Hong Kong is popularly known as “the shopper’s paradise” and yet has much more than shopping to offer to its visitors. The region is characterized by multiple cultural sites, lush green mountain ranges, colorful festivals, local delicacies, and inviting people. Its colonial background has given rise to a population that features a blend of the mighty East and the great West in terms of culture and tradition, which is what makes it an ideal destination for travelers and tourists.
8 Must-Visit Places In Hong Kong
If you are looking to fly to Hong Kong anytime soon, you can easily do so by any of the several flights a day to the region by Cathay Pacific. Given below are eight must-visit places that you shouldn’t be missing out on your next trip to Hong Kong:
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The magical Wong Tai Sin Temple
The Wong Tai Sin Temple located in the Kowloon district of Hong Kong is a beautiful Taoist temple. It is dedicated to the Great Immortal Wong, which is a Taoist deity known for its magical healing powers. The temple is a popular tourist attraction and features classic Chinese architecture complete with red pillars and a golden roof. In pop culture, the temple is known for its fortune-telling practices, and all visitors and worshippers seek to know their fortune from the temple’s oracle.
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The scenic Big Buddha
The Big Buddha, also known as the Tian Tan Budhha statue, sits right above the Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island. It is one of the largest statues of Buddha and took a staggering 12 years to complete. It is surrounded by lush greenery, and tourists from all over the world come to view this statue in all its mighty glory. While Lantau Island can be reached with a car, if you are feeling adventurous you may opt to reach there by the Ngong Ping cable car ride that takes you over the forest for a 25 minutes travel time.
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The lovely town of Sai Kung
Sai Kung is a lovely seaside town located on the Sai Kung Peninsula. While the town is known for its seafood supply and bustling seafood market, visitors can benefit from the scenic views and relax on the beautiful beach if they are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of Hong Kong. Visitors can choose to go scuba diving and sailing, or simply soak up the warm sunlight and lay on the beach. The town is also home to several restaurants and bars that visitors can check out during the evening.
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The mighty Dragon’s Back
The Dragon’s Back is essentially a mountain ridge on the side of Southeastern Hong Kong and is a part of a well-known hiking trail that covers five county parks. For the adventure-lover in you, this ridge is likely to take you on an adventurous journey as you like to view hills, bays, and beaches. If the hustle and bustle of the city are getting to you, you will find a peaceful getaway in the Dragon’s Back. The hiking trail takes just under four hours to complete and is a total of 8.5 kilometers in distance.
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The fun-filled Disneyland
Hong Kong is home to Asia’s second Disneyland, which is located on Lantau Island. Initially opened in 2005, the theme park is home to several rides and attractions that both adults and children can enjoy. To respect the culture of residents, principles of Chinese culture and Feng Shui were followed in the theme park’s construction. The park features several themed areas including Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and Toy Story Land. The main Disney characters in the theme park speak English, Cantonese, and Mandarin.
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The exalting Victoria Peak
Victoria Peak is named in honor of Queen Victoria and is also known as Mount Austin or simply referred to as “The Peak”. It is the highest hill in Hong Kong, and the stunning views from its summit are what attract both tourists and locals alike to go visit it in all its glory. To reach Victoria Peak, visitors must take the Peak Tram which is a steep funicular, and the views up the tram are also nothing short of exhilarating. The park is usually enjoyed by locals hoping to indulge in some light gaming and sports, and also hosts several events during the year.
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The stunning Symphony Of Lights
The Symphony of Lights is yet another stunning tourist attraction in Hong Kong and is located in Victoria’s Harbor. Every night at 8:00 PM, the Victoria Harbor transforms itself into a display of colorful lights springing out of forty skyscrapers. These dancing lights are synchronized with music which celebrates the beauty and diversity of the locals. It is classified as the world’s largest light and sound show and is one event that you should experience at least once in your life. Also known as the SoL, the show is best experienced from the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, and requires no admission tickets as it is free for the public.
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The rich Hong Kong Museum of History
If you are the type of tourist that cannot resist a good museum, the Hong Kong Museum of History should be on your list of must-visit places in Hong Kong. It provides an overview of the region’s rich archaeological and natural history and features striking details about the island’s ethnography and culture. A feature in the museum called “The Hong Kong Story” is essentially a walkthrough of the territory’s history starting from 6000 years ago up till 1997 when it became an administrative unit of China. You can find replicas of early dwellings, artifacts for tradition, and traditional costumes for the region.
Conclusion
Hong Kong is a place that you should be visiting at least once in your life. The cultural sites, the delicious food, and the exhilarating experience are unmatched, and the above-mentioned places should be on your bucket list. The above-mentioned sites will help you gain rich insight into the culture, people, and traditions of the island of Hong Kong, and this immersive experience is something you will cherish for the rest of your life.