hong kong tourist info

20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hong Kong

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated Dec 27, 2023

Hong Kong is known the world over as a glamorous city and a top choice for luxury shopping. But this city-state is steeped in culture and history, and has a lot more to offer than mouthwatering dim sum and an impressive skyline.

Hong Kong has an energy about it that is hard to describe. Around every corner is something new and unique, whether it's an ancient temple, a shop selling the latest electronic gadget, or a man taking his bird in a cage for a walk.

Hong Kong has another side as well, where you'll find forest-covered mountains, hiking trails, beautiful beaches, islands, and traditional fishing villages.

As a Special Administrative Region of China, Hong Kong presents an interesting study in the influences of ancient Chinese culture, as well as its own attitudes and history, independent from that of mainland China.

Hong Kong is one of the most impressive cities in the world, certainly, but there's much more here than meets the eye. Find out what to see and do and discover the best places to visit with our list of top attractions in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Skyline

Victoria peak (the peak) and the tram, big buddha (tian tan buddha statue), wong tai sin temple, repulse bay and the beaches, temple street night market, hong kong disneyland, water world at ocean park, dragon's back hike, lan kwai fong, tai o fishing village, avenue of stars, ten thousand buddhas monastery, hong kong park, chi lin nunnery and nan lian garden, day trip to lamma island, man mo temple, tsim sha tsui, tips: how to make the most of your visit to hong kong.

Hong Kong's famous Star Ferry, with roots dating back to 1880, costs only a few Hong Kong Dollars to ride, making it one of the best deals in all of Hong Kong. Victoria Harbour is a hive of activity, and ships of all shapes and sizes chug, zip, or wallow past as the expert captains of the Star Ferries somehow avoid collisions.

As you travel the main route from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island, or more specifically, Tsim Sha Tsui (TST) to Central, it's hard not to be struck by the dense towers of Hong Kong Island, backed by green mountains rising up before you. The breeze off the water is exceptionally refreshing, and the wide-open spaces are a perfect antidote to the tight confines of the city.

Don't worry about scheduling a time to ride the ferry, they leave every few minutes all day long and later into the evening, so it's always easy to get a great seat in the front or along the rail. The return trip from Central to Tsim Sha Tsui is also just as impressive.

If you time it right in the evening, you can catch one of Hong Kong's Symphony of Lights shows. The 360-degree spectacle of laser beams striking the skyscrapers on either side of the harbor is one of the city's free attractions and one of the most popular things to do at night in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong has one of the most impressive and recognizable skylines in the world. The dense collection of skyscrapers, both on the island of Hong Kong and in Kowloon, combined with the surrounding mountains and harbor set this city apart.

In the harbor, traditional red-sailed Chinese junk boats and the historic Star Ferry contrast sharply with the backdrop of modern high-rises. At night, the skyline changes character completely as the sky darkens and the city lights fill the scene.

Two of the best places in Hong Kong to see the skyline are from the top of Victoria Peak or from the Kowloon waterfront (along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade near the clock tower), not far from the Star Ferry dock, where benches line the waterfront and look across to Hong Kong. The latter location is the best place to watch the nightly A Symphony of Lights laser and light show set to music.

You haven't seen the best of Hong Kong until you've taken in the skyline from Victoria Peak, more commonly known as The Peak. Ride the tram to the top of this scenic viewpoint to see the skyscrapers, bustling city, harbor, and surrounding islands. It's best to sit on the right-hand side to get the best views on the way up.

The tram station is located near the entrance to Hong Kong Park by the Murray building. At the top of the tram are the Peak Tower and Peak Galleria, with shops, restaurants, and an observation deck. Most of The Peak is covered by a large park with lush greenery, nature trails, and more beautiful lookouts with views over the thriving metropolis below.

A trail also leads down from The Peak to the city below, following a mix of trails through the forest and sections of road here and there. It can be a bit confusing finding your way. See our article on Hong Kong hiking trails for more details.

Evening is a great time to visit The Peak, when you can see the spectacular skyline lit against the night sky. This is one of the best views in Hong Kong at night . If the tram line is long, or you want to go directly from your hotel, you can also take a taxi to the top.

The 34-meter-high "Big Buddha" sits above Lantau Island's Po Lin monastery , which was a fairly secluded place until the statue was built in 1993. This is one of the largest Buddha statues of its kind in the world and took 12 years to complete. The size is astounding, both up close and seen from a distance. The setting here is also incredible, surrounded by the green forest and views out over the ocean and islands.

Although you can take a bus, the best way to reach the Buddha is via the scenic Ngong Ping cable car , which takes you on a 5.7-kilometer, 25-minute ride over forest, water, and mountains. The ride terminates at the small tourist-focused Ngong Ping Village, which you'll have to walk through before reaching the monastery and Big Buddha. Once through the village, a huge set of stairs leads up to the base, but don't be daunted. The walk up goes quickly, and the views from the base of the statue are well worth the effort.

You can access the cable car from the MTR Tung Chung Station. Some people combine a trip to the Big Buddha with a stop at Tai O fishing village, 20 minutes away by bus, but still on Lantau Island. You can also pick up a Hong Kong Travel Pass Combo: MTR Pass, Ngong Ping Cable Car, and Big Buddha Tour, which will give you a one- to three-day MTR Pass (metro), round-trip cable car ride, and a guided tour of the Big Buddha. This is a good deal if you are planning on getting around by MTR during your stay in Hong Kong.

The Wong Tai Sin Temple is one of the newest in Hong Kong and also one of the most interesting. Located in Kowloon, the original temple was a private structure built in 1920. It was later replaced with a newer building in 1968, which is what visitors see today.

The temple was built to honor the Taoist god Wong Tai Sin, whom locals regard as the bringer of good luck in horse racing and a healer of illnesses. A festival is held at the temple in Wong Tai Sin's name each fall.

The temple complex is made up of several buildings, including the Hall of Three Saints , the Good Wish Garden , and another hall dedicated to Confucius and his 72 disciples. Expect to see fortune-tellers in the large hall, as well as joss sticks and other offerings that visitors can use. It is customary for guests to leave a small donation toward the temple's maintenance.

Address: 2 Chuk Yuen Village, Wong Tai Sin, Hong Kong

Not everyone thinks of beaches when they think of Hong Kong, but you don't have to go far to find some incredible stretches of soft sand. The beach at Repulse Bay is the most popular in all of Hong Kong, with beautiful views and a great place for swimming, although it's very non-touristy.

A day spent here is complemented by the luxury and style typical of Hong Kong itself. The street running along the oceanfront and overlooking the wide beach is lined with trendy restaurants and shops. Amalfitana is a fun place to enjoy a pizza, with casual open-air dining looking over the beach.

Another nearby spot for a day at the beach is Big Wave Bay . Here, the water rolls in relatively gently to a large U-shaped cove with a splendid beach. This is a much more relaxed and casual atmosphere than at Repulse Bay. A popular outing is to walk part of the famous Dragon's Back hike to Big Wave Bay and dip in the ocean for a swim.

At the back of the beach, barbecues line the walkway to the parking lot and serve up seafood and other tasty treats. Scheduled buses and the occasional taxi are available in the parking area and will whisk you back to the city.

Also worth checking out is scenic Shek O Beach . It's easily accessible via public transit. For more details see our article on the best beaches in Hong Kong .

A stroll through the Temple Street Night Market is another one of those all-important things to do while you're in Hong Kong. Located in Kowloon, this is the place to go to taste eclectic foods and to shop for bargains on everything from clothing and trinkets to electronics and household goods. Vendors sell gadgets of every shape and size, as well as jade jewelry and traditional Chinese crafts.

This is the best market for tourists in Hong Kong, but you can find a number of other interesting street markets selling almost anything you can imagine. See our article on Hong Kong street markets to learn about markets to explore by day.

The market gets going around 6pm, but vendors are often slow to get set up, so it's best not to arrive too early. The MTR stop for the Temple Street Night Mark is Jordan Station, Exit A.

Hong Kong Disneyland is located on Lantau Island. Here, you'll find a wonderful world filled with fun and fantasy populated with the cast and characters from Disney movies. The park is divided into seven lands: Adventureland; Fantasyland; Toy Story Land; Tomorrowland; Grizzly Gulch; Mystic Point; and Main Street, U.S.A.

Performances happen throughout the day in the various lands and feature everything from parades to musicals, right through to evening fireworks over the castle. Also on offer are a wide array of adventures, ranging from Jungle cruises to a trip to Tarzan's Treehouse, as well as water-based fun at Liki Tiki.

The park undertook significant renovations and upgrades in late 2019. One of the major highlights of this revitalization was the construction of the Castle of Magical Dreams. Here, your children can gaze in awe at wonders like Cinderella's Coach, Snow White's apple and Belle's rose. The new castle will also be the venue for daytime and evening musical shows and extravaganzas.

The second major upgrade is the addition of the Frozen area and the installation of the brand new ride called Wandering Oaken's Sliding Sleigh, where Olaf and Sven pull your sleigh to the top of the hill and send you on your way. In addition to the ride, you'll be able to meet Elsa and wander through the kingdom of Arendelle.

You can easily reach Hong Kong Disneyland on the MTR Disneyland Line, Disneyland Station.

As theme parks go, this one covers all the thrills you can handle in a day — a walk through old Hong Kong, roller coasters, a Grand Aquarium, and a look at rare and exotic wildlife. Ocean Park boasts a huge aquarium dome and offers a look at thousands of fish from 400 species, a Reef Tunnel, and a chance to get hands-on with sea stars and sea cucumbers.

Above the sea, you can partake in a Giant Panda Adventure, featuring giant pandas, red pandas, and the endangered Chinese Giant Salamander. Also worth checking out are special programs focused on the North and South Poles. Fun rides include the Mine Train, Raging River, Hair Raiser, and the Eagle. To reach Ocean Park, take the MTR South Island Line to Ocean Park Station.

Major changes are ongoing at Ocean Park, with older rides being replaced by new ones and with the park focusing more on marine conservation.

The Ocean Park theme park has just opened the long-awaited Water World section. This year-round aquatic park has 27 indoor and outdoor water-based attractions. Park highlights include Torrential River, Cyclone Spin, Tropical Twist, Thunder Loop, and Vortex. All include an element of water that either loops you, spins you, or sends you careening into a black hole.

If those sound interesting but not overly frightening, perhaps a ride down the Daredevil Drop or a plunge off the Bravery Cliffs might do the trick. All that said, it's not all about thrills. More family-oriented options include water features for children and a large wave pool. For those truly looking to chill out (or recover from the adrenaline rush) cabana beds are also available.

Dining options are available throughout the park including take-out treats, sit-down restaurants, and halal-certified establishments.

Why not make a holiday of it? Water World even has its own luxury hotels: the brand-new 417-room Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott and the 425-room Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong .

If you've had enough of the tight confines of Hong Kong and are ready for a little exercise, try escaping to the Dragon's Back Hike. Hong Kong's most popular hiking trail, this hike offers spectacular views out over the ocean, Big Wave Bay , Mount Collinson, Stanley, and Shek O . It's a pleasant change from the buzz of the big city to hear birds singing, the sound of small waterfalls, and the leaves rattling in the ocean breeze.

The hike is relatively easy but be sure to start at Section 8 (bus stop To Tei Wan). From here, the walk takes you up a short distance and then is predominantly downhill with rolling sections to Big Wave Bay. Once you've reached Big Wave Bay, you have the option of catching a taxi or minibus to nearby Shek O.

Both areas have fantastic beaches for swimming, and Shek O has a variety of restaurants serving good seafood. Don't forget to bring plenty of water and your bathing suit and towel on this hike. A swim to cool down followed by a fruit smoothie or ice cream at the end of the hike is heavenly.

As Hong Kong's most popular dining area, the lively streets that make up Lan Kwai Fong are packed with crowds checking out Hong Kong's trendiest restaurants. If you are looking for a place to eat in Hong Kong, especially at night, this is the place to come. Dining on the open-air patios lining the sidewalks, and watching the crowds stroll by is a must-do when in Hong Kong.

In addition to the street-level establishments, you'll find restaurants are literally stacked upon one another in the buildings along here. Be sure to check out the directories located at the main entrances. You can find cuisine from around the world. For a dependably good meal, try Bistecca (Italian) or Brickhouse (Mexican).

The main street in Lan Kwai Fong is D'Aguilar, but make sure you don't miss wandering down some of the many laneways to find hole-in-the-wall-style restaurants serving some of Hong Kong's best food. Lan Kwai Fong is just up from Queens Road in Central Hong Kong (MTR Central Station).

A visit to Tai O village offers an experience you won't find anywhere else in Hong Kong. Although it is a popular place to visit for tourists, it is a far cry from the busy city, crowded markets, and theme parks. Tai O is home to people who live a quieter, more traditional way of life.

The Tanka people who live in Tai O, found on Lantau Island, build their homes on stilts over tidal flats. Villagers offer boat rides around the village, after which you can visit the local markets and sample some of the fresh seafood. Occasional sightings of the endangered pink dolphin occur in the nearby waters. Many people visit Tai O village after they've made the journey up to the Big Buddha.

For an escape from the city towers to a wide-open space with a bit of culture thrown in, be sure to visit the Avenue of Stars. This is where the city pays homage to some of Hong Kong's best-known film stars. Similar to the Walk of Fame in Hollywood, the Avenue of Stars is dedicated to Chinese performers.

Closed for several years due to waterfront development, it has now reopened bigger and better than ever. The new walkway is curved and stretches farther out into Victoria Harbour than before, allowing fantastic views of Hong Kong Island. The Avenue of Stars is one of the best spots to catch the nightly laser show and see the neon lights shimmering across the water.

The famed handprints are back, along with two new impressive sculptures, one of Bruce Lee with a wonderful water feature and another of Anita Mui. Each night, just down the way, a water fountain dances and sprays water high into the air in a choreographed performance on a regular schedule.

Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery, located in Sha Tin, offers a beautiful and peaceful escape from the bustle of central Hong Kong and a look at the countryside. Set on a hilltop, the main access to the monastery is reached by walking up a long and curving set of stairs (approximately 400 steps), lined with hundreds of golden statues.

The walk is part of the attraction, and each of the statues is unique, many with quirky facial expressions and other interesting characteristics. Once at the top, the path opens into the square in front of the main temple, a welcome sight both because it's the end of the climb and for the impressive structures and statues that surround the open space.

Inside the main temple, small Buddha statues line the walls from almost the floor to the ceiling. In the square stands a large pagoda, and statues surround the complex. At the opposite end of the square from the main temple, the view extends out over the lush surroundings, with beautiful vistas looking over pine trees and rolling hills.

Despite the name, Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery is not actually a monastery at all, and no monks live on the site. It also contains far more than 10,000 Buddhas. The complex was built in the 1950s but is still listed as a historic site.

To reach the monastery, take the MTR East Rail line to Sha Tin Station, Exit B. It's easy to get confused here, and another temple is located on a nearby hill. Make sure you are on the right path before heading up.

Located in Central Hong Kong, this beautiful park is a true oasis in the jungle of high-rises and one of the most peaceful places to visit in the city. Stretching out along a hillside, this huge, lush park contains a small forest of mature trees, water features, and a number of important attractions.

One of the main highlights is the aviary. This large, outdoor area covered in netting is home to more than 80 species of birds, and wandering through this space, you would hardly believe you are not in a forest. High walkways take you up to canopy level, where you can see birds nesting and resting in the trees.

Also in the park is a greenhouse, the Hong Kong Visual Art Center, the Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware, and plenty of space to simply relax and soak up nature. MTR Admiralty Station, Exit C1.

This Buddhist temple dates to the 1930s but was rebuilt in the 1990s in the traditional Tang Dynasty style. The structures are all made of wood, and the large complex is incredibly impressive. In front of the complex are carefully sculpted bonsai trees surrounding the Lotus Pond Garden, with several ponds featuring water lilies.

The Chi Lin Nunnery and the nearby Nan Lian Garden are located in Diamond Hill, in Kowloon. To reach the site, take the MTR Kwun Tong Line to Diamond Hill Station, Exit C2.

If you are looking for a quick escape from the city and want a complete break from streets and cars, one of the easiest and most rewarding things to do is to take a ferry to Lamma Island. This beautiful island of rolling hills, scattered beaches, and quaint villages, has no roads or vehicles. You can hike through the interior to remote beaches and seaside villages.

Ferries will take you either to Yung Shue Wan or Sok Kwu Wan. Both of these villages are quite lovely and have restaurants. You can hike between these two villages, and many tourists choose to take the ferry to one of these and then hike to the other to catch the ferry back to Hong Kong Island. If you are interested in doing a hike on Lamma, see our article on the best hikes in Hong Kong to plan your route. If you don't want to do any hiking, Lamma Island still makes a beautiful outing.

Approximately 8,000 people live on this island, which is only about 13 square kilometers, but most of the island is simply covered in forest. Ferries leave the city from Central Pier 4 to go to Sok Kwu Wan and Yung Shue Wan and take about 30 to 40 minutes. Check the ferry schedule for times.

As you stroll down Hollywood Road, you will smell the incense from the Man Mo Temple long before you see the building. The temple was built in 1847 and is often remembered for its smoke-filled interior, where incredible coils of burning incense hang from the ceiling.

Here, worshipers pay tribute to Man, the god of Literature, and Mo, the god of War. For those looking to see into the future, fortune-tellers are on-site and will advise you for a small fee. Note, there are multiple Man Mo temples throughout Hong Kong, but this location on Hollywood Road is the largest and most famous.

Address: 124-126 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong

Tsim Sha Tsui, known more commonly as TST, is a shopping and entertainment hub at the southern point of Kowloon and offers a real taste of what Hong Kong has to offer. The Tsim Sha Tsui district is a melting pot of culture and commerce that speaks to the heart of Hong Kong.

Nathan Road is the main artery running through the area, where you'll find numerous restaurants, boutiques, and other unique vendors. If you're looking for the world-class luxury Hong Kong promises, you can find high-end retailers on nearby Canton Road .

At the southern end of the neighborhood, you'll find the Clock Tower , a Hong Kong landmark. Nearby, the Tsim Sha Tsui Cultural Complex is the premier cultural center in the country and includes tourist attractions such as the Hong Kong Space Museum and the Hong Kong Museum of Art . In the evening, the waterfront is the perfect place to watch the nightly light show, lighting up the sky and skyscrapers across the harbor.

Octopus Card :

• An Octopus Card functions like a prepaid credit card, which can be used on the MTR; buses; trams; local ferries, including the Star Ferry; taxis; 7-Elevens; McDonald's restaurants; and many other fast food restaurants. This is incredibly convenient and will save you trying to find the correct change for transportation. You can also reload the card with more money at any time.

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Day Trip to Macau : In October of 2018, the 55- kilometer-long Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge opened, connecting Hong Kong and Macau. However, most visitors use the high-speed ferries, which transport passengers to the bustling island of Macau in just under an hour. You can easily spend a day or even a couple of nights exploring the sites of Macau . People come here for everything from shopping and entertainment to visiting temples and historic sites.

Hong Kong Outdoors & More : If you have time to spare in Hong Kong, be sure to see the street markets . For those more interested in nature, don't miss our articles on Hong Kong's beaches and the best hiking trails .

Excursions : For a quick hop into mainland China, you can easily catch a train to Shenzhen, just over the border, for a look around and some shopping. If you want to head farther inland and see some of China's most beautiful scenery, consider taking a bullet train from Shenzhen to Guilin and explore the Li River and quaint town of Yangshuo. For details on how to make this journey and how to make the most of it, see our article on Guilin to Yangshuo & a Li River Cruise .

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The 25 top attractions to visit in Hong Kong

The city's top attractions, landmarks, and sightseeing spots you’d be mad to miss

Hong Kong is packed with many wonderful attractions, so it’s easy for visitors to feel overwhelmed – that's why we've put together a list of must-visit landmarks and sightseeing spots that will let you make the most of your trip. From places to view Hong Kong's iconic skyline  to exploring  historic landmarks  and  the city’s best museums , this one-stop guide will make you fall in love with Hong Kong.

RECOMMENDED:  Looking for more activities? Our ultimate Hong Kong Bucket List is what you need.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Top Hong Kong Attractions to visit

Avenue of stars.

• Attractions
• Tsim Sha Tsui

There was a time when Hong Kong’s filmic output was only bested by Hollywood and Bollywood, and while it’s a less prodigious beast these days, the city’s film industry still once produced illustrious names like Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Jet Li, the Shaw Brothers, John Woo, and Wong Kar-wai. Avenue of Stars pays tribute to these figures and many others who have helped burnish Hong Kong’s cinematic legacy. Selfie opportunities come with sculptures of Hong Kong legends such as martial arts master Bruce Lee, as well as singer and actress Anita Mui. Even Hong Kong's beloved local cartoon character McDull has a prime spot in front of the Victoria Harbour skyline. Plus, you can check out over 100 handprint plaques set into the wooden handrails along the waterfront.

The Big Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha)

• Lantau Island

Tian Tan Buddha – or as it’s better known, the Big Buddha – is Hong Kong’s most recognisable and iconic landmark. It was 12 years in the making: 34 metres high, and accessible to visitors by over 200 gruelling steps. Needless to say, be prepared for aching legs by the time you’re at the top. Just beside the Buddha is Po Lin Monastery, a wondrous, incense-filled sanctum that ranks among Buddhism’s most important institutions. And if that slog gives you an appetite, refuel at the neighbouring Ngong Ping Village.

Central to Mid-Levels Escalator

• Things to do

One of the busiest areas in the neighbourhood is the  Mid-Levels Escalators , the world's longest outdoor covered escalator system, providing transport from the urban areas of Central to the steep hillsides of the residential Mid-Levels. Served as a backdrop in films like  Chungking Mansion , step on the rolling walkway and you'll be rewarded with the best views of Hong Kong’s winding streets and tight alleys.

Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir

• Sham Shui Po

The Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir in Shek Kip Mei is one of the many hidden landmarks of Hong Kong. Although it is no longer in operation, the reservoir still stands tall and proud, now functioning as both a popular tourist attraction ( with free tours available ) and an unofficial morning exercise spot for nearby residents. Discovered by the Water Supplies Department during land renovations in 2020, this magnificent structure is the first circular underground reservoir and one of the oldest to exist in Hong Kong. In the following year, it was rated as a Grade I historical monument by the Antiquities Advisory Board.

Hong Kong Disneyland

You can find the happiest place on Earth right here in Hong Kong. From kid-friendly attractions at Fantasyland and dazzling parades down Main Street, USA, to high-octane thrills at Tomorrowland and music-filled performances at Adventureland, there’s plenty of magical fun to be had. If you need some help going around the place, check out our ultimate guide to Hong Kong Disneyland .

Hong Kong Observation Wheel

Okay, it’s no London Eye, but the Hong Kong Observation Wheel does still provide stunning views of Victoria Harbour and Central. The whole circuit on this 60-metre-high Ferris Wheel takes around 15 minutes, providing ample opportunity to get your snaps of the city, whether during the day or at night. 

Hong Kong Space Museum

• Science and technology

It’s hard to miss this egg-shaped dome on the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront. The theatre dome makes up half of the Hong Kong Space Museum, along with two permanent exhibitions:  Hall of the Cosmos and the Hall of Space Exploration. Visitors can enjoy documentary screenings under the curved ceiling of the planetarium, or head over to the main museum and discover plenty of action and gadgetry for space and science enthusiasts. 

Hong Kong Wetland Park

This 61-hectare wetland reserve and ecotourism park is home to a diverse range of wetland plants and animals, from mangroves to rare species of birds. Promoting the importance of wildlife and nature conservation, the Wetland Park is great for birdwatchers who are keen to spot migrations – and for families to enjoy a fun, informative day out.

Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens

Slap-bang in the middle of Central is one of the world’s oldest botanical gardens and an actual oasis within Hong Kong’s urban jungle. Aside from the lush forestry and peacefulness ideal for a quiet stroll, the gardens are also home to various species of birds, mammals, and reptiles. Follow our guide to take a tour around the stunning park .

Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden

Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden spreads over 148 hectares of land on the northern slopes of Tai Mo Shan, Hong Kong’s highest mountain. The farm was originally established to aid poor farmers in the New Territories but has since morphed into a nature conservation centre. Wander around the vegetable gardens and greenhouses, and learn about fascinating organic growth methods. It’s perfect for those trying to transition into a more sustainable living at home. Visit exotics animals like flamingos, deer and, if you’re lucky, the occasional porcupines and pangolins in the area surrounding the farm.

Man Mo Temple

Man Mo Temple is a mid-nineteenth-century historical building and a declared monument located on Hollywood Road. It’s surrounded by antique stores that are common in the area. The temple is mostly dedicated to Man Cheong, the god of literature, and Mo Tai, the god of martial arts, a pair of deities often worshipped by students who were about to take Imperial China’s civil service exams. With its clouds of intense and introspective calm, it makes for a haven from all the downtown hubbubs outside.

• West Kowloon

Clad with a large harbour-facing LED screen, this waterfront museum is a must-visit for art lovers. Inside, the building houses numerous galleries with exhibits that cover themes of architecture and design, post-war art, conceptual art, installation art, multimedia works and more.  Aside from exhibitions, visitors can also enjoy public facilities and spaces including shops, restaurants, the M+ cinema, and a beautiful rooftop garden offering expansive views of Victoria Harbour and the city's skyline.

Nan Lian Garden

• Wong Tai Sin

This public park is so leafy and peaceful it looks like an illustration from the Tang Dynasty. Wander around through calm waters and rocks as you head towards the unmissable red Zi Wu Bridge and stunning gold Pavilion of Absolute Perfection. Not far away from the garden is Chi Lin Nunnery and a vegetarian restaurant worthy of a visit, if you find yourself peckish.

Ngong Ping 360 cable car

One of the longest aerial cable car systems in Asia, the Ngong Ping 360 takes guests on a visually spectacular journey from Tung Chung to Ngong Ping. During the ride, you'll get to take in fantastic views of Lantau Island including the North Lantau Country Park, Tung Chung Bay, and the Hong Kong International Airport. For the brave souls out there, get on the Crystal+ cable cars, where all sides and bottom of the cabin are made of transparent tempered glass to provide a 360-degree view.

Ocean Park Hong Kong

• Wong Chuk Hang

Located on the southside of Hong Kong Island, Ocean Park has a special spot in many Hongkongers' hearts. Hop on the many hair-raising rollercoaster rides and visit an array of animals and exotic birds. If you’re in town during Halloween, the theme park is also incredibly popular for its month-long – and genuinely rather spooky – Halloween attractions.

As you might guess from the name, The Peak is the high point on Hong Kong Island, offering the best views of the city stretching from the skyscrapers and towers of the city centre to the mountains in the New Territories. It’s accessible by the Peak Tram, which passes the city’s buildings at a dizzying incline as it travels up to 1,300 feet above sea level. To get the best possible views at the top, we suggest you head to the viewing platforms at the anvil-shaped Peak Tower. Or if you fancy a hike, take a stroll around the Peak Circle Walk, where you’ll get an astonishing bird’s-eye view of the metropolis below.

The transformation of the former Police Married Quarters into a centre for all things creative and design-based is one of the largest, most ambitious conservation projects in Hong Kong. An exciting mix of creative enterprises can be found at PMQ, where old residential units have been converted into small boutiques selling handmade products – ranging from jewellery to homeware goods – as well as design studios and art spaces. Pop-ups, markets, art festivals, and festive happenings are also common occurrences at PMQ.

Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck

If The Peak doesn ’t satisfy your need for aerial views of Hong Kong, try s ky100 at the International Commerce Centre (ICC). The clue is in the name. An indoor observation deck located on the 100th floor of the ICC skyscraper, sky100 provides an unobscured 360-degree view of the entire territory of Hong Kong. You can head there during the day to get a snapshot with some clear skies or pop in at night and capture the city ’ s famous night lights. Cap off your visit with the sky-high dining experience at Café 100 at The Ritz-Carlton where you can savour the top-quality delicacies with a side of stunning view. 

• Ships and boats

A less-than-five-minute journey from shore to shore, the Star Ferry is the swiftest and cheapest way to travel between Tsim Sha Tsui and Central or Wan Chai. Despite its short length, the journey still feels leisurely, helped in no small part by the cooling breeze. And you’ll also get some truly spectacular views of Hong Kong’s skyline – essentially front-row seats to Victoria Harbour. Cameras at the ready people – city vistas don't get much better than this.

Tai O Fishing Village

Showcasing a different side of Hong Kong, Tai O is one of the few remaining fishing villages in Hong Kong. Wander through its streets or hop on a sampan to see stilt houses perched above the waters. There are also many eateries and street food stalls around Tai O where you can delight in local bites such as 'sa young' (a Cantonese-style doughnut), tofu fa, jumbo fishballs, grilled seafood, and many more.

Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Art

Tai Kwun  is a massive independent art space in the heart of Central and one of our city's biggest creative hubs. The former Central Police compound opened its doors to the public in June 2018 and is a conglomerate of historic sites, repurposed buildings, art galleries, as well as various  bars and restaurants . The heritage site slash art space  hosts events and art exhibitions around the year, including  immersive programmes, live performances, and workshops, providing an opportunity for Hongkongers and visitors alike to re-imagine this once-closed-off part of town.

Tsim Sha Tsui Clock Tower

The historic clock tower, built in 1915 and part of the sadly demolished Kowloon-Canton Railway terminus, is one of the most famous buildings in Tsim Sha Tsui. A declared monument, the 44-metre-tall red brick and granite tower is a reminder of times past and makes for a fantastic photo-op with Victoria Harbour in the background.

Tsz Shan Monastery

This monastery houses the world’s largest bronze statue of Guan Yin, the goddess of mercy (also known as Kwun Yum in Cantonese). It’s quite the sight: 76 metres tall, and twice the size of Big Buddha on Lantau Island. The Tsz Shan Monastery took 12 years to fully complete and is designed in a style that echoes the Tang Dynasty. In the Buddhist compound, there are several grand halls and beautiful gardens. Do bear in mind there’s a strict limit on how many visitors can come here each day, so booking online in advance is essential. Take a look at our guide to visiting the monastery .

Wong Tai Sin Temple

A home to three religions – Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism – Wong Tai Sin Temple is  the  go-to place for worship during big celebrations such as Buddha’s birthday, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Chinese New Year. It's also a popular site courtesy of its gorgeously ornate buildings. The historic temple is also known for its supposedly accurate fortune-telling via something called 'kau chim', where you must shake a bamboo cylinder containing various fortune sticks until one that holds your fortune falls out.

10,000 Buddhas Monastery

• Historic buildings and sites

The 431 steps leading up to the 10,000 Buddhas Monastery are lined with life-sized, gold-painted Buddha statues, each entirely distinct from the next. At the top, at the complex itself (also known as Man Fat Sze), another 12,000 golden statues will greet you, as well as pavilions and a pagoda. Oh, and the panorama of Sha Tin and its mountainous surroundings. In a nutshell: it’s all very scenic and Insta-worthy.

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Planning a trip to Hong Kong? Our travel guide contains up-to-date information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay and what to eat !

• What to see
• How to get there
• Public transport
• Where to stay
• Where to eat

The  most influential city in Southeast Asia , Hong Kong has more than 7 million inhabitants in just 1,000 square kilometers (386 square miles), making it one of the most densely populated places on the planet.

Why visit Hong Kong?

A dazzlingly contemporary city with legendary history  and culture, vast protected natural parks, and mouth-watering cuisine, Hong Kong has an endless list of reasons to visit . Contrasts abound in the former British colony, and a fusion of ancient Chinese tradition, Western influence, and modernity gives the city its unique personality.

One of the world's most important financial centers and commercial ports , Hong Kong is a hotspot for any number of leisure and cultural activities ; it's a shoppers' haven, offering everything from street markets to chic boutiques, and its iconic skyline puts it up there with New York City .

Admiring the  Symphony of Lights show  from the illuminated Victoria Harbour, enjoying an elegant meal with a view from a skyscraper, immersing yourself in nature on Victoria Peak, or delving into local culture in a market are just a handful of the ever-compelling reasons to travel to Hong Kong .

Looking for a place to stay?

Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Hong Kong  will help you decide the best areas to look for hotels or apartments, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!

top activities

Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Enjoy spectacular views from Ngong Ping reaching the peak by cable car . Admire Lantau Island's natural scenery and marvel at the majestic Big Buddha.

Symphony of Lights Traditional Boat Cruise Watch the the incredible Symphony of Lights show on Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour from the famous Aqua Luna on this traditional boat cruise !

Dive into the diverse culinary scene of Hong Kong on this food tour , where you'll get to taste a variety of authentic dishes served in traditional restaurants.

Ticket to Disneyland Hong Kong With this ticket to Disneyland Hong Kong , you'll meet your favourite Disney characters in the city's most iconic theme park - fun for the whole family!

Victoria Harbour Evening Cruise Sailing around Victoria Harbour is an unmissable experience in Hong Kong, and there's no better way to enjoy it than aboard a traditional Chinese junk.

Hong Kong MTR Airport Express Save time and money with this quick and easy airport train . Reach the centre of Hong Kong in 30 minutes and enjoy incredible city views along the way.

The Go City: Hong Kong Explorer Pass offers a convenient and hassle-free way of seeing all the main attractions in Hong Kong at your own pace!

Hong Kong Free Tour On this  free walking tour of Hong Kong , you'll uncover all the secrets of this enormous Asian metropolis and its colonial past.

Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck Experience unique views from the tallest skyscraper in Hong Kong. Travel up to the 100th floor in just 60 seconds and enjoy views of the stunning city below.

Lantau Island Private Tour Join us on a trip to one of the must-see places in Hong Kong; Lantau Island . You're sure to be impressed by the incredible views!

Macau Day Trip On this  day trip to Macau , you'll discover the perfect mixture between Portuguese colonial architecture and the unmissable atmosphere of Las Vegas .

Hong Kong Pub Crawl Experience the best of Hong Kong's vibrant nightlife on this pub crawl . Meet new people, enjoy free shots and dance till dawn!

Go City: Hong Kong All-Inclusive Pass Booking the tourist ticket Go City: Hong Kong All-Inclusive Pass you'll be able to enjoy the most popular attractions in the city over your chosen days.

Private Tour of Hong Kong See the best of Hong Kong on a private walking tour that is tailor-made to suit your likes and interests. There's no better way of exploring!

Hong Kong Tourist Bus The Hong Kong Tourist Bus is the most comfortable and practical way to discover this incredible city . Hop on and hop off to explore at your own pace.

Hong Kong Harbour Night Cruise Admire Hong Kong's impressive skyline and the illumination of its skyscrapers after dark on this  Star Ferry cruise of Victoria Harbour at night .

Star Ferry Harbour Tour No trip to Hong Kong is complete without a cruise on Victoria Harbour! Admire the city's incredible skyline from a new perspective with a Star Ferry boat tour.

Hong Kong Guided Tour & Dim Sum Lunch Immerse yourself in the city's culture in just one morning with this Hong Kong Guided Tour & Dim Sum Lunch. Visit a local market and enjoy the cuisine!

Lantau Island Tour Join us on this  tour of Lantau Island!  We'll visit the  Lantau Giant Buddha  and the beautiful Tai O fishing village , and get to taste delicious local delicacies .

