IO things to do in Hong Kong
Revel in the huge array of culinary offerings, harbour cruises, shopping and natural attractions
1
Sail on a junk
The emperor-red sails of the Aqua Luna are an iconic sight on Victoria Harbour. Cruise on this traditional-style junk as you drift between the skyscrapers of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Take in the Symphony of Lights, the nightly laser light show, or enjoy the “dim sum cruise”, where you can snack while exploring the fishing village of Lei Yue Mun. aqualuna.com.hk
2
Stay at an icon
Recently reopened after a head-to-toe reno, Regent Hong Kong has a long legacy as one of Kowloon’s most refined and beloved hotels. With its soothingly contemporary aesthetic, absolute waterfront location and incredible dining – such as Nobu and the Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant Lai Ching Heen – there are plenty of reasons to book a stay. hongkong.regenthotels.com
3
Shop the Ladies’ Market
You can’t turn a corner in Hong Kong without seeing the grand entryways of luxury designer stores, but the real shopping happens at streetside market stalls. One of the top spots for a good bargain hunt is the frenetic Mongkok’s Ladies’ Market, where you can pick up fashion, souvenirs, cheongsams and handbags, and flex your skills of negotiation. ladies-market.hk
4
Sip at the best bars
In 2023, two of Hong Kong’s bars took out spots in the prestigious The World’s 50 Best Bars list. Coming in at No.20 is Coa, where agave-derived spirits are skilfully mixed and, at No.34 is Argo, where cocktails inspired by Hong Kong’s food culture are served with Victoria 5
Between 10am and 6pm, you can hire a much-larger-than-life rubber ducky to pedal out onto the water from Wan Chai Harbourfront on Hong Kong Island.
Pedal in the harbour
6
Island hop
Hong Kong Island isn’t the only island in the territory. In fact, there are 263. And while you would need a private charter to reach most of them, there are plenty that are easily accessible. Head to Cheung Chau for seafood feasts of giant fishballs; Lamma Island for beach vibes and hikes; Peng Chau for artful excursions; and Sharp Island Geopark for watersports.
7
Ride the Ding Ding
One of the best (and cheapest) ways to see Hong Kong is by riding the beloved tramway, affectionately and onomatopoeically dubbed the “Ding Ding” on account of its cheery bell. Operating since 1904, there are seven routes that trundle along Hong Kong Island’s northern coastline, but a good place to start is the one-hour Tramoramic Tour from Sheung Wang to Causeway Bay. hktramways.com
8
The waterside M+ museum in the West Kowloon Cultural District sits high on the list for visiting art enthusiasts. M+ is home to four modern, permanent collections that are anchored in an Asian aesthetic yet have a global lens. mplus.org.hk
Art plus at M+
9
Ride the cable car
Sandy beaches and forested peaks make Lantau Island a daytrip drawcard. Ascend for a bird’s-eye view in the Ngong Ping Cable Car, where you can see the South China Sea, the lush landscape of North Lantau Country Park, the Big Buddha, and the bustle of Hong Kong Airport. Opt for the glass-bottomed cabin for the 25-minute ride on the longest bi-cable ropeway in Asia. np360.com.hk
10
Monkey around
If you’re a fan of cheeky monkeys, head to Kam Shan Country Park in the reservoir catchment areas north of Kowloon to meet the resident macaques at Golden Hill. While you’re there, take the “Family Walk” or enjoy a picnic in the grounds – just watch out for any monkey business.