Local information and activities
Below is a simple guide of what is available in Hong Kong. Please contact the concierge at the Kerry Hotel Hong Kong (SAR) for further details.
Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery
No trip to Hong Kong (SAR) would be complete without a visit to the world's tallest, outdoor, seated bronze Buddha.
The Buddha sits on top of Ngong Ping plateau amid the spectacular mountain scenery of Lantau Island. The eyes, lips, incline of the head and even the right hand (raised to deliver a blessing to all), combine to lend great depth of character and dignity to this extraordinary statue.
The majestic figure of the seated Buddha is 34 metres high and weighs 250 tonnes. Visitors can climb the 268 steps to reach the platform where the Buddha is seated.
Besides attracting Buddhists from all over Asia, the magnificent figure with its compelling presence almost instantly transformed the remote Po Lin Monastery with its devout monks into a must-visit on tourist schedules.
The Po Lin Monastery is set amid spectacular mountain scenery on the 520-metre high Ngong Ping plateau. Besides admiring the massive statue, there is also much to see and do at the monastery itself with its various figures of gods and other colourful manifestations of aspects of the Buddhist religion. You can even enjoy a vegetarian lunch prepared by the monks.
The best way to get there is by taking the Ngong Ping Cable Car outside Tung Chung MTR station. Prepare to be whisked up the mountain and across the bay on a 25-minute journey with beautiful views of Lantau island and Tung Chung Bay.
Those with a fear of heights could instead opt for a bus ride to the top. Feel the calm at the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery | Hong Kong Tourism Board
High Island
A reservoir built in the 1970's, the South China Sea, and 14-million-year old volcanic rocks make this one of Hong Kong's most breathtaking places. High Island Resevoir Dam is in the only part of Hong Kong Global Geopark that is reachable on foot and the only place where you can touch the hexagonal rock columns. The scenery is surreal and made even more so by the presence of thousands of dolosse blocks (huge cement barriers shaped like jacks) placed along the coast to break sea waves.
On Saturday, Sunday and public holidays a shuttle-bus service runs four times a day. There will be guides explaining the historical and geological significance of High Island Resevoir and the volcanic formations. To ensure a seat, register and make a payment online at Intro.
Nan Lian Garden
Located in the Diamond Hill area, Nan Lian Garden is built in the Tang Dynasty style and occupies an area of about 35,000 square meters (3.5 hectares). Every piece of land, rocks, trees and water is placed according to rules of Tang style. The garden is designed in a one-way circular route manner. By following this route visitors will see: two water ponds (the Lotus Pond and the Blue Pond), a lot of trees, the Pavilion of Absolute Perfection connected by two Zi Wu Bridges, the Chinese Timber Architecture Gallery, the Pine Path and so on. Also, there are a souvenir shop, a vegetarian food restaurant, a Chinese tea house and a multi-purpose function room.
In addition, Nan Lian Garden is adjacent to the Chi Lin Nunnery by a bridge and is surrounded by the high-rise buildings. Together with the Nunnery they form one of the most impressive sites in Hong Kong that is a must-see attraction for everyone.
Ocean Park
Opened in 1977, Ocean Park Hong Kong is one of Hong Kong's favourite attractions, featuring marine-themed rides, exhibits and conservation facilities that are fun for both adults and children. Ocean Park is located on the picturesque southern side of Hong Kong Island, covering more than 870,000 square metres of land. There are three attraction areas: the Lowland, the Headland and Tai Shue Wan. The three areas are connected by a cable car, an outdoor escalator which is the second longest in the world, and the Ocean Express.
Ocean Park Hong Kong is committed to promoting and supporting animal conservation in Hong Kong and throughout the Asia region. It has, in cooperation with other conservation organisations, launched various conservation programmes for a number of endangered species, including whales and dolphins. In addition, it has successfully bred rare species of birds, sharks and butterflies. Visitors to Ocean Park can view dolphin shows, a stunning acquarium, and rare pandas.
Hong Kong Best Theme Park & Attractions | Ocean Park Hong Kong
Port Island and Bluff Head
China Danxia. -- a name for red-coloured landforms specific to China -- was included on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2010, and Port Island has a similar rock formation of these rare geological landforms in a seascape setting. Rich iron oxide gives the island's sandstone and siltstone a bright red hue. The rocks at Bluff Head were formed by deposits at estuarine deltas about 400 million years ago, and became vertical under the influence of geological movements. Furthermore, weathering and coastal erosion resulted in some peculiar rocks, most notably the 'Devil's Fist'.
Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck
Located inside the International Commerce Center (ICC)--Hong Kong's tallest building, hop aboard the high-speed double-decker elevator to the viewing deck on the 100th floor.
The indoor observation deck at Sky100 is known for its incredible 360-degree views of Victoria Harbour and the surrounding city skyline. Use one of the on-site telescopes to get an even closer look at the urban landscape that surrounds you.