Kowloon Tour Visit all the highlights in Kowloon , such as  Mong Kok , the Flower Market , the Ladies Market , and more. Let's discover this unique side of Hong Kong!

Hong Kong to Beijing 11 or 14-Day Tour Enjoy the best of China on this  11 or 14-day tour from Hong Kong to Beijing . We'll visit important cities and learn about the  origins of the Silk Road .

Victoria Peak Tram Sky Pass Enjoy spectacular views over Hong Kong . Your Sky Pass gives you access to the  Victoria Peak Tram  and to the  Sky Terrace 428 Viewpoint .

Why is our Hong Kong travel guide the best?

Introducing Hong Kong is a guide written by travelers for travelers  and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the country.

All the information in this guide is valid as of December 2022. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us .

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Top 30 Things to Do in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is blessed with many popular attractions and sightseeing opportunities. You will find endless things to see and do.

Here, we have listed the top 30 things to do in Hong Kong for you. These are places and sights that give Hong Kong its highlights and unique local color.

1. Take the Tram to Victoria Peak

With an elevation of 552 meters, Victoria Peak is the highest point on Hong Kong Island. It is the best place to look out over the towering city skyline.

Riding the 125-year-old Peak Tram is a visual experience. This 8-minute trip will offer you sweeping views of Hong Kong Island's skyscrapers, verdant trees, and walking paths.

On the peak, you will feast your eyes on a sea of skyscrapers and the city's beautiful blue waterways, and even the green hills of the distant New Territories, if the weather permits. At night, you can enjoy the beautiful night view of Hong Kong - a dazzling galaxy of light.

See our Half-Day Hong Kong Island Tour including Victoria Peak with a one-way Peak Tram trip.

2. Ride the Star Ferry

The Star Ferry is one of the best ways to enjoy the view of the Victoria Harbour skyline. The Star Ferry has been carrying passengers from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon and back since 1888.

You can embark on a trip from Tsim Sha Tsui Ferry Pier on the Kowloon Peninsula to either the Central Ferry Piers or the Wan Chai Pier on the Hong Kong Island side. The shortest voyage takes about 7 minutes and costs US$0.25.

It is memorable to take a close look at so many towering skyscrapers while floating on the calm waters.

3. Soak Up the Temple Street Night Market Atmosphere

To experience local life in Hong Kong, the street markets are worth a visit. Temple Street is one of the best markets with a local atmosphere. There, you can find a great variety of things, such as local food, clothes, watches, jade, and antiques. Street singers and fortune-tellers make it more colorful.

Read more on Top Street Markets in Hong Kong .

4. Stroll Along Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade

Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade runs along the tip of Kowloon's waterfront. It is one of the best places to see the beautiful views of the Hong Kong skyline and bustling Victoria Harbour.

The Avenue of Stars , the Clock Tower, Star Ferry Pier, and Hong Kong Museum of Art are located along the promenade.

It is enjoyable to take a stroll and experience a slower pace of life in the international metropolis.

5. Enjoy Dim Sum in a Local Restaurant

Dim sum literally means "to touch your heart" and refers to a vast number of exquisite bite-sized dishes.

The diversity of dim sum dishes is amazing. The restaurants always offer 30 or 40 different dishes for customers to choose from, including shrimp dumplings ( har gow ), congee (rice porridge), steamed pork dumplings ( siu mei ), and spring rolls.

6. Ride the Tram (Ding Ding) for Sightseeing

The tram has been used as a vehicle in Hong Kong Island for over a century. It is affectionately called "Ding" by the locals. You will be surprised that this old-fashioned contraption still operates in this modern metropolis.

A tram ride is a cheap and enjoyable way to experience the color and atmosphere of Hong Kong's backstreet life. It stops at all the right places and goes slowly enough so that tourists can see the sights along the streets and can get close-up photos from the top of the boxcars.

7. Pray at Wong Tai Sin Temple

Wong Tai Sin Temple, built in 1945, is one of Hong Kong's most famous temples. It is known as a temple that "makes every wish come true upon request".

The temple is unique for being dedicated to three religions (Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism). Even though you may not believe in those religions, this temple is worth a visit because of its natural setting and beautifully decorated buildings.

8. Have Fun at Hong Kong Disneyland

If you're traveling with kids, Hong Kong Disneyland is a must-visit place. It is a fairy-tale world with classic Disney attractions, unique shops and restaurants, and dazzling live entertainment in a delightful setting. Travel with us to enjoy a worry-free Hong Kong Disneyland tour including tickets and transfers.

9. Visit Pandas at Ocean Park Hong Kong

Hong Kong's biggest and most popular theme park is Ocean Park Hong Kong. Along with acrobatic sea mammals, there are exhibits of other sea creatures. The Amazing Asian Animals section has pandas.

You can ride the sky tram to see the scenery. There is a roller coaster and many other big rides. See our One-Day Ocean Park Hong Kong Tour Package .

10. Relax at Lan Kwai Fong

Lan Kwai Fong is an L-shaped uphill trail in the Central district of Hong Kong. It is an entertainment area with bars and restaurants.

This stone-paved path is full of European-style bars and restaurants. Most of them are open from noon to 1am or later. As night falls, many young people love to party there.

Originating in the early 1970s, Lan Kwai Fong has developed from an alley into a region rich in Western culture.

11. Enjoy a Macau Day Trip

Only an hour away by ferry, another world awaits you with Portuguese buildings to see, a different style of cuisine to taste, and huge casino resorts. The world's biggest gambling city is a big change of pace from Hong Kong.

Get detailed information about How to Plan a One Day Trip to Macau from Hong Kong .

12. Explore Lantau Island

Lantau Island is the largest island in Hong Kong. It is still a sparsely populated island of natural parkland, beaches, mountains, and hiking and biking trails.

You can get away to this island for relaxation, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures.

A 25-minute ride on Ngong Ping 360 offers an astonishing bird's-eye view of the magical deep blue sea and lush green mountainside.

13. Discover Hong Kong's History

Hong Kong has had a fascinating history since the last emperor of the Song Dynasty fled there 700 years ago. British colonization made Hong Kong a key port and a stage for battle during WWII.

Hong Kong has a number of good museums but the Hong Kong Museum of History will probably stand out as the favorite for tourists. Learn why Hong Kong became one of the world's foremost trade, investment, and financial centers.

14. Visit Tai O Fishing Village

Tai O Fishing Village was the earliest developed fishing village on Lantau Island and is known as the "Venice of Hong Kong".

Thanks to its location far away from the busy urban areas, Tai O is less affected by urbanization and still retains the style of the early fishing village.

Most of the residents of Tai O are Hakkas, who make a living from fishing and live a peaceful life. The residents shuttle around on small boats. The high-rise houses built on the water are a major feature of the village.

15. Experience the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge

Opened on October 23 rd , 2018, Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge is the world's longest sea crossing bridge. It is a combination of a cross-sea bridge, an artificial island, and a submarine tunnel, with a total length of 55 kilometers.

The west end connects to the Zhuhai and Macao ports and the east end connects to Hong Kong Port, which greatly facilitates the local people and tourists from Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao.

16. Ride the Famous Central–Mid-Levels Escalator

The escalator connects the central business district with the Mid-Levels residential area. It is 800 meters long and is the world's longest outdoor escalator. The journey takes about 20 minutes.

The Mid-Levels Escalator traverses a number of major Central streets, including Queen's Road Central and Hollywood Road. There are many attractions, such as the former Central Police Station, along the way. It is a good and free means of transport for tourists.

In addition, the escalator also passes through the SoHo area, which has restaurants and bars. It is full of European-style bars, Hong Kong tea restaurants, and souvenir shops. Foodies enjoy finding satisfactory food.

17. Enjoy the Famous Light Show: A Symphony of Lights

A Symphony of Lights is a famous laser light and music show in Hong Kong. It utilizes 44 skyscrapers on both sides of Victoria Harbour. It is the world's largest light and sound show.

The best place to watch the show is from the Avenue of Stars on the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, the Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai, or the Star Ferry in Victoria Harbour.

18. Admire Po Lin Monastery and the Big Buddha

Po Lin Monastery is located on Ngong Ping, Lantau Island. The monastery has one of the biggest bronze statues of Buddha in a sitting position in the world, called the Big Buddha or Tian Tan Buddha.

The Buddha statue is made of 202 pieces of bronze, weighs 250 tons, and reaches up to 23 meters.

19. Bargain at Stanley Market

Stanley Market is a must-see spot if you visit Stanley at the southern end of Hong Kong Island.

There are stalls and shops selling a wide variety of items, such as traditional Chinese handicrafts, antiques, paintings, silks, clothing, fabrics, postcards, and more. It is definitely a good place to buy souvenirs and enjoy the fun of bargaining.

20. Visit the Floating Village at Aberdeen

Aberdeen was originally a fishing village and it is now a popular tourist spot. It is unique due to its tranquil beauty and the mix of tradition and modernity.

Hundreds of villagers still retain the traditional lifestyle and live on the fishing boats. You can take a small fishing boat to explore the floating village and listen to the fishermen telling stories of the past.

21. Relax at Repulse Bay Beach

Repulse Bay is located on the south side of Victoria Peak on Hong Kong Island. It is known as "the first bay in the world" and also has the reputation of being the "Oriental Hawaii". It is the most popular and most accessible beach in Hong Kong.

Repulse Bay is one of the most prestigious residential areas in Hong Kong, with numerous villas on the slopes of the bay.

22. Lose yourself in the Tranquil Nan Lian Garden

Nan Lian Garden is a traditional Chinese garden in the style of the Tang Dynasty (618–907). It is a perfect blend of hills, water features, trees, rocks, bridges, and wooden structures.

Surrounded by high-rise buildings, this is an elegant garden that is rare in the downtown area. It will impress you with its striking contrast of tradition and modernity.

23. Taste Amazing Seafood at Jumbo Kingdom

Jumbo Kingdom is home to a famous restaurant floating in Aberdeen's harbor, the Jumbo Floating Restaurant, and is surrounded by million-dollar yachts. Jumbo Kingdom offers a free shuttle service to/from the restaurant. It is the world's largest floating restaurant and is best known for its fresh seafood, traditional Cantonese cuisine, and its traditional Chinese decorations.

24. Hike Along Dragon's Back

If you are a lover of outdoor activities, you can enjoy a hike along Dragon's Back, which is at the southeast corner of Hong Kong Island. This hike is rated as one of the best urban walking routes in Asia.

During the 4–5 hours' hike along the mountain ridge, you will enjoy a bird's-eye view of the sea, mountains, and outlying islands.

25. Experience Excitement at Happy Valley Racecourse

Happy Valley Racecourse, located in the heart of Hong Kong Island, is surrounded by high-rise buildings. It was the first racecourse in Hong Kong, with a capacity for 35,000 spectators.

Every year, the horse racing season lasts from September to June and every race attracts tens of thousands of horse racing fans. The races at Happy Valley Racecourse are usually held on Wednesday evenings. The rest are held at Sha Tin Racecourse.

26. Spend Some Time on Lamma Island

Lamma Island is the third largest island in Hong Kong. As it is close to the city, this island has become a leisurely weekend resort. Blessed with fresh air, beautiful coastal scenery, and delicious seafood, it attracts many local people and tourists.

There, you can experience the old fishing village culture and you can also feel the romantic Western atmosphere. You can take a leisurely hike amid the picturesque scenery, visit the art shops, and taste some seafood.

27. Hunt for the Best Bargains at Mong Kok Ladies' Market

It is so called because almost all of the stalls sold women's clothing and supplies in the early days. Nowadays, in addition to women's clothing, you can also find men's clothing, leather bags, jewelry, toys, cosmetics, and even household items. This open-air market has a length of over 100 meters.

28. Visit Hong Kong Wetland Park

Hong Kong Wetland Park is located in the northern part of Tin Shui Wai, New Territories. You may not believe that Hong Kong, which has a lot of high-rise buildings, can have such a large-scale original wetland reserve.

The park has a variety of ecological environments, such as freshwater swamps, reed beds, ponds, mudflats, and mangroves. There are many birds, fish, insects, and amphibians living there.

If you are a photography enthusiast or a nature lover, you will love this wetland park.

29. Head to the Stars at the Hong Kong Space Museum

The Hong Kong Space Museum is located in Tsim Sha Tsui, close to Victoria Harbour. The unique egg-shaped design is very eye-catching. It is one of the most advanced space science museums in the world. It is a good place to visit if you are traveling with kids.

30. Explore Sai Kung

Sai Kung is located on Sai Kung Peninsula in the eastern part of Hong Kong. It has the reputation of being the "Back Garden of Hong Kong". The best way to see the scenery there is to hire a boat and take a trip around the island (about 150 Hong Kong dollars). You can also stroll along the beach and enjoy the rich seafood.

Tour Hong Kong with Us

Beyond the glass and steel of Hong Kong's commercial persona, the city also boasts a vibrant cultural scene. You will learn more about this city when you travel with a local expert, who can guide you to explore the traditional streets and taste the local cuisine. Just tell us what you want to experience and we will tailor-make a tour for you.

Here are our most popular Hong Kong tours:

• Half-Day Hong Kong Island Tour - including Victoria Peak with a one-way Peak Tram and Aberdeen with a sampan ride
• One-Day Lantau Island and Giant Buddha Tour - covering Po Lin Monastery, Giant Buddha and Tai O Fishing Village
• 4-Day Hong Kong Family Tour - taking you to visit the well-known Victoria Peak and have fun at Disneyland Park

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The 10 best things to do in Hong Kong in 2024

Feb 16, 2024 • 6 min read

It’s hard not to fall in love with Hong Kong at first sight... here's what to do when you get there © itsskin / Getty Images

It's hard not to fall in love with Hong Kong at first sight, a disarmingly high-rise metropolis in the dreamiest of island settings. Then you start to discover just how memorable the food scene is, how vibrant the nightlife is, how incredible the shopping is – and game over, you're smitten. 

This modern cityscape has become a global icon at a breakneck speed, emerging from British colonial rule to staggering wealth and success on the world's stage. This newfound power and influence have brought confrontational challenges with the Chinese government as it attempts to bring its upstart territory to heel. For now, at least, this incredible city retains its allure. 

It's hard to know where to begin in Hong Kong – the scale of its attractions can be overwhelming. Start your must-see list with our ten favorite things to do there.

1. Marvel at Hong Kong's skyline from the deck of the Star Ferry

Despite rumors in 2022 that the service would close after 142 years, Hong Kong's iconic Star Ferries continue to chug the ten-minute trip across Victoria Harbour between Kowloon and Central. Costing mere pennies each way, it's a commute dressed up as the world's cheapest sightseeing cruise. It's also simply the best way to take in the skyscrapers (over 500 are above 150m/492ft tall) and jungle-clad hills that Hong Kong Island is best known for.

Detour: Star Ferry also runs a one-hour Harbour Tour voyage with pick-ups at Tsim Sha Tsui, Central, and Wan Chai.

Read more: Copy My Trip: rediscovering Hong Kong's street markets, buzzy restaurants and Star Ferries

2. Savor craft cocktails in Asia's most creative bars

With eight venues ranking in Asia's 50 Best Bars for 2023 (including first and eighth place with Coa and Argo, respectively), Hong Kong's bar scene is positively humming with creativity. Coa is all about boutique agave and the flavors of Mexico, while Argo utilizes sustainably sourced staples like coffee and cacao to make a statement about climate change. Hong Kong's trailblazing mixologists also include Quinary , inspired by the Spanish molecular restaurant El Bulli, and The Old Man , which takes its inspiration from Ernest Hemingway.

3. Explore Hong Kong Island by tram 

Hong Kong's teetering trams have been traversing the north shore of Hong Kong Island since 1904. Looking like slimmed-down London buses, the double-decker "ding dings" are a fun and low-impact means of exploration, and you get a killer view from the top deck. Hop on an eastbound tram to North Point, and you'll have the added thrill of trundling right through the middle of Chun Yeung Street Market , inches away from stalls and carts stacked with glossy cabbages and fresh seafood.

4. Queue up for Michelin-starred roast goose

Glitzy Hong Kong has some of the best (and most expensive) fine dining in Asia, but you can still eat like royalty on a budget if you know where to go. Yat Lok and Kam's Roast Goose are two unpretentious local diners that specialize in the Cantonese staple of roast goose over rice. Both serve glorious renditions of the dish for around HK$100, and both also happen to have a Michelin star.

Local tip: Goose leg is more highly prized than breast and typically costs more on menus.

5. Go for a hike up and around Victoria Peak

Taller than Hong Kong's highest skyscraper, the 552m (1811ft)  Victoria Peak is Hong Kong's most popular beauty spot, with hordes of visitors riding the white-knuckle Peak Tram to its upper terminus for jaw-dropping views of the city and the South China Sea. To skip the crowds and stretch your legs, consider hiking up from Pok Fu Lam Reservoir, a relatively gentle ascent, and then circling the top following the Ludgard Road loop, a flat, accessible trail with panoramic viewpoints. They're worth the effort, but allow 2.5 hours to complete the 6km (3.7 miles) route.

Planning tip: Aim to hit the Peak just before sunset to see the skyline in both day and night mode.

6. Have a night at the races, Hong Kong style

Wednesday night is race night on Hong Kong Island, with thousands of revelers descending on the Happy Valley Racecourse to watch horses thunder around the track, place a bet or two, and drink copious amounts of beer. The atmosphere is usually electric, with live music and silly wigs a-plenty, and entry costs just HK$10 using your Octopus (subway) card. It's one of the most fun things to do at night in Hong Kong. The oval race track, first laid out in 1845, is overlooked by a cliff face of towering apartment blocks and makes for a remarkable setting.

Local tip: Outside of race days, joggers can use the course as a public running track.

7. Get nostalgic for old Hong Kong at Yau Ma Tei

For a taste of old Hong Kong, steeped in neon and nostalgia, head to Yau Ma Tei in Kowloon where you'll find mahjong parlors, martial arts dens, dried seafood sellers, cleaver shops, plus Hong Kong's oldest theater , performing Cantonese opera. Be sure to stop in for a cuppa at one of the area's retro cha chaan tang (teahouses), and if you're feeling in fine voice, head to a neighborhood "singalong parlor" for old-time karaoke and beers with the locals.

8. Seek out atmospheric urban temples

Easily overlooked amid all the tightly packed, high-rise modernity are Hong Kong's many urban temples, with their double-eave tiled rooftops, resident fortune tellers and hanging coils of incense. Some are dedicated to Tin Hau (Mazu), a sea goddess, while others honor a Chinese general called Che Kung. The gods of literature and war are also represented, as is the case with the magnificent Man Mo Temple . Entry is usually free and the temples are at their busiest during Hong Kong's regular folk festivals.

9. Embark on an island-hopping adventure

There are some 250 islands around Hong Kong, a few of which are an easy ferry trip away from the piers at Central. You might try laidback Lamma with its hippy vibes and craft beer shacks, or hipster Cheung Chau with its temples, trails and beaches. Lantau , Hong Kong's biggest island that's been connected to the mainland since 1997, is home to the world's largest seated bronze Buddha , as well as the world's most famous mouse at Hong Kong Disneyland .

10. Bag a bargain at the street markets

Hong Kong is a shopper's nirvana with more malls per square mile than most places, but it's on the street and in its markets that you'll find the best retail buzz. Temple Street Night Market is perfect for souvenirs, while the nearby Yau Ma Tei Fruit Market is a hive of commerce at all hours. Cat Street is the go-to spot for vintage and curio stalls, and for snacks, the retro "cooked food markets" ( da pai dong ) of central and east Hong Kong island dish up homely meals like fish balls in soup and wok-tossed noodles.

This article was first published Oct 4, 2022 and updated Feb 16, 2024.

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• 1 Districts
• 2.1 History
• 2.2 Orientation
• 2.4 Politics
• 2.5 Culture
• 2.6 Climate
• 2.7 Holidays and festivals
• 2.8 Other festivals
• 2.9 Units of measure
• 2.12 Visitor information
• 4.1.1 e-Channel
• 4.2 Customs
• 4.3.1 Hong Kong International Airport
• 4.3.2 Shenzhen International Airport
• 4.3.3 Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
• 4.3.4 Macau International Airport
• 4.4 By helicopter
• 4.5 By train
• 4.6 By ferry
• 4.7 By cruise ship
• 4.8 By bridge
• 4.9 By other land crossings
• 4.10 By bicycle
• 5.1.1 MTR Fare Saver Machines
• 5.2 By Mass Transit Railway
• 5.3 By tram
• 5.4 Peak Tram
• 5.5 Light rail
• 5.7 By public light buses/minibuses
• 5.8 By ferry
• 5.9 By taxi
• 5.10 By car
• 5.11.1 Bicycles on public transport
• 5.12 By escalator
• 6.1 Itineraries
• 6.2 Guided walks
• 6.3 Victoria Peak
• 6.4 Horse racing
• 6.5 Traditional heritage
• 6.6 Museums
• 6.8 Theme parks
• 6.10 Avenue of Stars and A Symphony of Lights
• 7.1.1 Music festivals
• 7.1.2 Indie events
• 7.2 Beaches
• 7.3 Swimming pools
• 7.4 Sailing
• 7.6 Hiking and camping
• 7.7 Gambling
• 8.1 Universities
• 8.2 Learning Cantonese
• 10.2 Banking
• 10.4 Tipping
• 11.1 Eating etiquette
• 11.2.1 Dim sum
• 11.2.2 Siu Mei
• 11.2.3 Congee
• 11.2.4 Noodles
• 11.2.5 Two-dish rice
• 11.2.6 Tong Sui
• 11.2.7 Tea cafes & tea time
• 11.2.8 Street food
• 11.2.9 Fast food
• 11.2.10 Seafood
• 11.2.11 Exotic meats
• 11.2.12 International cuisine
• 11.2.13 Local Western food
• 11.2.14 Home-dining
• 11.2.15 Barbecue
• 11.2.16 Wet markets
• 11.2.17 Cooked food centres
• 11.3 Dietary restrictions
• 12.2 Alcohol
• 13.1 Budget
• 13.2 Mid-range
• 13.3 Splurge
• 14.1 Crime and other emergency services
• 14.2 National security legislation
• 14.3 Legal matters
• 14.4 Traffic
• 14.5 Tobacco
• 14.6 Corruption
• 14.7 Hiking
• 14.8 Natural disasters
• 14.9 Gay and lesbian Hong Kong
• 14.10.1 Complaints
• 15.1 Find a doctor
• 15.2 Tap water
• 15.3 Pollution
• 16.1 Culture
• 16.2 Religion
• 16.3 Politics
• 16.4 Manners and etiquette
• 16.5 Superstition
• 16.6 Business
• 16.8 Language
• 17.2.1 Internet cafes
• 17.2.2 Wi-Fi
• 17.3.1 Mobile phones
• 17.3.2 Landline phones
• 18.2 Electricity
• 18.3 Consulates

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Hong Kong (香港 hoeng1 gong2 in Cantonese ) is a place with multiple personalities. The population is mainly Cantonese but British influence is quite visible. It has absorbed people and cultural influences from places as diverse as Vietnam and Vancouver and proudly proclaims itself to be Asia's World City .

Hong Kong has been a major destination for tourists and business people from around the world for at least a century. Today it is also a major tourism destination for mainland China's increasingly affluent population.

Hong Kong is much more than a harbour city with crowded streets: this territory with its cloudy mountains and rocky islands also offers rural landscapes with breathtaking views. Much of the countryside is classified as Country Park and, although 7.4 million people (2021) are never far away, it is possible to find pockets of wilderness that will reward the more intrepid traveller.

Hong Kong has a subtropical climate with at least one season to match your comfort zone. Boasting one of the world's best airports, it is the ideal first stop for those on their way deeper into China and further Asia.

"Hong Kong" translates from Cantonese as "fragrant harbour".

Although part of China, Hong Kong operates as a Special Administrative Region under the slogan "One Country, Two Systems", maintaining most laws and government structures from colonial times. Visa requirements, laws, currency, culture and language have a heritage from the time of British rule, so for most tourists Hong Kong feels like a different country. However, some freedoms were curtailed when the National Security Law was imposed in 2020.

The area of Hong Kong was incorporated into China during the Qin Dynasty in 214   BC, and largely remained under Chinese rule until it became a British colony in January 1841, as a result of the defeat of the Qing in the First Opium War. After the defeat of China in the Second Opium War, the Kowloon Peninsula was ceded to Great Britain in 1860. The Opium War Museum is located across the border in Dongguan. The New Territories were leased to Great Britain in 1898 for a term of 99 years. Hong Kong was only a sparsely-populated backwater prior to the arrival of the British, but grew rapidly into one of the world's most densely populated areas following the establishment of a free port under British colonial rule .

When World War II broke out, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill declared that Hong Kong was an "impregnable fortress". However owing to Britain's main war effort in Europe, Hong Kong was not given sufficient resources for its defence. After two weeks of fighting, Hong Kong was surrendered to the Japanese on 25 December 1941, and subject to a brutal occupation that lasted until the end of the war. Upon the resumption of British control, Hong Kong experienced an astonishingly swift post-war recovery.

After the communists took control of mainland China in 1949, many Chinese people, especially businessmen, fled to Hong Kong to escape persecution by the government. The British government took a hands-off approach in Hong Kong, and allowed a high degree of economic freedom. Social problems persisted during the 1950s and 1960s, including the continuation of Communist-Nationalist conflict among residents, labour disputes, and widespread corruption. These problems, when combined with effects of the Cultural Revolution, culminated in the 1967 riots by communist rioters, with an aim to subvert British rule. The riots were eventually suppressed by the authorities, but they forced the colonial government to take measures of reform, such as cracking down on corruption.

Under reforms, businesses flourished in Hong Kong and its economy grew rapidly, earning it a place as one of the East Asian Tigers. Today, Hong Kong is an industrialised and developed economy, and is one of the world's most important financial centres.

In 1984 the Chinese and British Governments signed the Sino-British Joint Declaration, Britain agreeing to return Hong Kong to Chinese sovereignty. On 1 July 1997 Hong Kong became a special administrative region (SAR) of the People's Republic of China. As Hong Kong was the last remaining British colony with a significant population and economic importance, the handover was deemed by many to be the "end of empire". In theory, Hong Kong enjoys autonomy in most matters except foreign affairs and defence.

In 2014, the Umbrella Protest was held to demand free elections for Hong Kong's chief executive. The Chinese government had proposed elections for the position, but would only allow candidates they had vetted to stand for election. The proposed amendments to the Basic Law (Hong Kong's equivalent of a constitution) were voted down by the pro-democracy legislators, meaning that the chief executive is still elected by an election committee with limited representation. The protests eventually died down without concessions from China, though there remain demands for more political autonomy, and even for independence from China.

Simmering tensions eventually led to the breakout of massive and violent protests in June 2019. The protests began in opposition to a bill that would have allowed people to be extradited to mainland China to face criminal charges, but expanded into a wider anti-government movement, and continued even after the extradition bill was withdrawn. In response, the Chinese government imposed a sweeping national security law on Hong Kong in July 2020, outlawing many forms of speech and advocacy against the government. This crackdown has led to a massive brain drain, with many well-educated young professionals fleeing to Western countries, in particular the United Kingdom and Canada .

Hong Kong participates in some international organisations such as the WTO and APEC, and in international sports competitions under the name "Hong Kong, China" (中國香港).

Orientation

Hong Kong Island (香港島) is the place that many tourists regard as the main focus. The parade of buildings that make the Hong Kong skyline has been likened to a glittering bar chart over the waters of Victoria Harbour. To get the best views of Hong Kong, leave the island and head for the Kowloon waterfront opposite.

The great majority of Hong Kong Island's urban development is densely packed on reclaimed land along the northern shore. This is the place to start if you are looking for evidence of the territory's colonial past. Central (formerly Victoria) is where you will find the machinery of government grinding away much as it always has done, except that Beijing, not London, is the boss that keeps a watchful eye. Seek a glimpse of Government House (香港禮賓府), which had been home to 25 British governors, and is now the official residence of the Chief Executive. Nearby, the Legislative Council (LegCo) continues to make the laws that organise the territory.

Rising up from Central is the Escalator and the Peak Tram. The famous 800-metre escalator passes through the hip district of Soho and takes you into the residential neighbourhood known as the Mid-Levels because it is half-way up the mountain. Up top is Victoria Peak , the tallest point on the island,where foreign diplomats and business tycoons compete for the best views of the harbour from some of the most expensive homes to be found anywhere. Most tourists do not go much further than the Peak Tram, but take a short walk to the top and you will escape the crowds and be rewarded with some of the best harbour views. It is worth investing in a good map from a bookshop in Central if you want to enjoy some of the superb footpaths that crisscross the island.

The southern side of the island has developed into an upmarket residential area with many large houses and expensive apartments with views across the South China Sea. The island's best beaches, such as Repulse Bay, are found here and visitors can enjoy a more relaxed pace of life than on the bustling harbour side of the island. Wan Chai and Causeway Bay are the most visited neighbourhoods on the northern side of the island.

Kowloon (九龍) is the peninsula to the north of Hong Kong Island. With over 2.1 million people living in an area of less than 47 km², Kowloon is one of the most densely populated places on the planet, and has a matching array of places to shop, eat and sleep. Tsim Sha Tsui (尖沙咀), the tip of the peninsula, is Kowloon's main tourist drag and has a mix of backpacker and high-end hotels. Further north, Mong Kok (旺角) has a huge choice of shops and markets in an area of less than a square kilometre. Kowloon side , as it's often known, managed to escape some of the British influences that characterise the Hong Kong Island side . Kowloon real estate prices are the highest in the world, with multiple flats in West Kowloon setting world records with their multi-million dollar prices thanks to their panoramic views of Victoria Harbour.

The New Territories (新界), so named when the British leased more land from China in 1898, lie north of Kowloon. Largely rural and often ignored by travellers who have little time to spare, the New Territories offers a diverse landscape that takes time to get to know. Mountainous country parks overlook New Towns that have a clinical form of modernity that has attracted many to move here. Public transport and taxis make this offbeat place surprisingly accessible. You will not find many idyllic villages, but once you get over the stray dogs and the ramshackle buildings you will doubtlessly find something that will surprise you and cause you to reach for your camera.

The Outlying Islands (離島) are the islands (236 of them), islets and rocks in the seas around the territory. Lantau (大嶼山) is by far the largest of them and often considered its own district. The Hong Kong International Airport is built on landfill attached to Lantau. Lantau hosts some of the territory's most idyllic beaches, and major attractions such as Disneyland and the Ngong Ping cable car. Other islands include Lamma (南丫島), well known for its seafood, and Cheung Chau (長洲), a small island that used to be a pirates' den, but now attracts seafood aficionados, windsurfers and sunbathing day trippers.

The majority of Hong Kong's population are Han Chinese (92%), mostly of Cantonese ancestry, though there are also sizeable numbers of other Chinese groups such as Chiuchao (Teochews), Shanghainese and Hakkas. A significant number of Indians, Pakistanis and Nepalis live here too; some are immigrants, though many have families that have lived in Hong Kong for several generations. White people, some of them expatriates, and some descended from British colonists, make up just under 1% of the population. Other smaller communities whose presence in Hong Kong dates back to colonial times include the Parsis and the Baghdadi Jews, though the latter are now far outnumbered by expatriate Jews from Israel and Western countries.

The largest groups of non-Chinese immigrants are Filipinos, Indonesians and Thais, most of whom are employed as domestic helpers. On Sundays, being their day off, they congregate in their thousands — mostly Filipinas — in Central and Admiralty and spend the day there together, sitting talking, eating and drinking wherever there is free room.

The territory is also home to a significant number of people hailing from Australia, Europe, Japan and North America, making it a truly international metropolis.

Under the policy of the "One Country, Two Systems" arrangement, Hong Kong largely retains its governmental structure from colonial times, with separate executive, legislative and judicial branches.

The head of the executive branch is the chief executive, who leads an Executive Council composed of various cabinet secretaries. The legislative branch is the Legislative Council. The Court of Final Appeal, which is led by the Chief Justice, tops the judicial branch. Hong Kong retains a legal system based on English Common Law, as opposed to the Civil Law system used in mainland China.

Both the chief executive and 70 members of the legislature are elected by interest groups that are largely stacked with pro-Beijing loyalists. 20 members of the legislature are elected by popular vote, but nominations must be approved. The central government in Beijing is therefore effectively in control of the executive and legislative branches.

Most pro-democracy legislators quit in November 2020 in protest against a decision made by Chinese authorities that authorises the Hong Kong government to take down and ban "pro-independence" legislators, and resulted in the instantaneous disqualification of four legislators. They were later rounded up by the police ostensibly for subversion after a primary election before the next legislative election. Another "reform" abolished the previous constitution of the Legislative Council, in which 35 members were elected by popular vote and the other 35 were elected by business interest groups, a move criticised by Western countries.

Due to its history as part of that region, the local culture in Hong Kong is similar to that of Guangdong province. However, due to over a century of British rule, the British have also left their mark, as have the other non-Chinese minorities who came here during the colonial period. In addition, because the city escaped the upheaval of the Cultural Revolution, Hong Kongers have maintained some aspects of traditional Chinese culture which have largely disappeared in the mainland.

Hong Kong has a humid subtropical climate. Summers are usually hot, lasting from June to September, with temperatures usually exceeding 30   °C, while night-time summer temperatures do not drop below 25   °C . The area, with most of southern China, is affected by typhoons. Typhoons usually occur between June and September, though some typhoons may affect Hong Kong as late as October. These can bring a halt to local business for a day or less.

Winters in Hong Kong are generally very mild, with temperatures ranging from 10   °C to 20   °C, and dropping further sometimes by about 1 to 2   °C in the countryside. Christmas in Hong Kong is warm compared to European countries. Chinese New Year is notorious for cold wet weather, because winter in Hong Kong tends to start out mild and dry and then turn cooler and wetter later.

Spring in Hong Kong is from March to May and autumn is from September to November with an average temperature of around 20 to 25   °C. Autumn is considered a more comfortable season as spring tends to be more humid and rainy.

Although most buildings in Hong Kong have air conditioning to cope with the summer weather, winter heating is less common. During the coldest days, most locals wear more layers, even indoors. Some larger Chinese restaurants keep the air conditioning on during winter, though the temperature in air conditioned shopping malls stays the same regardless of season or weather outside.

