Hong Kong pocket guide.
Setting eyes on the jaw-dropping skyline of Hong Kong for the first time is likely to induce you into a lucid futuristic dream. Sleek skyscrapers stretch for as far as the eye can see, tightly compacted into the highly urbanised area of Kowloon and the northern shores of Hong Kong Island. During the day-time, each individual thread of the city’s concrete patchwork serves a vital purpose in retaining the position of power that Hong Kong has earned. When evening falls, the neon-soaked towers ignite in all their glory—the shimmering spectacle radiates for miles across the surrounding mountains, islands and far flung comers of the city.
The bustling hub of Hong Kong is one of the most influential and important cities on Earth, and has prospered under British and Chinese rule over the centuries—retaining a strong degree of autonomy during these times. Weaved within the winding lanes, hectic markets, discover divine dim sum cuisine and neon-laden nightclubs, with untouched rugged beaches and waterfalls awaiting the adventurous further afield.
Sights, Culture + Experiences.
Pinpointing the perfect viewpoints of Hong Kong’s skyline undoubtedly account for some of the most rewarding experiences in the city. Potentially the best day-time view of all is awarded to those who are willing to make a strenuous journey to the peak of Lion Rock. A journey to the top affords a truly astounding view, although it takes around 4 hours.
Shifting from the rugged mountain peak of Lion Rock in the north of Kowloon, at the opposing side of the skyline on Hong Kong Island a more accessible option is stream-lined for the tourism industry. Located near the summit of Victoria Peak—the highest point on the island—the anvil shaped Peak Tower is served by a dedicated tram-line that ferries tourists almost 2,000 feet into heavens. The rooftop of the tower boasts an expansive viewing platform, which is open to the public for a fee of 50 HKD (£5). This is unequivocally the best place for a view of the skyline at night, with the potential for an amazing Instagram photo opportunity.
Enjoy a stroll at the enchanting Nan Lian Garden (📷)
The best cultural sights in the Hong Kong area are often spread out across the more sparsely populated regions that surround the city centre. Nestled in the centre of the Kowloon Peninsula, 13,000 Buddha statues flaunt a staggering proclamation of the Buddhist faith. No longer a functioning monastery, The 10,000 Buddhas Monastery (📷) is frequented by tourists instead of monks these days. The site actually sells itself short on the head-count.
Buried within the dense untamed wilderness of Lantau Island to the east of the city, reaching the colossal Tian Tan Giant Buddha (📷) is made incredibly easy thanks to the incredible transport infrastructure in place. From the centre of town, simply catch a train bound for Tung Chung, from there you will enjoy a scenic ride on the state-of-the-art cable car directly connected to this awe-inspiring monument.
It may surprise you to discover that Hong Kong is actually a great choice for a beach getaway. Although the chaotic concrete jungle that serves as the beating heart of the region is devoid of sandy shores, the coastline that dots the south-east of Hong Kong Island is home to some lively beach resorts, whilst hidden gems are found scattered across secluded islands nearby. The golden beach at Repulse Bay is back-dropped by towering buildings that harbour ritzy hotels, spas, restaurants and bars.
Not far from here, Shek O Beach is a more laid-back alternative, with beach-shack bars and cheap eats. Hidden in the eastern reaches of the Kowloon Peninsula far from the urbanised centre, the best beach in Hong Kong is found. Tai Long Wan is an expansive stretch of coastline that encompasses 4 beaches in total—Ham Tin (📷) being the most well-known. The natural beauty of this area is a sight to behold, with the gorgeous white sand bay nestled in a lush landscape.
Bars + Nightlife.
When night falls on Hong Kong, the city blossoms with vibrant nightlife. Regardless of whether you are looking to spend your nights in a glitzy nightclub, chilled-out trendy bar or dimly-lit basement hideaway, Hong Kong has you covered. If you are unable to get enough of the visual splendour of the city skyline, then consider kicking back with a cocktail at the rooftop bar SKYE. This is one of the best options for scenic drinking in town, boasting an incredible view and reasonable prices.
Setting foot inside the immaculately designed Iron Fairies is a surreal immersive experience akin to being transported into a fairy-tale cavern, complete with hundreds of petrified iron butterflies suspended from the ceiling. Masterminded by the same designer—Ashley Sutton—the glamorous cocktail bar Ophelia (📷) is destined to be one of the most aesthetically pleasing bars you will likely drink in. The vibrant kaleidoscope of colours collide with cages, geometric designs and dancers to create a mellow and sophisticated vibe.
💡 For a laid-back drink in a cosy environment, Salon Number 10 is a safe bet. Comfy leather sofas, varied drinks menu and a truly inspirational mural featuring none other than E.T. acting as the centre-piece.
Adopting the stealthy speakeasy approach, the chic venue of Mrs. Pound is deliberately concealed behind the facade of an old-fashioned stamp shop. Unassuming pedestrians who don’t know what they are looking for will be completely oblivious that one of the coolest little hideaway spots in the city is found here—even serving up some good food. French fine dining restaurant Bibo is set in a beautiful venue which creates a flawless melange of street art with classy interiors. The on-site bar here is open for business, so make sure to stop by if you are intrigued.
If you’re looking to spend an evening dancing in the city, there are various nightclubs located across the city to let loose in. A noteworthy selection is the futuristic club at Yojimbo, featuring live sets from DJs spinning dance music well into the early hours of the morning. Music lovers can rejoice in spending an evening at the Wanch on Hong Kong Island—an easy-going live music bar that sees local and international bands perform nightly to a friendly crowd of regulars.
Food + Drink.
Hong Kong has earned a reputation as being a bastion of delicious, affordable cuisine, leading the city to become labelled as a “foodie’s paradise”. Make no mistake—there are plenty of culinary delights tucked away in the endless meandering streets of Hong Kong, including the cheapest Michelin starred establishment on Earth. That restaurant is One Dim Sum, where you can sample an array of selections from its dim sum menu for a budget-friendly price, with customers raving about the meticulously marinated BBQ pork buns and shrimp dumplings.
If you are willing to splash out on luxury dining during your time in the city, try and secure a reservation for the intimate Hutong located on the 28th floor of a harbour-front skyscraper in Kowloon. Deriving its name from the historic ‘hutong’ neighbourhoods found in mainland China, the venue incorporates elements of ancient Chinese architecture with a modern stylish setting.
Head on over to quirky bar-spot 65 Peel (📷) on Hong Kong Island to grab some affordable bar bites to tide you over during your day of urban exploring. Whipping up tasty chicken bites and noodles amongst other dishes, the place also has a great selection of beer to accompany your meal. Add friendly, attentive staff and clientele to the equation and you’re on to winner!
Yet another opportunity to enjoy Michelin-approved cuisine at an affordable price presents itself at the humble family-run Ho Hung Kee restaurant. What makes this so special, is that Ho Hung Kee is actually located inside Hong Kong International Airport. Yes—it’s true—the food here is so good that even the airport has Michelin starred eateries.
Accommodation.
Dorms from £19.00 per night.
Rooms from £94.00 per night.
Dorms from £17.00 per night.
Rooms from £130.00 per night.
