Hong Kong is a city that is a fascinating mix of many cultures and centuries of history. It is a city that has been the center of trade in China for a very long time and has seen more than its share of historic events. When you are getting ready to visit Hong Kong, there are five sites that you must see before you leave. As you start to book Hong Kong flights, make sure your vacation itinerary includes these five places.

Victoria Peak

Throughout the Hong Kong area, including the Hong Kong Island, there are several areas where people can go to get a majestic view of the city. But if you ask the locals where to find the best view of Hong Kong, they will tell you to go to The Peak. The Peak is more formally referred to as Victoria Peak and it is 373 meters high. You can take a comfortable tram to the top of the peak and see what the locals are all talking about.

Sha Tin Buddhist Temple

One of the things that strikes people who are visiting Hong Kong for the first time is the beautiful colors that are incorporated into the local architecture. The Chinese culture is rich in colorful imagery and that imagery is on display at the Sha Tin Buddhist Temple. As you ascend the 400 steps to the temple, you will get a preview of what is at the top as both sides of the stairway has colorful and detailed Buddha statues lining them. Once you reach the temple, you will not want to stop taking pictures. The temple has long been deserted by the monks, but it is still one of the most interesting sites in all of Hong Kong.

The Light Symphony

Disneyworld is not the only place that has one of the most impressive light shows in the world. When nighttime hits Hong Kong, you should find a spot that gives you a panoramic view of the skyline and enjoy The Light Symphony. Large display lights and colorful lasers have been installed on to the highest buildings in Hong Kong and each night they dance to synchronized music. Even if you have been to Disneyworld, this Hong Kong light show is unlike anything you have ever seen.

Tian Tan Buddha

If you have ever seen any pictures of the major attractions in Hong Kong, there is a good chance that you have seen a picture of a giant statue of Buddha that seems to tower over the trees. This is the Tian Tan Buddha located on Lantau Island. It is located on the top of a hill that requires 200 steps to climb. Once you get there, you can visit the temple and take pictures of this world famous statue.

Thung Chung Fort

No visit to Hong Kong would be complete without a visit to the 900 year old Thung Chung Fort on Lantau Island. It was built to protect the Hong Kong harbors from pirates and smugglers. It is exquisitely preserved and remains one of the most popular tourist attractions in the entire area.

When you visit Hong Kong, there is a lot to see. But if your time is limited. then you should check out the five most famous spots that the city has to offer.

Photo by pelcinary

Dim Sum (Yum Cha)

Dim Sum, also known as Yum Cha (“drink tea”) is probably the most famous export of Hong Kong cuisine. Small plates often arrive in bamboo steamer baskets on carts that are pushed throughout the restaurant, simply look at the items as they come by and point to the dishes you’d like. Sometimes you may be provided with an order form to select your dishes, although be prepared that there may not always be an english translation to the menu. A few must try items include: char siu bao (steamed BBQ pork buns), har gau (steamed shrimp dumplings), and pie gwat (black bean spare ribs), shiu mai (steamed pork dumplings). You can also order a variety of noodle, vegetable, or meat dishes from a regular menu, but most everything will be served family-style to the table. Dim Sum is most commonly eaten for breakfast or lunch.

Street Food

It would be a shame to come to Hong Kong only to eat in restaurants, as you’d be missing an authentic part of Hong Kong’s culinary landscape – street foods. Street stalls called Dai Pai Dongs are the most classic and often the least expensive way to experience outdoor dining, although fewer and fewer licensed stalls exist these days. Stir-fry dishes, noodle soups, congee or deep fried items such as won tons are popular Dai Pai Dong offerings. Markets, such as the classic Temple Street Night Market, will also have a variety of street food stalls for you to try on the go. Various types of meat on skewers, “stinky tofu”, or sweets like egg puffs (or egg waffles) can be found at the stalls around Mongkok’s markets. Always check out the busiest stalls, even if the lines are longest – you’ll get the freshest food because of the high turnover.

