Combining tradition and modernism, Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan city that has something to offer everyone. It is located on China’s southeast coast and is made up of more than 260 islands. Of the 7.5 million locals, most live on the main island, which draws the most international tourists. As an attraction for fresh arrivals, it is possible to navigate the region on foot. Rainstorms with strong winds hit it from spring through summer, producing high heat and humidity. However, because of conditioning, numerous skyscrapers and the metro area do not experience such a drop in temperatures. Winters remain cool and dry. Autumn and spring months often attract visitors.
Hong Kong’s current name was officially embraced in the middle of the nineteenth century. The erstwhile British colony got greater wealth as a result of expanding the Imperial domain. 70 percent of the island was developed as a result of a lack of financial constraints, and shop prices are now comparable to those in any other primary international city. Although luxurious boutiques and fair merchandise can be found in almost all street markets, electronics, attire, and jewelry are the most popular. Trendy outlets selling stylish accessories and one-of-a-kind party clothing are located in Mongkok. Several districts continue to celebrate Chinese New Year. Victoria Harbour’s fireworks are a popular event that should not be missed. The tipping process is pretty straightforward, with a fixed 10 percent or more gratuity added to hotel and restaurant bills. From hiking to admiring the culture and cuisine to shopping, Hong Kong has such a diverse array of local and global residents. Shops are kept open throughout with internet support. All of them are air-conditioned, and merchandise, especially digital gadgets, is likely to be unique. Hong Kong is a significant re-export center, so pricing can be favorable.
Geography and Climate
Hong Kong is a special administrative region (SAR) of the People’s Republic of China. Hong Kong has a diverse landscape that contains city, sea, and mountain landscape. The SAR is located at the eastern exit of the Pearl River Delta and sits on the south China coast. The region mainly consists of Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula.
Hong Kong experiences a subtropical climatic zone and four seasons: winter (December until February), spring (March until May), summer (June until August), and autumn (September until November). On average, January is the coldest month, and June, July, and August are the warmest months. Typhoon season occurs from April to October, with the risk beginning to increase in May. The region is believed to have numerous sunny days throughout the year. From December until February, the winter season consists of cool days with occasional cold fronts. On average, winter temperatures range from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. Summer occurs from June to August, where the weather is hot and humid with occasional tropical cyclones or strong winds. On average, summer temperatures range from 26 to 31 degrees Celsius. Heavy rain can be expected throughout the year. The Hong Kong Observatory and regional meteorological departments provide regular updates on the weather in the region.
History and Culture
Hong Kong’s unique history has been carved from the chronological interplay of Chinese colonial rule, British imperialism, and current People’s Republic rule. The Neolithic history of the land is quite obscure. Hong Kong’s colonial history began in the early eighteenth century. The British established themselves on Hong Kong Island in 1842, following their victories in the First Opium War (1839–1842). A wave of immigration from China shaped the early economic development of Hong Kong’s free port; Chinese migrants often moved from Macau to escape the Canton trade system. At first, the region was an important industrial motive due to the cheap labor force. Many of the immigrants also became wealthy through trading, a notable exponent of this was Li Shek-pang.
The successful swan-song of British influence in the Hong Kong political scene was the development of a limited democratic election. Nonetheless, British sovereignty was eventually handed over to China following the Sino-British Joint Declaration. However, the city remains divided by its colonial past and is enduring civil unrest. Colonization had a deep-rooted effect on social hierarchy; the pragmatic stance of Chinese merchants not only strengthened the economy but also shaped the social structure. A complex web of sub-cultures exists, one is the amah culture – the social dominance and influence of the “Mammy Figure”. Other common labor opportunities involved work within the fields of colonialism; many women became “amahs”, looking after children and babies, walking with black and white uniforms, straw hats, and bottles full of sweetened liquids that were usually dipped in water.
Getting to Hong Kong
The ways to reach Hong Kong are plain sailing, especially with good planning. There are many ways you can get to Hong Kong, the choice usually will be made solely based on your position. Traveling by airplane is the most efficient way, as there is no direct route to enter Hong Kong by land. Traveling by sea is another interesting experience, there are still several cruises from other countries entering the two countries of our continent and metering towards Hong Kong. Traveling through nearby land entry points in China is also an option, for those who are already traveling in our continent.
