Exit A from Quarry Bay MTR Station. To get the best shots, try a Hong Kong Instagram Tour that will take you to the most-photographed yet hard-to-find spots in the city.

Monster Building

Located in Southside Hong Kong, Stanley is known for its outdoorsy nature and colonial remnants. The seaside village has a laid-back vibe and is a popular place to visit from Hong Kong as a half day trip. If you need to escape the bright lights and bustling streets, it will certainly do the job. There are a few main beaches in Stanley to include during your Hong Kong trip. The most popular one is Stanley Beach conveniently located close to the center of Stanley and its markets and restaurants. Swimming season runs from April to October and during these months, the beach will be busy with families from around the world. There are loungers and all the usual facilities to hire during peak months but, come off-season, it’s a sleepy beach perfect for walks, nature-spotting and avoiding the crowds. Another of Hong Kong tourist attractions is Stanley Market , a bustling array of alleyways selling all types of clothing and souvenirs. Whether you’re in the market for silk garments such as kimonos and traditional Chinese costumes or modern sportswear and fashion items, there’s something for everyone at enviable prices. After a morning shopping, there’s plenty more to fill your Hong Kong itinerary. Stanley Bay has a selection of restaurants and cafes which offer everything from fine dining to cosy cafes.

Stanley Village

The most enviable neighborhood of Hong Kong is set at a lofty elevation of 400 meters. It was originally popular with British colonialists due to its cooler temperatures which reminded them of home. Flash-forward to the modern-day and The Peak is still one of the best places to go in Hong Kong for travelers and locals alike for its breezy and green spaces. Do : For the best view in the house, the Peak Tower is one of The Peak’s most enviable buildings. Not only is it home to Sky Terrace 428 which is positioned to include the best sights of Victoria Harbour, but there’s a Madame Tussauds inside, as well as countless dining and retail outlets. As one of the most stylish areas in Hong Kong, it’s the perfect place to dine on local and international cuisine with a sundowner cocktail and views of the city. The Peak Hong Kong tickets start from HK$32. For travelers doing their Hong Kong city tour on a budget, there are a few free viewpoints to choose from. Both Lions Point View Pavilion and Lugard Road Lookout offer spectacular views without the queues of the sky deck, or you can head inside The Peak Galleria to access their free observation deck. A popular time of day to visit The Peak is sunset. By arriving at this time, visitors can see Hong Kong in daylight before watching a dreamy sunset over the island and, finally, admire a cityscape view illuminated at night. Hiking : The Peak’s incredible cityscape views are the best in Hong Kong. From the highest vantage point, you can see out across Victoria Harbour and to the distant skyscrapers on the horizon. From this green hill surrounded by hiking trails, you’d be forgiven forgetting you were in a megacity at all. The top route for walking and hiking is the Hong Kong Trail , a 60-minute walk to The Peak taking in views of the ocean and city. For an easier stroll, the Peak Circle Walk takes just 15 minutes. Peak Tram : Getting to The Peak Hong Kong is half the fun. The Peak Tram is a funicular railway, as well as a bright red icon for Hong Kong. Open since 1888, it transports up to 17,000 passengers a day from ground level to the top of Hong Kong Island. Not just a form of transport, it’s an excellent way to see the sights around as they slide past the window. Get there: On foot: you can hike up The Peak from Central , Wan Chai or Sai Ying Pun ; this should take around 1-1.5 hours. By public transportation: Bus 15C from Central Pier 8 Bus 15 from Exchange Square bus terminus (near MTR Hong Kong Station, Exit D) Minibus 1 from the public transport interchange at MTR Hong Kong Station, Exit E.

