Things To Do
Your guide to the best things to do in Hong Kong, including popular attractions, festivals, events, activities and tours
Hong Kong's most colourful places you should visit
Feeling stressed? In need of a pick-me-up? Whether it's settling down at a beautiful coffee shop, experiencing Hong Kong's vibrant art scene, or finding peace with some retail therapy, there are plenty of multicoloured ways to lift your spirits. Here are some of our top recommendations on our city's most colourful places to visit. RECOMMENDED: Are you more of a nature lover? Get in touch with the greener side of Hong Kong and explore Hong Kong's many secret islands.
The best scenic bus rides in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is easily one of the most convenient cities in the world thanks to its efficient transportation system such as minibuses and the MTR system. However, our bus services are definitely most worthy of applause, covering almost every corner in Hong Kong from bustling business districts to tranquil areas and hilly terrains. While there's still no hope to travel beyond Hong Kong given the way things are right now, why not turn to our excellent bus services for an affordable sightseeing ride across the city instead? Sit in front on the upper deck of a bus and soak in all the beautiful views our city has to offer with this roundup of the most scenic bus rides in Hong Kong. Just remember to carry an Octopus card with you! By Elaine Soh RECOMMENDED: For your next weekend vacation in the city, here's a roundup of hotels and inns where the main attraction is the beach and the priceless picturesque views.
Best things to see and do in Hong Kong this October
Autumn is finally making its way to the city, marking an exciting time in Hong Kong. Aside from stuffing our faces with mooncakes during Mid-Autumn Festival, we've also got all the raucous Halloween parties to look forward to at the end of the month. Now is also the perfect time to hit the outdoors – when it's not pouring down with rain – and explore some of Hong Kong's secret islands and beautiful hiking trails in Kowloon and on Hong Kong Island. From Instagrammable exhibitions to online concerts and pop-up stores, there's a whole bunch of great events and entertainment to watch out for this month. RECOMMENDED: Still looking for more? Check out our Things to do section for more great ideas!
Best places to catch the sunrise in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is home to some of the most unbelievably stunning scenery and picturesque country parks, but there’s something extra beautiful about the sight of dawn-breaking sunlight that keeps every hiker and photographer excited, even if it means waking up during gruelling hours just to catch the sunrise. From beaches to hillsides, have yourself an outdoor adventure by visiting these amazing vantage points and expect to be treated to an unrivalled golden view. By Adrian Ho RECOMMENDED: Still chasing that unparalleled golden shine? We've also got a list of the best places to watch the sunset in Hong Kong!
5 Accessible city hikes in Kowloon
Following up on our roundup of accessible city hikes on Hong Kong Island, we’re back with another master list of city hikes – this time in Kowloon! We’ve got a mix of everything. From short, leisurely strolls to different route variations that lie on Lion Rock Hill, grab a friend or two and start exploring these nooks in Kowloon. By Andrea Wong RECOMMENDED: Want to avoid the scorching daytime heat? Check out these amazing night hikes.
Things to do in Hong Kong
Things to do outdoors in Hong Kong
5 Accessible city hikes in Kowloon
Following up on our roundup of accessible city hikes on Hong Kong Island, we’re back with another master list of city hikes – this time in Kowloon! We’ve got a mix of everything. From short, leisurely strolls to different route variations that lie on Lion Rock Hill, grab a friend or two and start exploring these nooks in Kowloon. By Andrea Wong RECOMMENDED: Want to avoid the scorching daytime heat? Check out these amazing night hikes.
Alternative waterfronts to view Hong Kong's skyline
Hong Kong is famous for many things – historical landmarks, unique food, traditional crafts and trade – the list goes on. But there's one thing that's more iconic than anything else, and that's our glistening skyline. People come far and wide from around the world just to catch a glimpse of our tightly-squeezed waterfront. Even for locals, five minutes spent by the waterfront can do wonders to our hectic, desk-bound lives. But let's face it, there are only so many times we can go to Avenue of Stars or the Hong Kong Observation Wheel and still be wowed by the view. So, scroll down and explore these under-the-radar locations that offer splendid views of our city's ever-changing skyline. RECOMMENDED: Find out how our skyline has changed over the years and take a look at these stunning photos of Hong Kong's gleaming skyscrapers.
9 Secret islands to explore in Hong Kong
Have you done everything there is to do on Lamma Island? Is Cheung Chau getting a little too hipster for you? Hong Kong is home to more than 250 islands, so there’s no need for you to keep revisiting the same old spots. And if you’re looking for gorgeous sandy beaches and picturesque hikes, these islands have them all and more. RECOMMENDED: Head for the hills and surprise yourself with some unexpected things you can do outdoors in Hong Kong.
5 Accessible city hikes on Hong Kong Island
Hiking seems to be everyone’s go-to outdoor activity in Hong Kong. While our city offers many scenic trails (some even with waterfalls!), and places to just catch a breath of fresh air, the idea of commuting all the way to somewhere rural for a hike – not to mention the journey back home – can be offputting. If you’re anything like us and often find it hard to even crawl out of bed on the weekends, we’ve got just what you need. Here’s a list of accessible hikes scattered around the hilly side of Hong Kong Island. By Andrea Wong RECOMMENDED: If you don’t feel like going on a hike, check out these sunset spots in Hong Kong and have a chill evening soaking up great views.