Holidays and festivals

• Chinese (Lunar) New Year (農曆新年). Many shops and restaurants are closed during the first 3 days of the Chinese New Year. However, department stores, supermarkets, and Western fast-food restaurants generally remain open. The week or two leading up to the Chinese New Year, and the period from the 4th to the 15th day are good times to soak up the festive mood and celebratory events such as lion dances, fireworks, and parades.
• Spring Lantern Festival (元宵節). This traditional Chinese festival in Victoria Park in Causeway Bay displays beautiful lanterns.
• Ching Ming Festival (清明節). This festival in spring is also known as grave sweeping day. To show respect to the deceased, family members go to the grave of their ancestors to sweep away leaves and remove weeds around the grave area. Paper offerings are also burned, such as fake money.
• Cheung Chau Bun Festival (長洲太平清醮). This festival on the tiny island of Cheung Chau features competitions with people climbing bun towers to snatch buns.
• Tuen Ng Festival (端午節). This is a festival in memory of a national hero from the Spring and Autumn Period of Chinese history. Dragon boat races are typically held and glutinous rice dumplings, usually with pork fillings, are eaten by many.
• Tin Hau Festival (天后誕). Celebrates the birthday of Tin Hau, a traditional Chinese goddess also known Mazu (媽祖) in Mandarin who is popular among fishermen and sailors. Celebrations are held the many Tin Hau temples throughout Hong Kong, with the most notable held at the temples in Yuen Long and Sai Kung.
• Hungry Ghost Festival (中元節). This festival runs throughout the seventh month of the Chinese calendar. It is believed that the gates of hell open during this period and hungry ghosts are allowed to roam freely into our world. People perform various rites to appease the wandering ghosts, such as offering food and burning joss paper. You can also see traditional performances such as Chinese opera which are held to appease these ghosts.
• Mid-Autumn Festival/Moon Festival (中秋節). This festival is celebrated on the fifteenth day of the eighth lunar month. Moon cakes which contain lotus seed paste and duck egg yolks are a popular delicacy. There is also an ice-cream version. Parts of Hong Kong will be festooned with decorative lanterns which set the night scene ablaze with colour.
• Chung Yeung Festival (重陽節). It is a day also known as Autumn Remembrance, which is similar to Ching Ming in spring, where families visit the graves of their ancestors to perform cleansing rites and pay their respects. As the weather cools down during this part of the year, hiking is a good activity to do during this holiday.
• Halloween (萬聖節). Halloween has grown rapidly in popularity and many people dress up to party till late. Trick or treat is not common but most restaurants and shopping centres are decorated and have special programmes. For young adults and teenagers, Ocean Park and Disneyland are the places to be.
• Christmas (聖誕節). Christmas is celebrated Hong Kong style. The city is adorned using traditional Western decorations. Many shopping centres offer ample opportunities for children to meet Santa. Most shops and restaurants remain open. You should expect large crowds out shopping for the sales.
• New Year's Eve (元旦除夕). Hundreds of thousands of people out on the streets to celebrate the New Year. There are all-night services on the MTR, night-buses, and many taxis. Fireworks go off on the harbour front, attracting large crowds on both sides: Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon side) and Central (Hong Kong Island). The party hot-spots are Causeway Bay, Lan Kwai Fong and Tsim Sha Tsui. Many people dress up and attend private parties and others flock to the streets. Hong Kong people are not great drinkers and most of them stay dry for the night. Drinking alcohol on the street is uncommon. Visitors who drink should moderate their behaviour or risk being singled out by the police.

Other festivals

• Hong Kong Rugby Sevens . This annual event brings many visitors from around the world to celebrate the most entertaining installment in the IRB Sevens Series. It is a giant three-day sell-out event that takes place between the last days of March and the beginning of April.
• Hong Kong Summer Spectacular . Dragon Boat Race, music festivals, summer sales, as well as book exhibitions, Anime Fair, all in the hottest summer parties and coolest carnival.
• Hong Kong Summer Pop Music Festival Every summer, the Hong Kong Summer Pop Music Festival gathers top musicians who bring spectacular performances.
• Hong Kong Arts Festival , a month-long festival of international performances, is held in February and March.
• Man Literary Festival , a two-week English language festival with international writers as guests, is held in March.
• Hong Kong International Film Festival , a three-week event, is held in late March to early April.

Units of measure

Hong Kong's official system of measurement is metric, but both the traditional Chinese and British Imperial systems of measurements survive to limited extents. In particular, the traditional Chinese system of weights continues to be widely used in wet markets. While mainland China has recalibrated the traditional Chinese units to better align with the metric system, Hong Kong continues to use the traditional versions of those units, meaning that one jīn (斤, gān in Cantonese) is 604.8 g in Hong Kong, not 500g like in mainland China. While the jīn is now divided into 10 liǎng (兩, léuhng in Cantonese) in mainland China, it is still divided into 16 liǎng in Hong Kong, meaning that the Hong Kong liǎng is 37.8 g, and not 50 g like in mainland China. Public weighing scales in wet markets are required by law to display traditional Chinese, British Imperial and metric units side by side.

Its quick rise as an economic power and unique mix of East and West has made Hong Kong an interesting destination to write about.

• Myself a Mandarin (Oxford in Asia), Austin Coates. These memoirs are entertaining episodes of the Englishman's time as a colonial magistrate.
• East and West: China, Power, and the Future of Asia (Macmillan, 1998), Chris Patten. The last British governor of Hong Kong, provides his account of the final years before the handover to China.
• Gweilo: Memories of a Hong Kong Childhood (Bantam Books), Martin Booth. An insight into colonial life in Hong Kong through the eyes of a young English boy.
• Hong Kong: Epilogue to an Empire (Penguin Books), Jan Morris. A detailed overview of the territory's history with descriptions of its geography, economy, politics and society.
• The World of Suzie Wong (Fontana Press) Richard Mason. A classic novel that is the fictional story of a young expat's romance with a Chinese woman.
• Hong Kong Landscapes: Shaping the Barren Rock (Hong Kong University Press), Bernie Owen and Raynor Shaw. Beautifully illustrated, this is a fascinating guide to the territory's geology and geomorphology.
• Chungking Express , 1994, Wong Kar-wai. The unrelated stories of two love-struck cops in Hong Kong with colourful and fast cinematography.
• The World of Suzie Wong , 1960. Based on the novel by Richard Mason, it is the fictional story of an expat's affair with a Chinese woman. The film has interesting footage of Hong Kong in the late 1950s.

Visitor information

• Discover Hong Kong website

Hong Kong's official languages are Chinese and English .

Cantonese is the main language spoken by locals. The Hong Kong variant is mostly the same as in Guangzhou across the border, but tends to incorporate some English words and slang, which frequently sounds strange to other Cantonese speakers (like "我唔sure得唔得", means "I am not sure if it's okay"). News broadcasts are in standard Cantonese. Like all Chinese languages, Cantonese is a tonal language and not easy for foreigners to master, although learning a few simple greetings will get you acquainted with locals much more easily.

Unlike for Mandarin, there is no widely used romanisation system for phoneticising Cantonese. However, some accurate phonetics systems do exist for learners, such as the Yale system or Jyutping. These are rarely learnt by native speakers though, thus limiting their usefulness for written communication.

English is a common second language, and is spoken fluently by most white-collar professionals and business people. However, English proficiency tends to be more limited among the average working class person, particularly outside the main tourist areas. While many people can understand written English pretty well, they may not necessarily be comfortable speaking it.

Government offices are required by law to have English-speaking staff on duty. There are three terrestrial English language TV stations: TVB Pearl, ViuTVsix, and HKIBC. English-language films in cinemas are almost always shown with the original soundtrack and Chinese subtitles, though children's films, especially animations, are often dubbed into Cantonese. English in Hong Kong generally follows British spelling and vocabulary choices.

English street names are seldom used among local people and taxi drivers. Even a local who speaks English fluently may not know the English name. Before you go anywhere, ask hotel staff to write down the street names using Chinese characters.

Most locals are not fluent in Mandarin , but can understand it to some degree. Mandarin has been compulsory in all government schools since the handover, and with the huge influx of mainland tourists many people in the tourist industry will often speak Mandarin. Most shops in the main tourist areas, as well as all government offices, will have Mandarin-speaking staff on duty. Many locals are reluctant to communicate in Mandarin as it tends to be closely associated with perceptions of cultural domination and political interference, and some may even find it offensive to be addressed in Mandarin. If you don't speak Cantonese, it's generally better to try English first.

All official signs are bilingual in Chinese and English. Hong Kong continues to use traditional Chinese characters, and not the simplified Chinese characters used in the mainland. Similar to the use of Mandarin, some locals will be offended by the presence of simplified Chinese characters, and will insist that you use traditional Chinese characters.

Some of Hong Kong's older residents may speak other dialects such as Hakka , Teochew and Shanghainese , but they are generally able to speak Cantonese as well. You may also hear other languages among Hong Kong's non-Chinese minorities, but people in these groups generally speak English, and often Cantonese as well.

Hong Kong Sign Language (HKSL, 香港手語) is the language of the deaf community. It is mutually intelligible with Macau Sign Language, and more distantly related to Chinese Sign Language used in the mainland, not mutually intelligible with it.

Immigration

Hong Kong maintains a separate immigration system from that of Mainland China . Citizens of most Western countries do not need a visa to visit Hong Kong. The Hong Kong visa can be applied for at a Chinese diplomatic mission, but must be done so separately from the Mainland Chinese one; there is no single visa that serves both areas. A visa is required to enter Mainland China from Hong Kong and vice versa. Macau is also a separate jurisdiction with regards to visas. If you wish to re-enter Mainland China after visiting Hong Kong, make sure you have a multiple-entry Chinese visa.

See Entry requirements to Hong Kong for a list of visa requirements or visa-free stays by country of citizenship. All holders of an APEC Business Travel Card can use the counters for Hong Kong residents at immigration control and can stay for up to 60 days in Hong Kong visa-free if their card has 'HKG' printed on the reverse.

Foreign nationals who cannot enter visa-free, want to remain for longer than permitted by their visa exemption, or want to work, study or establish/join a business, can apply for one at a Chinese embassy or consulate, or directly through the Hong Kong Immigration Department . Those living in Macau can apply for a visa at the Office of the Commissioner of the Chinese Foreign Ministry . Those living in Mainland China may apply at the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai , or at the Office of the Government of the Hong Kong SAR in Beijing .

Holders of Chinese passports must apply for a appropriate entry permit (往來港澳通行證) to enter Hong Kong, except when transiting through Hong Kong, whereby visa-free access is granted for up to seven days. They do not need to use a PRC passport if using such an entry permit. Chinese passport holders may apply for an Entry Permit of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region issued by any overseas Chinese embassy/consulate.

Holders of Macau permanent identity cards or Visit Permits with permanent resident status can enter Hong Kong visa-free for up to 180 days. Holders of Macao Visit Permits without permanent resident status can enter Hong Kong visa-free for up to 30 days. See Visit/Transit Arrangements to Hong Kong for Macao Residents for more details. Though they can be used when leaving Macau, Macau digital identity cards are not accepted by Hong Kong immigration, and the physical one must be presented when entering Hong Kong.

Citizens of Taiwan are granted visa-free access to Hong Kong for 30 days if they have a Mainland Travel Permit/Taiwan Compatriot Pass ( Taibaozheng , 台胞證). Otherwise, a pre-arrival registration is required which can be applied for through the Immigration Department . See Arrangements for Entry to Hong Kong for Overseas Chinese and Chinese residents of Taiwan for more details. "Chinese residents of Taiwan" refers to citizens of Taiwan.

Holders of British National (Overseas) (BNO) passports cannot use these passports to enter Hong Kong and should instead use their Hong Kong passport, Hong Kong ID card, or Hong Kong document of identity when passing immigration and during their stay in Hong Kong.

Expiry of the limit of stay is counted from the day after the date of entry. For example, if you have a 7-day visa and arrive on January 1, you are allowed to stay until January 8. If you are arriving late at night, you may want to wait until after midnight to clear immigration. Likewise, you may be able to clear immigration just before midnight on the last day that your visa is valid and then take a flight or boat in the middle of the night on the next day. For more information, see question #11 of the Visa FAQs .

Hong Kong no longer issues passport stamps, and visitors are instead given an entry slip with their terms of entry. All entries and exits are recorded electronically as well.

Regular visitors can register to use the e-Channel to avoid the queues by going through an automated barrier which uses fingerprint recognition technology. You may be eligible to use e-Channel if you are a Macau resident, are a mainland Chinese citizen holding holding a valid entry permit, or have a biometric passport issued by Australia , Germany , Singapore , South Korea or Thailand , and have visited Hong Kong at least twice in the past 24 months. You can also enroll on the basis of membership in some frequent flyer programmes (some of which require you to possess status in their upper tiers).

Hong Kong permanent residents can use e-Channels labelled for visitors if the gates for permanent residents are congested.

If you are carrying goods that are banned or more than your allowance , you must declare them at the Red Channel when you enter Hong Kong — even when travelling from Mainland China, Macau or Taiwan:

• Meat and eggs, animal products, fish, rice (exceeding 15 kg)
• Ozone depleting substances, items with forged trade marks, radio communication transmitting apparatus
• Smokeless tobacco, e-cigarettes, and herbal cigarettes

Cannabidiol (CBD) is banned in Hong Kong. Offenders face a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

A traveller aged 18 or above is allowed to bring into Hong Kong – for their own use – as part of their duty-free allowance :

• 1 litre of alcoholic liquor with an alcoholic strength above 30% by volume measured at a temperature of 20   °C
• 19 cigarettes or 1 cigar or 25   g of cigars or 25   g of other manufactured tobacco

If the traveller holds a Hong Kong Identity Card, they must have spent 24 hours or longer outside Hong Kong to benefit from the duty-free allowance relating to alcoholic liquor.

The Hong Kong government has restricted the amount of baby milk powder formula that may be taken out of the territory to no more than 1.8   kg. Violation of this restriction could lead to fines and imprisonment.

For more information, visit the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department website .

Hong Kong International Airport

Hong Kong International Airport ( HKG   IATA ), also known as Chek Lap Kok 赤鱲角, is on Lantau Island in the west of Hong Kong. The airport's article provides details on airlines that fly here, and on transportation from the airport to the city by the MTR Airport Express train, public bus, taxis. Taxis are expensive for single travellers and pairs because of the distance and tollsand for harbour tunnel crossings. Taxis are often slow because of downtown traffic.

Shenzhen International Airport

As flights between Hong Kong and mainland China are treated as international flights, it is often cheaper to fly to Shenzhen Airport ( SZX   IATA ), in the nearby mainland Chinese city of Shenzhen .

To travel between Shenzhen Airport and Hong Kong:

• Direct buses operate between the airport and the Elements Shopping Mall , above the Kowloon MTR station. You can check-in and receive your boarding pass (except for China Southern Airlines passengers) at the check-in desk on the 1st floor of the shopping centre, opposite Starbucks. This in-town check-in is completely separate from the in-town check-in provided for Hong Kong International Airport. The cost of the service is $100 and the bus is advertised to take 75 minutes, but it usually takes 100 minutes. Buses run every 30 minutes from 6:30AM to 7PM from Hong Kong and from 10AM to 9PM from Shenzhen.
• From Fuyong Ferry Terminal at Shenzhen Airport one can buy ferry tickets to Hong Kong. Passengers who need to transfer between flights at Hong Kong and Shenzhen airports can use the ferry service to/from Hong Kong airport without having to pass through Hong Kong immigration.
• A cheaper way is to take Shenzhen Metro Line   11   from the airport to Futian in central Shenzhen (29 minutes, ¥7). From here, you can connect to the High Speed Rail direct to West Kowloon in downtown Hong Kong (15 minutes, $80). Even cheaper is taking Shenzhen Metro Line   10   to "Futian Checkpoint" (10 minutes, ¥2) (called Lok Ma Chau on the Hong Kong side) or Shenzhen Metro Line   1   to "Luohu" (20 minutes, ¥4) (Lo Wu on the Hong Kong side), then pass through a long corridor and an international border gate (have visa ready) and once in Hong Kong, hop on the   East   Rail suburban rail line to central Hong Kong (45 minutes, $35).

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is a bit further away than Shenzhen, but has more flights and with direct coach connections to Hong Kong.

Macau International Airport

It is also often cheaper to fly out of Macau International Airport ( MFM   IATA ). Air Asia has a hub at Macau from where it operates service to Kuala Lumpur , Bangkok , and Chiang Mai , among other cities.

To travel between Macau Airport and Hong Kong:

• With the Express Link service, you can transfer directly from airport to ferry (or vice versa) without going through Macau immigration. $70 from Hong Kong (with baggage being checked in there) or $50 to Hong Kong, excluding the ferry ticket cost.
• If you don't need a visa for Macau, the cheaper way is to clear Macau immigration and to go yourself to Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal just to the north from the airport. Outside of the airport, take a bus MT1 or 26 from "Rotunda de Aeroporto / Wai Long" bus stop, and get out at the terminal (normally the next stop). The ticket price is HK$4.2 or MOP4.2. From the airport, it's wise to get some change before taking this bus, and both the ATMs normally dispense both Hong Kong dollars and Macanese pataca, and the local shops accept the former in lieu of the latter (at 1:1 rate). You may get coins of both currencies as a change. It would take around 20 minutes to walk to the ferry terminal. If coming from Hong Kong, choose Cotai Water Jet ferry to get to Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal.
• the AP1 bus will transport you to Macau Outer Ferry Terminal, but the bus trip will take longer as it will have to cross to the mainland part of Macau.
• Those having a few hours to spare in Macau and not much baggage may choose to take one of the buses going to one of the casinos (Venetian, Sands, etc.) waiting both near the airport and the Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal, spend some time there, then return to either ferry terminal or the airport using a similar bus. These buses are free of charge.

By helicopter

• Sky Shuttle . A helicopter service several times a day from the Terminal Marítimo in Macau to the Shun Tak Heliport ( HHP   IATA ) at the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Pier in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Island. The trip takes 15 minutes and one-way fares cost $4,300. ( updated Jul 2024 )

Multiple frequent high-speed trains connect Hong Kong with Shenzhen and Guangzhou every day, with one daily long-distance service each from Beijing and Shanghai. MTR High Speed runs some high-speed passenger services up to Guangzhou under the Vibrant Express brand, while CRH (the high-speed branch of China Railways) operates the remaining short-distance trains and all the long-distances ones. It takes 23 minutes from Shenzhen, 48 minutes from Guangzhou, 8½ hours from Shanghai and 9 hours from Beijing on the daytime trains. Overnight high-speed sleeper services from Shanghai and Beijing run four times a week, taking 11 hr 14 min and 12 hr 34 min respectively. The line runs underground in Hong Kong, so don't expect to see any sights. High-speed rail is now your only option for travelling by train directly from the mainland.

The station has several levels:

• L2 - Sky Corridor
• L1 - Various footbridge connections
• G - Station entrance, transport area, ground level
• B1 - Ticketing
• B2 - Arrival Concourse, Parking
• B3 - Departure Concourse
• B4 - Platforms

Through a joint checkpoint arrangement, both Mainland and Hong Kong immigration and customs are at this station. The station's Mainland Port Area is under Mainland China's legal jurisdiction, and is demarcated by a yellow line. When you clear immigration to board a train at West Kowloon, you are subject to Mainland Chinese law. Chinese Internet censorship doesn't apply to the Mainland Port Area, as mobile Internet service is provided by Hong Kong operators.

You can travel by a wider range of high-speed trains and overnight sleepers from many Chinese cities to Shenzhen, and then change to the Metro or another high-speed rail train to reach Hong Kong. Shenzhen railway station is adjacent to the Lo Wu/Luohu border crossing.

Hong Kong is a one-hour hydrofoil ride away from Macau and there are also good connections from mainland China. If you plan to only visit Zhuhai, a visa-on-arrival is available at the Jiuzhou Ferry Terminal for up to 3 days. The main terminals are:

• TurboJet , every 5–30 minutes, 24 hours a day from Macau.
• Cotai Jet , every 15–30 minutes, 24 hours a day from Taipa , Macau.
• Chu Kong Passenger Transport , from Zhuhai and various other points in mainland China's Guangdong Province.
• TurboJet , every 30 minutes from Macau.
• Xunlong [ dead link ] from Shekou in Shenzhen , mainland China.

If you're flying into Hong Kong airport to reach Macau or other cities in the Pearl River Delta , see Hong Kong International Airport for direct ferry options that skip Hong Kong immigration.

By cruise ship

The 50-km Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge (HZMB) , a bridge and tunnel opened in October 2018, was one of the largest construction projects in the world. The link makes it possible to travel quickly across the Pearl River Delta without taking the ferry.

Frequent HZMBus shuttle buses departing up to every 5 minutes, 24 hours a day are available to cross the HZMB. They take around 40 minutes, and tickets can be purchased with Octopus or AliPay from ticket machines, as well as cash and credit cards at the ticket desk at the 22.318083 113.951111 5 HZMB Hong Kong Kong Port . The Hong Kong Port can be reached by taxis or various buses including CityFlyer airport (A number) routes, or the B5 shuttle bus from Sunny Bay MTR station, or the B6 bus from Tung Chung. Once arriving at the 22.204 113.5765 6 HZMB Macau Port you can take taxis or the 101X bus, the 102X bus to St Paul's and Taipa, or the HZMB Integrated Resort Connection bus (free) to Taipa Ferry Terminal or the Exterior Ferry terminal to connect to the free casino shuttle buses. Once arriving at the HZMB Zhuhai Port , you can take taxis or the L1 bus which uses historic tourist vehicles, or the 12, 23 or 25 buses to continue your journey in the mainland.

To drive across the bridge, you must apply for a permit from the mainland government if travelling to Zhuhai or three separate permits (one from each of the Hong Kong, Macau, and mainland governments) to drive to Macau.

By other land crossings

Shenzhen is the Chinese city that borders Hong Kong. See China#Get in for information on visa requirements.

There are 8 land checkpoints between Hong Kong and mainland China. Be sure to note the opening hours of the border crossing before starting your journey. If you are driving across the border, you must have a set of plates issued by each of China and Hong Kong. You will have to change sides of the road at the border because people in Hong Kong drive on the left, and people in mainland China drive on the right.

Cross-boundary coaches travel to Hong Kong from several cities in mainland China and are usually easier than crossing the border via several transfers and several modes of transportation. For information on these bus services, see the website of each border crossing listed below. Other than the Shenzhen Bay Bridge and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, these crossings are within the frontier closed area, meaning it's illegal to head there without a permit unless you are crossing the border.

You are not permitted to cycle across the border into Hong Kong from mainland China. However, you can bring a bicycle from Shenzhen into Hong Kong by following one of these procedures:

• You can bring a bicycle across the border at Lo Wu Control Point , then board the MTR East Rail train. Bicycles are allowed on the train with a payment of between $20 and $40, depending upon the time of day, and provided the front wheel is removed. You can alight at Sheung Shui station and continue the rest of your journey by bicycle if you wish.
• GMB minibus #75 operates between the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point and Yuen Long for $10 and allows a folded bike with 50   cm wheels. While most passengers take the bus to an urban area, it is possible for bikers to alight just outside the Frontier Closed Area (costing $6) and continue the rest of the journey by bicycle. There is not much luggage space on this bus and you may be required to disassemble your bike.

Hong Kong has an excellent and cheap public transport system. Unlike in mainland China, Google Maps can be used in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong has the world's highest use of public transport, with over 90% preferring the mode. However, you cannot use China 's China T-union card as a payment for public transport in Hong Kong: you must have an Octopus Card, a prepaid card to pay for public transport within Hong Kong. Joint Octopus-T-Union cards are also available, which allows you to use the card in most major mainland Chinese cities as well.

Octopus card

The Octopus Card (八達通, Bat Dat Toong in Cantonese) is a prepaid card that can be used to pay for public transportation such as the MTR, trains, trams, buses, mini-buses, and ferries. Most taxis do not yet accept it although more will in future. Paying for public transport with an Octopus Card is usually at a discounted fare (not the case though for buying a return Airport Express ticket).

It can also be used to pay for items in convenience stores, supermarkets, fast food restaurant chains, many vending machines, all roadside parking and some car parks. It can also be used as a building access card. Some chain stores, such as Wellcome, offer discounts for paying with the Octopus Card. This is a great way to avoid carrying and counting coins.

Basic Octopus cards cost $150 ($100 in credit plus a $50 refundable deposit). A $11 service charge applies if the card is redeemed for the deposit within 3 months. The maximum value an Octopus card can carry is $3,000. The credit on the card can go negative. For example, you may pay for a ride costing $5 with only $2 of remaining value on the card (bringing the stored value to −$3) but you cannot use the card again until the value is topped up. The value of an Octopus card can go as low as −$35. That isn't really "negative", meaning you don't have to pay MTR back, since your $50 deposit secures it.

Your Octopus card's balance is displayed on the reader after each use. The balance can also be checked, along with the last nine transactions, using a small machine near regular ticket machines at MTR stations.

It is simple and convenient to top up your Octopus Card:

• "Add Value" machines, usually next to regular ticket machines in MTR stations.
• Customer service centres at all MTR stations
• Some merchants that accept Octopus (e.g. 7-Eleven, McDonald's, Wellcome, etc.). This is the best way to avoid queues at the MTR station.
• Octopus for Tourists App

Top-ups are generally possible in multiples of $50 only. The Octopus for Tourists app allows for top-up in multiples of $1 but with a higher minimum of $100.

A joint Octopus-China T-Union Card can be used in most major cities across China (notable exceptions include Wuhan and Hohhot ).

MTR Fare Saver Machines

There are several fare saver machines across the MTR system. By tapping your Octopus Card at the reader on one of such machines, you will receive a $1–2 discount on your same-day next MTR journey if such a journey originates from one of the stations indicated on that machine. However, only one such machine services many of the indicated stations, and are often far away from the indicated stations. Tsim Sha Tsui and East Tsim Sha Tsui are tricky cases: the machine at The Gateway at Harbour City offers the discount for the former but not the latter, whilst the machine at the Peninsula Centre offers the discount for both.

By Mass Transit Railway

Hong Kong's Mass Transit Railway ( MTR ) is the fastest way to get around, but it does not offer the views of buses and trams. It is clean, safe, reliable and efficient. There are 5 underground lines, 4 suburban rail lines, the Airport Express, and a network of modern light rail lines in the Northwest New Territories.

The most important lines for many visitors are the busy Tsuen Wan Line (red), which runs from Central to Kowloon via tunnel and then down Nathan Road towards Tsuen Wan in the New Territories , and the Island Line (blue) which runs along the north coast of Hong Kong Island. The Tung Chung Line (orange) is the fastest ways to get to Lantau and one of the cheapest ways to/from the airport via the S1 shuttle bus from/to Tung Chung MTR station. This line can also be used to change to the Disneyland Resort Line (pink) at Sunny Bay, which is also the station catch a shuttle bus to take you to the Hong Kong port for those who want to travel by another bus to Macau. All signs are in both Chinese and English and all announcements are made in Cantonese, Mandarin, and English. Staff in the station control room usually speak enough English to be able to help lost tourists. The South Island Line can also be used to visit Ocean Park.

In Cantonese, the East Rail line is colloquially referred to as 火車 ( fó chē ), alluding to its origins as an intercity railway, while the other lines are referred to as 地鐵 ( dei tit ).

Considerations when using the MTR:

• Hong Kong's suburban rail system is linked to two border crossings with mainland China, at Lo Wu Control Point and Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point , both on the East Rail Line. You pass through a short corridor and then through a large border gate before entering a long one-way corridor and emerging in mainland China, at a station for the Shenzhen Metro. As Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau stations are in a restricted area, it is illegal to take the train to these stations without a permit unless you are crossing the border.
• Rides on East Rail line First Class, the Airport Express, and to/from Lo Wu/Lok Ma Chau follow a separate fare structure. MTR system promotions (including the tourist day pass, and the fare saver machines) do not extend to these services.
• The East Rail Line offers a first class car where the seats are wider and more comfortable. The fare is twice that of the regular cars on the same route, and you must buy a separate ticket at a station's ticketing office or validate your Octopus card before entering. Ticket inspectors conduct regular patrol in the carriage and passengers without a valid first class ticket or validated Octopus card may be fined up to $500.
• In Hong Kong, the English name for the underground metro system is the 'MTR'. The term 'Subway' refers to underground walkways, as opposed to the metro system. 'Metro' or 'Underground' are not commonly understood by local people either.
• Fares depend on distance. Credit cards cannot be used to buy tickets on most vending machines. However you can tap contactless Visa cards (or Apple or Android pay devices linked to Visa) at the MTR fare gates to pay fares. Visa and Mastercard may also be used to top up Octopus cards via the Octopus for Tourists App.
• Tsim Sha Tsui on the Tsuen Wan line and East Tsim Sha Tsui on the Tuen Ma line are

considered one station for purposes of fare calculation and transfers. But to transfer from one line to the other on those stations without incurring additional costs, you must tap out from one station and tap in within 30 minutes to the other.

• Consumption of food and drinks and smoking are strictly forbidden in the paid area of stations and in trains. Offenders are liable to a fine of up to $2,000 .
• Always stand on the right when using escalators to allow people to pass on the left. * Hong Kongers do not shove or jostle for seats as is common in mainland Chinese Metro systems.
• Disabled Access and Stroller Access is provided at the MTR stations, but you may have to walk a long way: the lift may be at one end of a platform at train level, whilst the lift to street level will be at the other end. There is usually one designated fare reader for wider (wheelchair/stroller) access, but often it is a long walk around the station or platform. Occasionally, there will be an MTR staff booth at a set of gates, but they may or may not tap your card on their terminal and let you through the goods entrance to the platform. It may be better to collapse your stroller, pick up your child and use the escalators and regular fare readers. A small, lightweight, upright folding stroller will be easier to use on transit.
• Some adjacent stations are served by the same two lines (e.g. Central and Admiralty on the Tsuen Wan and Island lines; Yau Ma Tei, Mong Kok, and Prince Edward on the Kwun Tong and Tsuen Wan lines). However some of these stations offer quicker and more convenient cross-platform interchanges than others depending on the direction of transfer. Watch the flashing system maps on the train and listen to the announcements to know which of the stations are convenient for the transfers you wish to make.

Operated by Hong Kong Tramways , the narrow double-decker city trams (also known locally as "ding ding") trundling along the northern coast of Hong Kong Island have provided cheap transport for over a century. Riding the tram is a great and cheap way to sightsee. For an excursion lasting 1 hour, board at the Kennedy Town Terminus and get a good seat on the upper deck. As the tram travels eastward, you will have an elevated view of Hong Kong Island and its different flavours, from bustling Hong Kong street life to its glitzy financial and shopping districts and, finally, a taste of the local residential areas.

• Trams are not air conditioned. Summer months can be very uncomfortable even with the windows open.
• They run 6AM-midnight.
• Passengers board at the rear and a flat $3 fare is paid when getting off at the front of the tram. The fare is paid for by Octopus Card, coins (no change given) or contactless Visa/Mastercard (including Apple Pay and Google Pay). Using a contactless Visa provides a $1 discount. There are two readers - one for Octopus Card and the other for contactless Visa/Mastercard, so if you are using Apple Pay with both an Octopus Card and Visa/Mastercard, be careful to tap your device on the correct reader.
• It is the favourite means of transportation for Hong Kong's large foreign domestic helper community on Sundays (their normal day-off) and may get crowded on that day.

The Peak Tram , Hong Kong's first mechanised mode of transport, opened in 1888. The remarkably steep 1.7-km track from Central up to Victoria Peak is worth at least one trip despite the comparatively steep price ($62 one-way, $88 return; return tickets must be purchased in advance). The tram turnstiles take Octopus cards.

The Peak Tram is likely to be crowded at night when the view of the city's skyline is magic, and on public holidays. Queues can be very long (waiting an hour is common at busy times), and a lot of pushing has been reported.

The tram is not the only way to get to the Peak, and there are cheaper (but slower and still quite scenic) alternatives such as the #1 green minibus costing $10.2, and the #15 double-decker bus costing $10.3 from Exchange Square Bus Terminus. These buses will often give you great views of both sides of Hong Kong Island on the way up.

MTR operates a tram system in the northwest New Territories called Light Rail . It is a modern and fast tram system connecting Tuen Mun, Yuen Long, and Tin Shui Wai. It uses a proof-of-payment fare system, in which passengers are required to buy a ticket or tap an Octopus card at the station entrance before boarding and there are no fare gates, but ticket inspection is random. The area is seldom visited by foreign tourists but various sights are nonetheless accessible via Light Rail, such as numerous ancient walled villages (highlighted by the Ping Shan Heritage Trail), the Hong Kong Wetland Park, the beaches of Tuen Mun New Town, Yuen Long Town Centre, and seafood towns like Lau Fau Shan and Sam Shing.

There are three types of buses available in Hong Kong. In city centre, buses will get stuck in traffic and take much longer than the MTR. However, they cover many more destinations than the MTR. While generally easy to use, signs in English can be sparse and finding your bus stop can get difficult. Buses are also the only public option in some areas. Google Maps, Apple Maps, or City Mapper will let you know the best bus route to take from your current position to destination (if necessary, they will combine it with MTR rides too).

Double-decker buses are used on most routes and cover practically the entire territory, stop frequently and charge varying fares depending on the distance. The first seats of the upper deck offer great views.

The franchised bus operators in Hong Kong include Kowloon Motor Bus (KMB) (and its subsidiary Long Win Bus), Citybus (CTB) and New Lantau Bus (NLB) . Route and fare information can be found on their company websites. Alternatively it is also wise to install transportation apps such as "App 1933" and "CitybusNWFB" into your smartphone to check fares outdoors if you use mobile devices regularly during your stay.

The resort towns of Discovery Bay and Ma Wan have separate bus services provided by their real-estate developers, namely Discovery Bay Transportation Services [ dead link ] and Park Island Transport .

Fares depend more on where you board rather than where you get-off (except for the cross-boundary route B2 and a few overnight buses) which means it is more expensive to board at an earlier stop on a route rather than the later ones. Hence, the price of bus rides crossing the harbour between Kowloon and the Island exceeds $9 prior to the crossing. The fare is displayed on a digital display above the farebox - one may pay cash (but no change is given), an Octopus Card, a contactless VISA or Mastercard (on some routes; including those embedded on Apple Pay and Google Pay), or a ticket purchased from a bus travel centre (only applicable to a few routes found at major transit hubs such as Star Ferry or Central Bus Terminus) must be used. There are plenty of bus routes that provide a fare discount for transferring with a particular set of routes; they are often confusing for visitors, however instructions are written on bus stop timetable leaflets. There are also some bus routes (especially the routes going to Stanley) which offer discount if a passenger gets off early and taps the Octopus card again prior to alighting.

There are announcements in Cantonese, Mandarin and English except for most buses on New Lantau Bus. To catch your bus, go to the bus stop with the right number and when your bus approaches, raise your arm to hail the bus (like you would hail a taxi). Buses only stop when requested so press the red buzzer (by the exit doors and on the grab-rails) to signal to the driver that you want to alight. Always board at the front and alight from the centre door.

The MTR also maintains a fleet of feeder buses. MTR passengers can enjoy a free feeder service if the bus trip is paid for on an Octopus card along with a connecting railway journey (except for taking K12 on holidays).

By public light buses/minibuses

Van-sized public light buses or minibuses serve both feeder and trunk routes, carry a maximum of 19 passengers (seats only) and come in two varieties, red minibuses and green minibuses (the red buses are also called maxicabs ); the colour refers to a wide stripe painted on top of the vehicle.