Fresh Seafood

Hong Kong’s location as a port city means that fishermen bring in the freshest of fish daily. Some restaurants will even allow you to pick your seafood items from tanks outside, then minutes later they will be serving them up to you at the table. Some of the most popular locations for finding fresh seafood in Hong Kong are the districts of Sai Kung, Lei Yue Mun in southeast Kowloon, and the islands of Lamma and Cheung Chau. Whether its fresh steamed whole fish, grilled squid on a stick, tasty prawns in a stir fry, or spicy chili-laced crab dishes, Hong Kong offers something for all lovers of seafood.

Hot Pot

Paper thin slices of meats, fresh seafood, or vegetables are dipped in simmering broths in the popular hot pot restaurants that you will see around Hong Kong. Traditionally known as a “winter food” hot pots can now be enjoyed year-round, even during the steamy summer months. You can enjoy one steaming pot in a family-style way with everyone dipping their own items into the hot broth, or take advantage of the newer trend of “hot pot for one” where each person has their own pot to enjoy. Whichever way its served, always be sure to help yourself to the many condiments available and customize your own flavor combinations.

Roasted Meats

It’s difficult not to be transfixed by the hanging rows of roast duck or crispy pork belly hanging in the sui mei (roast meat) shops when walking through the streets of Hong Kong. You can typically find roasted duck, chicken, goose and pork at these shops, where your order will be cleaved up by the shop keeper for you to eat with rice or to transport home. Char sui (BBQ pork) is probably the most famous of the seasoned roasted meats, and a definite must-try. If you’re a fan of roasted meats you may also like the restaurant dish called Peking Duck – a specialty of Beijing (Peking) where you will find pieces of roast duck served on tiny pancake buns with a plum sauce.

photo credits: dim sum, street food, all others by Malia Yoshioka

Day One in Hong Kong

Victoria Peak
Get the lay of the land from a bird’s eye view by making your way to Victoria Peak. Make the slow and steady climb aboard the Peak Tram before getting out to enjoy the view from the tallest point on the island. If you’ve got the time, you can actually make your way all the way around the peak to get a view from all sides. Cafe Deco is a nice stop with Western and Asian cuisine (as well as a nice raw bar!) if you’re in need of a spot to rest and refuel. Otherwise, grab a quick bite outside and continue on.

Star Ferry to Kowloon
One of the nicest things about Hong Kong is the variety of public transport options available. An iconic, yet practical way to cross Victoria Harbor is to opt to ride the Star Ferry for the short trip across Victoria Harbor. Riding one way in the day and back at night is a great way to get in two different perspectives of the Hong Kong skyline. Then, pretend that you’ve just stepped off the Trans-Siberian Railway and stop for refreshment at the stately Penninsula Hotel. High Tea is the classic way to relax and indulge before stepping out into the frenzy of activity at the markets of Mongkok.

Mongkok Markets
A visit to Hong Kong would not be complete without trying your hand at bargaining at one of the many markets. One of the most popular is the Temple Street night market in the area known as Mongkok. Head here in the evening and spend your night browsing the many stalls, sampling delicious street foods at the dai pai dong stands, or listening to performances of Chinese opera.

>> Check out other options for Shopping in Hong Kong

Day Two in Hong Kong

Get Outdoors
On your second day in Hong Kong, start by taking advantage of the fresh air outdoors. There are numerous ways to get out and get active. Try a hike such as the so-called “Dragon’s Back” trail which ends at Shek O Beach. You will find hikes for all skill levels so you can plan your morning or make a whole day out on the trails.

>> Check out more options for hikes around Hong Kong

Visit the Tian Tan Buddha
The Ngong Ping 360 cable cars afford stunning views on the way to Lantau’s most famous attraction – the Tian Tan Buddha. Reputed to be the worlds largest outdoor seated buddha, there are over 260 steps to get you to up to his feet and the views at the top are worth the climb. You can also opt to have lunch at the Po Lin Monastery or simply walk around the peaceful grounds.

Eat Your Way Around Hong Kong
If you find that you’ve now worked up an appetite, it’s a great time to sample some of the cuisine of Hong Kong. Dim sum is probably the most famous “must-try” food when you visit, so get out your chopsticks and get ready to taste a variety of bite-sized dumplings, savory meats, or steamed buns that will arrive in bamboo steamer baskets for you to share with the table, family-style. With its location, it may not come as much of a surprise that seafood in Hong Kong is so fresh that it may still be swimming! Other tastes to try include Cantonese cuisine, hot pot, roast duck, noodles, and egg tarts.

