| 6 mins read
By Jordan Higgins
Hong Kong is the epitome of a modern Asian megacity. It has more skyscrapers than any other region worldwide, while also housing myriad temples, traditional markets, modern shopping centres, and beautiful parks. Hong Kong, frankly, has something for everyone. Most visitors barely scratch the surface of this enigmatic city as they race from one guidebook’s top 10 attractions to another.
To truly experience Hong Kong like a local, you must enjoy what this city does best; from its food and shopping to the buzzing nightlife and skyscraper views, here is a checklist of the best way to experience the essence of Hong Kong.
1. Food
Food is something that separates tourists from locals. Tourists often pay double the price for a meal that is half the quality of what locals eat. To genuinely experience Hong Kong cuisine, you must dig a little deeper. During your holiday in Hong Kong, search for “Dai Pai Dong”, or open-air food stalls. These stalls offer delicious street food at a fraction of a major restaurant’s price. The main benefit of these stalls is the fresh local ingredients and the authentic culinary experience they provide.
2. Shopping
Shopping is a significant part of life in Hong Kong. Most tourists visit Mong Kok Market to indulge in some retail therapy. However, prices here are often inflated to capitalise on the massive tourist influx. Locals tend to go to Police Married Quarters (PMQ) - a hub for local crafts and food where vendors sell authentic goods at better prices.
3. History
Hong Kong’s history is complex, as the “Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China” has regularly changed hands from one ruling nation to another. There is no better way to feel like a local than to fully comprehend how Hong Kong came to be the megacity it is today. Hire an experienced local guide and visit the Hong Kong Museum of History for a deeper look into the city’s past.
4. Coffee
Coffee is not typically associated with Hong Kong, but is, in fact, a growing part of daily life there. Avoid Starbucks and hunt for one of the many “upstairs cafés”. These cafés are, unsurprisingly, located above street-level, and offer an escape from the hectic city commotion.
Why not try Cat Store, an upstairs café that also serves as a home to several playful cats? Or Ease Café, which houses a collection of over 5,000 comic books? These quirky cafés offer an escape from the madness and an insight into the newly emerging coffee scene.
5. Viewpoints
With so many skyscrapers and architectural wonders packed into one place, the city is rife with viewpoints where you can marvel at the modern metropolis. Sky bars such as Ozone are very popular with tourists looking to soak in the view.
Why not take the tram to Victoria Peak, 1,805 feet above sea level? You can bring some food along and admire the sun setting behind the chaos of the city below.
6. Trips from the City
Contrary to popular belief, Hong Kong is more than a city. In fact, only 26% is classed as an urban area. If you wish to escape the madness, there are many options for rural day trips from Hong Kong. A favourite among locals is Cheung Chau, an island forty minutes from the city. It is famed for its seafood, ancient temples, and Cheung Po Tsai Cave. Or, you can choose to visit Sai Kung, about thirty minutes away. Sai Kung is ideal for hiking, enjoying seafood, or relaxing on the beach.
7. Temples
Hong Kong is full of highly significant religious centres. Some notable temples include Po Lin Monastery and the famous Tan Tien Buddha, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Man Mo Temple. Visiting these places with a tour guide will help you gain an understanding of, and establish a connection to, Hong Kong’s residents.
8. Hidden Nature
Hong Kong is home to the often overlooked Global Geopark, the result of a 140-million-year-old volcanic eruption. The surrounding rock formations offer stunning landscapes and extraordinary natural views. Contrasting the bustling city, this is a must-see on your offbeat Hong Kong tour.
9. Nightlife
Hong Kong’s nightlife is unique by itself. Tourists can admire the dizzying light shows from Victoria Harbour, browse the eccentric night markets at Temple Street, or revel in the all-night partying at Lan Kwai Fong. The city is also home to hundreds of quaint bars and speakeasies. To avoid the tourist traps, search the central district for these establishments tucked away in quiet corners. Or, seek out the help of a local guide – who else would have better ideas?
10. Guides
Navigating in Hong Kong can be problematic. Not only does hiring a private guide minimise this hassle, but it also allows you to personalise your trip. Tours can be customised to accommodate history-lovers, foodies, architecture enthusiasts, or just those looking to experience an offbeat Hong Kong. There are numerous Hong Kong tour options including cruising through Victoria Harbour while admiring the city’s famous skyline. Others may opt for one of the many food tours or a historical ramble through the city.
Guides can also help customise tours for certain groups, be they backpackers, young families, or retirees. Be sure look for various city tours available and choose one that best suits your interests.
Jordan is a student journalist and avid traveller. He has a strong interest in Asian countries but will never say no to a European excursion. He is particularly fond of (although not very good at) trying new outdoor activities and adventure sports.
Image details and licenses: https://flic.kr/p/N58YE5 (duluoz cats, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/6dokBi (Henrik Berger Jørgensen, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/HdYSyQ (xiquinhosilva, CC BY 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/EDiTsi (Joybot, CC BY-SA 2.0), https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hongkong_peak_tram.jpg, https://pixabay.com/en/sai-kung-china-beach-sky-clouds-177214/, https://flic.kr/p/5pvmnV (Alan Levine, CC0 1.0), https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Basalt_Island_(Hong_Kong).jpg (By TK [CC BY-SA 4.0) https://flic.kr/p/a81fvf (tomeats CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)