• Most minibus station signs only offer Chinese description, and may have nothing more than the route number on the sign. Location markers of minibus stations on online maps are also spotty. Translation apps like Google Translate (including its camera function) and asking other passengers about the route are useful ways to determine whether the route serves your destination.
• Riding a minibus may not be easy for travellers, as it is required to call out the name of the stop and/or ask the driver to stop in Cantonese (shouting please stop loudly in English usually suffices), but more light buses are equipped with bells to notify the driver. Some station names used by minibuses may be outdated.
• If a minibus station requires diversion from a green minibus' usual route and nobody on the minibus asked to stop, drivers may ignore the stop and take short cuts. The foolproof way for travellers is to inform the driver of your destination and remind the driver again when the minibus is approaching your destination.
• Minibuses sometimes depart from terminus only if they're full, so consider include waiting time if you're boarding a minibus at its terminus.
• Some red minibuses still do not accept Octopus but will give you change, while green minibuses accept Octopus payment but cannot give you change if you pay in cash. Prices on red minibuses are often displayed only in Chinese numbers. The price displayed on a red minibus can vary according to the market price, so one might need to pay more at busy times and on special occasions (such as during a typhoon or demonstration), though it is rare.
• Seatbelts are often ignored by minibus passengers, but the police occasionally have an annual or bi-annual crackdown where offenders may be fined. Faulty seatbelts may also be encountered even on newer minibuses: show it to the police officers, and they would likely to spare you from tickets.
• The Hong Kong Island green minibus #1 down from the Peak to Central is particularly exhilarating. Red minibuses tend to have a more Chinese feel than green buses.

There are six independent route numbering systems, applying to: buses (i) on Hong Kong Island, (ii) in Kowloon and the New Territories, and (iii) on Lantau Island; green minibuses (iv) on Hong Kong Island, (v) in Kowloon, and (vi) in New Territories and several exceptional auxiliary bus routes. Red minibuses do not usually have a route number. This leads to duplication of routes in different regions.

Generally you need not mention which district the route belongs to when you are asking for directions (almost all people will assume you are asking for the route which runs in the district you are in), but you really need to mention whether the route is by bus or minibus when you ask, since in some cases both buses and minibuses can have the same route number in the same area which are different routes.

A large fleet of ferries sail between the many islands of Hong Kong. The granddaddy of them all and an attraction in itself is the Star Ferry , whose most popular line travels between Tsim Sha Tsui and Central from early morning until late at night, and offers amazing views (especially when coming from Tsim Sha Tsui). The Star Ferry is an icon of Hong Kong heritage and has carried passengers for over 120 years. Taking its 11-minute ride across the harbour and catching some misty breeze is considered a "must do" when visiting Hong Kong. Navigation enthusiasts will also not want to miss the sight of the crew using a billhook to catch the thrown rope as it moors at the pier, a practice unchanged since the first ferry ran in 1888.

Upper deck seats cost $2.50 on weekdays and $3.40 on weekends while the lower deck costs $2.00 on weekdays and $2.80 on weekends, both payable with Octopus, cash (no change given) or by onsite vending machine. The Star Ferry also operates between Tsim Sha Tsui and Wanchai but only offers upper-deck seating. A 4-day tourist ticket is also available for $25.

Ferries to Lamma, Lantau and other islands depart from a variety of ports, but the largest and most important terminal is at Central adjacent to the Star Ferry. Ferries are usually divided into fast ferries and slow ferries , with fast ferries charging around twice the price for half the journey time, although not all destinations offer both kinds of service. Example fares for trips from Central to Yung Shue Wan (Lamma) are $10/15 slow/fast, and to Mui Wo (Lantau) $10.50/$21. All fares increase by around 50% on Sundays and public holidays. There is soemthimes an extra charge for seating in an air-conditioned area.

Ferry services known as kai-to (街渡/街艔) serve the city's most remote islands, in which some are also tourist attractions. These ferries are often operated by small motorised sampans. A list of these services can be found on the website of the Transport Department , and are listed on Apple Maps as proper ferries.

Taxis are plentiful and efficient. They are extremely cheap compared to many other large cities.

There are three types of taxi in Hong Kong, easily identified by their colours: red, green and blue, all of which serve the airport and Hong Kong Disneyland. When in doubt, just take a red taxi. Rates for each type of taxi are published online . Rates as of July 2024:

Considerations when riding taxis:

• Wearing of seat belts is required by law for the driver and all passengers. Drivers have the right to refuse carrying any passenger who refuses to comply, and will not carry more passengers than the number of seat belts.
• Tipping is usually not required or expected, however the driver will sometimes round the fare up to the nearest dollar.
• Drivers are required to provide change for $100 notes, but not for higher denominations. If you only have a $500 or $1000 note and are going through a tunnel, let the driver know beforehand and he will change it when paying at the toll booth.
• Some taxis accept credit cards and Octopus cards to avoid hassles with small change; these are usually indicated by a sticker in the windshield.
• There are no extra late-night charges nor peak-hour surcharges. No charges are levied for travel to/from the airport or within downtown but all toll charges for tunnels are added to the bill. The driver will normally pay on your behalf at the toll booth and you just need to reimburse him before alighting.
• Baggage carried in the boot ("trunk" if coming from North America) will cost you $5 per piece even if you lift it yourself, except for wheelchairs.
• Harbour crossing passengers (Hong Kong Island to Kowloon or vice versa) are expected to pay the return tolls. But you can use this to your advantage by picking a homebound taxi from a cross-harbour taxi rank in places like the Star Ferry pier or Hung Hom station. In these cross-harbour taxi stands only single toll charge will be applied to the taxi fare.
• Taxi drivers must display an official name card that includes the driver's photograph and the license plate number. Unless a taxi has an out of service sign displayed, they are legally required to take you to your destination. They must provide a receipt upon request. You may file a complaint to the Transport Complaints Unit Complaint Hotline at ☏ +852-2889-9999 or via their online complaint form .
• All taxis are radio equipped and can be reserved and requested via an operator for $5, payable to the driver. You are unlikely to need to call a taxi, though, as they are plentiful.
• Taxi drivers may know only basic English. Take your hotel's business card to show the driver the address in Chinese. Get a local person to write the name or address of your destination in Chinese. When using a maps app on a phone, your destination may also have a Chinese name which you can show to the driver.
• Learning some Cantonese pronunciation for your location will help (especially as some names don't sound in Cantonese like they are written in English). "Do" (said like "Doe" - a deer, a female deer, with a middle tone) and "Gai" (said more like "Kai" with a rising tone) are the Cantonese words for Road and Street respectively. If you can pronounce your suburb and local road correctly, this will help considerably.
• Mobile taxi apps like eTaxi and HKTaxi are becoming widespread in Hong Kong. You always get a fair price, all payments are done by card, there's no need to call anyone, and you can get a taxi at any time in less than 10 minutes.
• Uber , the global rideshare giant, continues to operate in Hong Kong despite a multi-year legal battle with the government on who is allowed to drive for them. Drivers without the appropriate permits run the risk of fines, but passengers don't.

Traffic in Hong Kong moves on the left (the steering wheel is on the right-hand side), opposite to mainland China. Hong Kong is densely populated, has heavy traffic, a complex road network, and rare and expensive parking spaces, making driving very unappealing for most visitors. Furthermore, it is well-connected by public transportation, so a car may not be necessary. However, there are parts of the New Territories, Lantau Island and southern Hong Kong Island that are poorly served by public transport. The main article has information on driving, renting a car, and crossing the border from mainland China with a car.

Hong Kong is generally not a bicycle-friendly place because of its hilly landscapes, government policies, air pollution and a general lack of consideration by many motorists. Locals sometimes cycle on the pavements if they are not crowded, although most of time, pavements are too crowded even for pushing your bike. If you plan to use busy urban roads you should be fit enough to keep up with the traffic, which moves surprisingly quickly.

A network of tarmac cycling trails sprawl across the New Territories making it relatively easy to bike for longer distances, with the longest one stretching 60km from Tuen Mun to Ma On Shan. Unlike cycling in urban areas, riding on these tracks is quite enjoyable for the scenic rural views along the way. Southern Lantau Island is also a good place to cycle, as motor vehicle traffic is heavily restricted and consequently light on the roads there. Visitors should comply with the Road User's Code . Visit this page for maps of major cycle tracks.

There are also several mountain bike trails in the country parks, although a permit is necessary to bring your bicycle into the parks.

Bike rental is available in several locations across the territory. Popular rental spots include Cheung Chau, Mui Wo (Lantau), Sha Tin, Tai Po Market, Tuen Mun and Ma On Shan. Rental fees are typically $40–60 a day for a standard entry-level mountain bike, or around $150 per day for a higher-spec mountain or road bike.

Basic rules to follow:

• Cyclists are prohibited from riding on expressways and in tunnels, which are well patrolled.
• It is an offence to be drunk while cycling.
• By law, you're required to have a front and rear light.
• Electronic bike conversion systems are not allowed. The police have a strict enforcement policy on this offence.
• The maximum penalty for riding on pedestrian roads is $500 or a three-month jail sentence. Usually offenders get a warning, but the police occasionally have an annual, or bi-annual crackdown.
• For folding bike users, sometimes a bus driver will tell you that it's not allowed, but if you talk to them nicely they will usually let you board. A bicycle bag that makes your bike look like ordinary luggage can make your life a lot easier.

Bicycles on public transport

Folding bicycles are permitted on all public transport, provided that they are folded.

• MTR : Non-folding bicycles are permitted to travel on the MTR system. Travel in the first or last carriage and remove the front wheel.
• Ferries : Bicycles are permitted on board slow ferries including the Star Ferry, but are not permitted on the Fast Ferries.
• Taxis : Most taxi drivers will carry bikes in the boot if the front wheel is removed. Some drivers will carry your bike for free, others will legitimately charge extra for 'excess baggage'.

By escalator

The world's longest outdoor escalator system travels from Central through Soho to the residential developments of the Mid-levels. The escalator moves down in the morning rush hour but up the rest of the time, and using it is free — in fact, you can even get Octopus credits from machines along the way for being willing to use your feet! The escalator is covered, but still relatively exposed to the elements.

The escalator cuts through some of the oldest streets found anywhere in Hong Kong, so if you are happy to take a chance and just wander and explore the back streets you are likely to find something of interest that dates back to colonial times.

Hong Kong doesn't have street benches to sit down. Whilst "sitting out areas" are around, these are generally infrequent. Additionally, restaurants (especially cheap and quick ones) will prefer quick table turnover. All this adds up to spending a considerable amount of time on your feet in any given day. Make sure you have a pair of comfortable shoes, as even a good pair of shoes will still leave your feet sore after a full day on your feet.

Itineraries

• Hong Kong Culinary Tour — gives a short tour to discover the unique cuisine of Hong Kong
• Hong Kong to Kunming overland — covers one route to or from Hong Kong

Guided walks

A list of guided tours is available on the website of the Hong Kong Tourism Board .

Victoria Peak

Get a stunning view of Hong Kong Island on Victoria Peak atop the giant, wok-shaped Peak Tower! Ever since the dawn of British colonisation, the Peak hosted the most exclusive neighbourhood for the territory's richest residents. Prior to World War II, non-white people weren't permitted to even set foot here (except for the servants of the resident white families). The Peak Tower has an observation platform and a shopping mall with shops, fine dining, and museums. Read more at Hong Kong/Central#Victoria Peak .

Horse racing

Horse racing was introduced by the British during the colonial period, and remains serious business in Hong Kong. There are live broadcasts over the radio and many people bet regularly. When people are listening to the races, expect no conversation or business to transpire for the 1-2 minute duration of the race.

With the exception of a summer break between mid-July and mid-September, horse races take place on Wednesdays and on weekends, at either Sha Tin Racecourse in the New Territories or Happy Valley Racecourse on Eastern Hong Kong Island . Both locations are easily accessible by MTR. Happy Valley is the more convenient, historic, and impressive location, though Sha Tin is larger and hosts more top-level international races.

Get a local to explain the betting system to you. Read Racing Post by the South China Morning Post on race days for a guide to the race. A beer garden is at the finish line of Happy Valley. Bring your passport and get in at the tourist rate of just $1 (compared to $10 for locals).

Betting can also be placed at any of the more than 100 branches of the Hong Kong Jockey Club. Expect long lines and big crowds.

Traditional heritage

There are many traditional heritage locations throughout Hong Kong.

In New Territories you will find Ping Shan Heritage Trail passing by some of the most important ancient sights, the walled Hakka village of Tsang Tai Uk , Fu Shin Street Traditional Bazaar as well as a number of temples including Che Kung Temple , Man Mo Temple and the Temple of Ten Thousand Buddhas . In Kowloon you will find the Kowloon Walled City Park at the location of the former Kowloon walled city, which has the remnants of the city's south gate, and a small open-air museum. And on Lantau you will find the Stilt houses in Tai O , Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha Statue .

Hong Kong has traditionally been known for Cantonese opera (粵劇), which as the name suggests, originates in Guangdong province. This art form employs colourful props and costumes, with stories usually set in ancient China, and is a display of singing, martial arts, acting and acrobatics. It is, however, moribund these days, with modern audiences being primarily restricted to the elderly. The only surviving theatre still dedicated exclusively to Cantonese opera performances is the Sunbeam Theatre .

There are a variety of museums in Hong Kong with different themes. Arguably the best museum is the Hong Kong Museum of History in Kowloon , which gives an excellent overview of Hong Kong's fascinating past. Only an abridged version of the museum's permanent exhibit is available while the museum is renovated.

Kowloon also has a number of other interesting museums including Dialogue in the Dark , which is an exhibition in complete darkness where you should use your non-visual senses with the help of a visually impaired guide, Hong Kong Museum of Art , which is a fascinating, strange and elusive place exhibiting Chinese ceramics, terracotta, rhinoceros horn and Chinese paintings as well as contemporary art produced by Hong Kong artists, Hong Kong Science Museum , primarily aimed at children, and Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre .

Central also has its share of museums including Dr Sun Yat-sen Museum , Hong Kong Maritime Museum , Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences , which shows how the healthcare system evolved from traditional Chinese medicine to modern Western medicine, and Hong Kong Visual Arts Centre . There is also a 3D museum from Korea called Trick Eye Museum Hong Kong.

The Hong Kong Palace Museum in West Kowloon is a branch of the Palace Museum in Beijing 's Forbidden City , and largely dedicated to displaying artifacts from the Forbidden City's collection.

Contrary to popular belief, Hong Kong is not all skyscrapers and it is worthwhile to go to the countryside (over 70% of Hong Kong), including the country parks and marine parks . Many are surprised to find that Hong Kong is actually home to some stunning landscapes and breathtaking scenery.

• Lantau Island is twice as big as Hong Kong island and is well worth checking out if you want to get away from the bright lights and pollution of the city for a spell. Here you will find open countryside, traditional fishing villages, secluded beaches, monasteries and more. You can hike, camp, fish and mountain bike, among other activities.
• In the waters just off Tung Chung on Lantau Island , live the Chinese White Dolphin These dolphins are naturally pink and live in the wild, but their status is threatened, with the population estimated to be between 100–200.
• The Sai Kung Peninsula in New Territories is also a worthwhile place to visit. Its mountainous terrain and spectacular coastal scenery make this a special place. There are both challenging and more relaxed routes.
• Hong Kong Wetland Park in New Territories is a relaxing park set amidst an ecological mitigation area. One can stroll along a network of board walks or explore the large visitors centre/museum.
• North East New Territories is also famous for its natural environment. Yan Chau Tong Marine Park is in the North East New Territories. A few traditional abandoned villages are connected with hiking trails in the territory. North East New Territories is a famous hiking hot spot for the locals.
• Short hiking trails (2 hours) can be found on Hong Kong Island and the New Territories. You can even hike up to the Victoria Peak.
• Some outlying islands are worth visiting, e.g., Lamma Island, Cheung Chau, Ping Chau, Tap Mun, Tung Lung Island.

Theme parks

• Hong Kong Disneyland Resort on Lantau Island features a Disneyland park, three resort hotels and a lake recreation centre. It offers some great attractions and short queues most of the year.

• Ocean Park is on the southern side of Hong Kong island , and is the park that grew up with many local Hong Kong people. With roller coasters and large aquariums altogether, it is still packed on weekends with families and tourists. The cablecar is an icon. For many, the chance to see Hong Kong's pandas would be a deciding factor.
• Ngong Ping 360 on Lantau Island is a Buddhist-themed park that features Imperial Chinese architecture, interactive shows, demonstrations, restaurants and coffee shops. The highlight of this trip is the longest cable car ride in Hong Kong that affords stunning views. The ride also takes you to the largest outdoor seated Buddha.

Seeing Hong Kong by public transport

Travelling on a bus or a tram is ideal for looking at different sides of Hong Kong. Not only is it cheap, it allows you to see completely different lifestyles in different districts in a short time. Below are some recommended routes.

• KMB Route 270A . Starts from the downtown in Jordan, Kowloon . It goes along Peninsular Kowloon and heads through the New Territories . Then it goes into Sha Tin. Afterwards it goes through Tai Po Road, where you can see many traditional Chinese villages and the scenic Chinese University of Hong Kong. The bus further goes to Tai Po and you can see the traditional Market. After Tai Po, the bus again passes through the countryside and eventually reaches its terminus at Sheung Shui (below Landmark North), which is near the Hong Kong - Shenzhen boundary. The journey takes 80 minutes and costs $13 for the whole journey with an air-conditioned bus. The Hung Hom bound train back to the city can be taken from Sheung Shui.  
• Citybus Route 15 starts from Central (Exchange Square) to The Peak. It is an alternative way for getting to The Peak by bus rather than by Peak Tram. Your journey to Hong Kong will not be complete unless you have visited Victoria Peak . You can see the beautiful view of Hong Kong Island, Victoria Harbour and Kowloon Peninsula along the Stubbs Road during the journey. When you arrive, there are two shopping malls: The Peak Tower and The Peak Galleria, which provide restaurants, a supermarket, and souvenir shops for your convenience. In addition, you can visit Madame Tussauds Hong Kong and see if the mannequins look to be the real deal. Direction: you can take MTR and get off at Hong Kong station. You can approach Hong Kong station by the underpass from Central station. After that, follow the exit B1 to Exchange Square and you will see the bus terminus. You can also get off at Admiralty station. Then, follow the C1 exit towards Queensway Plaza. Make a right after you exit the station, and you will see the bus stop. After you get on the bus, just stay on until it arrives to The Peak bus terminus. The bus fare is $9.8 and it takes about 30 minutes for the journey.
• Citybus Route 973 starts from Tsim Sha Tsui East Bus Terminus at the Concordia Plaza, which is directly opposite the Science Museum at Science Museum Road. It goes along Salisbury Road, where the Avenue of Stars, The Space Museum and the Art Museum are. Later it goes to University of Hong Kong, which is the most prominent and the oldest university in Hong Kong after crossing the Western Harbour Crossing. It later passes through the countryside of the southern part of Hong Kong. It will reach the Hong Kong southern side in Aberdeen. Not long after, the bus passes by a football field, from which it is a 5–10 minutes walk to Ocean Park. Finally, the bus passes by the beautiful sandy beach of Repulse Bay, before it finally arrives at its terminus station at Stanley Village, where the famous Murray House and the Stanley Village Market are. The fare is $13.6 and it takes about 95 minutes for the journey.
• Citybus Route H1, H2 are two rickshaw-themed double-deckers going to main heritage spots on Hong Kong Island, such as the Court of Final Appeal (previously LegCo) in Central and the University of Hong Kong. A day pass costs $50, and you can hop on and hop off at any stop.

• Take a tram journey on Hong Kong Island .

The tram system refers to is Hong Kong Tramways , a slow yet special form of transport running on Hong Kong Island. It has been operating since 1904 and is an obvious relic of the British administration. A trip on a tram is a perfect way to have a leisurely tour around Hong Kong Island's major streets and to have a glimpse of the local life. Fares are relatively cheap, just $2.60 per trip for an adult and $1.20 for senior citizens (aged 65 or older) and children pay $1.30.

The low price makes it attractive to domestic helpers on their Sunday off, and it can be so crowded that it is very difficult to squeeze on or off. A relaxing tram journey would be better for a weekday. The tram is not air conditioned, while the open windows offer a nice breeze.

Starting from the old district Kennedy Town, you can see the residential areas, followed by the Chinese herbal medicine and dried seafood wholesalers in Sai Ying Pun - Sheung Wan. Then the tram goes in the famous Central district with high rise commercial buildings and banks. Wan Chai and Causeway Bay are the districts popular with shoppers and are always crowded with people at all times. Travelling further east are North Point and Shau Kei Wan areas, which are of completely different styles from that in Central and Causeway Bay.

It is recommended to ride from as far as Kennedy Town in the west, to as far as Shau Kei Wan in the east, in order to get a strong contrast of "East meets West" and "Old meets New". Moreover, trams terminating at North Point will pass a wet market at Chun Yeung Street before reaching the terminus, creating a unique scene for both passengers on trams and shoppers on the street.

The Light Rail, a modern tram system, operates in the northwest New Territories and serves New Towns between Yuen Long and Tuen Mun. Few tourists will be inspired by these trams but they may appeal to enthusiasts, and are useful for getting to the famous Chinese bakeries in Yuen Long.

Avenue of Stars and A Symphony of Lights

Hong Kong's version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Grauman's Chinese Theatre combined into one, the Avenue of Stars celebrates icons of Hong Kong cinema from the past century. The seaside promenade in Kowloon offers fantastic views, day and night, of Victoria Harbour and the skyline. This is also a great place to see A Symphony of Lights, a light and laser show synchronised to music and staged every night at 8PM.

Pop culture

Hong Kong was one of the main centres of Chinese pop culture from the communist revolution in 1949 until the 2010s, having given rise to many famous singers and actors. Hong Kong action cinema is legendary among Chinese people around the world. The city also played a key role in popularizing the genre of Cantopop, and some Cantopop songs have achieved cult status across the Chinese-speaking world, even among people who do not speak Cantonese. Television dramas by local station TVB also enjoyed loyal following among ethnic Chinese around the world.

Since the 2010s, most of Hong Kong's top singers and actors have relocated to mainland China where they can make a lot more money. Nevertheless, the city continues to produce notable films on a regular basis, and Cantopop has experienced a revival of sorts in the 2020s, led by a new generation of local talent.

Music festivals

Clockenflap is Hong Kong's largest music festival, and includes popular artists, mainly from Europe and the US. It takes place in November on the Central Harbourfront Event Space.

Indie events

Cantopop is by far the most popular genre in Hong Kong and receives an immense amount of support from the media. Independent musicians and are often harassed and evicted from their rehearsal rooms and concert venues by the government because they are forced to illegally rent warehouse spaces due to unaffordable rents. A few small venues are open for indie shows, such as Hidden Agenda and The Wanch.

You are never far from the sea in Hong Kong and going to a good beach is only a bus-ride away. However, if you want a really good beach, then it is worth making the effort to travel, possibly on foot, and seek out the beaches of the New Territories. With more than 200 outlying islands, as well as an extensive coastline that is jam-packed with impressive bays and beaches, you will surely come across some good looking beaches to while the whole day away. Hong Kong's urban beaches are usually well maintained and have services such as showers and changing rooms. Where beaches are managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, shark nets and life guards are present. Dogs and smoking are not permitted on these beaches.

The best beaches to use include:

Repulse Bay is a large urban beach on the south side of Hong Kong island that features a colourful Chinese temple. Money has been spent on its facilities and will appeal to those who have young children.

Middle Bay is popular with gay people and is a 20-minute walk from the crowds at Repulse Bay. Middle Bay has lifeguards, showers, changing rooms, shark nets and a decent cafe serving drinks and snacks.

Shek O is a beach popular with many young locals. It is away from the bustle of the city but is well served by restaurants and has a good bus service from the north side of the island. The Thai restaurant close to the beach is worth a try.

Big Wave Bay is smaller than other beaches on Hong Kong Island, but has good services which include a number of small cafes close to the beach. Big Wave Bay has the sort of waves that appeal to surfers. From here it is possible to take the coastal footpath to Chai Wan where you can find the MTR and buses. The walk to Chai Wan is about one hour, or more if you are not used to the steep climb up the mountain.

Hung Shing Yeh Beach on Lamma Island is the most popular beach. This beach is Grade 1 and shows off powdery, fine sand and clear water. This beach has changing facilities, a barbecue area, and a refreshment kiosk. Take the ferryboat from Central Pier to Yung Shue Wan; expect to walk around 20 minutes from the ferry terminal to the beach (buses and taxis are not an option on Lamma).

Swimming pools

In addition to pools in many hotels, there are several public swimming pools scattered across the territory. Entrance costs $19 on weekends/$17 on weekdays for adults and $9 on weekends/$8 on weekdays for children, usually only payable by Octopus Card or by coins. Swimming pools are child-friendly with shallow pools and fountains. All swimming pool complexes are well maintained and offer swimming lanes, hot showers, lockers ($5 coin deposit or your own lock required), both family and same-sex changing rooms (limited privacy), and most have swimming clubs for serious swimmers. Swimmers are expected to provide their own towels and toiletries. The Kowloon Park Swimming Pool Complex in Tsim Sha Tsui is centrally located and offers visitors a wide range of services and includes an indoor Olympic-sized pool.

Most pools open at 6:30AM and close at 10PM. They generally close for lunch noon-1PM and then again from 5-6PM.

You can rent a Junk Boat for a sailing trip. A typical junk boat can accommodate more than 30 people and can be rented for the day to take you on a tour of your choice. Sai Kung is a popular spot for the trip to start and you can sail to nearby beaches for a more secluded time. A cheaper alternative is to hire a much smaller water taxi (水道) to take you to where you want to go.

There are a few boats that operate "sunset cruises" on the harbour.

The sports landscape in Hong Kong generally reflects its legacy of British colonial rule. Hong Kong sends its own team to international sports competitions, separate from the Chinese team. Hong Kong also sends a team to China's National Games. It will host the fencing, track cycling, golf, rugby sevens, beach volleyball, triathlon, tenpin bowling, men's handball and men's U22 basketball events for the 2025 National Games, to be held on 9-21 November.

The most popular sport in Hong Kong is football (soccer) , and while the local league and national team are not of a high standard, it has the highest participation rate among all team sports in Hong Kong. The main home stadium of the Hong Kong national team is the Hong Kong Stadium in Causeway Bay, but some home games may be played at the Mong Kok Stadium instead.

Rugby union is also popular, with the territory hosting the Hong Kong Sevens , the world's most prestigious rugby sevens tournament, every year at Hong Kong Stadium. Hong Kong also has a respectable rugby union national team, which is the second strongest in Asia after Japan.

Cricket is most popular among the South Asian and Eurasian (European and Asian mixed-race) communities, and membership in the Hong Kong Cricket Club or Kowloon Cricket Club is somewhat of a status symbol for Hongkongers. Due to Hong Kong's mild climate, cricket is generally played in the winter months (Sept-April). Hong Kong is a third-tier ICC team, occasionally entering qualifying rounds for major tournaments but not routinely facing the stronger nations. The Hong Kong national cricket team plays at Tin Kwong Road (formerly Mission Road) in Kowloon.

The Kau Sai Chau Public Golf Course , on the eponymous island, is Hong Kong's only public golf course.

Hiking and camping

Hiking is the best kept secret in Hong Kong, it is a great way to appreciate Hong Kong's beautiful landscapes that include mountains, beaches and breathtaking cityscapes. The starting points for many hiking trails are accessible by bus or taxi.

Hiking in Hong Kong can be strenuous because of the steep trails, and during the summer months, mosquitos and the hot, humid, weather combine to make even the easiest trek a workout. Wear suitable clothes, and bring plenty of water and mosquito repellent. It is fairly unlikely that you will have a close encounter with venomous snakes, although they are present in most rural areas. Most local people choose the winter months to undertake the more demanding hiking trails. If you are not especially fit you might plan your route so that you take a bus or taxi to the highest point of the trail and then walk downhill.

Campsites in Hong Kong are plentiful and free of charge. Most are in country parks and range from basic sites serviced with only with a pit toilet, to those that provide campers with modern toilet blocks and cold showers. Some sites have running water and sinks for washing dishes. A few campsites have places to buy drinking water and food. Whilst many are serenely remote, weekends and public holidays are predictably busy, especially in the more accessible places close to roads. Hongkongers who camp like to do so in large groups, talk loudly, and stay awake late into the night. If you are noise sensitive try to find a remote campsite or pack some good earplugs.

There are four major trails in Hong Kong:

• Lantau Trail on Lantau .
• Hong Kong Trail on Hong Kong Island .
• Maclehose Trail through the New Territories .
• Wilson Trail starting on Hong Kong Island and finishing in the New Territories.

Hong Kong has some exceptional rural landscapes but visitor impact is an issue. Respect the countryside by taking your litter home with you. Avoid putting food in litter bins in remote areas as these are not emptied on a regular basis and your trash may be strewn around by hungry animals.

Hong Kong Outdoors is packed with information on hiking and camping, and other great things to do and places to go in the wilderness areas of Hong Kong.

While the closest casinos are in Macau , other forms of gambling are legal and regulated in Hong Kong:

• Horse racing is the most popular and is further detailed above.
• Football betting is legal only at branches of the Hong Kong Jockey Club . Betting on other sports is prohibited.
• Lottery is also legal only at branches of the Hong Kong Jockey Club . Marksix is a popular game costing $10 per bet. You pick 6 of 49 numbers, and the lottery result will be announced on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and weekends that don't have horse racing scheduled.
• Mahjong (麻雀 màh-jeuk ) also forms an integral part of Hong Kong gambling culture, although it is often informal and difficult for foreigners to get involved with. Mahjong has a strong influence on Hong Kong pop culture, with a history of songs, films and television series based on a mahjong theme. The game played in Hong Kong is the Cantonese version, which differs in rules and scoring from the Japanese version, Taiwanese version or the versions played in other parts of China. Mahjong parlours are plentiful, although hard to find. They also have many unwritten rules that visitors may find hard to understand.

Universities

Hong Kong has 12 universities. The oldest University of Hong Kong (香港大學) is considered to be one of Asia's top universities. Other highly rated universities in Hong Kong include the Chinese University of Hong Kong (香港中文大學) and Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (香港科技大學). Most universities have exchange agreements with foreign universities, offering a good opportunity to study in Hong Kong. Courses for exchange students are often conducted in English.

Learning Cantonese

Some universities and private institutions offer Cantonese lessons for foreigners. This is a good way for those living in Hong Kong for an extended period of time to learn the local language. Like Taiwan and Macau, but unlike mainland China, the script taught is traditional Chinese.

Unless you are already a citizen or permanent resident of Hong Kong then you will need an employment visa in order to work. This usually involves potential employers making an application to the Immigration Department on your behalf; crucially you should have skills and/or qualifications that are in short supply in the local job market. Spouses of employment visa holders can apply for a dependent visa which has no limitations for working within Hong Kong (except perhaps for government posts), although it will terminate at the same time of the visa of the main holder. Spouses who are citizens of the PRC may face issues in obtaining a dependent visa unless they have been living outside the PRC for more than a year.

The Quality Migrant Application Scheme targets highly skilled workers ( preferably university educated ) to come and settle in Hong Kong and seek employment. For more information, visit the website of the Hong Kong Immigration Department . Hong Kong has a small ESL market; teachers will typically need a bachelor's degree and a TESOL certification. ESL teachers in Hong Kong can expect to earn $12,000-25,000 (monthly) and will usually teach 30 to 40 hours a week. Contracts will sometimes include accommodation and airfare.

You are eligible to apply for permanent residency after living in Hong Kong on a temporary permit for 7 years or more continuously, which allows you to live and work in Hong Kong indefinitely with no restrictions. You must be physically residing in Hong Kong during this time without any long absences. Permanent residency can also be obtained by investing a lot of money in a local business. Check with the immigration department for more details.

Young people between 18 and 30 years old who are citizens of Australia , Austria , Canada , France , Germany , Ireland , Japan , New Zealand , South Korea and United Kingdom are eligible to apply for a working holiday visa (valid for 6 months for Austrian citizens, 12 months for others), allowing them to take up temporary work and a short period of study in Hong Kong. Visit the Immigration Department's website for more information.

Hong Kong's personal and corporate income tax rates are among the lowest in the world, making it a popular tax haven for many of the world's richest people, and a popular place for multinational corporations to set up their Asia-Pacific headquarters.

The Hong Kong dollar , denoted by the symbol " $ " (港元 or 港幣, ISO code HKD ), is the territory's currency. In Cantonese, one dollar is known formally as the 圓 ( yùn ) and colloquially as the 蚊 ( mān ). It is subdivided into 100 cents (symbol ¢ ). In Cantonese, one cent known as a 仙 ( sīn ), and ten cents is known as a 毫 ( hòu ). You can assume that the '$' sign used in this travel guide and in the territory refers to HKD. The HKD is also widely accepted in Macau in lieu of its own currency at a 1:1 rate.

The official exchange rate is fixed in a range of HK$7.75-7.85 to US$1, although bank rates may fluctuate slightly. When exchanging currency at a big bank, be prepared to pay a small fixed commission, usually about $40 per transaction. If exchanging large amounts, this commission will have a negligible impact on the transaction. If exchanging small amounts, it may be advantageous to exchange at one of many independent exchange stalls or pawnshops found in tourist areas. Although their exchange rates compared with big banks are slightly less favourable for you, most do not charge a commission. They may also be more convenient and a faster way to exchange (no queues, in shopping centres, open 24 hours, minimal paperwork, etc.) However, be wary of using independent exchangers outside banking hours because, without competition from big banks, their rates may be very uncompetitive.

If you go to the right place, Hong Kong can be an excellent place to exchange money , including from one foreign currency to another (i.e. non-HK$ pairs), as some places offer very good exchange rates with low or no commissions, and without the various restrictions and paperwork you have to deal with to exchange money in mainland China. One competitive place to exchange money is Chungking Mansion in Tsim Sha Tsui, with a high density of Pakistani and Indian currency sellers.

Try to avoid changing money at the airport, train station, most hotels, or at street blocks or buildings with only one exchange stall since the rates offered there are usually more unfavourable to the traveller. Street money exchange vendors will often offer different rates and you may be able to save around 10% if you can compare several different places rather than using the first one you see.

Getting money by withdrawing with Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) or debit cards may have competitive exchange rates and most big banks do not charge an ATM usage fee, though your banks may impose their own fees (including foreign exchange markups and fixed withdrawal fees). Some smaller banks do not accept ATM cards from overseas customers though. The best banks for foreign tourists to use are HSBC, Hang Seng and Standard Chartered, and ATMs from those banks are widespread and can be found at any MTR station and along every major street corner.

Other than the $10 banknote, all others are issued by multiple banks in Hong Kong. Although they have slightly different designs, notes of the same denomination have the same colour and all of them can be used anywhere in Hong Kong. They come in denominations of $10, $20, $50, $100, $500 and $1000. Some shops do not accept $1000 notes due to counterfeiting concerns.

Coins come in units of $10, $5, $2, $1, 50¢, 20¢ and 10¢. Typically you will want to avoid change less than $1 because there are not many things to buy with coins under that. An Octopus Card is the best way to avoid dealing with small change.

The Octopus cards you use for transport (see #Get around section) can also be used to pay for items at many fast food chains, supermarkets, and convenience stores.

ATMs are ubiquitous. They universally accept Visa, MasterCard, and to a lesser degree UnionPay, Maestro, and Cirrus. No ATMs accept American Express. Credit card use is common in most shops for major purchases. Most retailers accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. Maestro debit cards are not widely accepted by retailers.

Sometimes, the merchant can give you a choice of whether to charge your credit card purchase directly to your home currency or Hong Kong dollars. In most cases it is more favourable to charge the transaction in Hong Kong dollars first and let your card issuer perform the conversion.

The 'chip and pin' system for credit card authorisation is not used as extensively in Hong Kong as elsewhere. Many retailers use contactless communications for foreign-issued cards and if used for small purchases, a signature is not required. Apple Pay and Google Pay acceptance is near universal within the same venues that take contactless cards.

