To outsiders, Hong Kong can raise a lot of questions: "Is it part of China or not?" "Is it one island or two?" "Do they speak English or Mandarin? Or both?" And foreigners have a good reason to ask them. This territory, made of multiple islands, returned to China's possession in 1997 after more than a hundred years of British occupation. Upon its reunification with China, Hong Kong added certain stipulations that provide a unique degree of autonomy. For instance, the official currency remains the Hong Kong dollar (HKD); English and Chinese are the official languages; and the tiny nation has an independent judiciary system. In short, China and Hong Kong observe a "one country, two systems" policy that can have many foreigners scratching their heads. But don't question it. Just accept it and enjoy everything this territory has to offer.
Hong Kong distinguishes itself from its Chinese brethren like Shanghai and Beijing with its vibrant, multifaceted culture and stunning cityscape. This British-Chinese hybrid astounds visitors with its striking juxtaposition of dense skyscrapers and lush landscapes. From sandy beaches to rugby pitches, there's more fresh air than most travelers suspect. And, of course, as a world-class metropolis, Hong Kong boasts numerous urban diversions, such as culinary hot spots and museums. Lastly Hong Kong is ranked at no.9 in best place visit in asia.
Best Thing to do at Hong Kong
1.Hong Kong Star Ferry
The Star Ferry is an absolute must when you come to Hong Kong. Think of it as the what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris. Transporting guests between the Kowloon Peninsula and Hong Kong Island, this vessel provides the most scenic route through the city. Visitors will be smack dab in the center of the city's famous skyline, providing amazing photo opportunities, especially at night.
Recent travelers described the views as priceless, with many saying bearing witness to the city's many towering skyscrapers while floating along the calm waters of the Victoria Harbour took their breath away. Some recommended catching the ferry at 8 p.m. for the Symphony at Lights Show, which is considered to be the world's largest permanent light and sound show.
Every day, the Star Ferry Company shuttles passengers from its Tsim Sha Tsui pier (near the promenade) on the Kowloon Peninsula to either its Central pier or its Wan Chai pier on the Hong Kong Island side. The short voyage costs between HK$2.50 and HK$3.40 (about $0.32 and $0.44) for adults. The company also operates an hour-long tour of Victoria Harbour. You can hop on this route at any of the three piers. A variety of ticket types are available, but standard single-ride, round-trip tickets cost HK$68 (about $9) during the day and HK$128 (about $16.50) at night.
2.Victoria Peak
Along with the Star Ferry, Victoria Peak, or simply "The Peak," is a must-visit attraction simply for its incredible views. Situated atop the highest point on Hong Kong Island, The Peak is as scenic as lookouts come. Visitors are not only treated to a sea of skyscrapers and the city's beautiful blue waterways, but during the day, can make out the green hills of the distant New Territories.
There are are multiple vantage points atop the mountain, including the Peak Tower and the Peak Galleria, with the latter offering access to its observation deck free of charge. There is also the 2-mile-long Peak Circle Walk, which takes you along cliffside paths to the scenic Lugard Road lookout point. There are also dining and shopping options at the Peak Tower and Peak Galleria, as well as the Lions View Point Pavillion.
Although recent travelers loved The Peak for its spectacular views, many complained of crowds and loathed long lines (some reported an hour) to get onto the tram. Some visitors suggested finding a bus or taking a taxi to get to the top. Others suggested bypassing the visitors centers at the top and wandering along marked pathways for a quieter experience. Reviewers also strongly suggested checking the weather before you go, as Hong Kong can get foggy
The recommended route to Victoria Peak is by way of the Peak Tram. The base of the Peak Tram is located within walking distance from the MTR's Central station. Every day, the tram opens at 7 a.m. and closes at midnight. Cars depart every 10 to 15 minutes. Round-trip tickets cost HK$40 (about $5.15) for adults and HK$18 HKD (about $2.32) for children and seniors.
3. Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
On the edge of the Kowloon Peninsula's popular Tsim Sha Tsui neighborhood, the promenade is the Hong Kong locale for many visitors. Stretching from Hong Kong's colonial-era Clock Tower to Hung Hom, the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade gives you unobstructed views of Hong Kong Island's majestic skyline. During the day, you can watch the boats travel in and out of Victoria Harbour, but travelers recommend making an extra visit at night: From 8 to about 8:20 p.m., the Symphony of the Stars (a sound-and-light show) projects dazzling lights onto the Hong Kong skyline. Day or night, consider taking in the atmosphere at one of the many restaurants and bars located here.
Beginning near the Star Ferry Pier, the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade is easily reached via MTR's East Tsim Sha Tsui Station. The shops, bars, restaurants and museums that stand along the promenade, including the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Hong Kong Space Museum and Hong Kong Museum of Art, maintain varied hours of operation.
4.Happy Valley Racecourse
Every Wednesday from September to July, thousands of Hong Kong residents flood the stands of the Happy Valley Racecourse. Horse racing is the only legal form of gambling in Hong Kong, making Happy Valley one of the few places where you are allowed to gamble in the city. And many of Hong Kong's citizens take full advantage. Even if you're not into betting, you should visit this local institution simply for the electric atmosphere, not to mention the surrounding city skyline, which sparkles once the sun goes down.
Much like the locals, recent travelers agreed the Happy Valley Racecourse is must-visit if you're in Hong Kong. Visitors reveled in the attraction's fun atmosphere, cheap admission and to most, surprisingly good food and drink options. Some travelers were quick to note that unlike other racetracks, specifically in the states, attire is very casual, so there's no need to pack any big hats or bow ties for your night at the track.
Standing room at the race track level costs just HK$10 (about $1.30), and tickets for the seated area start at HK$20 (about $2.60). You can purchase tickets the day of at the track or up to 10 days in advance from several outlets throughout the city. Only visitors 18 years or older are permitted inside the track. Located on Hong Kong Island, you can walk to the track from the MTR's Causeway Bay Station or simply take a taxi from either one of the Star Ferry piers on Hong Kong Island. The races usually last from 7 to 11 p.m.
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