Hong Kong is a huge metropolitan city compressed into a relatively small area. This human beehive is perpetually active with constant development, and the free-market spirit makes it thrive. That means this city is filled with various landmarks distributed densely all over the place. As seeing all those landmarks would take a while, we made this top ten list. Our goal was to make a perfect mix, balancing historical monuments with exciting urban venues. Without further ado, welcome to our tour of one of the most sensational Asian cities.
10. Avenue of Stars
See your favorite movie actors and directors
The movie industry in Hong Kong is one of the most prominent globally, equaling America and India. Therefore, many famous Hong Kong actors and directors have become known worldwide. Hong Kong found a way to pay tribute to its biggest movie names in the form of Avenue of Stars.
This place is similar to Hollywood's Walk of Fame, with Hong Kong stars' memorabilia you can visit and remember with pictures. Also, you can find out some interesting facts about your favorite Hong Kong movie people. Avenue of Stars is also the best place to see the A Symphony of Lights.
9. Victoria Peak (The Peak)
Enjoy the best view in the city
Hong Kong proudly earned the title of one of the best skylines globally, with over 1500 skyscrapers higher than 300 ft (100 m). The best thing about Hong Kong Skyline is that it's constantly changing as new buildings are built daily. No wonder Hong Kong proudly wears the title of the most vertical city in the world.
The place that offers the most spectacular view of the Hong Kong Skyline is Victoria Peak. Therefore, we recommend going to the observation platform at Sky Terrace. However, prepare yourself mentally for a substantial crowd. Despite this, the view you'll get is more than enough to pay off all the waiting.
8. Star Ferry
Connect between past and future while on water
Star Ferry is one of the most remarkable ferry rides worldwide. It connects ultra-modern urban areas of Hong Kong with the old parts of the town. The effect of the ride is spectacular and comparable with traveling in a time machine.
On one side, wooden ferry boats and junks occupy the straits between Kowloon and Hong Kong. On the other side are modern skyscrapers, which define Hong Kong as one of the commercial hubs in the world. The best time to board Star Ferry is around 8 p.m. Then you can enjoy a famous Symphony of Light.
7. Happy Valley Racecourse
Dive into the exciting Hong Kong gambling scene
Hong Kong is packed with unique places to see. However, look only as far as Happy Valley Racecourse if you want to entertain yourself. This sport-gambling complex is one of the most exciting places in Hong Kong, and you can indulge in various activities. Not only can you enjoy the excitement of betting on horse races, but there's also a great choice of food and drinks.
Moreover, the entire theme of the program changes frequently, so every time you visit the racecourse, it'll be different. If you're not into gambling and thrills, there are various sports courts for you to exercise and train.
6. Dragon's Back
Take a hike in the hidden natural oasis
Curiously enough, much of Hong Kong's area is green, occupied by forests and other natural habitats. Hong Kong residents love to hike and enjoy the view during their holidays. The best place for outdoor activities is Dragon's Back, an urban oasis less than 20 minutes' drive from the heart of Central.
This place is unknown to most visiting Hong Kong and even some locals. That's a shame because this 6-mile-long (10 km) hiking track is spectacular. However, ensure to arrive early, take enough water, and check the weather report before going.
5. Hong Kong Disneyland
Experience the dreamland in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Disneyland is undoubtedly one of the most famous amusement parks in Southeastern Asia, even picked as travelers' choice in 2021. This magical kingdom is inspired by Disney movies, including "Star Wars" and "Avengers."
Overall, Hong Kong Disneyland contains seven theme parks: Adventureland, Grizzly Gulch, Mystic Point, Toy Story Land, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and Main Street, U.S.A. Although Hong Kong Disneyland is smaller than its western counterparts, it'll still take a day to walk it through.
4. Ngong Ping 360
Ride the air cab line with a tremendous view
Ngong Ping Cable Car is the starting point of your adventures on Lantau island. This cable car connects downtown Tung Chung and Ngong Ping. Ngong Ping 360 is the first cable car of its kind in Hong Kong, and it uses a double cable ropeway, which is safe and secure.
The ride starts at Tung Chung, goes over Tung Chung Bay, then takes a turn at Airport Island toward Ngong Ping. You can enjoy the landscape of the South China Sea and the greens of North Lantau Country Park. The breathtaking views include the Lantau Island mountains and Big Buddha too.
3. Tai Kwun Center for Heritage and Art
Go for the art, stay for the food
This building, with a turbulent and exciting history, is one of the places to visit in Hong Kong. In the beginning, this place was Central Police Station, then Central Magistracy, and in the end, Victoria Prison. This vast venue stretches over 30,000 square feet (2800 square meters), and it was used for many governmental and correctional institutions.
In 2018, this building famously and radically shifted its purpose. Nowadays, Tai Kwun Center is a hub for contemporary art, a heritage museum, and a cuisine complex. Tourists are coming to enjoy art exhibitions, fine food, and hospitality.
2. Man Mo Temple
Visit a temple in the heart of the city
You will find this temple in the most unlikely place, in the heart of Central Hong Kong, on Hollywood Road. This 19th-century temple is a leading historical heritage site. It represents an invaluable piece of the past in an ever-growing futuristic city.
This temple was built to honor two gods: the God of War (Mo Tai) and the God of Literature (Man Cheong). Therefore the name is a combination of two first names. The most dedicated worshippers of these two gods were young students who applied for imperial China's civil service.
1. The Big Buddha
The biggest sitting Buddha statue awaits you
This giant Buddha monument is one of the most recognizable Hong Kong landmarks. As it is the original name, Tian Tan Buddha was built on Lantau island. It is below Lantau peak, near Po Lin Monastery and Ngong Ping Village.
This towering statue rises 100 feet (30 meters) above the ground and is the largest Buddha statue in the sitting position. If you aren't afraid of climbing many stairs, you can go up to the statue to be rewarded with a spectacular landscape.
Hong Kong is a city filled to the brim with landmarks. Some are world-famous and visited by tourists from all corners of the world. Yet, others are like hidden gems, secluded and usually not mentioned in tourist guidebooks. Whichever you prefer, you'll find something that interests you in Hong Kong.
What is your favorite Hong Kong landmark? Which ones would you add to this top ten list?
Cover photo: Daniam Chou/Unsplash