Opening a bank account in Hong Kong is a straightforward process, requiring a proof of address and a corresponding ID. A Hong Kong identification card (of any type) will make the process much easier, although foreign visitors are allowed to open bank accounts as well using their foreign address. Banks will almost always have English speaking staff available.

Some banks can also provide accounts and UnionPay credit cards in the Chinese RMB currency, which can then be used when travelling in mainland China.

Hong Kong is expensive by Asian standards, with the cost of accommodation especially high. A comfortable mid-range hotel room will cost at least $800 a night, although those who are really on a shoe-string budget could find something for less than $200 for just a bed in a hostel.

Transport is however relatively cheap, with most public transport journeys costing just a few dollars. Even taxis won't break the bank with short journeys costing about $30, although crossing the harbour will add another $80 to your tab.

Eating out in Hong Kong is generally cheaper than in Western countries, and prices start from about $30 per serve for a basic meal of porridge or noodles, although in mid-range restaurants, $200–300 per head is common. At the other end of the spectrum, fine dining can also be very expensive, and prices on the order of $1000 per head or more are not unheard of.

Finally it is worth noting that Hong Kong does not have a sales tax and therefore prices for moderately expensive items (such as imported shampoo, mobile phones etc.) will generally be less than in China, Europe and other countries with sales tax.

As a general rule, tipping is not customary in Hong Kong, though people will not reject any tips you care to hand them. Tipping is a matter of personal choice, but visitors should take into account that locals usually do not leave a tip. Visitors should also know that it is common for bar and restaurant owners to keep some, or all, of the money given as tips to waiters.

In cheaper restaurants, tipping is not expected at all and it will be considered unusual not to take all your change. In medium-to-upmarket restaurants, a 10% service charge is often compulsorily added to your bill (i.e. the prices of food and beverage items you see on the menu do not calculate and include service charge yet). You may, at your own discretion, choose to tip on top of that if the service was exemplary; to give it more chance of reaching the staff, tips should be given in cash and not as additions to a credit card bill. It is also common for mid range Chinese restaurants to give you peanuts, tea and towels and add a small charge to the bill. Known as "cha-sui money" (money for tea and water), it is considered to be common practice, so unless the charge is excessive, tourists should accept it as part of the cost of the meal. Sometimes, restaurants will deliberately give customers change in coins, when notes could be given; it is your choice whether to take all your change or leave a small tip.

Tipping is not expected in taxis but passengers will often round up the fare to the nearest dollar. During a typhoon, when any loss is not covered by insurance, a tip will be expected, or the taxi driver will ask you to pay a surcharge. In hotels, a guest is also expected to tip at least $10–20 for room service, and porters also expect $10–20 for carrying your bags. Bathroom attendants in luxury restaurants and clubs might also expect you to leave a few coins, but it's socially acceptable not to tip.

Do not under any circumstances try to offer a tip to a government employee, especially police officers; this is regarded as bribery and is strictly illegal.

Exceptionally, on important occasions, such as a wedding party or similar big gala event, local people hosting such events do tip substantially more than ten percent of the total bill. The money is put into a red envelope and given to the manager.

Fierce competition, no sales tax and many wealthy consumers all add up to make Hong Kong an excellent destination for shopping. Choices are plentiful at competitive prices. Lookout for watches, camping equipment, digital items and luxury cosmetics. Popular shopping items include consumer electronics, custom clothing, shoes, camping equipment, jewellery, expensive brand name goods, Chinese antiques, toys and Chinese herbs/medicine. There's also a wide choice of Japanese, Korean, American and European clothing and cosmetics but prices are generally higher than in their respective home countries.

Cuisine plays an important part in many peoples' lives in Hong Kong. Not only is it a showcase of various regional Chinese cuisines, but there are also excellent Asian and Western options, and creative fusion between the various cuisines. Although Western food is often adapted to local tastes, Hong Kong is a good place for homesick travellers who have had enough of Chinese food. Indian immigrants have also left their mark on Hong Kong cuisine, and curry is a popular condiment. While authentic Indian curries can certainly be found, Hong Kong curries are generally adapted for the Cantonese palate, with the spice level dialed down to near zero.

Due to its history as part of that region, unsurprisingly, much of the local cuisine in Hong Kong is very similar to that of neighbouring Guangdong . That being said, over a century of British rule means that the British have also left their mark on the local cuisine, with cakes and pastries being fairly popular among locals. Hong Kongers are also somewhat less adventurous than their fellow Cantonese speakers in mainland China, with several exotic ingredients such as dog and cat meat being banned in Hong Kong. It is also possible to find cuisine from practically every part of China, as many famous chefs fled from the mainland to Hong Kong to escape persecution by the communists in the aftermath of the Chinese Civil War. In particular, the Hakkas and Teochews have left a significant impact on Hong Kong's culinary culture, and there is no shortage of good Hakka and Teochew restaurants for those who have grown weary of Cantonese food.

You may meet some local people who haven't cooked at home for a decade. Locals love to go out to eat since it is much more practical than socializing in crowded spaces at home. A long queue can be a local sport outside many good restaurants during peak hours. Normally, you need to register first, get a ticket and wait for empty seats. Reservations are usually only an option in upmarket restaurants.

Eating etiquette

Chinese food is generally eaten with chopsticks. However, restaurants serving Western food usually provide a knife, fork and spoon. Do not stick your chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice, as this is reminiscent of incense sticks burning at the temple and has connotations of wishing death on those around you. In addition, chopsticks should not be used to move bowls and plates or make any noise. Dishes in smaller eateries might not come with a serving spoon, although staff will usually provide one if you request.

A few Hong Kong customs to be aware of:

• To thank the person who pours your tea Cantonese style, tap two or three fingers on the table three times. The legend suggests a story involving a Chinese emperor travelling incognito and his loyal subjects wanting to kowtow (bow) to him without blowing their cover — hence the "finger kowtow".
• If you want more tea in the pot, leave the lid open, and it will be refilled.
• It is not unusual for customers to rinse their plates and utensils with hot tea before starting their meal, and a bowl is often provided for this very purpose. This is due to the fact that cheaper restaurants may often have washing residues on dishes or utensils.
• Except for very expensive places, there is no real dress code in Hong Kong. You will often see people in suits and others in t-shirts in the same restaurant.

See also Chinese table manners for more details. While there are some minor differences, much of traditional Chinese dining etiquette applies to Hong Kong too.

Local foods, eating establishments, and costs

You can usually tell how cheap (or expensive) the food is from the decor of the restaurant. Menus are not always displayed outside restaurants and English menus are not available at budget restaurants. Restaurants in Soho in Central, in 5-star restaurants, or in other high-rent areas are usually more expensive than restaurants that are off the beaten path. It is easy to find places selling mains for well under $80, offering both local and international food. Local fast food chains such as Café de Coral (大家樂) and Fairwood (大快活) offer meals for $30–50, with standardised English menus for easy ordering. Mid-range restaurants generally charge in excess of $100 for mains. At the top end, fine dining restaurants, such as Felix or Aqua, can easily see you leave with a bill in excess of $1500 (including entrées (appetisers), mains, desserts and drinks). If your budget allows for it, Hong Kong is undoubtedly one of, if not the world's best places to experience Chinese-style fine dining.

Tap water is typically not served and you will need to buy bottled water from most restaurants instead.

Dim sum (點心), literally means 'to touch (your) heart', is possibly the best known Cantonese dish. Served at breakfast and lunch, these delicately prepared morsels of Cantonese cuisine are often served with Chinese tea.

Dim Sum comes in countless variations with a huge price range from $8 to more than $100 per order. Common items include steamed shrimp dumplings (蝦餃 har gau), pork dumplings (燒賣 siu mai), barbecued pork buns (叉燒包 char siu bau), and Hong Kong egg tarts (蛋撻 dan tat), the first two being obligatory for local diners whenever they eat dim sum. Expect more choice in upmarket restaurants. One pot of tea with two dishes, called yak chung liang gin is a typical serving for breakfast.

Siu mei (燒味) is a general name for roast meats made in a Hong Kong style, including roasted crispy pork belly (燒肉 siu yuk), barbecued pork (叉燒 char siu), roast duck (燒鴨 siu aap) or soy sauce chicken (豉油雞 si yau gai). With the addition of a slightly crispy honey sauce layer, the final taste is of char siu a unique, deep barbecue flavour. Rice with roasted pork, roasted duck, pork with a crisp crackling, or Fragrant Queen's chicken (香妃雞), are common dishes that are enduring favourites for many, including local superstars. It is recommended to taste the roasted pork with rice in 'Sun-Can' of PolyU.

Cantonese congee (粥 juk ) is a thin porridge made with rice boiled in water. Served at breakfast, lunch or supper, the best version is as soft as 'floss', it takes up to 10 hours to cook the porridge to reach this quality. Congee is usually eaten with savoury deep-fried Chinese doughnuts (油炸鬼 yau char kway) and steamed rice pastry (腸粉 cheong fun) which often has a meat or vegetable filling.

Hong Kong has several restaurant chains that specialise in congee, but none of them have earned the word-of-mouth respect from local gourmets. The best congee places are usually in older districts, often owned by elderly people who are patient enough to spend hours making the best floss congee.

When asked what food makes Hong Kong people feel at home, wonton noodles (雲吞麵) are a popular answer. Wonton are dumplings usually made from minced prawn but may contain small amounts of pork.

Rice pastry is also a popular dish from southern China. Found particularly in Teochew and Hokkien areas in China, its popularity is widespread throughout east Asia. In Hong Kong, it is usually served in soup with beef and fish balls and sometimes with deep-fried crispy fish skins.

Two-dish rice

The classic working-class meal in Hong Kong, this consists of white rice with numerous other traditional Cantonese dishes to choose from, with customers typically picking two to three dishes, hence the name "two-dish rice" (兩餸飯 léuhng sung faahn ). As the dishes are rarely labelled, customers typically choose their dishes by pointing and saying 呢個 (nēi go, meaning "this one"), giving it its nickname "this this rice". Once looked down upon and considered to be "poor man's food", its popularity skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic, when dine-in establishments were forced to close, and many two-dish rice stalls are now famous among locals for specific dishes. Do not expect much English proficiency at such establishments, but if you can find a way to communicate, these are excellent places to have an affordable meal, with prices hovering around $40 (about US$5).

A popular Cantonese dessert is a sweet soup called tong sui (糖水, literally sugar water). Popular versions are usually made with black sesame paste (芝麻糊), walnuts (核桃糊) or sago (西米露) which are usually sticky in texture. Other traditional ones include red bean paste (紅豆沙), green bean paste (綠豆沙) and tofu pudding (豆腐花). Lo ye (撈野) is a similar dish. Juice is put into an ultra-cold pan to make an ice paste, it is usually served with fresh fruit and sago.

Tea cafes & tea time

A uniquely Hong Kong-style eatery that has made waves elsewhere in Asia is the cha chaan teng (茶餐廳), literally "tea cafe", but offering fusion fast food that happily mixes Western and Eastern fare: innovations include macaroni soup with ham, instant noodles with spam and egg, Hong Kong-style French toast, and baked rice or spaghetti with meat sauce and cheese. Usually a wide selection of drinks is also available, almost always including the popular tea-and-coffee mix yuenyeung (鴛鴦), and perhaps more oddities (to the Western palate) like boiled Coke with ginger or iced coffee with lemon. Orders are usually recorded on a chit at your table and you pay at the cashier as you leave.

Showing signs of British colonial influence, tea time (下午茶 hah ńgh chàh ) plays an important role in Hong Kong's stressful office life. Usually starting at 2PM to 3PM, a typical tea set goes with a cup of 'silk-stocking' tea, egg tarts and sandwiches with either minced beef, egg or ham, but without vegetables and cheese.

Hong Kong's version of milk tea shares a similar taste with Malaysia's teh tarik . A distinctive feature of Hong Kong-style milk tea is the sackcloth bag that is used to filter the tea leaves, which looks like silk stockings after being dyed with tea, giving the name 'silk-stocking milk tea'. Milk tea, to some Hong Kong people, is an important indicator on the quality of a restaurant. If a restaurant fails to serve reasonably good milk tea, locals might be very harsh with their criticism. Yuanyang is also a popular drink mixed with milk tea and coffee.

A signal to tell you teatime has come is a small queue lining up in a bakery to buy egg tarts (a teatime snack with outer pastry crust and filled with egg custard). Don't attempt to make a fool of yourself by telling people that the egg tart was brought to Hong Kong by the British - many locals are assertive in claiming sovereignty over their egg tarts. When a long-established egg tart shop in Central was closed due to skyrocketing rental payments, it became the SAR's main news and many people came to help the owners look for a new place. Hong Kong egg tarts differ from the Macau version mainly in their crust; the Hong Kong version typically uses a crumbly crust like English custard tarts, while the Macau version typically uses a flaky crust like the Portuguese pastel de nata .

For those who wish to have an authentic British high tea experience, the colonial Peninsula Hotel is one of the best places in Asia to do so.

To stuff your stomach in a grassroots Chaa Chan Teng (茶餐廳) (local tea restaurant), expect to pay $10–20 for milk, tea or coffee, $8–10 for a toast, and $25–50 for a dish of rice with meats. Wonton noodles generally cost $20–30.

Street food

The cheapest food is in the popular street stalls. Most of the people working there do not speak much English and there is no English on the menu. However, if you could manage to communicate, street-style eating is an excellent way to experience local food. Point, use fingers (or Cantonese numbers) and smile. They're usually willing to help. Local specialities include curry fish balls (咖喱魚蛋), fake shark fin soup (碗仔翅) made with beans and vermicelli noodles, egg waffle (雞蛋仔), fried three filled treasures (煎釀三寶, vegetable filled with fish meat), stinky tofu (臭豆腐), fried intestines on a stick, fried squid or octopus and various meats on sticks (such as satay style chicken).

Most major fast food eateries are popular in Hong Kong and have reasonable prices. McDonald's sells a Happy Meal set for $20–25.

Seafood (海鮮) is very popular and is widely available. The best places to eat seafood include Sai Kung, Sam Shing, Po Doi O and Lau Fau Shan in the New Territories and Hong Kong's islands , particularly Lamma and Cheung Chau, are abound with seafood restaurants. Seafood is not cheap. Prices range from $200 per head for a very basic dinner, to $300–500 for better choices and much more for the best on offer.

Expect to find a mismatch between the high prices for the food and the quality of the restaurant. Sometimes the best food is served in the most basic eateries where tables maybe covered in cheap plastic covers rather than a more formal tablecloth. Often, Cantonese people value the food more than the decor. If one of your travelling companions does not like seafood, don't panic, many seafood restaurants have extensive menus that cater for all tastes. A number of seafood restaurants specialise in high quality roast chicken that is especially flavoursome. Many exotic delicacies like abalone, conch and bamboo clam can be found for sale in many seafood restaurants but you might want to avoid endangered species such as shark and juvenile fish.

Exotic meats

While Hong Kong has long banned dog and cat meat and has strict rules on importing many meats of wild animals, snake meat is commonly seen in winter in different restaurants that bear the name "Snake King". Served in a sticky soup, it is believed to warm your body.

There's an ongoing debate over the consumption of shark fin in Hong Kong, which is the biggest importer of this exotic cuisine. Commonly served at wedding parties and other important dining events, shark fin is served in a carefully prepared stew at as much as $1000/bowl. The consumption of shark fin is controversial due to the inhumane manner in which the fins are collected. Sharks are removed from the ocean, their fins are cut off, and they are discarded back into the ocean still alive to die a slow unpleasant death. To quell your curiosity, imitation shark fin soup is available, and reportedly indistinguishable from the real thing.

Besides exotic meats, you will also see chicken feet, pig's noses and ears, lungs, stomachs, duck's heads, various types of intestines, livers, kidneys, black pudding (blood jelly) and duck's tongues on the Chinese dining tables.

International cuisine

Due to the large number of foreign residents in Hong Kong, there are many restaurants that serve authentic international cuisine at all price levels. This includes various types of Japanese, Thai, Indian, Malaysian, American and European foods. These can often be found in, though not restricted to, entertainment districts such as Lan Kwai Fong, Soho or Knutsford Terrace. Of these, Soho is probably the best for eating as Lan Kwai Fong is primarily saturated with bars and clubs. Chungking Mansions in Tsim Sha Tsui is known to locals for having a high concentration of affordable Indian and African restaurants. Top chefs are often invited or try to make their way to work in Hong Kong.

Local Western food

While authentic Western food is certainly available at higher-end restaurants, much of the Western food in Hong Kong has been localised to the point of being hardly recognisable to Westerners, resulting in a unique style known as " soy sauce Western " (豉油西餐). This style of Western food is mainly sold at cha chaan teng, though a local mid-range restaurant chain famous for this style of cuisine is Tai Ping Koon (太平館), best known to locals for a dish called "Swiss chicken wings" (瑞士雞翼).

Home-dining

Home-dining is catching on to be a very popular trend in Hong Kong. BonAppetour is a great way to discover local chefs who would love to have you over for an evening dinner. It's a great way to make friends over home-made food, and company.

Barbecue (BBQ) meals are a popular local pastime. Many areas feature free public barbecue pits where everybody roasts their own food, usually with long barbeque forks. It's not just sausages and burgers - the locals enjoy cooking a variety of things at BBQ parties, such as fish, beef meatballs, pork meatballs, chicken wings, and so on. A good spot is the Southern Hong Kong Island , where almost every beach is equipped with many free BBQ spots. Just stop by a supermarket and buy food, drinks and BBQ equipment. The best spots are Shek O (under the trees at the left hand side of the beach) and Big Wave Bay.

Kau Wah Keng (九華徑) village in Lai King, New Territories was home to some private-run BBQ sites that provide food upon payment. These BBQ sites are unlicensed, and authorities had clamped down their operation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Wet markets

Wet markets are still prevalent. Freshness is a key ingredient to all Chinese food, so frozen meat and vegetables are frowned upon, and most markets display freshly butchered beef and pork (with entrails), live fish in markets, and more exotic shellfish , frogs , turtles and sea snails. Local people often go to the market everyday to buy fresh ingredients, just like the restaurants.

Cooked food centres

Cooked food centres are often found in the same building as some of the indoor wet markets. Tables that used to be on the street have been swept into sterile concrete buildings. Inside, the atmosphere is like a food court without the frills. Cooked food centres provide economic solutions to diners, but you might need to take along a Cantonese speaker, or be brave.

Dietary restrictions

As many people in Hong Kong's South Asian community are Hindu or Muslim , your best bet for religious diets that fall into those categories are restaurants that serve those communities. The Islamic Trust is Hong Kong's halal certification body, and Muslims visitors can contact them for more information about halal food in Hong Kong. Due to the small size of Hong Kong's Jewish community, kosher food is rare; contact the Ohel Leah Synagogue for more information on where to get kosher food.

Vegetarians should look for specialist vegetarian restaurants that primarily serve devout Buddhists (look for the characters 素 or 齋, or the 卍 symbol, in this context a Buddhist symbol). Some Buddhist temples may also sell vegetarian food during the weekends or various Buddhist festivals. As Chinese Buddhist vegetarian food does not usually make use of eggs or dairy products, it is almost always suitable for vegans . Remembering the Cantonese phrase 我食齋 ( ngóh sihk jāai ), telling that you are vegetarian, also goes a long way in getting your point across.

People with allergies will have difficulty in Hong Kong, as awareness of common allergies is poor. Gluten-free diets in particular are very hard to come by as coeliac disease is very rare in Hong Kong, and much of Hong Kong's local cuisine makes heavy use of soy sauce. Dairy is somewhat more common in Hong Kong than in mainland China due to the stronger British influence, but nevertheless does not feature very prominently in traditional Cantonese cuisine, so lactose-intolerant people should not have any major issues finding something suitable for them.

As with the rest of China, tea is a popular beverage in Hong Kong, and is served at practically every eatery. Chinese teas are the most commonly drunk in Hong Kong, but there is also a distinct Hong Kong-style milk tea that is served in chaa chaan teng , and traditional English milk tea can be found in higher-end Western restaurants. In summer 'Ice Lemon Tea' is a common option that is rather bitter and needs some syrup to counter this.

Unlike mainland China, Hong Kong does not have a culture of heavy drinking. Some Chinese people do drink a lot but generally speaking there are many neighbourhoods in Hong Kong without much in the way of a bar or pub. Drinking alcohol with food is acceptable, but there is no expectation to order alcohol with your meal in any restaurant. A number of popular restaurants do not sell alcohol because of a licence restriction.

Lan Kwai Fong (Central), Wanchai and Knutsford Terrace (Kowloon) are the three main drinking areas where locals, expats and tourists mingle together. Here you will certainly find a party atmosphere, and can expect to see many 'merry' expats in these areas. LKF and Wan Chai are particularly rowdy yet fun places to party. The minimum age for drinking in a bar is 18 years. There is usually a requirement for young adults to prove their age, especially when going to a nightclub. The accepted ID in clubs is either your passport or a Hong Kong ID card. Photocopies are rarely accepted due to minors using fake documents.

Some clubs in Lan Kwai Fong have imposed a dress code on customers and tourists are of no exception. As a general rule, shorts or pants that are above knee length should be avoided.

Drinking out in Hong Kong can be expensive. Beer usually starts from $50 for a pint and more in a bar popular among expats. However, away from the tourist trail, some Chinese restaurants may have a beer promotion aimed at meeting the needs of groups of diners. In cooked food centres, usually found at the wet markets, young women are often employed to promote a particular brand of beer. Convenience stores and supermarkets sell a reasonable range of drinks. The 7-Eleven in Lan Kwai Fong is a very popular 'bar' for party-animals on a budget.

During Wednesdays and Thursdays Ladies night applies in some bars in Wan Chai and Lan Kwai Fong , which in most cases means that women can enter bars and clubs for free, and in some rare cases also get their drinks paid for the night. At weekends, several bars and clubs in these areas also have an 'open bar' for some of the night, which means you can drink as much as you like.

San Miguel (Cantonese name: Seng Lik), Tsing Tao (Ching Dou), Carlsberg (Ga Si Bak), Blue Girl (Lam Mui), Heineken (Hei Lik) and Sol are popular in the town. There is no longer any tax on wine or beer in Hong Kong.

With more than 50,000 rooms available, Hong Kong offers a huge choice of accommodation from shockingly cheap digs to super luxury. However, budget travellers who are spoiled by cheap prices elsewhere in Asia are often shocked that the accommodation cost in Hong Kong is closer to that of London and New York.

For long-term accommodation, be prepared to splurge as real estate prices in Hong Kong are among the highest in the world, and many locals are forced to live in cramped "shoebox" apartments due to the astronomical rents in the city.

While it is possible to get a dorm bed for $120–150, a single room for $270–400, and a double room for $400–500, you should not expect anything in these rooms except a bed, with barely enough space in the room to open the door. Accommodation with reasonable space, decoration, and cleanness is usually priced from $150–200 for a dorm bed, $450–600 for a single room, $700 for a double room, and $800 for a triple room.

Most cheap guesthouses are found along Nathan Road between Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok. Expect a tiny, undecorated room with just enough room for a bed. Bathrooms are often shared and noise could be a problem for light sleepers (not all customers are interested in sleeping). Be sure to read the online reviews before booking as bed bugs, dirty beds, and unclean bathrooms have been reported. Keep your expectations as realistically low as possible.

Another cluster of hostels and guesthouses can be found on Paterson Street near Causeway Bay. While not as central as the mansions, the internet connections are more reliable and the rooms are generally clean. However, they are still small and cramped. Do not expect a great atmosphere or spacious rooms.

Notice that some drab "guesthouses", especially those in Kowloon Tong, Mong Kok, and Causeway Bay, may actually be love hotels .

The Hong Kong Youth Hostel Association operates 7 youth hostels. All of them are outside of the city and cost $100–$300 to reach via taxi when public transport service is not operating. All but the one on Hong Kong Island also have strict curfew rules and require guests to leave the site from 10AM to 4PM (1PM-3PM on public holidays). Free shuttle bus service is provided by several hostels but the service stops at 10:30PM.

The government advises travellers to stay in hostels with licences, this website may help you a lot: The Office of Licensing Authority maintains an online list of licensed accommodation establishments.

There are 41 camping sites in Hong Kong. The facilities are on a "first-come-first-served" basis and places are booked quickly during weekends and public holidays. You are not allowed to camp other than in a designated camp site (identified by the sign board erected by the Country and Marine Parks Authority) and this rule is strictly enforced.

If the mansions and hostels are too cramped for you, Hong Kong is a good place to spend a bit extra and get a proper hotel room. Many rooms in basic business hotels in the city center can be had for $700 per night. Rooms at mid-ranged hotels in Hong Kong tend to clean but cramped.

For affluent travellers, Hong Kong houses some of the best world class hotels that run a fierce competition for your wallets by offering pick-up service by helicopter, a Michelin star restaurant, and extravagant spas. Major international chains, including four- and five-star hotels, are also well-represented. Prices start from around $1,500, depending on the season.

Hong Kong is one of the safest cities in the world, with a large high-density population with diverse socio-economic backgrounds managed very effectively. The city experienced significant large-scale protests against new legislation with increasingly violent clashes with police between 2014 and 2019. The arbitrariness and broad applicability of the National Security Law imposed by China in 2020 has ended most public protest.

Crime and other emergency services

Even female travellers usually do not encounter any problems roaming the streets alone at night. Violent crime is extremely rare, though petty crime occurs from time to time. Pickpockets operate in crowded areas; be particularly careful on public transport during peak hours.

The Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) is Hong Kong's law enforcement agency. Most officers wear light blue uniforms, though higher-ranking officers wear white uniforms. All police officers are required to carry their warrant cards while on duty, and must present it to members of the public on request. English proficiency among lower ranking police officers can be limited, though they will always have English-speaking interpreters on call to assist you. Police corruption is exceedingly rare. Bribery is a crime that is punishable by imprisonment.

Hong Kong films have often portrayed triads (Chinese organised crime syndicates) as gun-wielding gangsters who fear nobody, but that only happens in the movies. Gang violence does occur, but is generally limited to rival triads. Stay away from the triads by avoiding loan sharks and illegal betting, and they will not bother you.

Call 999 when you urgently need help from the police, fire and ambulance services. 999 operators can speak English, and in case if you don't know your current location, you can be located by finding your nearest lamppost and replying the lamppost's number. The police should show up within 10 minutes in most cases. If you are deaf or have speech impairment, you can report your emergencies by SMS to 992 , which requires registration in a police station aforehand.

The 999 system, local police stations and reporting centres may be inaccessible during protests and incidents. Dial the following emergency numbers in case when the 999 system is down:

• Fire Services Department: ☏ +852-2723-2233 for fire or medical emergencies
• Hong Kong St. John Ambulance: ☏ +852-1878-000 with only 3 stations throughout Hong Kong, it may take a longer time for arrival.

For non-emergency police assistance, call ☏ +852-2527-7177 . If you received suspected scam calls, you can call ☏ 18222 (domestic) to receive advice.

National security legislation

Promoting the independence of any region within China's territorial claim, including Hong Kong or advocating any sanctions against China or Hong Kong is illegal , punishable with a lengthy prison sentence up to life. Any speech that "incites hatred or subversion" against the Hong Kong or Chinese governments is also illegal; this has been interpreted broadly by the police, to include any criticism against the government that the authorities may find objectionable.

Personal attacks against police officers are also deemed seditious by the courts. Avoid displaying symbols that have been adopted by the independence movement, even if they were not designed for the purpose; these include the old colonial flag, and the British and American flags and national anthems.

Defendants under the National Security Law can be sent to mainland China for trial, and there are concerns about arbitrary enforcement of the law. The American, British, Australian and Canadian governments have issued warnings.

Legal matters

Disrespecting the Chinese flag, emblem and anthem, along with the Hong Kong regional flag and emblem are punishable by 3 years of imprisonment.

Everyone over the age of 16 is required to carry identification, which for foreigners means a passport, but a foreign identity card or photocopy of your passport will likely do; most visitors choose to keep their passport in a safe place. White people are rarely targeted by the police for ID checks. South Asians are more likely to be targeted.

You are expected to cooperate with the police during their investigations, and they may search your pockets and bags. By law, you can reject a request to search your bags and body in public, and body searches can only be performed by officers of the same sex. You also have the right to silence (to refuse to answer any questions), to contact your consulate and to apply for legal assistance. The police are obligated to comply with your request but they may detain you for up to 48 hours.

Most travellers who have got into trouble with the authorities are involved with illicit drugs. Drugs such as ecstasy (MDMA) and marijuana are subject to tight control and tourists risk immediate arrest if they are found in possession of even small amounts of banned substances. Most Hongkongers tend to have strong negative views against narcotics, including soft drugs such as marijuana.

Discrimination is known to happen. People with a good educational background and reputable jobs are usually better treated by the police, while young people, those from developing countries and Western countries with loose regulations on drugs may experience more frequent checks. The police and the government are exempt from the Race Discrimination Ordinance. However, there is a law to ban any form of police brutality, including verbal attacks and any use of foul language. Call ☏ +852-2866-7700 , or file an online complaint report to the Complaints Against Police Office and report the officer's badge number displayed on his/her shoulder. Although the Office is an internal agency of the police, speaking to them is likely the only way to lodge a complaint if your grievance doesn't involve police corruption.

Traffic rules are strictly enforced in Hong Kong. Penalties can be severe, and road conditions are excellent, although road courtesy still has room for improvement. However, fast drivers create higher death tolls when accidents do happen. There is very little leeway for speeding. As little as 5 km/h above the posted speed limit can be ticketed by the police for speeding, though as much as 10 km/h is usually tolerated.

Signage on the roads in Hong Kong is similar to British usage. Zebra lines (zebra crossings) indicate crossing areas for pedestrians and traffic comes from the right. To stay safe, visit the Transport Department's website for complete details.

For crossing without any traffic control, local people usually wait for vehicles to pass first. Vehicles are not required to let pedestrians cross first.

Crossing the road by foot should also be exercised with great care. Traffic in Hong Kong generally moves fast once the signal turns green. An audible aid is played at every intersection. Rapid bells indicate "Walk"; intermittent bells (10 sets of 3 bells) indicate "Do Not Start to Cross"; and slow bells indicate "Do Not Walk".

Jaywalking is an offence and police officers may be out patrolling accident black-spots. It is not uncommon to see local people waiting to cross an empty road - when this happens, you should stay patient and wait because it is possible that they have noticed a police officer patrolling the crossing. The maximum penalty for jaywalking is $2000.

To discourage smoking, visitors are allowed to carry no more than 19 duty-free cigarettes or 25 g of tobacco products. Offenders can be charged for cigarette smuggling and the penalty can be severe. No tobacco products are sold in duty-free shops on arrival gates. Illegal duty-free cigarettes are sold in locations such as in night markets, but both the buyer and seller may be charged for smuggling. The police and customs service launch frequent raids. Once caught, ignorance is not an accepted defence.

The importation and selling of e-cigarettes and herbal cigarettes is banned. Smoking them is not an offence.

Cigarette prices in Hong Kong are the second highest in Asia, only behind Singapore. Cigarettes of popular brands can cost over $60 for a 20-pack (2021). There are also some slightly cheaper brands catering for smokers on budget. Hand-rolling tobacco is uncommon and only available in specialty shops.

Hong Kong is ranked as one of the least corrupt jurisdictions in the world by Transparency International, comparing favourably with the U.S. and the UK in this regard.

Corruption is a serious offence. Attempts to bribe police officers or civil servants will almost certainly result in arrest and a prison sentence.

Most companies and organisations have strict protocols regarding employees receiving gifts. Offering gifts or money to workers personally as a sign of gratitude might result in more trouble than is worth.

Several hikers have lost their lives in the wilderness. Hikers should equip themselves with detailed hiking maps, a compass, mobile phones, food, and adequate amounts of drinking water.

Most areas of the countryside are covered by mobile phone network, and as long as there is signal from least one mobile phone operator, dialing 112 has the same effect of dialing 999 in case of emergency. However in some places you will only be able to pick up a mobile phone signal from Mainland China, and thus would not be able to dial 999 for emergency assistance. Emergency telephones are placed in Country Parks; their locations are clearly marked on all hiking maps. Trail markers often have codes etched onto the posts, which are also marked on Google Maps. The codes allow precise location by emergency personnel should you require assistance.

Heat stroke is a major problem for hikers who lack experience of walking in a warm climate. If you plan to walk a dog during the hot summer months, remember that dogs are more vulnerable to heat stroke than humans and owners should ensure their pets get adequate rest and water.

The cooler hiking and camping season in October to February is also the time of the year when hill fires are most likely to strike. At the entrances to country parks you will likely observe signs warning you of the current fire risk. With an average of 365 hill fires a year, you should take the risk of fire seriously, dispose of cigarettes and matches appropriately, and don't light fire outside of designated places. Offenders are liable to imprisonment of 1 year and a fine of $5000.

Snakes are common in the countryside, and some are quite large. Most will move out of your way, but the small bright green ones are poisonous and stay still. Beware of them.

While it's generally very safe to hike, the countryside can provide shelter to illegal immigrants and hermits, and a few cases of hikers being accosted and robbed have been reported. However, the police patrol hiking routes, and most major paths offer the security of fellow hikers. Some popular unofficial hiking trails in the New Territories may pass through the frontier closed area or military closed area . The map of the frontier closed area can be found here . Permits are required to enter the area, which are not issued to hikers. Live-firing exercises are occasionally conducted in the military closed area. Their coordinates are listed at here . Red flags are erected in the day, and red lights are lit at night during live firing exercises: stay away from the marked area . Intruders risk arrest and imprisonment for 2 years, or even injuries from gunfire or unexploded ordnance.

Natural disasters

Typhoons normally occur during the months of May to November, and are particularly prevalent during September. Whenever a typhoon approaches within 800   km of Hong Kong, typhoon warning signal 1 is issued. Signal 3 is issued as the storm approaches. When winds reach speeds of 63–117 kilometres per hour (18–33   m/s) , signal 8 is issued. At this point, most non-essential activities shut down, including shops, restaurants and the transport system, offices and schools. Ferry services will be suspended, so visitors should return to their accommodation as soon as possible if they are dependent on these boat services to reach a place of safety. Some restaurants may continue to operate with reduced manpower and increased price.

Signal 9 and 10 will be issued depending on the proximity and intensity of the storm. Winds may gust at speeds exceeding 220   km/h causing masonry and other heavy objects to fall to the ground. During a typhoon, visitors should heed all warnings very seriously and stay indoors until the storm has passed. If the eye of the storm passes directly over there will be a temporary period of calm followed by a sudden resumption of strong winds from a different direction.

The city's infrastructure has adapted well to typhoons over time, and it is relatively safe place to be in even the most severe typhoons. Locals would be more concerned about when to go to work rather than any real life or property damage, and it is often said the mythical Lee Ka-Shing Force Field repels typhoons and forces locals to go to work under bad weather. Effects brought by typhoon are mostly limited tree collapse and traffic disruption, and are over quickly once the storm passes. However, flooding is a particular concern in low-lying areas like Heng Fa Chuen and Tai O.

Some taxis are available during signal 8 or above, but they are under no obligation to serve passengers as their insurance is no longer effective under such circumstances. Taxi passengers are expected (but not required) to pay up to 100% more when a typhoon strikes.