Hong Kong Nightlife
Hong Kong really revs up once the sun goes down, so get ready for a town that knows how to party into the wee hours if that’s your cup of tea. Try the Lan Kwai Fong (known as LKF) area, which resembles a large block party at times. Many bars and pubs in close proximity to one another mean you can easily stumble from one to the next.

Day Three in Hong Kong

Day Trip – Macau
While there is much to see and do in Hong Kong to keep you busy for a three day trip, just a short hour-long ferry ride will take you to the nearby Macau, for a day of different experiences with all its Portuguese-influenced food, architecture, and history. Macau is also sometimes called the “Las Vegas” of Asia, and gambling here is quite a different experience for those used to a more western-style casino. Here, gambling is serious business whether or not you choose to play the odds. Wander around the pretty neighborhoods and visit the ruins of the St. Paul Cathedral. For a nice lunch or dinner stop, visit the classic restaurant A Lorcha.

>> More info on getting from Hong Kong to Macau

photos by Malia Yoshioka

If you are one those people who likes a good travel challenge, then China may be on your radar. If China is on your radar as a travel destination, then adding Hong Kong to your RTW itinerary would be a good place to start. While Hong Kong is a crazy place and can get the best of some travelers, it’s a good introduction to traveling in China.

One of the most interesting things about traveling in Hong Kong is the vast differences in culture between the west and Asia. The dichotomy can be amazing, and it’s something that’s really cool to witness. And if you’re into food, you can certainly do worse than Hong Kong. It’s filled with amazing cuisine, and if you are brave enough (you should be) to sample street food, you’ll find some of the best and most authentic in the world. Hong Kong is certainly not for everyone, but if you have an adventurous spirit, this would be a great place to add to your round the world trip.

Once that is figured out, you are left with deciding where you want to go and then decide how you plan to travel. Flights, ferries, buses and trains offer a lot of options for all budgets.

Quick summary

Should you plan to get from Hong Kong to Shenzhen or Guangzou, then taking the train or the ferry is the best option. For further destinations, such as Shanghai and Beijing, your best bet is to fly, if you are in a hurry. Otherwise, the train is a good option but be careful when planning because it doesn’t run on a daily basis.

Flights from Hong Kong (airport code: HKG) to China

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is the most important gateway into mainland China and is hub for Air Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific, Dragonair and Hong Kong Airlines. Especially if you plan to get to central or northern China, flying is the fastest option.

You can get from Hong Kong to Beijing in about 4 hours (non stop flight). Fare start around US$250 one way.

It’s also fast to get from Hong Kong to Shanghai . The flight time is about 2 ½ h and the single fares start at US$270.

>>read more about Airfare to Hong Kong

Trains from Hong Kong to China

Traveling by train between Hong Kong and China is fast, safe and reliable. The Kowloon-Canton Railway connects Hong Kong with Shenzhen, Dongguan and Guangzou.

You can get from Hong Kong to Shenzhen in about an hour but the border formalities take another 30-40 min. A single adult ticket is HKD36.50 /US$5.

You can also get from Hong Kong to Guangzou , the further stop on this line. The distance is covered in about 2 hours but you need to add the border formalities to the total travel time. The single adult ticket starts at HKD190 / US$25.

It’s possible to travel by train all the way to Shanghai . There aren’t daily connections and the travel time is about 20 hours. Single adult fares range from HKD508 / US$65 (hard sleeper) to HKD1,039 / US$135 (deluxe soft sleeper). Make sure to book the ticket ahead of time.

You can also get from Hong Kong to Beijing by train. The journey is 24 hours but there aren’t daily departures. The single tickets range from HKD587 / US$75 (hard sleeper) and HKD1191 / US$155) (deluxe soft sleeper)

Buses from Hong Kong to China

Another low cost option for traveling between Hong Kong Guangzhou is by bus, for single fares starting at HKD80 / US$10.

However, there aren’t any long distance buses available. So you cannot get from Hong Kong to Shanghai or Beijing by bus.

