Hong Kong
Few international panoramas are as iconic as the neon Hong Kong skyline at night from the Star harbor Ferry to Kowloon. And few culinary experiences are as woven into the tapestry of travel imperatives as a-la-carte dim sum in a Hong Kong restaurant. Whether you inhale the city from above from the top of Victoria Peak or ride on a double-decker bus below the skyscrapers as the city exhales its unique blend of East and West, you’ll be dazzled by the culture of this former British colony and discover why so many city lovers worldwide rank Hong Kong among their must-see destinations.
Highlights
- Victoria Peak
Experience breathtaking views of Hong Kong from Victoria Peak, the city's highest point. Ride the iconic Peak Tram to the summit and take in the stunning skyline, Victoria Harbour, and lush surrounding hills. The Peak offers a range of dining options, shopping, and scenic walking trails, providing an all-encompassing experience. Don't miss the Sky Terrace 428, the highest viewing platform in Hong Kong, which offers a 360-degree panorama of this dynamic city. Whether day or night, Victoria Peak promises a memorable and picturesque highlight of your visit.
- Tian Tan Buddha
Discover the serenity of the Tian Tan Buddha, a majestic 112-foot-tall statue located on Lantau Island. Also known as the Big Buddha, this magnificent bronze sculpture sits atop a lotus throne and offers stunning views of the island's natural beauty. Accessible via a scenic cable car ride on the Ngong Ping 360, the site includes the Po Lin Monastery and a Wisdom Path adorned with wooden columns inscribed with ancient scriptures. The tranquil surroundings and spiritual ambiance make the Tian Tan Buddha a profound cultural and spiritual experience.
- Lantau
Escape the hustle and bustle of the Hong Kong’s urban center to Lantau Island, known for its tranquil beaches, lush mountains, and rich cultural landmarks. Highlights include the Tian Tan Buddha, the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, and the traditional Tai O fishing village with its stilt houses. Outdoor enthusiasts will love hiking the Lantau Trail, which offers stunning vistas and varied landscapes. Whether you seek adventure, cultural exploration, or relaxation by the sea, Lantau provides a perfect blend of experiences.
- Kowloon
Explore the vibrant district of Kowloon, a bustling urban area known for its lively markets, diverse street food, and rich cultural sites. Visit the Temple Street Night Market, where you can find everything from fashion to fortune-telling and indulge in local delicacies. Stroll along Nathan Road, known as the "Golden Mile" for its array of shops and neon lights, or relax in the scenic Kowloon Park. With its mix of modern attractions and historical sites, Kowloon offers an immersive and dynamic experience of Hong Kong's culture and energy.
Fast Facts
Already booked on one of our packages to Hong Kong? See everything you need to know before you go.
Overview | Population: 7.347 million |
Entry requirements | Please see our Entry Requirements page. |
Staying Healthy | According to the Center for Disease Control, there are no requirements for travel to Hong Kong, but immunization against polio, tetanus, typhoid and hepatitis are recommended. Be sure to take insect repellent! A note on blood and transfusions: RH negative and type O bloods are not commonly stored in China. There have also been problems with HIV contaminated blood supplies. |
Weather | Hong Kong’s subtropical climate makes it fairly hot and humid year-round. Summer (June - September) is hot and humid with occasional showers and thunderstorms. This is the time of year when typhoons are most likely to occur, causing flooding and landslides. The temperature remains significantly cooler from October through February. Clear, sunny days make October-November the best time to visit. |
Tipping | In most restaurants, a 10% service charge is added to the bill. If the service has been excellent, feel free to tip a little more. Taxi drivers don't expect to be tipped but it is the norm to leave any small change. |
Money & Credit Cards | ATMs are located all throughout Hong Kong most commonly outside of banks and in shopping complexes and malls. Many major foreign bank cards and credit cards are acceptable, though many banks impose a fee every time you use a card at another bank's ATM. This fee can be higher for international transactions. Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card while traveling. |
Shopping | Hong Kong is a well-known shopper’s paradise. From glitzy malls and upscale department stores to one-of-a-kind boutiques and charming street markets, Hong Kong offers a dazzling variety of goods. Shop for designer clothing, electronics, watches, jewelry, traditional Chinese handicrafts, leather goods and more. Top quality cosmetics are also a popular item to purchase in Hong Kong as they are duty free. Note that prices can vary greatly from store to store, so be sure to shop around. |
Electricity & Power Adapters | 220 volts. Plugs A, I & G. You will need a voltage converter and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit before your tour to Hong Kong. Learn more about electrical standards around the world. |
Cell Phones & Internet | Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? Read up on using your cell phone abroad and the top 5 ways to get Internet abroad. |
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- Destinations: Hong Kong
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