Rainstorms also have their own warning system. In increasing order of severity, the levels are amber, red and black. A red or black rainstorm is a serious event and visitors should take refuge inside buildings, and the effects are comparable to a Typhoon Signal 9 or 10. A heavy rainstorm can turn streets with poor drainage into rivers and cause serious landslides.

The Hong Kong Observatory is the best place to get detailed weather information when in Hong Kong. In summer a convectional rainstorm may affect only a small area and give you the false impression that all areas are wet.

Gay and lesbian Hong Kong

Hong Kong is generally a safe place for gay and lesbian travellers, and there are no laws against homosexuality in Hong Kong. The age of consent between two males is 16 according to the ruling by the Hong Kong Court of Appeal in 2006, while there is no law concerning that between two females. Same-sex marriages are not recognised and there is no anti-discrimination legislation on the grounds of sexuality. The display of public affection, while not common, is generally tolerated, but it will almost certainly attract curious stares. Gay bashing is unheard of.

Hong Kong people generally respect personal freedom on sexuality. The prominent celebrity film star, Leslie Cheung, openly admitted that he was bisexual but his work and personality are still widely respected. His suicide in 2003 shocked many, and his fans, mainly female, showed considerable support for his partner.

While gay pride parades have been held in Hong Kong, there is no obvious gay community in daily life. Coming out to strangers or in the office is still regarded as peculiar and most people tend to remain silent on this topic.

Gay bars and clubs are concentrated in Central, Sheung Wan , Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui (TST). The quality of these venues varies considerably and will perhaps disappoint those expecting something similar to London, Paris or New York. There's also a gay and lesbian section in HK Magazine (free, only in English) and TimeOut Hong Kong .

The Hong Kong Lesbian and Gay Film Festival is one of the longest running LGBT events in Hong Kong, and indeed in Asia. since 1989, it has brought various international and regional LGBT films to Hong Kong. The festival is usually held in November.

Discrimination

Although violent racist attacks are uncommon, discriminatory attitudes exist among large sectors of the population. White people are the least likely to face racism, while discrimination tends to be more widespread against black people, South Asians and Southeast Asians.

Discrimination against Mainland Chinese, even those whose first language is Cantonese, is common. Following the 2019 protests, animosity has increased, and some confrontations even turned violent. Some mainlanders living in Hong Kong, feeling uncomfortable and even unsafe, have chosen to leave the city.

Discrimination should be reported to the Equal Opportunities Commission.

Stay healthy

The quality of medical care in Hong Kong is excellent but expensive for foreigners who are not qualified to get a government subsidy. Foreigners on work permits are eligible for subsidised healthcare at public hospitals, but tourists are required to pay the full cost. In cases of emergency, treatment is guaranteed, but you will be billed later if you cannot pay immediately. As a tourist, you are required to pay $570 for using emergency services ($100 for Hong Kong residents). Waiting times at hospital emergency rooms can be lengthy for non emergency patients, since people are prioritised according to their situation. If you have a problem making payment in public hospitals, you can apply for financial assistance but you will need to prove your economic status to social workers based in the hospital.

One common cause of sickness is the extreme temperature change between 35   °C humid summer weather outdoors and 18   °C air-conditioned buildings and shopping malls. Some people experience cold symptoms after moving between the two extremes. You are recommended to carry a sweater even in the summer-time.

Heat stroke is also common when hiking. Carry enough water and take scheduled rests before you feel unwell.

Find a doctor

Healthcare standards in Hong Kong are on par with the West, and finding a reputable doctor is not much of a problem should you get sick. Doctors are of two types: those who practise traditional Chinese medicine and those who practise the Western variety. Both are taken equally seriously in Hong Kong, but as a visitor the assumption will be to direct you to a Western doctor. Doctors who practise Western medicine almost always speak English fluently, but you may find the receptionist to be more of a challenge.

Seeing a doctor is as easy as walking off the street and making an appointment with the receptionist. Generally you will be seen within an hour or less, but take note of the opening times displayed in the window of the doctor's office. A straightforward consultation for a minor ailment might cost around $150 to $500, but your bill will be inclusive of medication. In Hong Kong, it is normal to get your prescribed medicine directly form the doctor. Many clinics and hospitals will accept credit cards, but check beforehand since sometimes only cash is accepted. Expect to pay more if you visit a swanky surgery in Central. Check the directory maintained by the Hong Kong Medical Association for further information. Help finding general practitioners, medical specialists, and dentists might also be available at your consulate.

On Sundays, finding a doctor can be difficult, and hospital A&E rooms will have very long queues.

Drinkability of water varies around Hong Kong. Tap water in Hong Kong has been proven to be drinkable, but drinking straight from the tap is a very uncommon practice. Most locals still prefer to boil and chill their tap water before consumption. The Water Board advises that the water is perfectly safe to drink, unless you are in an old building with outdated plumbing and poorly maintained water tanks.

Bottled water is readily available everywhere for a few dollars, and comes in mineralised and distilled varieties. Hotel rooms typically provide bottled water which should be used for drinking and the brushing of teeth if you are new to the region. Bottled water is very popular among locals. Empty bottles should be disposed at recycle bins.

Although "Hong Kong" means "fragrant harbour", it is not always so. Air pollution is a significant issue. During periods of very bad air pollution tourists will find visibility drastically reduced, especially from Victoria Peak. People with serious respiratory problems should seek medical advice before travelling to the territory and ensure that they bring ample supplies of any medication.

Levels of pollution can vary according to the season. The winter monsoon can bring polluted air from the mainland, while the summer monsoon can bring cleaner air off the South China Sea.

The air is noticeably less foggy after rainy days.

Hong Kong has significant cultural differences from mainland China due to its heritage. The bulk of the population are descendants of ethnic Chinese who fled China and found safety in Hong Kong during the colonial era. Locals in Hong Kong have maintained many aspects of traditional Chinese culture that have been abandoned in the mainland, including religion, holidays, music, traditional writing and the official use of a regional language (Cantonese). British influences have also been incorporated into the local culture. After it was handed back to China in 1997, the city has maintained its own legal system based on English common law, effective anti-corruption measures, and currency.

Hong Kong also has a significant minority of Permanent Residents who are not PRC citizens, and are not ethnically Chinese, but are recognised as Hong Kong residents by the Basic Law. This includes descendants of British, Jewish and South Asian populations from the colonial era. They are eligible to apply for Chinese citizenship, but few have taken up this option.

The Sino-Hong Kong relationship, as always, is a contentious and complicated issue. Many locals consider the mannerisms of mainland Chinese to be crude and uncivilised, and are grateful for what they consider to be the civilising influence of British colonial rule in Hong Kong, while mainland Chinese often criticise Hongkongers for what is perceived as a lack of ethnic solidarity and patriotism, along with arrogance rooted in its history of British colonial rule. With the rise of the localism movement, an increasing number of locals, especially the youth, are rejecting the "Chinese" identity, and instead choosing to identify solely as "Hongkongers", often emphasising their British colonial heritage. Many Hongkongers also feel that China is wiping out Hong Kong's unique culture and attempting to impose Chinese culture on them.

Generally speaking, it is best not to get into a discussion about mainland Chinese with local Hong Kong people.

Many world religions are practised freely in Hong Kong, and discussing religion with local Hong Kong people is usually not a problem. The Chinese majority generally practises a mix of traditional Chinese folk religions and Buddhism. Contemporary Hong Kong is, for the most part, rather secular in daily life, though you are expected to dress and behave in a respectful manner when visiting places of worship. As in many other parts of Asia, swastikas are used in Hong Kong as a religious symbol for Buddhists, as well as the Hindu minority, and have no connection with Nazism or anti-Semitism whatsoever.

When visiting Chinese temples , take off your hat. Avoid pointing at the statues of deities with your index finger as it is considered to be offensive and disrespectful. Use your thumb or an up-facing open palm instead.

Christianity is followed by 10% of the population, with English language services available all over the territory. Due to the presence of a large community of Filipino migrant workers, some churches also offer services in Tagalog. Protestants in Hong Kong tend to be strongly conservative. It is common for both strangers and acquaintances to ask you to come to their church, although offence will not usually be taken if you decline. The Roman Catholic church is allowed to operate in Hong Kong.

Hindus and Muslims also came here from India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan. There is a single Orthodox synagogue, the Ohel Leah Synagogue, serving the tiny Jewish community. The territory is also home to several Hindu temples and a Sikh Gurdwara.

The Falun Gong religion is permitted in Hong Kong, unlike on the mainland where it is banned.

In Hong Kong, freedom of speech and the press were generally respected by the government until 2020 , when the controversial National Security Law and other national security legislations were imposed. The law has made illegal advocacy or discussion of any topic that the government finds objectionable or sensitive. This includes documentaries about the 2019-20 protests, artwork criticising China, and photos depicting the police force in a negative light. Hong Kong people are somewhat free to criticise their government, as long as their criticism does not touch what the government calls "red line" issues. High-profile foreign critics are denied entry. "National security education" is now mandatory in schools and universities. A handful of websites are blocked but there's no widespread internet censorship. The Hong Kong Public Library initiated a campaign to censor and unshelve deemed subversive books. Media organisations that criticise the government face legal and economic pressure from authorities.

Major political rallies used to take place every year on 4 June commemorating the bloodshed at Tiananmen Square in 1989. July 1 is a public holiday that commemorates the handover to China, but this day became a symbolic day of protest every year. The protests and rallies were discontinued since the National Security Law was enacted. Venues for protests (such as Victoria Park) are cordoned off by the police, and police will arrest anyone at the slightest suspicion that they are making political advocacy during such days.

Local political parties are broadly split between pro-Beijing and pro-democracy camps, though the latter has been much dismantled after the enactment National Security Law. While many desire universal suffrage, a right that Beijing has promised but refused to grant, some also try not to offend the mainland as Hong Kong's prosperity is thought to depend on further economic integration with China. The differences can also be observed on many topics such as the Tiananmen Massacre in 1989 and democracy in China. In Hong Kong, where information has traditionally been freely circulated and people are well read, political opinions are extremely polarised. Generally, the older generation is split, while the younger generation is overwhelmingly pro-democracy and/or pro-independence.

A desire for stronger autonomy has been growing since the Umbrella Protests of 2014 by those increasingly frustrated by Beijing's reluctance to allow democratic reforms. Since the 2019 protests, all pro-independence and many pro-democratic lawmakers have been disqualified and expelled from the legislature, with many of them arrested under the National Security Law or seeking political asylum in other countries.

Some locals will be very offended if you imply that Hong Kong is part of China. Others will be very offended if you imply that Hong Kong is not part of China. As a general rule, it's best to just stay clear of the topic unless you know your listener well. And generally it's a good idea to use terms like “mainland China” (中國大陸/中國内地/大陸/内地) to avoid irritating anyone.

Manners and etiquette

Hong Kong is a fast-paced society where the phrase "mm goi" (唔該), which literally means "I should not (bother you)", is used pervasively in a situation that you would say "Excuse me" or "Thank you".

The "mm goi" (I should not) mentality extends to a way that they don't want to bother anyone as long as possible. When you get a cough, always cover your mouth with the inner side of your elbow, as that area of your arm does not frequently come in contact with other people, thus avoiding the spread of pathogens. When having a fever, wear a mask. Spitting and littering, an offence subject to a penalty of $3,000, is considered rude because it disturbs others. Hong Kong is noisy due to its huge population density but adding more noises, which will certainly disturb others too, is not welcome. Speaking vociferously over the phone on the bus, for example, will be viewed as egocentric and boorish.

When entering people's homes, always be sure to remove your shoes before you do so.

Hong Kong follows the British tradition in that queue jumping is taboo and you may easily get into a argument or be denied service if you do so. Everyone wants to go orderly and speedily on their way with the least disturbance. Even if an arriving bus is empty, and there are only two people waiting in line, they are expected to enter the bus in order of queue. Jumping a queue in order to ask a question is not practiced either.

When smoking in front of a non-smoker, always ask for a permission because they may think you are trying to seriously disturb their health. Many smokers will just walk away to smoke, even in a place where smoking is legally allowed.

Unlike public transport in some large cities such as Tokyo or London, where it is common to see passengers eat or drink (even in a cautious manner that keeps the surroundings clean), such behaviour is strictly prohibited in all areas of MTR stations, train compartments (except intercity trains), and most buses. This is due to concerns about maintaining cleanliness of public facilities, and there have been cases where misbehaving mainland Chinese visitors have been scolded by locals after refusing to stop consuming food and reacting to locals rudely. Drinking a few mouthfuls of pure water is usually tolerated, but it would be common for a local passenger to politely ask you to stop consuming or even dispose of your food if you're eating it obviously (for example, eating a hamburger and holding a coke). If this happens, just obey the request and reply politely, and you'll always be out of trouble.

While Hong Kong has a generally good reputation when it comes to customer service, it is considered strange to strike up pleasantries with a stranger unless they are pregnant, disabled or senior citizens who are obviously in need. Saying "good morning" to a person you don't know at a bus stop will probably be viewed with suspicion. It is unusual for people to hold doors for strangers, and supermarket staff or bank cashiers seldom ask about your day. Staff in shops and restaurants might not even say "thank you" when you pay.

Like their mainland Chinese counterparts, saving face is a very important part of Hong Kong culture. Mistakes are typically not pointed out in order to avoid causing embarrassment, and it is generally considered poor taste to brag about your achievements or flaunt your wealth in the face of your less well-to-do peers.

Naming customs and modes of address are generally the same as in mainland China, the main difference being that the names and titles are pronounced in Cantonese instead of Mandarin in formal situations in Hong Kong. See the Respect section of the China article for more details.

Superstition

Superstition is part of the Hong Kong psyche and it can be observed everywhere. Many buildings are influenced by the Fengshui principles which refer to a decoration style that blends the Five Elements (Gold, Wood, Water, Fire, Earth) together, which will turn out to bring you luck, fortune, better health, good examination results, good relationships, and even a baby boy, according to their believers.

Many buildings skip floor numbers with a 4 in them; this includes the 14th and 24th floors (which phonetically mean "you must die" and "you die easily") and even the entire 40s range (so the 50th floor would be directly above the 39th floor). They love the numbers 18 (you will get rich), 369 (liveliness, longevity, lasting), 28 (easy to get rich), and 168 (get rich forever). This also extends to the licence plate numbers on their cars; 1358 is avoided as it phonetically means "you will never prosper", while numbers like 2328 (easy to procreate and prosper) are highly sought after.

Hong Kong people love to joke about their superstitious thoughts but that doesn't mean they ignore them. When visiting your friends in Hong Kong, never give them a clock as a gift because "giving a clock" phonetically means "attending one's funeral". No pears will be served in a wedding party because "sharing a pear" sounds like "separation". Some people refuse to open an umbrella indoor because a ghost spirit, who is thought to fear sunshine, will hide themselves in it. Breaking a mirror will bring you 7 unlucky years.

When you give or receive a business card, always do it with both hands and with a slight dip of your head or you will be seen as either disrespectful or ignorant, even if you are a foreigner. Welcoming someone should also be done with a slight dip of the head and with a customary firm handshake, but there is no need to bow.

You will find that the cashier may hand you receipts or change with both hands too. This is considered a gesture of respect. Because you're the patron, it is up to you to do the same or not when handing cash to the cashier.

When the thermometer hits 30 °C, expect to see many local people wearing warm clothing - this is to protect against the harsh air-conditioning often found on public transport and in places like cinemas and shopping malls. This is actually wise, since the extreme change in temperatures can make people feel ill.

In contrast, when the temperature starts to go under 20 °C, people start wearing very warm clothing to protect themselves from the 'cold'.

Hong Kong women are known for their fairly conservative dress code, although wearing halter-necks and sleeveless tops is not uncommon and acceptable, while teenagers and young adults can very frequently be seen wearing hot pants or short shorts. Public nudity including topless sunbathing is prohibited, even on the beach.

The dress code for men, especially tourists, is less conservative than it used to be. Even in 5-star hotels, smart casual is usually acceptable; although you might want to make your own enquiries in advance before dining in those places. Tourists from colder climates sometimes assume that wearing shorts in the tropics is a sensible idea, but hairy knees can look out of place in urban Hong Kong.

Although Mandarin has been compulsory in all government schools since the handover, and most Hongkongers are able to understand Mandarin to a certain degree, the use of Mandarin is a touchy political issue due to its association with the perceived erosion of Hong Kong's autonomy and cultural identity by the central government in Beijing. If you don't speak Cantonese, you should generally try speaking English before trying Mandarin in order to avoid any potential controversies.

Postal services are provided by Hongkong Post , which is generally efficient and of high quality. Post offices are ubiquitous and coin-operated stamp vending machines provide service when the post offices are closed. You can also buy stamps in sets of 10 from many convenience stores such as 7-Eleven or Circle K (OK). Postal rates are viewable online .

Due to Hong Kong's special status, mainland Chinese stamps cannot be used to send mail from Hong Kong or vice versa.

Internet access

Unlike in mainland China, most Western websites are accessible in Hong Kong. However, as of July 2022, the new National Security Law has been used to block some websites critical of the government, though no large-scale censorship is implemented.

Internet cafes

Internet cafes have become rare as most people have smartphones and wifi-enabled devices. When available, internet cafes charge $20-30 per hour.

Free Wi-Fi is available at most hotels, shopping malls, coffee shops, the airport, most MTR stations, government buildings and some telephone booths.

Hong Kong's country-code is +852 (different from mainland China (86) and Macau (853)). Local phone numbers (mobile and landlines) are typically 8 digits; no area codes are used. All numbers that begin with 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 are mobile numbers, while numbers beginning with 2 or 3 are fixed line numbers. For calls from Hong Kong, the standard IDD prefix is 001, so you would dial 001-(country code)-(area code)-(telephone number). Calls to Macau or mainland China require international dialling. For the operator, dial 1000. For police, fire or ambulance services dial 999 .

Mobile phones

Hong Kong has a world class communications infrastructure, with a 5G network being deployed in 2020. Mobile phone usage is cheap and near-iniversal.

Hong Kong has many mobile operators. The best choices for tourists are Three , SmarTone and CSL . All operators offer prepaid SIM cards in micro, nano, and standard sizes. Recharging your credit can be done online with a credit card (Three and CSL will accept credit cards from anywhere) or by purchasing vouchers from retail stores, resellers, convenience stores such as 7-Eleven and supermarkets. Unlimited data plans cost around $28 per day.

Since 1 March 2022, all new SIM cards sold must be registered with your name, and all existing SIM cards must be registered by 23 February 2023. A copy of your identity document or passport is also needed for registration.

The telephone system is separate from that of Mainland China, and using Chinese SIM card would incur roaming charges. China Mobile does offer its mainland prepaid customers a reduced rate option for Hong Kong; a fixed fee of 2.9RMB daily or 9 RMB weekly will reduce per-minute and per-SMS rates to mainland levels and incoming calls and SMS become free. Data, however, is separately charged at 30RMB daily for unlimited use.

Kiosks selling SIM Cards and renting mobile hotspot devices and mobile phones are available in the arrivals hall of the airport and at ferry terminals.

All mobile phone companies charge for both incoming and outgoing calls (similar to USA, but different from most European countries, Japan, Taiwan, or South Korea). Coverage is excellent, except in remote mountainous areas. Almost all operators provide a good signal, even when underground in such places as the MTR system, on board trains and in cross-harbour and other road tunnels.

Coverage is decent across all Hong Kong operators, comparison of the coverage and speeds of the networks can be found on Hong Kong Coverage maps created by OpenSignal. In general Hong Kong has advanced mobile infrastructure with the second fastest LTE in the world.

For those traveling to the mainland, it is possible to buy SIMs with discounted pricing on mainland use. These are good to have if you need reliable uncensored internet on the mainland; due to the way roaming works, they are not blocked as a regular VPN would be during "sensitive" periods. China Unicom works on all phones, while China Mobile requires that your phone or internet device support the network technologies it uses on the mainland for 3G/4G access (TD-LTE and/or TD-SCDMA). China Unicom charges $68/500MB or $118/1GB for mainland data. China Mobile offers mainland data at $48 daily (throttled to 128k after 1GB that day), $98/2GB, or $168/4GB.

Landline phones

Landline phones for local calls are charged on a monthly basis with unlimited access, but be careful that hotels may charge you per call.

Payphones are becoming rarer, but still exists in many MTR stations. If you don't have a mobile phone and need to make a short local call, most restaurants, supermarkets, and shops will allow you to use their phone if you ask nicely.

Hong Kong has a vibrant press industry and a wide array of competing newspapers. However, media organisations that are critical of the government face political, legal, and economic pressures from the authorities. Moreover, the national security law has made the advocacy of some political positions, including Hong Kong independence and sanctions from foreign governments, illegal. Some prominent pan-democratic media were also forced to close after their executive members were arrested under that law.

The Oriental Daily News (東方日報) is one of Hong Kong's most widely circulated tabloids, adopting an informal writing style and focusing on celebrity coverage. Oriental Daily News is regarded as heavily biased towards the Beijing government.

Among the broadsheet Chinese-language newspapers that adopt a more formal style and focus on serious news, Ming Pao (明報) is the most widely circulated, while the Hong Kong Economic Times (香港經濟日報) is the main financial newspaper.

The South China Morning Post is Hong Kong's English-language newspaper of record, while The Standard , which adopts a more informal tabloid style and is distributed for free, is its main competitor. The online pro-democracy newspaper Hong Kong Free Press is also prominent and can be accessed for free.

Radio Television Hong Kong is the Government broadcaster. Once given broad autonomy, it has been subject to increasing censorship by authorities. RTHK also make timely traffic broadcast (in Chinese) , which is accurate and useful for drivers and travellers in general.

Electricity

Hong Kong uses the British three-pin electrical sockets. Additionally, some hotels will have a bathroom with a parallel three-pin outlet which is designed for use with electric shavers, but might be used to re-charge a phone or rechargeable batteries. Electricity is 220 volts at 50 hertz. Most electronic stores will have cheap (HK$15–20) adapters that will allow foreign plugs to fit into British sockets, but these will not convert voltage or frequency.

Although the embassies for China are in Beijing , the special status of Hong Kong means that many consulates operate almost as full embassies (but are not allowed to be called embassies) from the perspective of the traveller in terms of assistance and visa needs. A few (mostly Portuguese-speaking) countries serve Hong Kong through their consulate in Macau . We also list the representative offices of mainland China and Taiwan here, as they effectively serve as consulates from a traveller's point of view.

Almost any travel agent can also help you get a visa, and most can deliver it the next day. Of course they charge an additional fee, but it may be worth it for the convenience. The China Travel Service office on the arrivals level at the airport is often used. Keep in mind that you cannot apply for a Chinese visa in Hong Kong unless you are a legal resident.

• Macau , the former Portuguese colony and largest gambling haven in the world, is an hour away by TurboJet ferry (around HK$200) from the city centre (near the Sheung Wan MTR station on Hong Kong Island), or 40 minutes away by shuttle bus (HK$65) over the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau bridge (but requiring another bus and an MTR ride to get to the bridge port).
• Zhuhai in mainland China, across the border from Macau, is 40 minutes by shuttle bus over the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau bridge or 70 minutes away by ferry.
• Shenzhen , mainland China's boomtown just across the border, can be reached by high speed rail in less than 20 minutes. The MTR East Rail Line can be taken if you are keen on shopping as it terminates in the Lo Wu commercial centre. Another alternative, especially if you are starting from the island, is the ferry to Shekou, which takes around 50 minutes and costs around $100. Depending on your nationality and method of transport, you may need to pre-arrange a visa to enter Shenzhen.
• Guangzhou , capital of mainland China's Guangdong Province, can be reached by train in around 45 minutes by HSR from West Kowloon station. If you are on a budget, many cross border buses are available throughout Hong Kong. The trip will take more than 3 hours, including going through customs at the border and changing buses.
• Taiwan , a common short-term destination for locals that is 1.5 hours away by plane. It is both a world-class technology hub and another great example of traditional Chinese culture.
• Singapore , a Southeast Asian city-state that is often regarded as a rival of Hong Kong, about 3.5 hours away by plane. Given its small size, a trip to Singapore by Hongkongers will almost always be coupled with visits to neighbouring Malaysia and Thailand .

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What to See in Hong Kong

The 22 most beautiful highights in hong kong and our travel tips.

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In a nutshell: our 4 Hong Kong highlights

• Most of the sights are located on Hong Kong Island . Absolute top highlight: Victoria Peak , the most famous mountain in Hong Kong.
• Kowloon is a paradise for shopping fans. You can stroll through countless authentic markets .
• Lantau Island is Hong Kong’s largest island. The most important sight here is the famous bronze statue Big Buddha .
• In the New Territories you will find one of the most extraordinary highlights in Hong Kong: the temple 10,000 Buddhas Monastery.

Do you want to find out more? This article will show you the 22 most beautiful highlights in Hong Kong, sorted by neighborhoods, and tell you how to get there. At the end, we’ll give you some practical travel tips for Hong Kong.

Table of Contents

Getting to know Hong Kong: The districts

What to see on hong kong island, what to see in kowloon, what to see on lantau island, what to see in the new territories, hiking in hong kong, guided tours of hong kong, hong kong travel tips.

Before we turn to the individual sights and highlights, let’s take a quick look at the map. It’s definitely helpful to get an idea of the basic layout of this huge metropolis.

Hong Kong is divided into three major districts: Kowloon in the north and Hong Kong Island in the south are the most important districts where travelers generally spend most of their time.

They are connected by ferries, several bridges, and the subway. The third Hong Kong district is called New Territories .

It comprises the area north of Kowloon and most of Hong Kong’s islands. These include Lantau Island in southwestern Hong Kong, which also has some interesting sights.

Hong Kong Island has the most sights in Hong Kong to offer, so let’s start there.

Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak is definitely one of the main attractions in Hong Kong, and visitors almost invariably make the journey up the 552-meter mountain on Hong Kong Island for an amazing view of the city’s skyline.

The view sure is beautiful, but that also means the peak is perpetually swarming with tourists. If you want to beat the crowds, then you’ll have to get there in the early hours of the morning.

It fills up quickly during the day and gets the most crowded at sunset. But of course that’s when the view is the most impressive: First you can take photos in the soft glow of the evening, and then a few minutes later, Hong Kong’s lights go on, offering some great shots of the illuminated skyline.

There’s a viewing platform on Victoria Peak that you can visit for 50 HKD (5.50 euros). The view up there is really great, but it’s also packed. And everyone wants to take a selfie.

If you head to the right of the building, you’ll find similarly good scenic points that don’t cost a thing and are much less crowded.

How to get to Victoria Peak

Many visitors choose to take the Peak Tram to the summit. Waiting times for the famous funicular that went into service in 1888 are often at least one hour or more, which is why we don’t recommend it.

It isn’t all that spectacular, and you’ll find similar rides in many European cities, e.g. in Lisbon or Budapest . You can use the Octopus Card to pay for the journey, which we highly recommend.

You’ll still have to wait, but at least you get to skip the line at the ticket counter. It costs 45 HKD (about 5 euros) round-trip or 32 HKD (about 3.50 euros) one-way.

For more information on the Octopus Card, check the section on public transport toward the end of this post. Taking a taxi is definitely quicker – expect to pay 5 to 6 euros each way.

Or you can take the bus, numbers 15 or 15 B, for about 1 euro. Not 15 C though! That one terminates at the lower Peak Tram station. There’s a long line for the return journey, too.

We’d recommend walking down the well-signposted Old Peak Road instead. It’s only a 20-minute hike and offers some gorgeous views along the way.

Central Mid-Levels Escalator

The Central Mid-Levels Escalator is a system of escalators spanning a total height of 135 meters over a length of 800 meters that connects the Central and Mid-Levels districts.

It’s considered the longest covered outdoor escalator system in the world. The escalators run downhill between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., and then after 20-minute wait while they reverse direction, they run uphill for the rest of the day from 10:20 a.m. to midnight.

The entire trip takes about 20 minutes, but it’s always worth getting off and exploring the surrounding roads.

SoHo: The trendy hot spot on Hong Kong Island

The area around the Central Mid-Levels Escalator is known as SoHo and we really liked it there. We could have spent hours strolling around the streets.

There are great designer shops, trinkets and antiques, amazing restaurants, and some really impressive street art. In the evening, the area turns into a nightlife district.

Of course it isn’t cheap, but it’s very trendy and cosmopolitan. If you love antiques shops, you should definitely check out Hollywood Street and Cat Street.

Fun fact : Why is it called Cat Street? In the 1920s, it developed as a market for second-hand goods and antiques, which in turn attracted thieves looking to hawk their wares. The thieves became known as ‘rats’, and so the people who bought from them were dubbed ‘cats’. And that’s how the street got its name. Fascinating, right?

Man Mo Temple

The Man Mo Temple is the oldest temple in Hong Kong, and also the most beautiful as far as we’re concerned. Built in 1847, the temple is an oasis of tranquility amongst all the high-rise buildings.

Unfortunately, the air inside is hard to breathe due to the smoke from hundreds of incense coils being burned in the temple. It doesn’t smell so good, but looks phenomenal.

Man Mo Temple opens daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Kowloon is often referred to as the old Hong Kong, and indeed there are some areas where time seems to have stood still, while a just few streets further along you’ll see shiny shopping malls with all the trappings of modernity.

Symphony of Lights

The Symphony of Lights takes place every evening at 8 p.m. sharp. The buildings of the skyline on Hong Kong Island are animated with a light show and the whole thing is accompanied by music.

You can watch the spectacle and listen to the music from the opposite side of Victoria Harbour in Kowloon. The most popular place for this is the harbor promenade in Tsim Sha Tsui.

If you’re watching from another location, you can tune in to the accompanying music and narration on 103.4 FM or by dialing 35‑665‑665. But don’t expect too much from the light show.

Many visitors come to see the Symphony of Lights with huge expectations and are disappointed that it isn’t all that spectacular after all. But the skyline at night definitely makes for some great photos, with or without a light show.

Boat trip between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island

A boat trip between the two most famous parts of Hong Kong is an absolute must. The cheapest way is by ferry, which costs the equivalent of just around 30 cents.

The ferries run regularly in both directions and the journey takes about 10 minutes.

Avenue of Stars

Hong Kong is the Hollywood of Asia, and so just like Los Angeles, it has its own Walk of Fame. It’s known as the Avenue of Stars and is dedicated to film stars from Asia.

It features stars, hand prints, and even some statues of famous figures such as Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan. However, the Avenue of Stars is currently closed for renovation work until early 2019.

Kowloon Park

Kowloon Park is a huge green area amidst the high-rises of Kowloon and a lovely oasis of calm where you can catch a breath from big-city life.

Hong Kong as a whole is actually surprisingly green. We kept happening upon parks and green areas where we wouldn’t have expected them.

Markets in Kowloon

Kowloon is first and foremost a paradise for fans of shopping. While the major fashion chains have their stores along Nathan Road, the real market life takes place in the smaller streets of Kowloon.

Entire streets are dedicated to certain products. For instance, there’s the Ladies’ Market, which specializes in clothing and cosmetics, the Flower Market, the Sneakers Market, and the Temple Street Night Market which mainly sells souvenirs for tourists.

Here’s an overview of the different markets and shopping streets:

• Ladies’ Market – Tung Choi Street – clothing, cosmetics, accessories.
• Temple Street Night Market – Temple Street – souvenirs and all kinds of cheap goods from China.
• Goldfish Market – Tung Choi Street North – fish and other animals.
• Flower Market – Flower Market Road – flowers.
• Jade Market – Kansu Street / Battery Street – jade jewelry and charms.
• Sneakers Street – Fa Yuen Street – shoes.
• Electronics Street – Apliu Street – all kinds of electronic devices.

Lantau Island is the largest of Hong Kong’s islands and is endowed with some essential sights. Also, Hong Kong International Airport is located on a small artificially extended island off the shore of Lantau Island.

Big Buddha | Tian Tan Buddha

The Tian Tan Buddha, often simply called Big Buddha, is the most important sight on Lantau and one of the highlights in Hong Kong.

The 34-meter-high bronze statue is one of the largest of its kind and is located on a small hill that can be climbed via a total of 286 steps.

At the foot of the hill is the Po Lin Monastery, which is also well worth a visit. Access to the Buddha and the monastery is free. The only attraction that charges admission is the exhibition inside the statue.

The Buddha is open to visitors every day from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

How to get to the Big Buddha

You should plan a lot of time to see the Buddha, because the journey there is relatively long. First you have to go to Lantau Island, where you can go by subway (stop at Tung Chung) or by bus.

From there, you can either take the cable car or the much cheaper bus. Bus number 23 takes about 45 minutes to get from the subway station Tung Chung up to the Buddha. You’ll find detailed information on the cable car in the section after next, as it’s an attraction in its own right.

Wisdom Path

We really liked the Wisdom Path. Only about 15 minutes walk from the Big Buddha, only few visitors find their way here.

The others probably just aren’t wise enough. Along the Wisdom Path are 38 large wooden stelae engraved with Chinese characters.

Together, they form one of the most important Buddhist and Confucian prayers. We walked once down the whole length of the path, but we aren’t sure if we found wisdom along the way.

Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car

The most scenic way to get to the Big Buddha is by taking the Ngong Ping Cable Car.

It’ll take you sky high for about 20 minutes where you can enjoy stunning views of the landscape and Hong Kong Airport.

The Ngong Ping cable car is one of the absolute tourism highlights in Hong Kong, so brace yourself for huge crowds.

Our tip : You should definitely buy tickets in advance on the Ngong Ping website . You’ll save 10% on the ticket price and can skip the line at the ticket counter.

Even so, you’ll still have to wait in line to get on the cable car. We had to wait for just over half an hour. You get to choose between the normal gondolas and the so-called Crystal Cabins with a glass floor.

We definitely recommend the Crystal Cabins, because the ride is really something special. And it’s even doable if you have a fear of heights.

In our opinion, the cable car isn’t an absolute must, but it’s a nice experience. If you just want to see the Buddha, taking the bus is much cheaper and generally faster, too.

Hong Kong Disneyland

We haven’t been to Disneyland ourselves, but this wouldn’t be a post about Hong Kong’s sights and attractions without at least an honorable mention.

The park is the smallest of the 5 Disneylands in the world, but still welcomes close to 8 million visitors a year.

Our tip : Your best bet is to buy tickets in advance online: Disney Land Hongkong tickets . It’s a bit cheaper and you won’t have to stand in line at the ticket booth – and you’ll be doing enough of that inside the park as it is.

The New Territories north of Kowloon have very few sights to offer. It’s mostly just residential areas. But there’s one major exception:

10,000 Buddhas Monastery

The 10,000 Buddhas Monastery is no doubt one of the most extraordinary sights in Hong Kong. The ascent to the monastery leads up a steep stairway lined with very unconventional Buddha statues. And each statue is unique.

Some have very funny facial expressions and poses. At the top, there are several temple halls that contain thousands of small Buddha figures.

Unfortunately, taking pictures inside the buildings is forbidden, which is why we can only show you photos of the Buddha statues on the stairs.

The temple opens daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free of charge.

To be honest, we didn’t really think of Hong Kong as a hiking destination, but we were pleasantly surprised. Hong Kong is very hilly, which is why the flatter urban area makes such an uber-efficient use of space with exceptionally tall and narrow buildings.