Enjoy the interactive multimedia exhibit inside Sky100, and learn more about the history and culture of Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Observation Deck & Must-Visit Attractions | sky100 Hong Kong
Stanley Market
Stanley Market , famous for bric-a-brac, is located in the very picturesque Stanley Bay on the south side of Hong Kong island. The market is open from 10:30 to 18:30 daily but you can stay well into the evening at the many seaside restaurants, pubs and bars. There are some lovely beaches and beautiful views. Life moves at a slower pace on the south coast, and it's a welcome break from the hectic pace of the city.
Tai O Fishing Village
The Tai O Fishing Villafe in the Western coast of Lantau Island is a quaint and picturesque enclave in a pretty setting on the coast framed by the mountains. There is much activity surrounding the harbor, the traditional seafood market and the daily routines in the stilt houses, a photographers dream and definitely worth the trip. If you are already visiting the Big Buddha, then Tai O Fishing Village is about a 15 minute bus or taxi ride. You can easily spend a couple of hours just walking around the market and taking one of the little boats to explore around the harbor and stilt houses for a clse up view and perhaps catch a glimpse of the elusive Pink Dolphins.
Tai O: a day trip to a historic fishing village | Hong Kong Tourism Board
The Peak
The Peak is one of the most popular attractions in Hong Kong offering spectacular views of the surrounding city skyline, Kowloon and the world-famous Victoria Harbour.
The best way to get to the top is on the Peak Tram. A truepeice of Hong Kong's history, the tram started running back in 1888. Pulled by steel cables, it climbs 373 metres (approximately 1,200 feet). In places the gradient exceeds 45, be prepared to hold on tight!
Once at the top, you can visit the observatory deck at the top of the Peak Tower. There are a number of other locations providing magnificent views of the city below. You can take the Peak Circle Walk or go directly to the Lugard Road Lookout for fabulous views over the harbor, or the Lions ViewPoint Pavillion.
The view is great both in daytime and in the evening, but is best seen on a clear day with no rain. To avoid the crowds, its best to go on a weekday.
Tung Ping Chau
Crescent-shaped Tung Ping Chau, Hong Kong's easternmost island, has long been popular with locals for its picturesque rock formations. It boasts the youngest rocks in Hong Kong -- merely 55 million years of age, give or take! These are composed of fine laminated siltstone and mudstone that form an eerily beautiful landscape. Notable areas of geological interest here include Lung Lok Shui, Kang Lau Shek and Cham Keng Chau.
The Ung Kong Group consists of Bluff Island, Wang Chau and Basalt Island. The forces of sea and windhavehelped develop numerous cliffs and sea arches on the southeast cost of the islands, including the 30-metre-high sea arch at Wang Chau, the 45-metre-high sea arch at Basalt Island, and the Tiu Chung Arch at Jin Island.
Ung Kong Group
The Ung Kong Group consists of Bluff Island, Wang Chau and Basalt Island. The forces of sea and windhavehelped develop numerous cliffs and sea arches on the southeast cost of the islands, including the 30-metre-high sea arch at Wang Chau, the 45-metre-high sea arch at Basalt Island, and the Tiu Chung Arch at Jin Island.
Victoria Harbour
Victoria Harbour is one of Hong Kong's greatest natural assets and a defining characteristic of Hong Kong. On one side you have the glittering skyscrapers of Central, surrounded by the lush mountains of Hong Kong island, and on the other side of you have the waterfront along Tsim Sha Tsui with its cruise terminal, observatory deck, and the Avenue of Stars.
Every night at 20:00, you can watch the Symphony of Lights, which shows visitors more than 40 of Hong Kong's most famous skyscrapers in a stunning multimedia extravaganza. There are many ways to see the show -- from one of the many lounge bars in tall towers and hotels, from the waterfront of either Central or Tsim Sha Tsui, from the Peak, or on an authentic Chinese junk which takes visitors on a lovely harbour tour.
Visitors should not miss out on the chance to ride the Star Ferry, which goes back and forth between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui all day. Like the Peak Tram, the Star Ferry has a special place in Hong Kong's history, having first started service in 1888. It is one of the cheapest, quaintest and most enjoyable modes of transportation in Hong Kong.
10 spots to marvel at Victoria Harbour | Hong Kong Tourism Board
Chatham Road's Air-raid Tunnels
This tunnel network is located in the area between Chatham Road, Fat Kwong Street, Wuhu Street and Gillies Ave. The majority of the tunnels were constructed of mortared random masonry side walls with precast reinforced concrete lintels with a layer of chunam fill over the crown. The remainder of the tunnels were unlined and localised enlargements were present. It was noted that some sections of the tunnels had been intersected by later construction projects and that the tunnels were sealed off in these places. At the time of the inspection in 1978, the tunnels were found to be in good condition.