Ferries from Hong Kong to China

A fast and comfortable way to get between Hong Kong and China is taking the ferry. They depart from both Kowloon and Hong Kong International Airport and are operated by various companies.

You can get to Shenzhen in about 50 minutes and the single adult fare is HKD105 / US$13.50. There are six ferries per day on this route.

You can also get to Guangzou by ferry. The travel time is 75 min and the single adult fare starts at HKD147 / US$20. The ferry terminal in Guangzou is located further from the city center, but there are buses offering reliable connections.

Driving from Hong Kong to China

Renting a car in Hong Kong and driving to China is not recommended. First of all, you’ll switch from driving on the left hand side of the road (Hong Kong) to driving on the right (China). Then, the traffic signs are more like hints for the locals. So , if you do want to travel by car, you can consider letting someone else driving you.

Photo credits: Hong Kong Airport , Beijing train station , Hong Kong Ferry

Weather

December in Hong Kong falls during winter and it’s definitely cold here. Or shall we say, it’s cold for the locals? With an average day time temperature of 21C and an average during the night of 15C , for someone used to cold winters in North America and Europe, the weather is downright mild. The best example would be Anthony Bourdain’s visit to Hong Kong in winter when he is very pleased with the warm weather but the locals insist it’s actually cold and winter.

>>read more about Weather in Hong Kong

Flights and accommodation

Despite the colder weather, visiting Hong Kong in December is very popular. Christmas and New Year’s Eve add to the popularity, of course. So, it’s high season and the high prices which go along with that. Expect to pay more for your flight and accommodation . Do book them in advance. You might even save some money (especially on accommodation).

What to do

Winter Fest starts by the end of November so December is an excellent month to see the festive lights. Plus, it’s a good time to shop here as the winter sales are in full swing.

And speaking about shopping, you might want to attend the Brands and Products Expo which takes place outdoors and features signature brands from Hong Kong and overseas.

The mild weather allows for exploring the nature, as well. So put on your hiking shoes and head to Victoria Peak. You can see some lovely views of Victoria Harbour , by the way.

Especially if you travel with the kids, plan a day or two exploring the theme parks. Disneyland is a lovely choice during this time of the year, but try to avoid the weekends when it’s very crowded. Ocean Park is another good option.

>>read more about the Attractions in Hong Kong

Photo credit

Weather

November is one of the best months to visit Hong Kong. The skies are clear and the sun shines. Also, the temperatures are moderate and the air is clearer.

Sample temperatures:

Hong Kong avg high 24C ; avg low 19C

>>read more about Weather in Hong Kong

Flights and accommodation

November is one of the best and most popular months to visit Hong Kong, so it’s pretty much high season. While, traveling to Hong Kong is never a cheap affair, do expect to pay more for both airfare and accommodation . Booking in advance will save some money but don’t expect to find too many deals available.

What to do

November is the perfect month to visit Hong Kong for those who plan to explore the nature. You can visit the Hong Kong National Geopark or enjoy some of the hiking trails available (within the park and in the rest of Hong Kong). Those include the trails on Victoria Peak, which offer stunning views of Victoria Harbour . Lantau Island is another good option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

November is Wine & Dine month in Hong Kong , an event which showcases international wines paired with local food. Add the live entertainment and you’ll surely love this event. The major hotels hold food and wine promotions.

Winter Fest starts by the end of November but you still have about a week of enjoying the festive lighting and Victoria Harbour sparkling with the Christmas decorations. If you want to benefit from the lovely Christmas atmosphere, come to Hong Kong in December.

You can also check out the theme parks, including Disneyland and Ocean Park. Just try to avoid the weekends when it’s usually crowded. Don’t forget about visiting the museums either.

>>read more about the Attractions in Hong Kong

Photo credit

Weather

Hong Kong has a sub-tropical climate. Winter lasts from January to March and is dry and cool. March is quite pleasant , with occasional humidity spells (fog, drizzle).

Sample temperatures:
Hong Kong avg high 21C ; avg low 17C

>>read more about the Weather in Hong Kong

Flights and accommodation

While Hong Kong is definitely a year-round destination, the most popular time to visit is during the end of February and in mid-September. So, traveling in March means you won’t be traveling during the high season, but don’t exactly expect to find cheap airfare or accommodation .