Surrounding them are many green and undeveloped areas that provide some great hiking routes. In our opinion, you don’t necessarily have to go hiking in Hong Kong if you only have a few days to spare.

But if you’re there for longer, or if it’s your second or third visit, it makes for a great change of pace.

Dragon’s Back

We went for a hike on the Dragon’s Back. The tour is one of the most popular hiking trails in Hong Kong and offers some great views.

If you’ve had enough of the hectic hustle and bustle in the streets of Hong Kong, then a hike on the Dragon’s Back is the perfect counterbalance.

It’s amazing how quickly you can get out of the city and find yourself surrounded by nature all of a sudden. Hiking the Dragon’s Back isn’t particularly demanding. The ascent takes about 30 minutes, and then the trail continues for another 1.5 hours along the ridge.

Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with an excellent view. On one side, you can see the skyscrapers of the nearby city jutting out between the green hills. The other side offers great views of the sea and the surrounding fishing villages.

How to get to the Dragon’s Back

First, take the subway to Shau Kei Wan. From there, you need to take a shared taxi. If you have any trouble finding them, just ask around, someone should be able to point you in the right direction.

Alternatively, you can take the bus number 9 going to Shek O and get off at To Tei Wan, Shek O Road. The hiking trail itself is well-signposted, so you can’t really get lost.

We visited the Dragon’s Back as part of a guided hike. Our enthusiastic hiking guide Stephanie has been living in Hong Kong for many years and told us a great deal about life in the metropolis. We highly recommend this tour.

You can book the hike on the Dragon’s Back here: Hike on the Dragon’s Back .

More hiking routes in Hong Kong

The Dragon’s Back may be the most popular hiking trail in Hong Kong, but of course there are a lot more. The MacLehose Trail is another exciting route.

It’s about 100 kilometers long and leads through the New Territories, offering countless opportunities for day trips miles away from the tourist crowds. Or you could head out to Lamma Island in the south of Hong Kong.

The small island is a great place for hiking far away from the city and is also famous for its excellent seafood restaurants.

Hong Kong is easy to explore on your own. At first, the city might seem a bit overwhelming, but it didn’t take us long to find our bearings.

Nevertheless, Hong Kong is one of the cities where it’s really interesting to look behind the curtains. That’s why we recommend taking a guided tour.

There are several exciting guided tours through Hong Kong – from classic city tours to very special themed tours – and we want to present a few below.

Classic city tours through Hong Kong

Private tour through Hong Kong : On this tour, you’ll have the guide just to yourself for a whole day. We like these private tours the best, because that way you can set your own itinerary and discover much more of the city than you would on a group tour.

Special city tours through Hong Kong

Kowloon Markets Tour : This tour will take you through some of the most exciting markets in Kowloon. It’ll give you lots of insider information about the markets and you’ll be treated to a fascinating look behind the scenes.

Food tours through Hong Kong: 

Hong Kong is a paradise for food lovers. A food tour gives you the opportunity to discover Hong Kong’s cuisine and taste several specialties in various restaurants.

Our tip : We took the Sham Shui Po Foodie Tour and sampled some very tasty dishes. This tour is great because it doesn’t just teach you about the country’s cuisine, but also provides a great deal of insight into the everyday lives of Hongkongers. Another very popular tour is the Half Day Food Tour by Foot , which combines cuisine with culture.

This section features our essential travel tips for Hong Kong.

How to get from the airport to the city center

Hong Kong Airport is located in the southwest on an island off the shore of Lantau Island. There are several options to get to the city from Hong Kong Airport. The fastest is the Airport Express.

The train runs every 10 to 12 minutes and goes to Hong Kong Station on Hong Kong Island via Kowloon Station in about half an hour. The journey costs 115 HKD (about 13 euros) to Hong Kong Station or 105 HKD to Kowloon Station.

Depending on where you’re staying, it might be cheaper to take the bus into town. There are almost 40 different buses running from the airport. They’re cheaper than than Airport Express, and if you find a bus that goes directly to your hotel, it might also be quicker overall.

An overview of all the routes is available here . If in doubt, inquire at your hotel which bus to take.

There are also taxis waiting for arriving passengers just outside the terminal. The red taxis will take you to Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. A trip to Kowloon costs about 250 to 300 HKF (about 30 euros), or 350 to 400 HKD (about 40 euros) to Hong Kong Island.

The most convenient way is by private transfer. A driver will be at the airport waiting for you with a sign and will take you directly to your hotel.

This luxury costs about 70 euros and can be booked online here .

Public transport in Hong Kong

The public transportation network in Hong Kong is very well developed. There’s nowhere in the city where you can’t at least catch a bus. Buses are the most common means of transport in Hong Kong.

The large London -style double-decker buses are all over the city. There are also minibuses that run on less frequented routes. The double-decker trams chugging through the streets of Hong Kong Island are a real eye-catcher.

Things get a bit more modern when you go underground. There are a total of 7 subway lines connecting the most important areas in Hong Kong. The subway in Hong Kong is known as the MTR.

Octopus Card

Buses and trains are extremely cheap in Hong Kong. You pay for all trips with the Octopus Card, a prepaid contactless smart card that you just have to hold against the card reader before and/or after each trip.

In theory, you could also buy a single for each trip or pay with exact change on the tram or bus. But that’s so much more inconvenient.

The Octopus Card is available directly at the airport or at all MTR Service Points. The card costs 150 HKD, which includes 100 HKD in credit and a 50 HKD deposit. You can top up your Octopus Card at the ticket machines in all the subway stations.

It’s worth topping up a bit extra so you don’t keep having to use the machines. You’ll be refunded the balance and the deposit when you return the card at the end of your stay.

The Octopus Card is also useful for paying at many small supermarkets, vending machines, and some attractions (e.g. the viewing platform on Victoria Peak).

How much does public transport in Hong Kong cost?

Buses have fixed rates that are posted at the respective stop. Most trips cost between 0.50 and 1 euro. Our most expensive trip cost just under 2 euros, and that was for a 40-minute ride to Lantau Island.

When boarding a bus, you pay by holding your Octopus Card onto the card reader next to the driver. Trams are even cheaper. A journey only costs 2.30 HKD (approx. 0.25 euros), no matter how long you stay on.

In trams, you get on at the back and off at the front, and only hold your Octopus Card onto the reader when you leave the tram. In the subway, you have to use your Octopus Card at the turnstiles when entering and leaving the station.

Credit will be deducted from your card depending on the length of the journey. We were charged about 1 euro per journey on average. It only gets more expensive when you go very long distances.

Taking the ferry is also extremely cheap and rarely costs more than 50 cents. At most ferry terminals, you pay before getting on the ferry, but at some you pay afterwards. Apparently it just isn’t standardized.

Taking a taxi in Hong Kong

Taking a taxi in Hong Kong is very cheap and often much faster than using public transport, especially if you’d have to change a few times.

Taxi meters start at 24 HKD (about 2.70 euros), which includes the first 2 kilometers. Each additional kilometer costs 8 HKD (just under 1 euro), or 6 HKD once the fare exceeds 83.50 HKD.

You get charged in 200-meter increments. Baggage transported in the trunk costs an extra 6 HKD (0.70 cents) per item. We were generally very happy with the taxi service in Hong Kong.

Where to stay in Hong Kong

The most popular districts for accommodation are Central on Hong Kong Island and Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon. Hotel prices in Hong Kong are generally very high.

We’ve written a detailed post where we tell you which area is the best place to stay and which hotels we recommend.

To our post on the best place to stay in Hong Kong

Even more things to see in Hong Kong?

This post should give you an overview of Hong Kong’s highlights and most popular sights. If you want to take a deeper dive into the city and are looking for sights that aren’t quite as mainstream, then check out our other post Hong Kong off the beaten path – 10 insider tips .

Which of Hong Kong’s sights is your favorite? Can you think of a sight that’s missing in our post that we absolutely have to include? When are you going to Hong Kong or have you already been? Please let us know in the comments below!

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24 Best Things to Do in Hong Kong

More than 20 years after the 1997 handover of sovereignty from Britain to China, Hong Kong is seeing new infrastructure projects, such as a super-speed train link with Beijing . Some things haven’t changed: The twinkling skyline remains, the Star Ferry still plies the harbor day after day, dim sum is still a sacred weekend ritual, and once edgy districts like Wong Chuk Hang, Sai Ying Pun, and Shek Tong Tsui have found new momentum, thanks to major MTR (metro) expansions. Of course, there’s still plenty of old-world glamour to be found, whether you’re luxuriating over afternoon tea in the lofty lobby of The Peninsula or savoring a chilled silver tankard of beer at the Captain’s Bar in the Mandarin Oriental . If you’re wondering where to begin amid the action and energy, here's our list of what to do when you're in Hong Kong.

Click the link to read our complete Hong Kong city guide .

Victoria Peak Arrow

If you’ve seen postcards of Hong Kong then you’re probably familiar with the famous views from Victoria Peak, Hong Kong Island’s highest point and poshest neighborhood. If the mansions are any indication, this is where the city’s rich and famous reside. But most travelers don’t come to stalk celebrities or tycoons—they’re here for the views. This lofty vantage point overlooks the city’s dense skyline as well as the outlying islands to the south. Come, snap a few selfies, and take in the sights.

Cat Street Arrow

Located on a pedestrian street just below Hollywood Road, the century-old Cat Street market is a dream come true for vintage treasure hunters . You’ll find a few bona fide jade stores alongside makeshift street stalls; the latter brim with everything from throwaway souvenirs to quirky memorabilia, vintage photography prints, and genuinely beautiful retro vases. A few contemporary restaurants, such as Bibo (French cuisine and contemporary art) and Man Mo Cafe (French-ified dim sum) provide worthy resting spots should you need to refuel.

The Lobby, The Peninsula Arrow

With its soaring classical columns, gilded plasterwork, gargoyles, and live band, the Lobby at the Peninsula sets the scene for Hong Kong’s most famous afternoon tea . Consider sampling the hotel’s loose-leaf teas, or order anything from Champagne to fresh juice to accompany your three-tiered Afternoon Tea set. It’s impossible not to feel a bit of wonderment looking at the beautiful pastries, homemade finger sandwiches, and assortment of raisin scones (complete with clotted cream and organic strawberry jam). It’s an ideal way to while away a lazy afternoon with friends, coworkers, or family.

Victoria Dockside Arrow

Couples, families, and solo travelers are equally likely to visit Victoria Dockside in hot pursuit of the epic views of Hong Kong’s famous skyline. Beyond the general waterfront appeal, this avant-garde urban village also lures architecture and design nerds seeking to peek into Hong Kong’s evolving cityscape, which increasingly integrates organic structures, high-tech features, and ample greenery. Victoria Dockside gets crowded on weekends, so if you’re even the tiniest bit agoraphobic, take a pass or visit best on a weekday.

Chi Lin Nunnery Arrow

At the Chi Lin Nunnery and adjacent Nan Lian Garden you’ll stumble into a world of chanting nuns and meticulously pruned bonsai trees. Though it looks ancient, this Buddhist monastery complex was actually built in the 1930s and later renovated in 1998. Channeling ancient Chinese construction methods, the impressive wooden structure features a matrix of interlocking cypress wood beams—and not a single nail—making this one of the world’s largest handmade wooden buildings. Inside the structure, the Main Hall honors the founder of the Buddhist religion with an impressive statue.

Dragon's Back Arrow

Short but incredibly scenic, Dragon’s Back begins in the photogenic Cape Collinson Crematorium in Chai Wan and is a favorite hike for families and athletic travelers. With the initial ascent of the hike behind you, you’ll follow the trail south along the undulating ridge, which resembles a dragon’s spine. It’s one of the prettiest treks in Hong Kong, flanked by ocean and reservoir views on either side. As you approach Shek O, you’ll see the photogenic golf course at the Shek O Country Club off to the left, a handful of empty beaches, and a few paragliders soaring above the hills.

Maxim's Palace Arrow

It’s a little tricky to find Maxim’s Palace, which is located on the second floor of Hong Kong’s City Hall in Central. But as you ascend the escalator, the noisy crowds waiting to be seated should give it away. Established in 1980, Maxim’s is among Hong Kong’s most famous dim sum halls , decked out with elaborate pillars, dragon motifs, and glitzy chandeliers. Fair warning: The high-end address doesn’t take reservations, so it’s common to queue for at least 30 minutes if you come at peak hours, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m on weekends. But for an old-school dim sum feast, Maxim’s delivers in spades.

Aqualuna Symphony of Lights Cruise Arrow

Aqualuna’s Symphony of Lights Cruise, which coincides with the city’s multimedia laser and lights show, is a perfect way to unwind before dinner or after a long day of touring. The experience is all about enjoying a glass of complimentary wine or a cocktail while admiring the neon-lit skyscrapers. From this vantage point, it feels as if you’re being hugged by Victoria Harbour on all sides. Get your camera ready—as soon as the Symphony of Lights show begins, most guests are busy taking photos.

Tai Kwun Arrow

Home to one of the most expensive real estate markets in the world, Hong Kong never wastes a square foot. Which is why it’s so refreshing to come across a place like Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts. Open off Hollywood Road in 2018, this landmark heritage regeneration project welcomes visitors with a massive courtyard surrounded by 16 historic colonial-era buildings and leafy trees. It’s a free, open, and relaxed space—a unicorn in Hong Kong—that delivers big on its promise of arts, culture, dining, and shopping experiences .

Duddell's Arrow

Whether you’re lounging on the secret garden terrace or pausing for a power lunch in the main dining room, Duddell’s masters the art of hospitality. Executive chef Fung Man-Ip is a specialist in traditional Cantonese cuisine and composes classic dishes with meticulous attention to detail and only the best ingredients. Come for the heartfelt Cantonese dishes, stay for the surprising wine pairings and revolving art exhibitions.

Star Ferry Arrow

When the sun’s out, there’s nothing better than a quick ride on the Star Ferry. It’s a relaxed and civilized way to travel, particularly if you make your way to the top deck where you’ll find slightly nicer furnishings and working air-conditioning. But even with its imperfections, the old boats provide an enjoyable ride, and taking a ride on them is considered a must-do in Hong Kong . It’s a quick but memorable trip that frames the city’s skyline from every angle. Families love it, as do couples of all ages—really, anyone who appreciates a cheap thrill and terrific views.

Lamma Island Arrow

Just 20-to-30 minutes away from Hong Kong Island by ferry, Lamma Island is a natural wonderland, not to mention one of the city's coolest outlying islands. You've got the best of everything: excellent seafood, nature trails, chill cafes, waterfront bars, local markets, and beaches . You can make your own adventure. If you’re a foodie, head to Main Street for delicious vegan fare at Bookworm Cafe, or try some local craft beers at Yardley Brothers Beer Shack. Swing by Lamma Rainbow, an institution, for top-notch garlic scallops, black bean clams, and juicy prawns.

W.W. Chan & Sons Tailor Ltd. Arrow

A sartorial institution in Hong Kong, W.W. Chan & Sons is where taipans (business tycoons) go when they need impeccable suits, vests, and accessories. The famed outfit is among an elite set of “Red Gang” Shanghainese tailors—a term that’s synonymous with superlative craftsmanship and timeless style. Flash forward nearly 70 years, and W.W. Chan continues to stay true to traditional techniques. The tailors take all measurements by hand, create dummy jackets to check the client’s posture, and meticulously stitch using only pure silk.

Blue House Arrow

Blue House, a Grade I historic building, has stood the test of time. The name is a bit of a misnomer: It's not just one house, but a cluster of four interconnected tenement-style residences and shophouses in a rainbow of shades—blue, orange, yellow, and gray. The Blue House is the most famous, thanks in part to its head-turning cobalt facade, and has played host to all kinds of businesses—a hospital, temple, and even a kung fu studio. It currently serves as a residence for local Hongkongers and a few businesses.

Man Mo Temple Arrow

One of Hong Kong’s most famous urban temples , Man Mo Temple is an excellent example of Qing dynasty architecture and a great place to experience a slower, more spiritual side of Hong Kong. Free to enter, visitors are welcome to wander around the main temple at leisure. As intense, eye-watering smoke wafts from incense coils hanging overhead, stop to admire golden deities, murals, and Chinese wood carvings. There’s also a fortune-telling area off to the right—a traditional practice at Taoist temples.

Kowloon Walled City Park Arrow

Those fascinated by the history of the Walled City—and what it might have been like to live there—will enjoy a visit to the peaceful Kowloon Walled City Park, where they can peruse the remaining artifacts and explanatory plaques telling the story of what was once one of the world’s largest slums. Everyone else will enjoy the fresh air, bamboo groves, pavilions, Qing Dynasty–style Chinese gates, flower gardens, and pretty ponds. Ironically, this is now one of the most pleasant corners in Hong Kong.

PMQ – Staunton Arrow

Smack in the middle of Soho, PMQ is one of the only places in Hong Kong that’s fully dedicated to indie design. This major heritage revitalization project debuted in 2014, and you can expect cool architecture alongside a groundswell of creativity. It’s not a single boutique, but rather a complex of dozens of buzzing workshops, studios, and ateliers from the coolest labels in town. Look for more than 100 local shops, several excellent dining options , and a wide-open courtyard that comes alive on weekends with seasonal markets, pop-ups, and art installations.

Gao's Foot Massage Co. Arrow

One of the most convenient options for a foot massage in Central is Gao’s, located just a few steps from the MTR inside a commercial tower in Lan Kwai Fong. This no-frills massage parlor feels fairly traditional—picture black or red leather chairs, lattice woodwork, and a soundtrack of birds chirping. Most of the men and women who perform the foot massages are incredibly experienced, with an uncanny ability to zoom in on a trouble spot within minutes and massage away the pain and strain. Whether or not you believe in traditional Chinese reflexology, you will walk out on refreshed feet and legs that feel balanced and energized.

Tai Long Wan Bay Arrow

If you love the call of the wild, calm seas, and simple pleasures, then you’ll love a side trip to Tai Long Wan—a beautiful bay hugging the eastern side of the Sai Kung Peninsula. Tai Long Wan (meaning "Big Wave Bay") is made up of four distinct, white-sand beaches —Sai Wan, Ham Tin, Tai Wan and Tung Wan—each separated by hilly formations. The easiest to reach is Sai Wan, but the more remote beaches are the most idyllic. We’d recommend setting off early in the morning in order to enjoy the afternoon at one of these far-flung beaches—heading back a few hours before sunset.

Café Gray Deluxe Arrow

Holding court on the 49th floor of ultra-luxe Upper House hotel in Admiralty, Café Gray Deluxe sets the tone with a long, Champagne-hued corridor that feels more like a spa than a dining establishment. Round a corner and the pièce de résistance comes into full view: wall-to-wall windows framing uninterrupted panoramas of Hong Kong’s famed Victoria Harbour. On a clear night, this is one of the best views in town, especially if you manage to snag a corner table or one of the purple banquettes lining the windows.

Hong Kong Heritage Museum Arrow

Dedicated to Hong Kong’s history , art, and culture, Hong Kong’s Heritage Museum houses 11 different galleries that will transport you through various dynasties and artistic epochs, from the Cantonese opera exhibits to literature, photos, and masterful Chinese paintings. The Cantonese Opera Heritage Hall is particularly impressive, with life-size stage setups, colorful floral backdrops, and more than 30,000 artifacts from past performances—and don’t miss the ongoing Bruce Lee exhibition.

Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery Arrow

The monastery will lift your spirits from the moment you start your trek in the hills of Sha Tin. Grinning gold buddha statues will guide you to the top of the hill, and once you peek into the main Ten Thousand Buddhas Hall, you’ll see rows and rows of tiny buddhas that glow when they catch a ray of sunlight. Elsewhere around the grounds, there are several smaller temples, a nine-story pavilion, pagodas, and verandas. Keep climbing higher and you’ll find more temples and even better views.

Young Master Brewery Arrow

Hong Kong’s top craft brewery , Young Master Ales, recently expanded into a larger space in Wong Chuk Hang—an industrial district on the south side of Hong Kong Island that’s now connected to Central via MTR. Once you enter the eclectic space, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Brooklyn—picture two bars with about eight taps, knotty wood counters, communal picnic tables, and some retro-chic couches. Just beyond, you can see the steel vats where the magic happens. If you’re a beer enthusiast or you simply love to experience homegrown brands when you travel, visiting the brewery will be a memorable Saturday afternoon. Plus, you’ll get to see a more industrial side of Hong Kong—often overlooked by those who stick to Central and Tsim Sha Tsui districts.

Tai O Fishing Village Arrow

The humble homes, restaurants, and shops of Tai O provide a very different image that what many travelers expect of Hong Kong . There’s not a skyscraper in sight—just open ocean, a few outlying islands, and relatively small one or two-story houses. Exploring the tranquil town takes no more than two or three hours, even with a stop for lunch, but it’s a pleasant side trip—particularly when combined with a visit to the Big Buddha (which sits atop a mountain peak about 15 minutes away by bus) or Upper Cheung Sha Beach to the east.

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TRAVEL to HONG KONG – Tips and Information Guide [2024]

Everything you need to know about travel to Hong Kong in this epic tips and information travel guide.

When people think of Hong Kong they tend to think of it as a financial hub or an urban and modern city that enjoys the reputation of being the cooler younger sibling of China.

But throughout its history, Hong Kong has drawn influences from both the oriental East and the West.

Its own oriental culture has been under the influence of the British.

Throughout the years, however, it has created its own cultural identity.

This ultra-modern city is made up of 1100 sq. kilometers of coastline south of China and numerous islands of the Pearl River Delta.

It’s known for its urban development which stretches along the North coast of Hong Kong Island.

Here you will see traces of its colonial history in English names or in the presence of double-decker trams that seem to be looming everywhere.

The south of the island contrasts the busy city life with hiking trails, beaches, and a big amusement park.

In the north, right across the Victoria Harbor, is the Kowloon Peninsula.

The tip of the Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui, is filled with markets, shops and a variety of accommodation making it a hotspot for tourists.

North from Tsim Sha Tsui is the New Territories, where you can stroll through the older villages and relax at some of their secluded beaches.

Hong Kong also consists of the Outlying Islands, like Lantau and Lamma, that are a great addition to your itinerary.

This is especially true if you want to take a step back from city life, enjoy some downtime and good seafood.

If you don’t have a lot of time to visit Hong Kong don’t worry!

Thanks to its highly developed public transport, the city’s compact footprint and non-stop running transport – 3 days is the perfect Hong Kong itinerary !

If you decide to stay longer than that, you won’t run out of things to do!

This urban city will give you an energy boost that’s needed to keep up with its fast pace, the skyscrapers that dominate the skyline, beautiful neon lights and the maze-like architecture that can seem daunting to even the most experienced of travelers.

There is no shortage of delicious eateries or high-quality street food to be found either.

Next, to the amazing culinary scene, Hong Kong boasts of being home to some of the world’s most renowned architectural wonders.

It also features many culturally enriching and wonderfully curated museums.

The Hong Kong Island’s panorama dominated by towering skyscrapers can be seen from the Kowloon peninsula.

Make sure to read through our Hong Kong travel guide and be prepared to be amazed as Hong Kong is unlike any other city!

Hong Kong Travel Guide

Before you visit Hong Kong make sure you know the basics!

General Info

• Currency : Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)
• Language : Chinese, English
• Population : 7,482,500
• Area : 1,108 square kilometers
• Electricity Voltage : 220V, frequency is 50Hz
• Electricity Sockets : type G and D

5 Interesting Facts About Hong Kong

• The term ‘Fragrant Harbor’ is the meaning behind the name of Hong Kong.
• According to the locals, eating ‘Birthday Noodles’ on your birthday will lead you to have a long and blessed life.
• The globally famous food, dim sum, originated in Hong Kong!
• The Peak Circle Walk is considered to be one of the world’s most picturesque walks.
• AI operated metro, with a 99% on-time rate, has made Hong Kong’s metro systems one of the best and most efficient in the world!

Top 5 Places to Visit in Hong Kong

• Eat at the Chungking Mansions . While it was once known for being a sketchy area inhabited by backpackers, asylum seekers and ethnic minorities it has since evolved into a hub of African and South Asian food.
• Temple Street Night Market. When the sun disappears below the horizon, the Jordan area awakens. Roam the maze of stalls and hunt down the perfect trinkets and souvenirs and taste the most delicious and cheap, Chinese street food.
• Visit the Big Buddha, or as the locals refer to it Tian Tian Buddha. This statue is located above the Po Lin monastery and is 34 meters high. Although previously isolated by mountains, Po Lin monastery is now bringing in thousands of pilgrims and tourists from all over the world.
• Night in Lan Kwai Fong . This is a square of streets occupied almost exclusively by restaurants and bars, from locals’ favorite eateries to the craziest nightclubs. Spend at least one night exploring the nooks and corners of this lively area.
• Hong Kong Park is an oasis of green in the middle of Hong Kong Island’s urban setting. It was built in 1991 in Central and it’s a well-designed forest which blends in with the surrounding area. The park boasts of having an aviary with over eighty species of birds, lily ponds, fountains, a greenhouse, a restaurant, playgrounds, the Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware and the Hong Kong Visual Art Center.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our complete list of the top places to visit in Hong Kong !

Top 5 Travel Experiences in Hong Kong

• Ride the ding-ding, Hong Kong’s famous double-decker tram. For a little bit over $2 USD, you can enjoy the trip along the northern shore of Hong Kong’s island. It’s a beautiful route that includes many iconic landmarks of Hong Kong, Central’s skyscrapers, Victoria Park, Western Market and the remaining pawn shops of Wan Chai.
• Take the Central to Mid-Levels escalator . The world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system covers 800 meters in distance and reaches an elevation of over 135 meters. It has been opened in the early ’90s and since then has offered a link between the Central and Mid-Levels.
• Climb the Peak . This is the highest point of Hong Kong Island and offers an amazing view of the city, from Central’s skyscrapers to New Territories’ mountainous region. Take the Peak tram and enjoy the ride to the summit. If you have time you can even hike the 3.5 km Peak Circle Walk and get to the best vantage point of the metropolis of Hong Kong.
• Ride the S tar Ferry . Now considered a historical boat ride (it’s been operating for over a hundred years!), it’s also a cheap and fast way to get you to Central or Wan Chai while you also have the opportunity to bask in stunning views of Hong Kong and the Victoria Harbour.
• Eat at the Tim Ho Wan . This is an opportunity that can’t be missed. It’s not just a Michelin star awarded restaurant but also the world’s cheapest! It’s the place to go to try dim sum so queuing is definitely worth the long wait.

Best Time to Travel to Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s climate is characterized by mild winters and humid, hot summers.

The most preferable times for a visit tend to be in the fall (late September to early December) and spring (from March to May).

In fall the skies are typically sunny and clear with temperatures ranging from 21° to 26°C.

In spring humidity rises. Therefore fog and light rain aren’t uncommon. But the temperatures tend to remain in a pleasant range from 18° to 27°C.

The coldest months of the year are January and February. During these times the temperatures on average are 15°C and rarely fall below 10°C.

Summers can be unbearable with the temperatures on average being from 32° to 37°C and humidity being over 90%.

Summer is perhaps the worst time to visit Hong Kong. But if you do plan your trip then, make sure to stock up on sunblock, water and bring an umbrella as you’re also visiting during typhoon season.

Seasonal Festivals in Hong Kong

When it comes to holidays, Hong Kong celebrates seventeen public holidays a year.

Most of the holidays are Chinese and celebrated according to the lunar calendar (each year the dates change).

Even during holidays all the restaurants, shops and other businesses stay open (with the exception of Chinese New Year). This means that you don’t have to worry about these public holidays interfering with your planned activities.

Here are some of the most celebrated holidays in Hong Kong:

Chinese New Year is the biggest and most popular holiday in Hong Kong.

It’s celebrated for three days! During this time tradition dictates that you settle debts, pay homage to your ancestors, seek advice from a fortuneteller and visit friends and family.

The streets and buildings of Hong Kong are beautifully decorated with lights. And the city overflows with good-luck flowers such as chrysanthemums.

Unless you would like to experience Chinese New Year, this is arguably the worst time to visit Hong Kong due to the large volumes of people.

Expect road closures, booked accommodation, busy streets and crowded transportation systems.

Hong Kong Arts Festival is a month-long celebration of various performances. Whether you’re a fan of opera, theater, dance, jazz, art or ethnic music, there’s something for everyone.

Cheng Chau Bun Festival is an event that lasts over a period of seven days. It is held each year to pay homage to restless spirits.

Tuen Ng Festival , or the dragon boat races, show long and narrow painted boats that can fit around 20 to 22 oarsmen that beat to a drum beat.

Wine and Dine Festival has street food vendors set up shop alongside the promenade and is an opportunity to try wine and local dishes from around the globe.

Food in Hong Kong

• French toast with a Hong Kong twist is the perfect comfort food. This is two pieces of bread with kaya jam or peanut butter that are dipped in egg batter and then fried in butter. It’s served with more butter and plenty of syrup.
• Ginger milk curd is a dessert that’s made by simmering sweetened milk and then adding freshly squeezed ginger juice. The ginger causes the milk to curdle and achieve a soft, thicker texture similar to pudding. It’s creamy with a little bit of a spicy kick.
• Sweet and sour pork is a signature dish of Hong Kong and it can be found everywhere from street vendors’ stalls to the menu of fine dining restaurants. It is by far a favorite comfort food of Hong Kong locals. The recipe of the Cantonese original “gu lo yuk” was made with preserved plums, vinegar, and hawthorn candy while now it’s made with coloring and ketchup.
• Cha siu baau is a steamed bun with pork meat filling. The softly steamed bun is filled with diced barbecued pork and rich brown barbecue sauce.
• Dim Sum is a classic Hong Kong treat. You can’t visit Hong Kong without eating dim sum at least once. It’s served in bamboo steamers and is meant to be shared. You must order the pork dumplings and prawn dumplings. Where better to try the dumplings then at Tim Ho Wan, the Michelin-awarded eatery known for its dim sum.

Travel Itineraries Suggestions for Hong Kong

Depending on how much time you have and want to spend when you visit Hong Kong, there are plenty of things to see and do.

We suggest a great 3-Day Hong Kong itinerary . But if you have more time, check out this weeklong itinerary.

Day 1-3: Kowloon

In the evening walk down the Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui in order to reach the Clock Tower .

Once you’re at the Clock Tower, take in the beautiful, neon skyline of Hong Kong with a fleet of ferries passing in front of it.

The markets in Mong Kok, the Temple Street Night Market near Jordan Road, are great stops during your nighttime Kowloon explorations.

There’s a lot to see during the day too.

Plan to visit the Innovation Tower, Nan Lian Garden, Kowloon Park, Chi Lin Nunnery.

Or if you wish to be more active, go on a long hike to the Lion Rock summit or on a short hike up to the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery.

The really interesting museums to visit are the Hong Kong Science Museum and the Hong Kong Museum of History.

Try booking a Hong Kong sightseeing tour on your first day if you prefer to have someone else figure out the logistics.

Day 4-6: Hong Kong Island

On the next part of your trip go on the iconic Star Ferry ride to Central Pier, on Hong Kong Island.

The affordable journey offers spectacular views of both sides of the island and its impressive skyscrapers.

Once you’re done roaming around the Botanic Gardens, the Zoo and Aviary get the Hong Kong MTR to Tai Kao station.

There you will come across one of the iconic landmarks, the Yick Fat Building.

Have a bite at one of Hong Kong’s fantastic restaurants and then climb the Peak Tower.

After that head down to the Hollywood Road area to get a drink at the bars.

READ MORE: Check out our blog post about the time we went hiking and camping in Hong Kong for free!

Day 7: Lantau and the Big Buddha

Nearby the place where you boarded the Star Ferry to head to Kowloon is where you will get the ferry to Mui Wo on Lantau Island.

After your short ferry ride, you will get a bus to Ngong Ping which leads you to the Po Lin Monastery.

The Big Buddha at Po Lin Monastery is everything but calm as thousands of tourists walk up its steps every day.

The monastery itself is nice to visit and you can even go on the Wisdom Path.

Near the monastery, there’s a cute fishing village, Tai O.

It’s a perfect place to grab dinner at one of the local seafood restaurants and enjoy the sunset before getting to the ferry back to busy Hong Kong.

Day 8: Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong Disneyland attracts crowds from all over the world!

But make sure to go early and during one of the weekdays to try and avoid big crowds.

It’s the smallest of all Disneylands but it’s still worth a visit. With its 7 themed lands, Mystic Point, Tomorrowland and Fantasyland you’ll have one enjoyable day!

As with other Disneylands, you can stay in the amusement park at their luxurious Disneyland Hotel if you would like.

A trip to Disneyland is perhaps the most fun day trip from Hong Kong !

Visa Requirements for Hong Kong

Most people can travel to Hong Kong without requiring a visa. Stays are permitted for anywhere between 7 to 180 days depending on your nationality.

To see whether you require a visa for entry as well as the length of stay you are permitted, be sure to check out this resource .

Note that if you wish to travel to the Chinese mainland from Hong Kong you will be required to have a Chinese visa in advance of your trip.

How to Get to Hong Kong

Hong Kong is incredibly well connected.

There are many cruise lines and over a hundred direct flights that link Hong Kong with the rest of the world.

The best and easiest way to get into Hong Kong is by plane.

The Hong Kong International Airport is a major international hub.

It’s the largest airport in Hong Kong and it operates 160 destinations with 95 airlines.

Direct flights can be long (from Chicago: 16 hrs, London: 12 hrs and Sydney: 9hrs), so consider paying for more legroom or a class upgrade.

If you wish to fly to Hong Kong from Europe, the US or Canada, you can get a direct flight from many of the major cities.

Flying from Australia or New Zealand to Hong Kong is even more affordable and direct.

Most connections to Europe, the USA, Canada and Australia are operated by Hong Kong’s own airline, Cathay Pacific.

The connection to cities all around Asia is served by Hong Kong Airlines, Hong Kong Express and DragonAir.

The Hong Kong airport is located north of Lantau Island, around 32km from the city centre.

From the airport to the city you can take the Airport Express train that will take you to Hong Kong Island in just 24 minutes.

The fare for the Airport Express train is around USD$12.

The cheaper but also much slower option is to get on a city bus (operated by either Citybus or Long Win).

The tickets can be bought at the ticket counters at the airport in the arrivals hall.

The easiest, but more expensive option is to hail a cab.

It would take around thirty to fifty minutes (depending on what part of the city you’re travelling to) and the price would range from around USD$35 – $50.

If you’re travelling to Hong Kong from China, you can do so via the famous high-speed trains or the intercity trains.

This well-developed high-speed rail connects Hong Kong to 58 destinations in China.

There is a 26 km stretch that goes from Kowloon and connects travellers to the high-speed rail network.

This high-speed rail connection is called Guangzhou – Shenzhen – Hong Kong.

The slower, but regular and reliable, intercity train services connect Hong Kong to Beijing, Shanghai and Guangdong.

Hong Kong is famous for its maritime location and has the status of being one of the most valuable ports Asia Pacific region.

As such there are numerous opportunities to travel to Hong Kong via cruise ship or ferry.

The two most important cruise terminals are the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal and Ocean Terminal.

Numerous ports in mainland China are linked to Hong Kong via high-speed ferry services.

These ferries run between Kowloon, Hong Kong Island and Hong Kong International Airport.