There are two main ways of going to Hong Kong by air, the Hong Kong International Airport and the Shenzhen Bao’An International Airport. There are more than 100 airlines worldwide providing about 1,100 flights per day, which consist of 100 flights around Mainland China and almost 1,000 flights to the rest of the world. Hong Kong Airport maintains around 100 airlines and air freight companies. From the airport, you can choose the most convenient public transport systems like the exclusive Airport express train, taxis and Limousine services, rental car, public buses, and even hotel shuttle. To enter Hong Kong by sea services, there are ferries that directly serve Hong Kong from other cities. Most of them are in the Pearl River Delta district of China and Macau. The three main entry ports are Macau Maritime Terminal, China Ferry Terminal, and the Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal. Boat tickets are easily found at a ferry port’s counters when you intend to use this mode for Hong Kong.
By Air
Hong Kong is one of the world’s key transport capitals. You can easily arrive in Hong Kong by sea, land, or air. Air transport is the most used choice. Travelers from anywhere can easily get to Hong Kong by air. Hong Kong International Airport is the city’s major airport, and the airport is also one of the world’s top air travel hubs. There are many direct flights that travel to and from Hong Kong to popular cities. Travelers can fly to Hong Kong via direct flights. If no direct flights are available, they can transit in nearby cities, then travel to Hong Kong.
There are two airports located in Hong Kong – Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) and Hong Kong Kai Tak Airport (Closed). The flying time mainly depends on the location of the departure city or the transit city, and also depends on the flight and the number of transits. Hong Kong International Airport, established and opened in 1998, is located in Lantau Island and is about 34 km away from the city center. More than 100 airlines operate flights from more than 180 international destinations. Almost all airlines offer flights to and from major cities of mainland China. You can easily fly to Hong Kong from many of the popular cities around the world. Concerning different airlines, varied airfares and other factors determine the cost of air tickets to Hong Kong. Here we will show information for travelers from popular cities and countries. To facilitate your Hong Kong tour, we also offer some other useful search information, including cheap flights to Hong Kong, major airports, and a guide for the arrival at Hong Kong Airlines.
Before a visit to Hong Kong, you’d better know some things first: some tips for boarding and deplaning and the formalities of customs clearance and visa. The guide on the necessary tourist documents and the main airlines offer their flights to Hong Kong are also given here in this section, especially for the arrivals of tourists from other countries.
By Sea
Hong Kong is located on the southern coast of China. The city faces the South China Sea and the rest of the world, offering favorable geographical conditions for shipping route operations. According to the Government of the HKSAR, the routes connect 83 ports in some 40 countries and regions, covering Mainland China, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. There are different berth choices in Hong Kong depending on the passenger’s intended destination and origin. Many popular routes call at the Hong Kong Macau Terminal in Sheung Wan and Tsim Sha Tsui, Convention & Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai, and at the Chinese Overseas Building (North Point) near City Garden Hotel. Several cross-border ferry services operate between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon to and from Macau, several major cities in Guangdong Province, and other regions such as Zhuhai and Wenzhou on a passenger ferry at various frequencies throughout each day. Visitors are recommended to book/arrange online for their ferry services in advance, especially during the peak season, public holidays, or weekends. Reasonable published fares. An express fast hydrofoil and jetfoils charge a premium in speed and seat comfort.
Important reminders when traveling to Hong Kong by sea: 1) Passengers from Mainland China traveling via ferry to Hong Kong are reminded to check in via the SkyPier at the Hong Kong International Airport. 2) It is always best to make reservations through one’s hotel or reputable travel agencies, whether one is arriving by air, sea, or air connections from in China and elsewhere. Retreat and changes on some ferry services can be very expensive and time-consuming. 3) Time changing is an important point for visitors between Hong Kong and nearby destinations. Most crossings take as little as an hour but can vary in bad weather (which is always a possibility in these parts). Be sure to allow plenty of time to catch flights and avoid disappointment, especially when leaving during poor weather. 4) Ferry terminal facility regulations are always subject to change due to official policy updates or formal inquiries from visitors. It is always best to consult a local tourist information point or the Hong Kong Immigration Department for advice on visa regulations and the latest official requirements before traveling to or from Hong Kong by ferry. An intermediary and advisory service, specializing in student and young traveler visa advice at present, is also available for questions via email.