The Peak Hong Kong

One of the main places to see in Hong Kong is Ocean Park , an entertainment zone built on the side of the mountain and falling into the sea. Not only is it full of exciting rides; it’s also home to fascinating flora and fauna like the giant panda and arctic fox. The most thrilling of Ocean Park Hong Kong rides is the Hair Raiser , a bright red and yellow roller coaster inside a clown’s mouth with loops and dips aplenty. It is the park’s famous “bottomless roller coaster” – meaning you will be dangling over death-defying drops the whole way! Other highly-rated Ocean Park Hong Kong rides are The Flash (a big dipper ride with a heart-stopping drop), and The Dragon , a roller coaster with corkscrew loops and unrivaled views of the coastline. Try that one at sunset and you will see why Ocean Park is one unique among Hong Kong tourist places. Ocean Park is also known for its marine-life exhibits and Grand Aquarium . Guests visit to see marine life from around the world. Word has it there are over 5,000 fish within the Ocean Park Hong Kong Aquarium, but we don’t expect you to count them all! We recommend the unique sea jelly exhibit, with glowing jellyfish floating around magically in the dark. At the aquarium you can also marvel at an atoll reef, a specific kind that usually grows around a body of water, creating a natural lagoon inside. They typically contain abundant sea life, and the one at Ocean Park Hong Kong is no exception. The adorable giant pandas at Ocean Park Hong Kong also keep the visitors coming. The two resident pandas named Ying Ying and Le Le can be seen eating, sleeping and playing throughout the year. Plenty of their neighbors from China can also be seen including cuddly red pandas who originate from the forests of Mainland China. Because their habitat is currently under threat, they benefit from safety and breeding programs at Ocean Park Hong Kong. To get to Ocean Park from downtown Hong Kong, get the MTR to the South Island Line. Ocean Park Hong Kong entrance fees start from HK$438. To purchase Ocean Park Hong Kong tickets, head to the website .

Ocean Park

The biggest and most famous night market in Hong Kong is Temple Street Night Market , a vibrant bazaar set around Tin Hau Temple. It’s one of the best places to visit in Hong Kong for total immersion in the chaos of local life. Due to its iconic status, many movies have been filmed at Temple Street Night Market including the Queen of Temple Street (1990) and the Prince of Temple Street (1992). Gangster films have traditionally portrayed it as a place for street crime, but in reality, apart from a small risk of pickpocketing, it’s a safe area of town frequented by many tourists traveling to Hong Kong. See : The Temple at the heart of the market is Tin Hau, dedicated to the Goddess of the sea. Once upon a time, it was situated on the waterfront, pushed back after decades of land reclamation. Many Chinese coastal cities have such temples in order to guide home fishermen and those who work at sea. Any Hong Kong guide will tell you to visit this colorful shrine with spirals of incense while exploring Temple Street. Do : Not only is Temple Street Night Market a popular place for shopping, but it’s an atmospheric evening venue where opera singers and fortune tellers come out after sundown. Here tourists and locals can sit with a fortune teller to get insight into what the universe has in store for them, or relax on the streets and watch as talented performers put on vibrant shows late into the evening. Shop : For shoppers, there are many goods and services on offer at Temple Street Night Market. Jade and antiques are famously sold at markets across Hong Kong and there are no shortage of these at Temple Street. Shoppers can haggle over the goods, many of which are decades old and date back to days of colonial rule. Other goods to be found include men and women’s clothes, watches, jewelry, chopsticks, chinaware, trinkets, electronics and souvenirs. Eat : Foodies will also be well catered to at Temple Street due to its reputation for serving authentic Hong Kong street food. Food has long since been an important part of the culture and there’s no exception at this vibey market. Both snacks and full meals can be found at the market. Seafood, noodles, claypot rice can be found at ‘dai pai dongs’, or small food stalls. Restaurants and cafes also line Temple Street so that hungry shoppers can sit for a full meal and sample regional local dishes from Hong Kong. Get there : MTR Yau Ma Tei Station, Exit C or MTR Jordan Station, Exit A.