Travelling from China to Hong Kong is easy with bus services operating the five land crossings:

• Lok Ma Chau
• Sha Tau Kok
• Hong Kong–Zhuai–Macao Bridge
• Shenzhen Bay Port

Travel via a shuttle bus or a coach bus when taking the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge.

The coach bus operates between the urban parts of Hong Kong, Zhuhai and Macao in different areas of Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Travel Tips

If you are planning to travel to Hong Kong you know it can be exciting and intimidating at the same time.

There is so much to see and do. The city is crowded. And Hong Kong is generally an expensive place to visit.

Of course, nobody plans to be sick or injured while travelling. But understanding the medical system and safety risks is an important part of the planning process!

Check out our tips below to help you understand what to expect in your budget as well as how to get around the city!

READ MORE: Check out the list of our best travel tips from over a decade on the road.

Budget for Travelling Hong Kong

Hong Kong is very expensive by anyone’s standards. This is especially true when you take into the costs of accommodation.

Backpacking Budget from USD$50 per person/day

The prices of one bed in an 8 person mixed dormitory start from USD$30 per night.

But staying in a hostel for that price is a very affordable option by Hong Kong standards.

If it’s YHA hostel then you can usually expect to have free WiFi, shared bathroom and air-conditioning.

For food, the cheapest you can come by is a microwave meal at corner stores such as 7-Eleven and Circle K. But even these are usually around USD$10 to $15.

At 7-Eleven they have microwaves onsite and they allow you to prepare your meal.

But you can save even more by eating street food. These meals will cost around USD$6.

The one day transport Octopus card (initial deposit is $50 HKD) + $100 HKD (stored value), would cost you around USD$20.

We recommend checking out this list of the best hostels in Hong Kong on Hostelworld to help you choose where to stay.

Midrange Budget from USD$120 per person/day

Staying in a single room at a budget three-star hotel will cost around USD$60 per night.

Eating at midrange local eateries would cost around USD$25 to $40 per meal.

There are a lot of affordable alternatives like Dim Sum cafes or Chinese Soup kitchens. But prices for food in Hong Kong are generally high.

In the evening if you wanted to go to one of the bars for drinks and live music, you could easily expect to spend around USD$60 per person for a few drinks and snacks.

Luxury Budget from USD$350 per person/day

With a little more to spend, you can expect more luxury and options.

A double bedroom in a luxury four-star or a boutique hotel costs around USD$200 per night.

Dinner at some of the finest establishments in Hong Kong would cost you around USD$100 per person.

For entertainment, you could go and see a Cantonese opera (tickets USD$25) or hire a private tour guide for a full day for $250 USD.

NOMADasaurus Tip: Use Agoda to book all your accommodation in Hong Kong, as they have the cheapest prices. You can also use the coupon code AGODANMD10 to get a further 10% off your hotels!

Transport in Hong Kong

There are a lot of places to see and things to do in Hong Kong. Unless you plan to take a taxi everywhere, you will definitively spend some time on public transport.

Getting an Octopus card is essential as it’s usable on the Mass Transit Railway (MTR), ferries, light rail and buses.

The card can be bought at any MTR station and easily topped as well in Circle K and 7-Eleven convenience stores.

You can use the octopus cards not just for transport but also as a means of payment for fast food restaurants, supermarkets and coffee chains.

The MTR is a rail system that consists of underground, overland and light rail services used by four million people daily.

The mass transit rail is clean (no drinking and eating onboard allowed), safe, fast, has air-conditioning and full cellphone coverage and is the easiest form of public transport.

It has nine lines operating through Hong Kong Island, the New Territories and Kowloon, the Airport Express, intercity trains (to Shanghai, Beijing and Guangdong) and light rail in Northwestern New Territories.

The most important line is the red line (Tsuen Wan Line) because it connects Central to Kowloon via tunnel and continues downwards to Tsuen Wan (in New Territories) via Nathan Road.

The blue line goes along the north coast of Hong Kong Island.

The orange line (Tung Chung Line) is the fastest way to Lantau but is also a cheap way to get to the airport (take the S1 shuttle bus from the MTR station ‘Tung Chung’).

All announcements are in Mandarin, Cantonese and English and the signs are also in both Chinese and English.

The staff usually speaks some English to help the occasional lost tourist.

The suburban rail is linked to two international borders with China on the East rail line: Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau.

The ticket price depends on the distance covered.

You cannot pay for tickets or passes with your credit card (excluding the Airport Express).

The MTR ticket machines usually don’t accept bills over HKD$10.

 A majority of the stops have ATMs and they have been increasing the number of toilets as well.

There are nine overland and underground train lines on which there are around ninety stations.

Trains run from 6 AM to between midnight and 1 M in intervals of 2 – 14 minutes.

The rush hour is 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 5 PM to 7 PM on weekdays.

The tickets are very cheap compared to other cities around the world (USD$0.65 to $4).

If you get caught eating, drinking or smoking on the train or at the station you can get fined for around USD$650!

The ‘ding dings’ (in Cantonese), or as we call them ‘city trams’ (double-deckers), are used all along the north coast of Hong Kong Island.

They have not only been an affordable transportation option but also a part of their history, as they’ve been operating for over a century.

When riding a tram expect a bumpy, slow ride with no air-conditioning on board.

The trams run from 6 AM to midnight.

Board at the Kennedy Town Terminus and make sure to get a good seat on the upper deck.

The tram will take you eastward and you’ll be able to get an amazing insight into the Hong Kong Island.

Pay attention to all aspects of city life, from its hectic streets, calm residential areas to Central’s sharp business and financial districts.

This tram has been opened back in 1888 and is a very steep 1.7 km route that takes you from Central up to Victoria Peak.

The price like the route taken is quite steep, USD$45 for a return ticket.

But it is worth the money and you can also pay extra to access the observation deck!

The Peak Tram is especially busy during evening hours as many people want to see Hong Kong’s magical skyline.

There are cheaper but slower options to reach the peak. You can get on a green minibus or the #15 double-decker bus.

They also offer views of both sides of Hong Kong Island.

By Light Rail

The light rail system is a more improved version of Hong Kong’s trams.

It differs from the trams in being faster, air-conditioned and modernized.

The light rail runs in Northwestern New Territories and operates from 5:30 AM to 1 AM.

Depending on the day of the week, time of day and line, they operate in intervals of 4 to 12 minutes.

This fast tram connects Tin Shui Wai, Tuen Mun and Yuen Long.

In Hong Kong, there are three types of buses that are operated by numerous companies.

These include the double-decker buses and two varieties of public light buses (red and green minibusses).

Busses are easy to use with the Octopus card. If you wish to travel to Lantau and on the south side of the island, they’re your only option.

Double Decker Buses

These buses operate all over the country, have frequent stops and ticket prices depend on the distance covered.

You can find all the information (ticket prices, where you board, estimated arrival, etc.) on the websites of bus companies or you can also download a mobile app.

Buses only stop by request (unless you’re at the terminus).

To stop an approaching bus, flag them down as if it was a taxi and board at the front.

Public Light Buses

The public light buses are van-sized and can transport up to 16 passengers.

There are two kinds: red minibusses (also referred to as ‘maxi cabs’) and green minibusses.

For tourists, it’s not easy to ride a minibus as you have to call out the name of the stop in Cantonese so your driver would know when to stop.

Green minibusses accept Octopus card (if you pay in cash they can’t give you change).

They have designated stops and have fixed fares.

While red minibusses pick up and drop off passengers wherever it’s requested and prices and destinations are displayed in Chinese only.

Some red buses accept Octopus cards (but if you pay in cash you will get change back).

Either way, expect the minibus drivers to drive faster than you’re accustomed to, especially in the evening hours.

The intervals in which the bus services run vary depending on the area.

Logically, if you’re in the city centre you can expect buses to run in intervals of under 10 minutes and in the more rural areas between 15 to 30 minutes.

There is an impressive fleet of ferries that operates between the islands of Hong Kong.

The most popular ferry is the Star Ferry which operates routes of Tsim Sha Tsui to Central and Wanchai.

It runs from 7 AM to 11 PM, and the ride across the harbour is only eleven minutes. But it doesn’t fail to impress with its views of the island!

The Star Ferry has carried the locals and travellers for over a hundred years and has, rightfully so, earned its title of being Hong Kong’s icon.

Taking a ride on this ferry is a must-do on every Hong Kong itinerary.

There are other ferry routes that depart from various ports and take you to Lantau, Lamma and other islands.

There are two types of ferries, fast and slow ones.

The fast ones charge double the price but travel time is significantly diminished.

Fast ferries don’t operate on all routes. So for some destinations, there aren’t both types of service.

If you’re going with a cheaper ferry, be prepared that it might not have to air-condition.

Ticket prices also increase up to 50% during public holidays and on Sundays.

Taxis are regulated and controlled strictly by the government.

Even though that’s the case, there will be occasional taxi drivers that will try to bargain with you. Just know that this is illegal.

Taxis are very affordable compared to larger cities worldwide.

There are three types of taxi: green, blue and red.

All of them serve Hong Kong Disneyland and the airport.

The red taxis (urban taxis) are the most expensive ones as they operate within Hong Kong (excluding south of Lantau).

The green taxis operate within the limits of the airport, Hong Kong Disneyland and the New Territories.

The blue taxis (Lantau) have the lowest tare as they only travel to the airport, Hong Kong Disneyland and Lantau Island.

Tipping is not obligatory but drivers like to round up the fare.

You get charged for baggage that goes in the trunk (USD$5 per bag) and any toll charges get added to your bill.

The best way to avoid being scammed by taxi drivers (if you speak no Chinese) is to use a mobile app to book your ride.

The advantages are clear, card payment, no need to call anyone, fair price and your ride is typically there within ten minutes.

Accommodation in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is among the most popular destinations in the world.

Thus booking in advance is a must – whether you’re staying at a luxury hotel or booking a bed in a dorm room.

You can stay at some of the best luxury hotels in the world, where a night could set you back several thousand dollars.

Or you can opt for more budget-friendly options such as guesthouses and hostels.

One of the perks of travelling to Hong Kong is the opportunity (if you can afford it) to stay at one of the famous city hotels.

Some of the hotels include historic and globally renowned venues, local brands and major international chains.

The majority of hotels are concentrated in Kowloon and on Hong Kong Island.

Many of them offer a room with a stunning view of the harbour.

More and more resort-type hotels are popping up in the Outlying Islands and in the New Territories.

Hong Kong’s five-star luxury hotels are known for the amazing views, excellent service, luxurious facilities and it’s where you will find the best restaurants.

You can choose from staying at some of their iconic landmarks (i.e., the Peninsula) to a flagship hotel from one of the major international hotel chains.

Chungking Mansions

Don’t let the ‘mansions’ part of the name fool you – if you are looking for the absolute cheapest hotel rooms in the centre of Hong Kong, this is the place to go.

This dilapidated building is home to a whole range of budget mini-hotels, with rooms usually around USD$40 per night.

The rooms are tiny though, barely big enough for a bed and small desk, and the showers are often directly over the toilet.

The building itself can feel slightly sketchy, and you’ll get all kinds of ‘interesting’ characters hanging out here at night.

But still, if you need somewhere cheap to stay, this is the place.

There’s also a whole range of cheap eateries on the bottom floor too, which can be surprisingly tasty.

Guesthouses

The guesthouses are typically comfortable, clean, have air-conditioning, individual bathrooms and are midrange budget accommodation.

To always be on the safe side, pay attention when booking that you’re going to be staying at a licensed guesthouse!

Hostels can be the most important type of accommodation for the majority of backpackers.

Hostels in Hong Kong tend to be clean and comfortable.

Most of them are in the New Territories near picturesque areas such as marine parks and hiking trails.

Because of Hong Kong’s amazing transportation system, getting into the city centre is never an issue!

There are youth hostels that are registered with the Hong Kong Youth Hostels Association and are more similar to a 3-star hotel than a hostel!

Safety in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of the safest destinations in the world.

The police are efficient, polite and have a strong presence throughout the city.

The crime rates are very low – especially rates of violent crimes.

But do know that nowhere in the world is 100% safe.

When travelling through Hong Kong still use common sense to avoid becoming an easy mark.

There are still some common scams that are known to occur:

• Foreign currency exchange : Never exchange foreign money into currency as there is a good chance you will end up with fake money. Only exchange money in banks or in currency exchange offices.
• Fake goods : People on the streets will approach you and try to pass fake gold and fake jade bracelets as the real valuable goods. Again if anything is offered to you off the street don’t buy it. You will get scammed. If you wish to buy any valuable goods, only buy from reputable stores.

Our safety tips for travelling in Hong Kong are:

• Pay attention to when typhoons can be expected. If there is one, know what your next steps should be to ensure your safety.
• Do research on what are considered reputable taxi companies.
• Before you get into a taxi, text the registration to your loved ones or even call the reception desk at your hotel. Always sit in the back of the car.
• Always let your loved ones know your last known address (the place you’re staying at).
• Don’t go into what are known to be dodgy areas, especially at night!
• Keep your travel documents in a hotel’s safe and only have photocopies of your documents on you at all times.
• If you go drinking in the evening by yourself, be wary if anyone tries to join you and get all of your own drinks for yourself!
• Don’t carry all your cash with you. Leave some in the safe back in your hotel room.
• Wear a money belt!
• Save all the emergency numbers to your phone, which includes also hotel and taxi numbers (keep all that information written down in your notepad, in case your phone runs out of battery).

Medical System in Hong Kong

The standard of medical healthcare in Hong Kong is excellent but also very expensive.

The healthcare system is divided into private and public and there’s no overlap between the two.

There are many dentists, general physicians and specialists who speak English and can be found in the yellow pages, private hospital or your consulate.

If you don’t have money for a private clinic, go to one of the public hospital’s emergency room in your area and be prepared to wait.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call #999 and the ambulance will take you to a public hospital where you’ll be requested to pay a high fee.

If you can’t pay, you will still be treated but you’ll be billed at a later date.

Medical facilities on Hong Kong Island:

• Queen Mary Hospital (public and with emergency services)
• Ruttonjee Hospital (public)

Medical facilities in Kowloon:

• Hong Kong Baptist Hospital (private)
• Princess Margaret Hospital (public and with emergency services)
• Queen Elizabeth Hospital (public)

Medical facilities in New Territories:

• Prince of Wales Hospital (public)

There are pharmacies all over the city and there is almost always a certified pharmacist working.

A lot of medication can be bought without a prescription. But make sure to check that it’s a well-known brand and that it’s still in date.

If you make sure to collect all of your documentation, once you get to your home country, many of the private insurance companies will reimburse you.

When travelling it’s always of utmost importance to take out a comprehensive travelling insurance policy so you would be internationally covered to receive inpatient medical and some surgical treatments if needed.

Travel Insurance

While not a requirement to travel to Hong Kong, having travel insurance is one thing that we always recommend no matter where you are going.

It goes beyond just covering you for medical care. If your stuff gets stolen, flights are cancelled, you have to return home for an emergency, luggage is delayed, or any one of a hundred other things that can go wrong when you travel, insurance will have you covered.

Have a read of our ‘ Do I Need Travel Insurance ‘ article first before booking any trip abroad.

We recommend World Nomads. Use this form to get a free, no-obligation quote.

Packing List for Hong Kong

• 2x Long pants
• 5x T-shirts
• 3x Long-sleeved shirts
• 1x Sweatpants
• Undergarments
• 1x Rain jacket
• 1x Flip-flops
• 1x Comfortable sneakers
• 1x Dress shoes

Miscellaneous Items

• Power adapter
• Hand sanitizer
• Reusable water bottle
• Insect repellent
• Guide book and a map

Other Travel Tips for Hong Kong

• The “MTR” is referred to as the underground metro, while “Subway” usually refers to underground walkways.
• Download the taxi app , as it’s much easier to navigate the city. You don’t need to speak Chinese, you get a fair price and your car is picking you up within minutes.
• Carry an umbrella, especially in spring and summer. The weather can be very unpredictable! This is especially true if you’re visiting during the Typhoon season!
• Bring a Chinese phrasebook with you . A majority of residents in Hong Kong speak some English. But it’s always handy to have on you.
• Tipping is not expected, but it’s appreciated! Taxi drivers usually round up the price. In some restaurants, they automatically add 10% (but that’s always specified in the menu).
• Free museum entry every Wednesday . One way to save some money is by pushing your museum date to Wednesday. Some of the participants that offer free entry to all are the Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong Museum of History, Hong Kong Heritage Museum, Hong Kong Racing Museum, Dr. Sun Yat-sen Museum and the Hong Kong Space Museum.
• Avoid the MTR during peak hours, even thou the public transport is so perfectly organized and highly efficient, the crowds during peak hours can be hellish. The rush hours are from 7 AM – 9:30 AM and from 5 PM – 7 PM during the week. If possible avoid the major connecting stations (like Admiralty).

Hong Kong Travel Guide

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About Hong Kong

Hong Kong, as Asia's premier international city, is a world-class destination for leisure visitors. Also, it is one of the leading international financial centers, which plays a key role for international finance and trade, and as a financial services gateway for mainland China. Public transport of Hong Kong is very well developed and will meet all the needs of tourists. Cantonese & English are the official languages. Cantonese is spoken by the most of the population. Read more...

Shopping in Hong Kong

This city is a shopping paradise, where tourists can purchase what they want at competitive prices. Being a duty-free port, most of imported goods are not taxed, as a result the goods in Hong Kong are usually cheaper than in other cities of the world. Moreover, visitors can get a discount up to 40-50% on seasonal sales and promotions. You can buy almost everything - from cheap clothing to state-of-the-art electronic goods. Thanks to nice shopping experience, the tourists come back again and again to this wonderful city. Read more...

Hotels and Accommodation

Thousands of people visit Hong Kong daily for business or leisure purposes and a choice where to stay is one of the most important parts of your trip. Hong Kong hotels include every price range from luxury to budget. If you like, you can stay at one of several fine luxury hotels . Travelers who are on a budget can take advantage of the economical budget hotels that are available. Read more...

Attractions

Parks & Gardens

Things To Do

Hong Kong, though small in size, offers to its visitors amazing tourist attractions, such as Victoria Peak , Dialogue in the Dark , a Symphony of Lights , Ocean Park Hong Kong , Star Ferry , Big Buddha , Ngong Ping 360 . For those who want to plunge into the culture and history, there are a wide variety of thematic museums and temples. Also, travelers have a chance to view different parts of Hong Kong by visiting one of the many parks. A pleasant transport system will help you to easily get to any tourist spot in the city. Read more

Dining in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a true culinary capital of Asia and is striking for its culinary delights. Dining is certainly one of the highlights in Hong Kong. Variety of dishes in Hong Kong's restaurants is staggering as well as a huge number of eateries. Thousands of restaurants and eateries offer the opportunity to taste the dishes from around the world and also the dishes of various provinces of China. Don't be afraid to try unknown dishes, most of them will be tasty. Almost each tourist leaves the city with a new culinary experience. Read more

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Travel Advisory April 12, 2024

Mainland china, hong kong & macau - see summaries.

Updated due to new national security legislation in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

Summary:  Reconsider travel to Mainland China due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including in relation to exit bans, and the risk of wrongful detentions.

Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws .

Reconsider travel to the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services . Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Macau SAR due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws .

See specific risks and conditions in each jurisdiction . 

Consulate Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

One month beyond the date of your intended stay

One page required for entry stamp

Not required for stays under 90 days

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau 26 Garden Road Central, Hong Kong Telephone:  +852 2841-2211, +852 2841-2225, +852 2841-2323   Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +852 2523-9011   Fax:  +852 2845-4845 Email:   [email protected]  

Destination Description

See the U.S. Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Hong Kong for information on U.S.-Hong Kong relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the  Hong Kong Immigration Department  website for the most current visa information. 

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our website.

To enter the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), you need:

• a passport that is valid for at least one month beyond the date of your intended stay;
• adequate funds to cover your stay without working locally; and
• evidence of onward/return transportation.

You only need a visa if:

• You plan to stay for more than 90 days – obtain an extension with the Hong Kong SAR Immigration Department, if necessary.
• You plan to work or study in the Hong Kong SAR – visas must be obtained prior to departing the United States.

You must possess a valid passport and PRC visa to enter the People’s Republic of China (PRC) from Hong Kong. Further information on travel to and around the PRC is available on our  China International Travel Information and Macau International Travel Information pages.

West Kowloon Train Station:  The West Kowloon Train Station is the terminus of the Hong Kong section of the  Guangzhou–Shenzhen–Hong Kong Express Rail Link  (XRL). Once passengers pass through the Hong Kong immigration exit checkpoint on their way to mainland China inside the train station or on the train itself in that area, they are in the mainland Port Area. Likewise, passengers arriving from mainland China are in the mainland Port Area until they exit the Hong Kong immigration entry checkpoint. 

Health Requirements: There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens. The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of the PRC, including Hong Kong. 

Safety and Security

Since the imposition of the National Security Law on June 30, 2020, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) has demonstrated an intent to use the law to target a broad range of activities such as acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign entities. The National Security Law also covers offenses committed by non-Hong Kong SAR residents or organizations outside of the Hong Kong SAR, which could subject U.S. citizens who have been publicly critical of the PRC and/or the administration of the Hong Kong SAR to a heightened risk of arrest, detention, expulsion, or prosecution. Mainland PRC security forces, including an Office for Safeguarding National Security, now operate in Hong Kong and are not subject to oversight by the Hong Kong SAR judiciary.

Drug and Alcohol Enforcement: PRC law enforcement authorities have little tolerance for illegal drugs, including marijuana and products containing cannabidiol, also known as CBD . Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in the PRC, including Hong Kong, are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences, heavy fines, or the death penalty.

Hong Kong also has strict laws against driving under the influence of alcohol that can lead to immediate detention on a criminal charge.

Demonstrations:  Participating in demonstrations or any other activities that authorities interpret as violating Hong Kong law, including the National Security Law, could result in criminal charges. On June 30, 2020, as part of its color-coded system of warning flags, the Hong Kong police unveiled a new purple flag, which warns protesters that shouting slogans or carrying banners with an intent prohibited by the law could now bring criminal charges. Any protests that take place without a permit are considered illegal.

U.S. citizens are strongly cautioned to be aware of their surroundings and avoid demonstrations.

If you decide to travel to Hong Kong: 

• Monitor local media, local transportations sites and apps like  MTR Mobile  or  CitybusNWFB , and the  Hong Kong International Airport website  for updates and traffic advisories. 
• Avoid the areas of the demonstrations. 
• Exercise caution if you are in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests. 
• Avoid taking photographs of protesters or police without permission. 
• Be aware of your surroundings. 
• Keep a low profile. 

Hong Kong has a low crime rate. Even so, you should exercise caution when in congested areas and pay particular attention to personal belongings while in crowded areas and while traveling on public transportation. Violent crime, though rare, does occur.

• Take routine safety precautions. 
• Report any concerns to the local police. 
• Call “999,” the local equivalent to “911” 

Please note that mace, pepper spray, stun guns, bullets, switch blades, knuckle-dusters and other self-protection weapons are banned in Hong Kong. 

Do not buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootlegs illegal in the United States, but, if you purchase them, you may also be breaking local law. You may also pay fines or must give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.

Be alert to criminal schemes, such as internet, phone scams and dating scams, as well as financial scams. See the  U.S. Department of State's  and the  U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)'s  pages for information on scams. 

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police at “999” and contact U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau at +(825) 2523-9011. U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should first contact U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime. See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

We can: 

• help you find appropriate medical care.
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• provide a list of local attorneys.
• provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States .
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• replace a stolen or lost passport.

Hong Kong has a crime victim compensation program available to U.S. citizens who are legal residents or tourists in Hong Kong. For more detailed information on the program and its requirements, please see the  Hong Kong Social Welfare Department webpage.  More resources for victims of crime in Hong Kong are available in our  Help for U.S. Victims of Crime in Hong Kong  information sheet. 

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence can/should contact the Hong Kong police and/or U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau for assistance. 

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout Hong Kong. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to Hong Kong SAR laws, including certain PRC laws applied to Hong Kong. If you violate Hong Kong SAR laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business. Furthermore, some crimes are prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  U.S. Department of Justice  website. 

Arrest Notification:

• If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.
• Hong Kong must notify a U.S. consular officer within four days; however, this does not always occur in a timely manner.
• The PRC and Hong Kong SAR governments do not recognize dual nationality. The PRC and Hong Kong SAR governments may prevent the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulates General from providing consular services to dual U.S.-PRC citizens and U.S. citizens of Chinese descent. Please see the page on dual nationality for more information on the limits on consular notification and access to dual nationals.
• A consular officer may be the only authorized visitor during your initial detention period.
• Detention may last many months before a trial.
• U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau is unable to represent you in a legal matter.
• Travelers to the PRC should enroll in the U.S. Department of State’s  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) , and you may wish to have someone contact U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau if you are detained.

Hong Kong law provides for an independent judiciary, but PRC actions have eroded the judiciary’s independence and ability to uphold the rule of law, particularly in cases designated as involving national security. U.S. citizens traveling or residing in the PRC, including the Hong Kong SAR, should be aware of varying levels of scrutiny to which they will be subject from PRC state security and Hong Kong local law enforcement. In Hong Kong, police have the right to detain you for questioning if you are not carrying your passport.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

Assisted Reproductive Technology:  Hong Kong strictly forbids surrogacy, and surrogacy contracts will not be considered valid. The use of reproductive technology for medical research and profit is strictly controlled.

Controlled Items in Hong Kong:  Hong Kong customs authorities enforce strict regulations concerning controlled items you might be carrying while transiting Hong Kong (temporary importation or exportation). Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) security routinely and thoroughly screens any luggage loaded onto an aircraft in Hong Kong, whether belonging to a departing or transiting passenger. Discovery of weapons or ammunition of any kind—including mace, pepper spray, stun guns, bullets, air gun pellets, switch blades, knuckle-dusters, and other self-protection weapons—during this screening will be referred to the police for investigation, leading to arrest and detention.

If you bring controlled items into Hong Kong without the necessary Hong Kong documents, you may be prosecuted, and the goods may be seized. The penalty for trafficking in dangerous drugs can be life imprisonment and a heavy fine. Among the other items that you must declare to customs officials are liquors, tobacco, cigarettes and cigars, methyl alcohol, and merchandise imported for commercial purposes. There are no currency restrictions for travelers.

The following is a non-exhaustive list of controlled and/or prohibited items:

• dangerous drugs
• psychotropic substances
• controlled chemicals
• antibiotics
• strategic commodities
• rough diamonds
• endangered species
• telecommunication equipment
• powdered formula

Please visit the website of the  Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department  for specific information regarding Hong Kong customs requirements.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection encourages the use of an ATA (Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission) carnet for the temporary admission of professional equipment, commercial samples, and/or goods for exhibitions and fair purposes.

For additional information, please visit the  U.S. Council for International Business website  and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection web page on  Traveling with Samples .

Please see our  Customs Information  sheet for general information.

Dual Nationality:  Dual nationality is not recognized under  PRC nationality law . Be mindful of the following special circumstances for dual nationals when traveling in the region.

Enter the Hong Kong SAR on your U.S. passport to ensure U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau can provide consular assistance in case of arrest or other emergency. Regardless of your travel documents, if you are a dual national, or otherwise have ethnic or historical ties to the PRC, it is possible that Hong Kong authorities will assert that you are a PRC citizen and deny your access to U.S. consular representatives if you are detained.

Your child will be considered a PRC citizen if one or both of the parents are PRC nationals regardless of U.S. citizenship.

If traveling onward to mainland China, enter mainland China on your U.S. passport to ensure U.S. consular protection. See our  China International Travel Information  page for more information.

For further information on consular protection and  dual nationality , please refer to our website.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or must give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.

Cruise Ship Passengers:  Please see our Cruise Ship Passengers page for safety information and travel advice.

Earthquakes:  Earthquakes occur throughout the PRC and have affected Hong Kong in the past. Check here for information about  preparing for a crisis or disaster overseas .

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Reports
• Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  In Hong Kong, there are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Hong Kong. See  Section 6 of our Human Rights Practices in the Human Rights Report for Hong Kong  and read our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information page .

Pets:  You must have a permit to bring dogs and cats into Hong Kong. Dogs and cats imported from the United States may be exempted from quarantine when they have valid health and vaccination certificates and when the animal has been in the United States for at least six months immediately preceding travel.

Additional information on importing pets is available on the  Hong Kong Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department website.

Political Activity:  Participating in unauthorized political activities, including participating in unauthorized public protests, or writing social media posts or other online publications critical of the government,   may result in detention, criminal charges, and/or PRC government-imposed restrictions on future travel to the PRC, including Hong Kong.

Social Media:  Social media accounts are widely monitored in the PRC, including Hong Kong. Social media posts—even content posted outside of Hong Kong—that local authorities deem illegal, including under the National Security Law or other Hong Kong laws, may result in criminal charges against both the poster of the material and the administrator of the social media forum.

Students:  See our  U.S. Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Surveillance and Monitoring:  Security personnel carefully watch foreign visitors and may place you under surveillance. Hotel rooms (including meeting rooms), offices, cars, taxis, telephones, Internet usage, and fax machines may be monitored onsite or remotely, and personal possessions in hotel rooms, including computers, may be searched without your consent or knowledge.

Transferring Money to/From Hong Kong:  The U.S. Department of State may be able to help transfer funds to a destitute U.S citizen overseas through our office in Washington, D.C., to U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau. More information on this option is available on our Sending Money to Destitute U.S. Citizens Overseas page .

Travelers with Disabilities:  Sidewalks often do not have curb cuts and many streets can be crossed only via pedestrian bridges or underpasses accessible by staircase. Assistive technologies for blind people and those with other vision disabilities are unreliable, and access to elevators in public buildings can be restricted. In major cities, public restrooms in places visited by tourists usually have a least one accessible toilet.

Hong Kong law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, and mental disabilities in employment, education, access to health care, or the provision of other state services, and the government generally enforces these provisions. The law mandates access to buildings, information, and communications for persons with disabilities. The  Hong Kong Social Welfare Department  is primarily responsible for coordinating and funding public assistance programs to persons with disabilities. The  Hong Kong Tourism Board  publishes “ Accessible Hong Kong , ” a guide for visitors with disabilities and the  Hong Kong Transport Department  publishes  A Guide to Public Transport for People with Disabilities . In addition, the Hong Kong government created  Cyberable  to provide one-stop information for persons with various disabilities.

Weather:  The southeast coast of the PRC is subject to strong typhoons and tropical storms, usually from July through September. The  Hong Kong Observatory  has an excellent notification and monitoring system and issues typhoon warnings an average of six times a year and heavy rainstorm and hot weather alerts more frequently. Please be advised that if Hong Kong announces a Typhoon Signal 8 or above or Black Rainstorm Warning, U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau will be closed for services. You may find additional information on Check here for information about  preparing for a crisis or disaster overseas  on the Bureau of Consular Affairs website.

For current information, please consult the  Joint Typhoon Warning Center  and the  National Weather Service's Central Pacific Hurricane Center .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Hong Kong, dial 999.

Ambulance services are widely available.

Quality of Care:  Good medical facilities are available, and there are many Western-trained physicians. Hong Kong emergency service response times for police, fire, and ambulances are good.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. 

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage  for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Payment and Insurance:  Travelers will be asked to post a deposit prior to admission to hospitals to cover the expected cost of treatment. Hospitals and clinics generally accept credit cards.

U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau maintains a list of local  English-speaking doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Medication : Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Prescription drugs are widely available, although names may vary. You need a prescription from a doctor in Hong Kong to purchase medications locally. Bring prescription medications to cover your stay in Hong Kong or plan to see a physician in Hong Kong to obtain a new prescription. If traveling with prescription medication, check with the  government of Hong Kong  to ensure the medication is legal in Hong Kong. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. 

Air Quality : Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. The air quality in Hong Kong varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. It is typically at its worst in the summer.

People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include: 

• Infants, children, and teens;
• People over 65 years of age;
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema;
• People with heart disease or diabetes; and 
• People who work or are active outdoors.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the CDC.

COVID-19 Testing: COVID-19 PCR tests are available at private laboratories and clinics in Hong Kong. The price for these PCR tests generally ranges from 50 to 100 US Dollars. The Hong Kong government maintains a list of recognized laboratories . Rapid COVID-19 tests are readily available at pharmacies and retail establishments throughout Hong Kong.   

COVID-19 Vaccines:  The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizen residents of Hong Kong. U.S. citizens who are not Hong Kong residents are not eligible to receive Hong Kong government-provided vaccines.   Visit the FDA's website to  learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States.   

For further health information :

• World Health Organization (WHO)
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Road conditions differ significantly from those in the United States. Each year there are approximately 14,000 traffic accidents.

• Traffic moves on the left.
• Speed limits vary depending on location.
• Use of seatbelts is mandatory.
• You can drive using your U.S. driver’s license for up to a year. If you hold a valid U.S. driver’s license and have resided in the United States at least six months, you can apply for a Hong Kong driver’s license. Visit the  Hong Kong Transport Department online  for further details. 

Traffic Laws:  Many traffic violations are similar to those in the United States, including penalties for reckless driving, driving under the influence, and using a hand-held device while operating a vehicle. Hong Kong law requires that all registered vehicles carry valid third-party liability insurance. 

Public Transportation:  Approximately 90 percent of the population in Hong Kong depends on public transport. Taxis, buses, and the mass transit railway (MTR) are readily available, inexpensive, and generally safe. The MTR, an underground railway network, is the most popular mode of public transport, carrying an average of 3.5 million passengers a day. Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed Hong Kong’s Civil Aviation Department (CAD) as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Hong Kong's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s Safety Assessment Page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Hong Kong should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Maritime Security Communications with Industry (MSCI) web portal. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard Homeport website , and the U.S. National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) Navigational Warnings website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Hong Kong . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report. 

Travel Advisory Levels

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Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

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Check when you can get an electronic travel authorisation (ETA)

List of nationalities that will soon be able to apply for an ETA.

An ETA allows you to travel to the UK. Whether you can apply depends on:

• the date you travel
• your nationality as shown on your passport

Who can apply now

These nationalities can apply for an ETA now.

• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates

Who can apply from 27 November 2024

Nationalities from the following locations (including associated territories) can apply for an ETA from 27 November 2024.

They can travel to the UK with an ETA from 8 January 2025.

• Antigua and Barbuda
• The Bahamas
• Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (including British national overseas)
• Macao Special Administrative Region
• Marshall Islands
• Federated States of Micronesia
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Solomon Islands
• South Korea
• St Kitts and Nevis
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• Trinidad and Tobago
• United States

Who can apply from 5 March 2025

Nationalities from the following locations (including associated territories) can apply for an ETA from 5 March 2025.

They can travel to the UK with an ETA from 2 April 2025.

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• Switzerland
• Vatican City

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Increase of duty-free allowance for luggage articles brought into the Mainland by Mainland residents travelling from Hong Kong is now in effect. Click here for details.

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Hong kong tourism board, visitor centres.

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is here to answer your questions and provide information about all the sights, sounds and happenings in Hong Kong. Come to our visitor centres and talk to a Specialist or our ' Hong Kong Pals ' to get the best travelling tips! Make the visitor centres your first port of call as you travel around the city!

HKTB Visitor Hotline: +852 2508 1234 (9am to 6pm daily*) *Service hours may be extended during special holidays

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