By Land
Through Border Crossings Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), located in the southeast of China, is facing the South China Sea in the south, and Guangdong Province in the north. Travelers can drive or take a cross-boundaries bus to Hong Kong. Hong Kong is directly connected to Guangdong Province, China by border crossings. You can drive to Hong Kong from any part of the Mainland through the network of high-quality roads. Coach services are also available to and from major Mainland cities like Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Dongguan.
Through Train Services The Kowloon-Canton Railway Corporation offers through-train services between Hong Kong and many cities on the Mainland. Their terminus in Hong Kong is the Hung Hom Station in Kowloon.
Through Road Hong Kong is linked with the Mainland by multiple road transport options. The most convenient way of travel between Hong Kong and Mainland China is by cross-boundaries bus operating between Hong Kong and adjoining Mainland cities. Buses are operated under company names. They cross the boundary at low-speed roads at the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point and the Shenzhen Bay Control Point. Besides, it is also possible to use taxis or private cars to cross the border at the Shenzhen Bay Control Point or Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point. On the Mainland side, there are convenient through-train services. Alternatively, passengers can connect with the extensive domestic railway network of China. Currently, the best direct highway between Hong Kong and South China is on the Eastern Corridor.
Accommodation Options
Hong Kong has several options to choose from in terms of accommodation. Luxurious hotels, resorts, and international chain hotels are always available. Ocean Park, Disneyland, and Ma Wan also have resorts and hotels near the beach. Backpackers and youth tourists can stay at hostels or budget accommodations at Chung King Mansion, Mirador Mansion, Tsim Sha Tsui, and Causeway Bay. There are also guesthouses near Victoria Park in Causeway Bay.
Hong Kong has a variety of hotel types, with irregular rates for each one. The usual standard rates of 4 or 5-star hotels are approximately US$160; budget hotels cost you as much as US$40; and hostel fees are also lower than US$20. The rates of guesthouses at Causeway Bay are generally friendly, starting at around US$60. Peninsula Hotel (TS) is one of the most luxurious hotels in Hong Kong. Portraying a great fusion of the old classic tradition with the newest state-of-the-art ergonomic amenities, the Peninsula Hong Kong is luxurious, stylish, and elegant. The Regal Airport Hotel at Sky City is another imposing hotel in Hong Kong, located close to the AsiaWorld-Expo. Harbour Plaza at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre is a great place to stay for business visitors. The Mira is located in the center of Tsimshatsui, just a few steps from the MTR station. The Eaton Hotel is just a few minutes away from the very popular Jade Market. The L’Hotel Island South is a sleek and outstanding hotel located at Wong Chuk Hang Road. A stay here is undoubtedly beyond simply a delightful and pleasant experience. In Hong Kong, the Ramada Hotel is situated in the heart of Causeway Bay and Wan Chai.
Hotels and Resorts
Regal Airport Hotel The Regal Airport Hotel is attached to Terminal 1 and has 1,171 guest rooms, 13 function rooms, and two grand ballrooms. The attached sky bridge provides a walkway to the hotel in just 2 minutes!
The Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel The hotel is 5 minutes walking distance from AsiaWorld-Expo and Asia World Station of Tung Chung Line; one station away from Hong Kong International Airport.
The amazing views of the South China Sea ebb and flow and are located within 1 km from the Terminal. The rooftop swimming pool offers a leisure option. The SkyCity Bistro, the all-day dining restaurant in the hotel, is tailored for the different tastes of travelers. Enjoy the stunning views of the South China Sea through the two-story high windows while dining.