Temple Street Night Market

Running one-kilometer in length, the Ladies Market can be found on Tung Choi Street within the Mongkok Night Market. It’s the ultimate place to practice your haggling skills when bargaining for clothes and accessories for both men and women (the name was inherited from an older iteration of the shopping drag). From children’s clothes to styles popular with the older generation, there’s something for shoppers of all ages. Aside from clothes, there are a range of other goods to be found on Ladies Street Hong Kong from bags and accessories to home furnishings, jewelry, and watches. The Ladies Market is known for being tightly-packed and crowded, but an atmospheric place to visit in Hong Kong. Clothes and goods spill out over market stalls and are strung-up high above the street while shoppers browse from below. The fast-paced atmosphere and hustle and bustle make it one of Hong Kong’s most visited neighborhoods with thousands of shoppers passing through in a day. While the focus is on women’s goods, there are also general market goods on sale including fruits, vegetables, tea sets, carvings, Buddha states, silk goods, chopsticks, paintings, souvenirs and antiques. Weary shoppers can stop for a foot massage before carrying on. The Ladies Market Hong Kong hours are 12 noon to 11pm daily.

Ladies’ Market

One of the best places to visit in Hong Kong for families is Disneyland . Hong Kong has two major theme parks, of which Disneyland is one. It can be found on Lantau Island, a 30-minute drive from the city. It’s one of the world’s smaller Disneylands, remains a fun place to check out with lots of exhilarating rides and attractions to explore. One of the best rides is Hyperspace Mountain . This fast-paced indoor roller coaster has been updated with a Star Wars theme and features tight loops for an adrenaline-inducing experience for braver visitors. For a slightly gentler experience, Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine has a few reasonable-sized dips and twists, plus a backwards drop at the end. There are a few fake mine explosions that will keep you on the edge of your seat, too! There are seven different areas of Hong Kong island to be explored including Mystic Point, Toy Story Land, Fantasyland and Adventureland. In Adventureland, there are plenty of excursions to be had including a Jungle River Cruise with cobras, gorillas and wading hippos lurking around the boat. Another option is catching a river raft to Tarzan’s Treehouse, soaking in the greenery of Lantau Island on the way. Disneyland Hong Kong also hosts a range of festivals and performances led by everyone’s favorite Disney characters. These include the Festival of the Lion King which features movie hits including The Circle of Life , performed by Simba, Nala and Scar. As well as rides, activities and performances, there are a range of shops, restaurants and Hong Kong Disneyland hotels. The Royal Banquet Hall serves sit-down international and Chinese cuisine while Main Street Bakery is a place to grab a quick bite between attractions. River View Cafe in Tomorrowland offers dining by the river while watching rafts and boats sail by. If you have daughters or nieces in tow, make a beeline for the Royal Princess Garden for a complete Disney makeover. Complete with hairstyling, makeup and an outfit change, it’s the perfect place for glamorous photoshoots. Hong Kong Disneyland packages can be booked online including hotels and rides. Hong Kong Disneyland tickets start from HK$589.

Hong Kong Disneyland

Golden Bauhinia Square is an open area on the Hong Kong waterfront popular to visit during both day and at night. It was named after the giant Bauhinia blakeana statue at its center, an enormous replica of a Hong Kong orchard tree – the central symbol on its flag. This statue is six metres tall and an iconic part of the Wan Chai waterfront. Golden Buddha Square can be found outside the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, an important location for international trade fairs and events. Historically, this is where the handover of Hong Kong took place from the UK to China, when the Special Administrative Region was established back in 1997. Every day at 8am, many tourists come to see the flag-raising ceremony which celebrates Hong Kong’s independence. During the National Day of the People’s Republic of China and Chinese New Year, the whole square is lit up and an impressive fireworks display takes place. Another reason to visit is the Golden Bauhinia Square Symphony of Lights performance that takes place at 8pm daily. This vibrant show of color and music is one of the best Hong Kong attractions, hosted by Victoria Harbour and enjoyed by delighted spectators each day. Music and narration are used during the performance and 42 skyscrapers are synchronized to light up in time with the sounds. The Symphony of Lights has recently developed a mobile app so that wannabe spectators can tune in from anywhere. For peak atmosphere, the best place to watch on Hong Kong Island is Golden Bauhinia Square looking out over an illuminated Victoria Harbour. Don’t miss it from your Hong Kong travel itinerary!

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