Hong Kong is a vibrant city that offers many sightseeing opportunities for travelers.
If you’re lucky enough to get the chance to visit this astounding city, you’ll certainly come across a delightful array of major tourist attractions that cater to every interest, age, and budget.
Things to do in Hong Kong include visiting the city’s ancient-old temples, like the Mo Man Temple, exploring world-class museums, like the Hong Kong Heritage Museum, and discovering an array of lovely gardens and parks.
Want to spend a fun-filled time with the kids? Then Disneyland and Ocean Park are the places to go.
Seeking to take in the most beautiful views of the city? Then ride the Hong Kong Observation Wheel.
There’s no shortage of amazing places to visit in Hong Kong, so we’ve created the ultimate list of the top 17 attractions to visit in the city. Have a look below to learn more!
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The 17 Top Attractions in Hong Kong
Victoria Harbour
Victoria Harbour is a natural channel separating Hong Kong Island in the south from the Kowloon Peninsula to the north.
With a glorious location in the South China Sea, the harbor is one of Hong Kong’s top tourist attractions thanks to its historical significance (it was one of the British Empire’s biggest military and trading ports) and the fact it offers gorgeous views of the Hong Kong skyline.
A prime way of experiencing Victoria Harbor’s allure is by riding the award-winning Hong Kong Star Ferry, which carries passengers between Tsim Sha Tsui on the Kowloon side and Central and Wan Chai on Hong Kong island.
The 20-min journey will provide you with the most spectacular views of Hong Kong,
You can also take in the beauty of Victoria Harbor from the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. This alluring promenade starts at the Star Ferry Terminal, where the historic Star Ferry departs from, linking Tsim Sha Tsui with Central Hong Kong.
The ride is considered one of the top things to do in Hong Kong, as it offers the most dramatic views of the city.
Another must-see attraction in Tsim Sha Tsui is the Avenue of Stars, located along the Victoria Harbour waterfront and starting from the Star Ferry Pier at Tsim Sha Tsui.
Modeled on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the avenue is famous for harboring a bronze statue of legendary martial artist Bruce Lee.
The Victoria Harbour also hosts a multimedia light show, the “Symphony of Lights”, every night at 8 pm.
During this magical spectacle, the iconic buildings from both sides become a canvas for a whimsical display of lightwork and lasers.
A breathtaking show that lightens up Hong Kong’s night sky!
Address: Admiralty, Hong Kong
Victoria Peak
The picture-perfect Victoria Peak (aka Mount Austin) is the highest hill in Hong Kong. The mountain has an elevation of 1,811 ft and spoils visitors with the most heart-warming views of the Hong Kong skyline, as well as the majestic Victoria Harbour, Lamma Island, and the surrounding islands.
Most of the hill is covered by a large park, Victoria Park, which boasts lush greenery, and nature trails, making it one of the top outdoor attractions in Hong Kong.
To get to Victoria Peak, visitors can either hike uphill from Central or From Aberdeen or, even better, take the historic funicular railway known as the Peak Tram, which is a Hong Kong attraction itself.
The cable car ride, which rises about 1,300 feet above sea level, provides passengers with a one-of-a-kind ride — it is so steep that the buildings you pass look like they are leaning on a gradient of between 4 to 25.7 degrees. Breathtaking!
Address: Central and Western District, Hong Kong Island
Lantau Island & Big Buddha
Also known as the “lungs of Hong Kong” thanks to its verdant forests, Lantau is the largest of Hong Kong’s islands.
It is located at the mouth of the Pearl River, not far from the Hong Kong Airport, and dazzles visitors with an array of glittering beaches, towering peaks, quaint fishing villages, and alluring monasteries.
One of the top attractions on the island is Sunset Peak, Hong Kong’s third-highest mountain and a prime place for watching the sunset.
Another must-see landmark in Lantau Island is the Tian Tan Buddha statue, which rests high up on a hilltop facing the dreamy Po Lin Monastery.
Thanks to its colossal size — the statue is 112 ft tall, weighs over 280 short tons, and was constructed from 202 bronze pieces —the sculpture is also known as “Big Buddha.”
For a one-of-a-kind immersion into Chinese culture, be sure to visit the Tai O Fishing Village, which is the oldest fishing village in Hong Kong.
There, take a boat ride through the waterways to catch a glimpse of the adorable pink dolphins, which can be seen year-round and are famous for their unique color and friendliness.
