Hong Kong, also known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” is where Eastern traditions meet Western dynamism against the backdrop of iconic skyscrapers and verdant mountains. As a former British colony and now a Special Administrative Region of China, it melds colonial charm with Cantonese vigor, creating a unique cosmopolitan ambiance. From its bustling harbor to its bustling street markets, and from its historic trams to its revered temples, Hong Kong offers an unparalleled urban experience that captures the essence of both its Chinese roots and its international influences.
Quick facts
– Population: Approximately 7.5 million (as of 2022)
– Area: 1,106 km² (only 6.7% of Beijing’s or 17% of Shanghai)
– Language Spoken: Cantonese and English.
Most important spots to visit & how long to stay
– Major historical sites: Victoria Peak, Man Mo Temple, Wong Tai Sin Temple, Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, and Tai Fu Tai Mansion.
– Other sites/ areas to visit: Lan Kwai Fong, Causeway Bay, Star Ferry, Ngong Ping 360, Symphony of Lights, Avenue of Stars, and the Big Buddha on Lantau Island.
– Recommended duration for exploration: You can easily spend 4 to 6 days exploring the most significant places in Hong Kong. A minimum of 2 to 3 days is essential to cover the basics.
Where to stay
For luxury travelers, there are numerous choices of luxury hotels in town, the newly opened Rosewood, classic hotels such as The Peninsula, Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons, The Ritz-Carlton, design hotels such as The Upper House, or The Murray.
Unique and exclusive experiences
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Culinary Delights
– Dim Sum: An assortment of small, flavorful dishes ranging from steamed buns and dumplings to fried rolls and sweet desserts, often served with tea.
– Char Siu Bao: Steamed buns filled with sweet and savory barbecued pork.
– Wonton Noodle Soup: Delicate dumplings filled with shrimp or pork served in a clear, flavorful broth with thin egg noodles.
– Roast Goose: A Cantonese specialty, the goose is seasoned and roasted until its skin is crispy and its meat tender.
– Egg Tarts: Creamy custard-filled pastries with a flaky crust, a popular sweet treat in Hong Kong.
Local Tips & Recommendations
– Best modes of transport within the city: Hong Kong offers an efficient transportation network. The MTR (Mass Transit Railway) is the backbone of the city’s public transport, connecting most parts of Hong Kong. Additionally, iconic Star Ferries, double-decker trams, buses, and taxis are all convenient means to get around. For outlying islands, ferries are the primary mode of transport. While cars are available for rent, the city’s dense nature and excellent public transport make them unnecessary for most visitors. Taxis are abundant, metered, and relatively affordable. While the city is walkable, be prepared for hills and always have an umbrella on hand for sudden rain showers.
– Cultural norms or etiquettes to be aware of: Be mindful of personal space in this densely populated city, and always queue when waiting for public transportation or at eateries. It’s also customary to give up your seat to the elderly or pregnant women.
– Weather: Hong Kong has a subtropical climate. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 31°C (88°F) accompanied by heavy rainfall. Winters (December to February) are mild and dry, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). The most pleasant times to visit are during the fall (September to November) and spring (March to May), where temperatures are moderate, and skies are clearer.
A few curiosities most people don’t know about the city
– ‘Hong Kong’ means ‘Fragrant Harbor’: The city’s name is believed to have been derived from the incense that was once stored near Aberdeen Harbor, which is on the southwest side of Hong Kong Island.
– More Skyscrapers than New York City: Despite its small size, Hong Kong has more skyscrapers (buildings taller than 150m) than New York City. This is a testament to its vertical expansion due to limited land.
– World’s Longest Covered Escalator: The Central to Mid-levels escalator in Hong Kong is the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system. It spans over 800 meters and elevates over 135 meters from bottom to top.
– Vertical Cemeteries: Due to space constraints in Hong Kong, vertical cemeteries have become more common. These are multi-story buildings where urns are stored, optimizing the limited space available for burial.
Final thoughts & conclusion
Any exploration of Asia would be incomplete without a deep dive into Hong Kong. More than just a gleaming skyline, Hong Kong is a testament to resilience and reinvention. The city uniquely juxtaposes neon-lit streets with tranquil temples, and bustling markets beside serene parks. Nestled between verdant mountains and the vast South China Sea, it’s not just a financial hub but also a haven for gastronomy, arts, and culture. Its allure lies in the harmonious chaos, iconic skyline, and rich colonial history intertwined with traditional Chinese roots. From its bustling harbor to its winding alleys filled with stories and surprises, Hong Kong promises an indelible journey into the heart of Asia’s world city.