Fuk Tak Temple
Tsim Sha Tsui's only temple is a smoke-filled hole in the wall with a hot tin roof. Little is known about its ancestry except that it was built as a shrine in the Qing dynasty and renovated in 1900.
Hung Hom Promenade and Extension of Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade This 500-metre long promenade linking the harbour frontages of Tsim Sha Tsui and Hung Hung has opened up a section of Hung Hom waterfront which used to be closed to the public. Members of the public can go to Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and the Star Avenue via this section of the promenade and the footbridge next to Salisbury Road. It provides a tranquil and pleasant waterfront area for public enjoyment. In addition to footpaths for walking or jogging, the promenade also provides a large section of undulating lawn. Local residents and visitors will henceforth be able to fully enjoy the beautiful scenery of Victoria Harbour and exciting fireworks displays during festivals.
Hong Kong Fun in 18 Districts - Hung Hom Promenade
Hutchison Park
Enjoy a relaxing afternoon or evening and wander the extensive green expanse which sports a range of traditional Chinese architecture at regular intervals alongside a serene central water feature.
Kwun Yam Temple
The Kwun Yum Temple is the most famous among the great number of them in the territory. It was built in 1873 Hong Kong Fun in 18 Districts - Hung Hom Promenade
Pak Tai Temple
According to the inscription on the incense burner, the temple was built in 1876. The temple was originally located on a hillock, at the junction of the present Tsing Chau Street and Ma Tau Wai Road. Because of urbanisation, the area was levelled, and the temple was demolished. On the proposal of a dock worker in 1929, a new temple was built at the present location.
Pak Tai Temple on Cheung Chau | Hong Kong Tourism Board
Night Life
Lan Kwai Fong:
This is Hong Kong’s most popular bar area which on a Friday nights becomes a fun-filled pedestrian zone. Located in the finance district, this L-shaped cobble-stoned street is popular with office workers and tourists alike. You can walk from bar to bar, and people spill out into the sidewalks with drinks in hand. By midnight the music is blaring and people are dancing. This is the place where anything goes; don’t be surprised to see a Peter Pan in full costume. Open late.
Lan Kwai Fong Hong Kong | Official Website
Wan Chai:
Not far from Lan Kwai Fong is the other main nightlife area, Wan Chai. You have a wide choice of entertainment options, and all you have to do is walk down the street. On a Friday night there are many places with live bands, packed dance floors, and people dancing on bars. More raucous than Lan Kwai Fong, this is the area where you go if you really want to stay out all night.
Wan Chai | Hong Kong Tourism Board
Knutsford Terrace:
If you are not into loud nightclubs and crowded bars, then Knutsford Terrace is more up your alley. Just off of Nathan Road in Kowloon is a strip of restaurants, bistros and trendy bars with plenty of outdoor seating. Enjoy some drinks, sample some fine food, and maybe even enjoy a water pipe.
Knutsford Terrace & Observatory Court | Hong Kong Tourism Board
Shopping Malls and Department Stores
The good news for shopaholics is that Hong Kong enjoys a profusion of shopping malls ranging from luxurious glass and steel palaces with a plethora of world-famous labels to more moderate fashion centres crammed with funky boutiques. It's this extraordinary variety that makes Hong Kong such an enjoyable and enriching shopping destination. For a real taste of the shop-till-you-drop action try the following locations:
Wonderful Worlds of Whampoa
Stretching over 1.4 million square feet, Wonderful Worlds of Whampoa, which boasts over 300 shops, is one of the largest shopping, dining and entertainment centres in Kowloon, Hong Kong. With the streamlined ship, as the landmark, Wonderful Worlds of Whampoa comprises a unique combination of themed worlds, namely Whampoa Gourmet Place, Fashion World, Treasure World, Home World, Amazing World and Pebbles World, offering an array of fashion, accessories, dining, entertainment facilities and boundless fun.
Citygate Outlets
Home to more than 90 international brands offering year-round discounts.
https://www.citygateoutlets.com.hk/
Harbour City
Harbour City, encompassing over 700 shops of all kinds, around 50 food & beverage outlets, three star hotels, and two cinemas, is one of the main tourist attractions in Tsim Sha Tsui.
Ladies Market
Bargain clothing, accessories and souvenirs
Temple Street
The city’s busiest night market, an enduring example of the theatre and festivity of a Chinese market.
Temple Street | Hong Kong Tourism Board
Times Square
The largest mall in Causeway Bay, Times Square has more than 230 shops, offering an exciting range of products as well as great dining establishments. Food Forum offers 20 restaurants featuring a wide variety of delectable and exquisite world-class culinary delights. Definitely a must-visit dining and shopping landmark!
Furtune Metropolis
Shopping mall, close to the Kerry Hotel Hong Kong ( A Shangri-La Group Hotel) Fortune Malls