Novotel Citygate Hong Kong Novotel Citygate Hong Kong is only 5 minutes from the Hong Kong International Airport with our Airport Shuttle Bus service; we also provide easy access to the AsiaWorld-Expo.
The hotel boasts accommodation of 440 rooms, Novotel Executive Floor, and non-smoking Floor. Some attractions nearby include Ngong Ping 360 and Citygate Outlets – the largest outlet mall in Hong Kong with more than 80 international brands and a 24-hour secured site.
Hostels and Guesthouses
These are generally spread out around the centre of town, certainly around the Sultan Desert. In hostels and guesthouses, you will find amenities normally available in the room, and a fan or air conditioning. On occasion, the bedding and towels are washed in humid weather, which can make linens and towels smell rancid, so ensure you spray the merchandise with an air freshener.
Hotels and cheap choices, including homestays, guesthouses, hostels, and private resorts, have been designed to be more entertaining and imaginative than regular budget lodging. For example, for £32/US$43 per night, you may get a bunk bed in an 18-person bedroom at the stylish and centrally situated Hong Kong Hostel. 2. Hollywood Quick get to concerning Castle Builders and Cat Street, Hollywood Kowloon, in the heart of the Jordan region, may be all things. Memory, in a double space of £89/US$119, a private area on the second floor includes a modern clad-in-wood concept. On the ground floor is an Ultimate Resting Adventure Room; four beds per night per head cost from £12/US$16.35. 3. Authentic Hong Kong Bed and Breakfast, Mong Kok or Tsim Sha Tsui are the alternatives for this leading bath. Entire room sets from 75 to 100 euros/80 to 107 United States dollars and meals, both conventional and outside. Ideal if you’d like a personal touch or hobbyist photographs to provide to your bag-Identifier/telly-thingy.
Top Attractions in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a vibrant, densely populated urban center with a stunning skyline that’s definitely a must-see. The city’s impressive new addition, the Victoria Harbour, is a must-visit while an adventure into the markets of the Kowloon Peninsula is highly recommended. Lantau Island, home to the Tian Tan Buddha, is also well worth a visit, as is the collection of pretty fishing villages on the Sai Kung Peninsula.
The views from the 552-meter peak overlooking Victoria Harbour are spectacular. Some of Hong Kong’s colonial heritage can be found on the hike to Tai Tam Reservoir, also known as the Dragon’s Back, while the Ping Shan Heritage Trail, planted with sweet potato, was a former fishing village. Elevated on the peak of Mount Austin are two extensive gardens, the Victoria Peak Garden and the Mount Austin playground, and several restaurants and a tram service from the Central district. Open all year round, Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck on the 100th floor provides stunning vistas of the city skyline, Victoria Harbour, and the outlying islands. The estate of former Hong Kong wealthy mercantile magnate Dr. Lo is a showcase of his architectural fantasy, Man Mo Temple is a Chinese temple with three front halls, and a mixed marble and iron circle. The famous Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse Roof Garden is open to the public only on race days.
The Symphony of Lights is a multimedia laser and sound show that illuminates the skyscraper reflected harbor at the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront every night. If you have time, you can rent bicycles for holidays in this area of stunning natural beauty at a very economical cost. The 35 Chamber pagoda sits in a pond surrounded by a Chinese garden, and the square featuring an octagonal pavilion is part of the interior of the Nan Lian Garden. Tai O is Hong Kong’s oldest gangster settlement on Lantau Island, and the homes “on stakes” are set against a magnificent mountain backdrop. A cable car operates from Tung Chung to the top of the mountain, offering views of the ocean, the two islands, and the Hong Kong International Airport.
Victoria Peak
The Victoria Peak is the highest point of Hong Kong Island, and the Peak Tower on the peak of the mountain is the most popular destination. The views of the skyline from the peak at night are unbeatable, and even during the day the vista is quite impressive as well. Even though queues are usually long, the views from the Sky Terrace are better unobstructed and indispensable. You can see as far off as Macau, provided the weather is fair. You will also notice as the first point of your guidebook in Hong Kong. It is like Xian’s Big Wild Goose Pagoda for Xi’an to be able to rise.