Hong Kong’s abandoned villages to explore
Have you explored Hong Kong’s secret islands and been to every hidden garden and green space in the city? If you think you’ve seen everything that the city has to offer, well, think again. As the rampant development of our city continues unabated, with skyscrapers continuing to fill up our skyline, dozens of villages on the periphery are fading out of existence, lost to all but the most intrepid of explorers. We trek to the four corners of the territory to explore those on the brink of complete desertion. By Janette Chen RECOMMENDED: Get to know Hong Kong even more and take a look at these unconventional places in town.
5 epic waterfalls you have to see in Hong Kong
Waterfalls capture the imagination like nothing else, transforming the landscape from merely beautiful into something straight out of a fairytale. With the current situation, it's easy to feel a little cooped up, so below are five waterfalls in Hong Kong for some nature inspiration. Even if not wanting to take public transport and head out right now, merely looking into these falls and the hikes required to reach them will perk you up and give you something to look forward to! Read on and feel refreshed, inspired, and in awe of some natural beauty. RECOMMENDED: For those wanting to get away from people to HK's great outdoors, check out this list of Hong Kong hikes.
Health and Wellness
9 DIY face mask recipes you can make with food at home
Spas and beauty salons may have recently reopened, thanks to relaxed restrictions, but for those still unsure, it may be worth thinking about bringing the spa home. While some find resolution in an easy sheet mask or ready-made face pack, there are other more creative, sustainable, and eco-friendly ways to give your face the TLC it deserves – especially after wearing a protective face mask all day – and it’s as easy as opening up your kitchen cupboard. So here it is, nine face mask recipes that need only two to three ingredients to make and suit many different skin types. Get ready for that at-home glow. By Shanti Parmanand and Fontaine Cheng RECOMMENDED: In need of another DIY activity? Look at these cheap and easy ways to spice up your instant noodles.
6 Nintendo Switch games that can replace your workout
Staying committed to an exercise routine isn’t always easy, especially when most of our favourite gyms are closed under the current social distancing measures. While hiking and cycling are great workout alternatives, there’s also a handful of games on the market that perfectly melds fitness and fun, like Nintendo Switch. So, if you are hoping to keep yourself active at home but want something more entertaining than just doing yet another set of squats, here are six of the best Nintendo Switch games that will help you work up a sweat. By Natalie Lam RECOMMENDED: Don’t have a game console? Don’t worry, these killer home workouts will be perfect for you.
The most instagrammable cycling routes in Hong Kong
Many of us Hongkongerslove a good bike ride, but sometimes it's easy to get a little bored of seeing the same foliage as you’re pedalling away along the same routes. Luckily, we’ve got just the thing to ramp up your weekends’ cycling, because Hong Kong boasts some incredibly scenic landscapes, that provide more than enough great Instagram opportunities so you can make all your friends jealous while you get some fresh air. Whether you want to cherish special memories or make your feed pop – along these cycling routes you’ll find some of the best backdrops for maximum love on the gram. By Shanti Parmanand RECOMMENDED: Prefer hiking instead? Check out some of the best hiking spots in Hong Kong.
Six killer workouts you can do at home
Staying at home may reduce the risk of contracting the coronavirus, but it also means that we're not getting the proper fresh air and exercises that we need to stay fit. Luckily, we enlisted the help of Stephanie Cuvelier, owner and fitness trainer of Calibrate Studios, who shares with us six easy and efficient workouts that you can do without leaving the comforts of your own home.RECOMMENDED: Don’t want to be stuck at home? Why not hit one of Hong Kong’s best hiking tails instead?
Hong Kong neighbourhood guides
Sham Shui Po: Ultimate Guide
Sham Shui Po, one of the oldest districts in Hong Kong known for its textiles industry, has recently gained a newfound 'cool' status, reinvigorated by its young creative residents. The district has transformed as one of the hippest neighbourhoods in the city but still kept its traditional street-vendors, historical buildings, and over half a century-old Michelin-recommended eateries like Kung Wo Tofu Factory and Lau Sum Kee Noodle. Walk a few blocks, and you'll be greeted by contemporary cafes and creative hubs where patrons can enjoy a good cup of coffee while immersing in artworks by up-and-coming local artists. What's Sham Shui Po known for? SSP is one of Hong Kong's best-kept fashion secrets. The neighbourhood's fabric shops are famous for local designers – and even international designers like Versace and Calvin Klein – who frequent the place looking for textile and design inspiration. The district is also known for its treasure trove of eateries offering affordable street eats and Michelin-recommended bites. Why do the locals love it? Aside from fashion finds, the neighbourhood is a shopping mecca to bargain hunt for electronics, vintage accessories, and nostalgic toys. And though it's currently attracting a hip, young crowd, its newer residents have fostered a sense of community which not only injects new energy to the neighbourhood but also promotes the district's historical legacy. How do I get to Sham Shui Po? It is easy to get to and from Sham Shui Po via public buses and taxis that run through the district, but the best way is by MTR as the Sham Shui Po MTR station is right in the centre of the neighbourhood. Map of Sham Shui Po If you only do one thing Eat! Whether you're after authentic local food, looking for a caffeine fix, or craving for new bites, the neighbourhood has everything from third-generation family-run noodle shops to contemporary cafes.