In general, Hong Kong is not a cheap destination, but you can save some money if you book ahead of time. Plus, you might find some bargains available from time to time.

What to do

Traveling in March means you won’t be able to attend any festivals in Hong Kong. Instead, you can spend your vacation visiting Hong Kong Disneyland – a good option especially if you travel with the kids. Ocean Park is another good idea if you want to have fun but don’t fancy Disneyland.

Explore Victoria Harbour and its promenade area. Or head to Victoria Peak for some lovely views of the Harbour. While here, you can also visit the Botanical Gardens. And there are also plenty of museums to check out.

>>read more about the Attractions in Hong Kong

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Taiwan is an island and the only possible way for travelers to get between Hong Kong and Taipei is by plane. There isn’t any passenger ferry route available (the China Sea isn’t exactly a pleasure to deal with).

Flights from Hong Kong (airport code: HKG) to Taipei

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is an important gateway for those looking to fly to mainland China. It is also an important regional transportation hub. The airport is hub for Air Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific Airways, Dragonair, Evergreen International Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, Hong Kong Express Airways and UPS Airlines.

Taipei is served by Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) , a hub for China Airlines, EVA Air and TransAsia Airways. The airport is connected to the city by express buses and high speed rail.

Flights between Hong Kong and Taipei are operated by Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, Dragonair and EVA Air. The flight time is about 1h 35 min. Non-stop single flights start at HKD 2214 / US$285 on EVA Air in February and March 2012. By April 2012 expect to pay from HDK 2649 / US$341 on EVA Air. For certain times of the year (i.e Feb, Mar) it might be slightly cheaper to choose a connecting flight on JetStar Airways.

>>read more about flights to Hong Kong

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Most of the hotels located close to the Hong Kong airport are 4-star or 5-star, so expect to pay a premium for staying here. Further from the airport, there are some 3-star hotels which offer cheaper rates and quite good locations.

The Regal Airport Hotel

This 5star hotel is actually connected to Terminal 1 by an AC bridge. The hotel offers conference facilities and there are restaurants on site to suit many tastes. There’s broadband in the rooms and the guests are offered a free shuttle to/from the airport. Expect to pay from HKD 1480 / US$190.50 per night for a superior room.

Hotel Novotel Hong Kong Citygate

The 4 star hotel is located just 5 minutes from the airport and has direct access to MTR. Disneyland is 2 stops away and the city center is just 30 min away. The hotel offers 2 restaurants, a bar, a gym and a pool. The guests can use the free shuttle to/from the airport. Rooms have LCD TV. Wi fi is available for a fee. Expect to pay from HKD 2100 / US$270.30 per need for a superior queen bed room .

The Mercer Boutique Hotel

Much further from the airport (24.6 km) you can find this lovely 4-star hotel which offers free internet and free local calls. It is close to the Macau Ferry Terminal. There’s an outdoor pool available and it’s close to the MTR station. All rooms have iPod dock, flat-screen TV and free mini bar items. Expect to pay from HKD 2232 / US$287.30 per night in a deluxe double or twin room.

Silvermine Beach Resort

The 3 star hotel is located on Lantau Island, about 10 km from the airport (45 min drive). All rooms have view of the sea, hill or garden. There are 3 restaurants within the site and the guests can use the outdoor pool. All rooms have flat screen TV and minibar. Expect to pay from HKD 950 / US$122.30 per night for a double room with hill view.

The Bauhinia Hotel – Central

The 3-star hotel is located about 24.5 km from the airport, in the Sheung Wan’s business area, close to the MTR station. The Hong Kong Airport Express Station is a 10-minute walk from the hotel. All rooms have flat-screen TV, iPod docking station, DVD player and free wi-fi. Expect to pay from HKD 1080 / US$139 per night for a superior double or twin room.

Sohotel

The 3-star hotel is also located about 24.5 km from the airport and offers rooms with free wi fi, flat screen TV and minibar. Expect to pay from HKD 900 /US$116 per night for a standard double room.