It is recommended to visit the highest point in the city as soon as possible to get the best viewpoint because Hong Kong has unpredictable weather. To avoid the peak hour visiting the Sky Terrace, Victoria Peak is suggested to be visited on weekdays. There is no entrance fee for visiting Victoria Park, due to very high traffic in front of the lift. The viewing platform is separated into 2 sections and the glass wall provides the Sky Terrace of Victoria Peak. It will give everyone more personal room and, to some extent, a more pleasant scene. Tickets are priced at $52 for adults and $26 for children, with separate tickets. Full access to the building is typically HKD 58 after 8 PM, after 8:30 PM, the entry cost is usually HKD 52.
Hong Kong Disneyland
One of the must-visit attractions in Hong Kong is the magical Hong Kong Disneyland. Renowned as the “Happiest Place on Earth”, this astonishing theme park is suitable for visitors of all ages. Opened in 2005, it is the second Disneyland in Asia and the first Disneyland Resort in China. Placed in Lantau Island, the recreational park has 7 parts, including Main Street, U.S.A., Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Adventureland, Toy Story Land, Grizzly Gulch, and Mystic Point. There are many classic Disneyland facilities like Sleeping Beauty Castle, Disney Paint the Night, Festival of Lion King, and Jungle River Cruise. In addition, there are two special features – Iron Man Experience and Star Wars: Tomorrowland Takeover that let you experience the newest Disneyland journey.
If you are interested in exploring the park’s original creations and characters deeply, then Hong Kong Disneyland is a desirable place. 7 colorful lands will lead you to explore the world with exciting attractions, marvelous entertainment, and unforgettable experiences in this unique kingdom. The theme park impresses with all the kaleidoscopic memories, settings, and experiences just as movie pictures. The 4D cinema, character meet & greet, Disney princess’ storybook adventures, Festival of the Lion King, etc., everything offers detailed entertainment as a storybook with colorful pictures. There are various parades and performances in the theme park like Disney in the stars fireworks, Disney Paint the Night and other character stages and meet and greet sessions. At most times of the year, you don’t want to miss the park-exclusive fireworks at Disneyland.
Ngong Ping 360
Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car is a prized tourist site that is known for its scenic 5.7 km cable car ride. There are two kinds of cable car options: the standard cabin and the crystal cabin. The Ngong Ping Cable Car runs between Tung Chung and Ngong Ping Village. Ngong Ping Village, a big cultural themed village, which is known for the coffee village, the Ngong Ping Piazza, the Bodhi Path, Tai O, the Wisdom Path, the Big Buddha, and Po Lin Monastery.
Ngong Ping Cable Car is a fantastic way of getting to this pretty place. You will get a bird’s eye view of the park, the beautiful countryside, and Hong Kong International Airport when the journey rises between Lantau Island and Tung Chung. After getting out of the cable car station, a few minutes’ walk will bring you to an appealing garden, the Ngong Ping Piazza. Stepping through the gate, you will meet the “Bodhi Path”. The Bodhi Path has several religious and historical figures and two highly ornate archways. Some lovely mosaics can also be visited on Nina Turtles’ way, and people are able to attempt intrigued on the technique of creation.
The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery are a short walk away from here. You will take part in morning prayers with the monks by entering the Po Lin Monastery. Guests may walk or take a golf cart ride from the main entrance of the garden to and from the monastery, the Big Buddha, Ngong Ping Village, and the Visitors Center coffee store. Seeing the Monastery and Big Buddha are two of the ten things to do when visiting the Ngong Ping Village.
Cuisine and Dining
Undoubtedly, one of the best reasons to travel is to try new dishes. Often flavor-filled and inexpensive, Hong Kong’s street stands provide a wealth of tasty self-contained meals. Dim sum (dian xin) and tea are in almost everyone’s memory of Hong Kong, and they are definitely must-try experiences. Dim sum is never absorbed as a part of an unlimited repast. Only occasionally will they get scrambled eggs, just through lunchtime or marvel. At dinnertime, especially on Sundays, they might escape the proverbial soup cloud (yum cha). You can verify that Tung Chung, in search of pillars. Before seeing the Big Buddha, you’ll find Ngong Ping Valls and then intend to reach Mui Wo through Water Buffalo. The comfort is among the nine rented cafes with a number of urban areas, manufacturing plant tracks, and cafes. It is less risky than pursuing vegetarianism. As with many Hong Kong cuisines, chicken is the standard for chip-fried and tea chicken-tea.