Recommended Read: The 8 Most Famous Art And Culture Attractions In Hong Kong
Hong Kong Space Museum
One of the best museums in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong Space Museum, home to a striking array of fascinating exhibitions, of which about 70 percent are interactive designs.
Set within a unique egg-shaped dome, this kid-friendly museum features two thematic exhibition spaces: the Hall of the Cosmos and the Hall of Space Exploration.
The “Hall of the Cosmos”, on the ground floor allows visitors to discover the wonders of the Universe and participate in unique hands-on activities like creating comets with dry ice and creating an aurora on an Earth model.
Nestled on the first floor, the “Hall of Space Exploration” depicts the development of space exploration and space technology.
There, visitors get the chance to enter an upside-down virtual space station to experience the disorientation feeling in the weightless environment and drive themselves by turning a fixed steering wheel to understand the reaction principle in rocket propulsion.
The museum also plays host to the “Space Theatre”, a planetarium that is home to the first OMNIMAX film projector in the eastern hemisphere.
Each year, it hosts a Sky Show, which is displayed using the planetarium’s state-of-the-art projection system to create eye-popping spectacles. A sight to behold!
Address: 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Recommended Read: The 9 Best Museums in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Disneyland
Visiting Hong Kong Disneyland is a life-changing experience for both children and adults. The park is divided into seven main areas: Main Street, U.S.A., Fantasyland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, Grizzly Gulch, Mystic Point, and Toy Story Land.
Each has its unique array of attractions, experiences, and exciting rides.
Must-experience attractions you’ll find at Disneyland Hong Kong include Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars, perfect for toddlers, a steel roller coaster in the Grizzly Gulch section, the Hyperspace Mountain, which is a space-themed indoor roller coaster, a Lion King show, and a jungle river cruise.
The park is located in Penny’s Bay, Lantau Island, 20 minutes outside of Central Hong Kong.
So, if you’re planning a Disney visit with your family, you might want to book a hotel that is close to the theme park — this will help you save time in commuting and make your trip easier.
Fortunately, there are several amazing hotels near Disneyland in Hong Kong, which you can book through CuddyNest at the best prices!
Address: Disneyland Hong Kong, Penny’s Bay, Lantau Island
Recommended Read: Top 14 Kid-Friendly Attractions in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Heritage Museum
Looking to discover the best museums in Hong Kong? Then be sure to include Hong Kong Heritage in your bucket list.
Dedicated to history, art, and culture, the museum has an ample exhibition area of some 7,500 square meters, which encompasses 5 permanent galleries — the Jin Yong Gallery, the Cantonese Opera Heritage Hall, the T.T. Tsui Gallery of Chinese Art, the Chao Shao-an Gallery, and the Children’s Discovery Gallery.
There are also six themed galleries that display temporary exhibitions showcasing the diverse treasures of Chinese heritage.
While snooping around the museum’s galleries, you’ll stumble upon an array of treasures such as Tin Hau’s Palanquin, made in 1906, a woman’s embroidered ceremonial robe, and a gilt-copper statue of the Chinese goddess Guanyin.
Address: 1 Man Lam Road, Sha Tin, Hong Kong
Hong Kong Museum Of History
Learning about Hong Kong’s rich history is a must for anyone visiting the city for the first time. If that’s your case, spare some time to explore the Hong Kong Museum of History, which will take you on a fascinating journey through time.
The museum preserves the island’s rich historical and cultural heritage through a collection of over 140,000 objects divided into three major areas of interest: natural history, ethnography, and local history.
Among the museum’s fantastic collection, you’ll come across a variety of precious relics such as ancient coins, 2,800 rock and mineral specimens, and commercial letters rescued from dustbins, which will take you on a journey back in time.
Must-see items in the Hong Kong Museum of History include the timetable of the Kowloon-Canton railway, dating from 1912, an ancient Cantonese opera performer’s dressing table, and beaded bands worn by a woman boat dweller.
Address: 100 Chatham Rd S, Tsim Sha Tsui
Ocean Park
Are you in need of a well-deserved break from all the sightseeing? Then make your way to Ocean Park, which is regarded as one of the best amusement parks in Hong Kong thanks to its collection of exciting rides and attractions.
Built around several hills near the South China Sea, this amusement park is particularly famous for being home to the Hair Raiser, a daring coaster that features loops and plunges while suspending riders above the South China Sea.
