The exuberant city of Hong Kong is full of hidden gems and surprises that must not be missed. As a young child, I spent 3 years in Hong Kong and returned 15 years later for an internship and got a chance to rediscover the city I once called home. From lush green parks, mountain trails, and sandy beaches to spectacular restaurants, and a bustling nightlife, Hong Kong is no stranger to unique experiences. Find out everything and more about why Hong Kong should be next on your bucket list!
1. Abundant Green Spaces
Out of all the concrete jungles around the world, I think that Hong Kong is one such place where buildings and green spaces harmoniously unite. There’s no doubt that tall, towering buildings cover the Hong Kong horizon. But tucked between them are lush green parks, mountain trails, and nature reserves that are a welcome escape from the city’s urban façade. Victoria Peak is one such spot. One moment you are surrounded by high-rise buildings and the noise of the busy city, and the next, towering trees and beautiful gardens are all you can see. Take a tram up to the top, or if you have the energy, the hike up to Victoria Peak is totally worth it!
2. Lan Kwai Fong (LKF)
Nightlife meets international food culture. This is what LKF is all about. The entire area used to be dominated by hawkers up until World War II but transformed in the 1980s to slowly become what it is today. The small lanes are lined with nightclubs are bars, with some of the most diverse and tasteful restaurants in Hong Kong. Heading to LKF on Friday night (or even Monday) will not leave you disappointed. No matter the day, there’s a party happening in LKF. Prohibition-era speakeasy bars are a highlight like Stockton, Room 309, and Frank’s Library.
3. Street Markets
Need a break from hitting the high-end boutiques in Hong Kong? Give your credit card its much-needed break and head to the street markets instead! Mong Kok, Wan Chai, and Ladies Market are your next go-to. You’ve got streets filled with nothing but shops and stalls, some with knockoff products so keep an eye out for those. For anyone looking to up their fashion game but doesn’t want to break the bank, these markets have the latest street style items you need to check out!
4. Food Scene
When anyone asks me the one thing I miss about living in Hong Kong, my answer is THE FOOD! You can never go hungry in a city like Hong Kong. From Italian pasta, French coq au vin, and Spanish paella to Malaysian chicken curry, Cantonese street food, and Indian biryani, Hong Kong has it all! You name it, and there is a restaurant ready to serve it! My favorite spots include street food in Wan Chai, pepper crab from Under Bridge Spicy Crab, and spicy Japanese ramen from Butao.
5. Dragon’s Back
One of the most popular hiking trails in Hong Kong, Dragon’s Back is a must-do activity. Around 8km long, this 2-and-a-half-hour hike starts at The Peak and takes you to Big Wave Bay. Attempting this hike during the peak of summer may not be the best choice, but it is a perfect springtime or autumn challenge. Along the trail, you will be met with marvelous views of the coastline from Shek O to Big Wave Beach. Pack some good hiking shoes, plenty of water, a bathing suit, and you are good to go. A dip in the sea is a perfect way to end your journey!
So there you have it! I’ve given you 5 reasons as to why Hong Kong should be the next stop on your bucket list. If you have already been to this lively city, you know exactly what I’m talking about.
If you’re looking for other fascinating destinations to discover, check out my blogs for your guide to India and Brazil!
I would definitely love to visit the street markets! Seems like an interesting experience 🙂
Sounds like a good plan! You can find so many interesting souvenirs in the markets. And it’s always fun to walk around the busy streets!
This is looks amazing! Have you ever been on the Dragon’s Back hike yourself?
Yes, I have! I used to hike there very often with my family on a lot of weekends, but we never managed to do the full trip since as a young child I never had the patience for it haha!
It’s a very long trip, but it’s totally worth it! Thank you Srishti for these insights, I am curious to taste the food!
Yes Vasia, definitely worth the long trip!
One of our best days were spent in Hong Kong. Do you remember the barbecues we had at Sheko Beach!! Don’t you think the beaches nestled in between the mountains provide breathtaking views? And the island hopping boat trips. Oh… it is so much fun in Hong Kong
Yes, the barbecues and boat rides around Hong Kong island are memories I can never forget!
Yes, I wanna visit LKF!! I went to Hong Kong when I was a kid so I could barely remember how it was like. I was planning to visit it again because of its food, architecture, and my friends’ recommendations but I’d to cancel it cos of the protests in 2019. Your post acts as a reminder for me to visit this country. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Nicole! Hong Kong has changed a lot since I used to live there as a kid, so it’s definitely worth it to visit again! Hope you can book your travel finally!
If I was not already wishing to go to HK, the part about the food scene definitely convinced me!! Love this, thank you for sharing!
You can never go hungry in Hong Kong!
That was great, I actually now want to go to Hong Kong !