Beef brisket beef noodle, although despite being somewhat wintry, is also great. My preference is the subject and location of temporarily dwelling in effect. This will make lunch preparations difficult, although I’ll be sure to access it. It may be conquered by destroying the big ruins. Skyscraper Congee meant Pigeon is a hit! Previously in Jordan, the business has a commercial but is noteworthy. Elements, on the other hand, provide a delightful negotiation seek kit. From 11 am to 8 pm Tuesday through Saturday, Kiu Pong’s eatery serves antiseptic tendencies who like it. “Cheat tea” is the term they use to describe it. On Plan 3, you’ll have one of the country’s greatest markets. Restaurants are always well-patronized, so book a seat as soon as possible. If you break from visiting all locations, you might enjoy a few hours easily at Mido Stay Dinner. The location is well-liked throughout Peking duck. It has a united coolness to things! “Excellent atmosphere, extremely talented,” says one shopper. Scrumptious!” One must disma.
Traditional Hong Kong Dishes
Hong Kong’s food is cosmopolitan and diverse, made up of the city’s rich heritage as well as influences from international cuisine. If you travel to Hong Kong, trying out the following traditional Hong Kong dishes is a must. It’s important to mention that the foods introduced here are mostly Chinese food in Hong Kong, as people commonly regard them as the traditional Hong Kong dishes. The act of strolling around, eating on the streets, and having petit gourmet are all embodied in Hong Kong cuisine. From the usual breakfast meal to the world-famous banana foleys, old-time childhood favorites to chap suey products, Foochow cuisines to the highly unique Czech dishes of Nam Long Shan Hotel, their uniqueness leads to many discussions. They reflect the culture and tradition of South China.
Macau Pork Burger, Macau Sausage with Fragrant Chicken Oil Except for Moon-period cakes, Hong Kong people enjoy having fragrant oil to go with their burger. Chicken oil was chosen for fragrance to go with the burgers. If any of you have a juicy pork chop, add a fried egg, and it becomes Denghong, the typical breakfast for the traditional returnees in China. Macau combined Chinese snack with western cuisine, and some Chinese restaurants followed later. Chinese traditional pork chop was replaced with fried bacon and wet pork sausages in bread, which attracted Portuguese. Portuguese people often hold wine glasses in the streets of A-Ma Temple, Guiyug, waiting for this fast food. Euro-Asia fast food is well-known for Hong Kong people since 50¢X. Originally, buffalo meat and sausages are Chinese come obligatory when visiting Portuguese. People are used to having Western sausages now, such as hot dogs, or with butter and baked beans in the “traditional” breakfast.
Street Food
Typically, when travelers explore new destinations, the first priority is to explore the local food scene. With that in mind, it’s no surprise that Hong Kong offers a wide variety of local street food guaranteed to satisfy any palate. Street food is amongst the favorite foods for locals and is an inexpensive way to grab some food on the go. Street vendors have always been a part of Hong Kong’s culture, and the Hong Kong Tourism Board has put together a street food section for visitors so that they, too, can indulge in a culinary feast.
The street food chapter ranges from deep-fried barbecued squid to dessert, including the traditional Hong Kong style desserts – black sesame soup and glutinous rice dumplings – to Chinese dessert soups. Fresh soy milk and tofu is another local favorite to try, and at the same time explore the local lifestyle district. Mong Kok is also a gold mine for street snacking, featuring Michelin recommended street food along the well-trodden, packed-filled Ladies’ Market streets. And for the ultimate Hong Kong street eat, a variety of local snacks can be found all over Sham Shui Po with stores dishing treats that will have your taste buds tingling. Before you go, be sure to check their location for the time of your visit!