In the park, visitors will also find gentler options such as an oceanarium, an animal theme park, a panda village, and a “Gator Marsh,” where visitors can catch get face to face with the critically endangered Chinese alligator.
Address: 180 Wong Chuk Hang Road
Hong Kong Observation Wheel
To marvel at Hong Kong’s skyline shining with sparkling city lights, ride the iconic Hong Kong Observation Wheel.
Located at the Central Harbourfront, at the AIA Vitality Park, this 197-foot tall Ferris wheel offers the most jaw-dropping views of both Hong Kong Island and Tsim Sha Tsui.
Address: 33 Man Kwong St, Central, Hong Kong
Kowloon Walled City Park
There are several historical attractions in Hong Kong that’ll give you a glimpse of the city’s interesting past and heritage.
One of the best is the Kowloon Walled City, which was once a military stronghold in the 15th century, and also a Chinese garrison that became an enclave for fugitives and criminal gangs through the 20th century.
In the 1990s, the Kowloon Walled City transformed into a breezy park for nearby residents. Visit this idyllic location to escape the city’s bustling streets and take in some fresh air while marveling at bamboo groves, pavilions, flower gardens, and dreamy ponds.
The park still preserves interesting artifacts from the former Kowloon Walled City, including a Qing Dynasty building, making it a must-visit spot for history buffs!
Address: Kowloon City, Hong Kong
Hong Kong Railway Museum
Occupying the site of the old Tai Po Railway, the Hong Kong Railway Museum gives visitors a chance to learn about the development of the railways and MTR in Hong Kong.
The museum, which encompasses some 6,500 square meters, includes life-size trains, a traditional steam locomotive, an old 1950s Australia-made diesel-electric engine, and retro passenger coaches.
There’s also an exhibition gallery where artifacts, train models, and historical photos are displayed.
Address: 13 Shung Tak Street, Tai Po Market
Man Mo Temple
Man Mo Temple provides a place of beauty and serenity for those seeking to escape the everyday pressures of life.
Located on Hollywood Road in Sheung Wan, it was built in honor of King-Emperor Man and Holy King Emperor Kwan, two deities that were popularly patronized by scholars and students seeking progress in their study or ranking in the civil examinations in the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Built between 1847 and 1862, this dreamy temple is one of the oldest in Hong Kong and part of a complex that comprises three adjacent blocks: Man Mo Temple, Lit Shing Temple, and Kung So.
Man Mo is considered a fine example of Qing dynasty architecture, and was given a Grade 1 status as a historic building in 1994 and officially declared a monument in 2010.
Its double-eave, green tiled rooftop, and courtyard layout are simply stunning!
Address: Man Mo Temple, Hollywood Rd, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Wong Tai Sin Temple
The Wong Tai Sin Temple is another must-visit temple in Hong Kong. Dedicated to Wong Tai Sin, also known as the Great Immortal Wong, this dreamy place will entice you with its soothing aroma of burning incense, traditional Chinese architecture with red pillars, bronze zodiac statues, and eye-popping ornaments.
The temple’s Taoist architecture is one of its main highlights. It reflects the significance and teachings of Taoism, and the buildings contain the five elements of Chinese Fengshui culture — the Bronze Pavilion represents “Metal,” Scripture Hall represents “Wood,” Yuk Yik Fountain represents “Water”; Yue Heung Pavilion represents “Fire,” and Earth Wall represents “Earth.”
Address: Hong Kong, Chuk Un, 竹園村二號
Chi Lin Nunnery
The Chi Lin Nunnery is a Buddhist temple located in Diamond Hill, in east Kowloon. This alluring temple dates to the 1930s, when it used to be a retreat for Buddhist nuns. In the 1990s, it was rebuilt in Hong Kong in the Tang Dynasty style.
Aside from its tranquil and restoring atmosphere, the temple is also known for its strikingly beautiful visual features.
It’s the world’s largest hand-made wooden building, and it was constructed based on traditional Chinese architectural techniques.
Covering over 360,000 square feet, the Chi Lin Nunnery is beautifully decorated with whimsical statues of the Sakyamuni Buddha, the goddess of mercy Guanyin, and other bodhisattvas, all made from gold, clay, wood, and stone.
Address: Chi Lin Nunnery, 5 Chi Lin Dr, Sheung Yuen Leng, Hong Kong
Temple Street Night Market
Interesting fact: night markets in Hong Kong are a precious tradition that dates back to the early days when the city was a major trading center under the influence of British traders.
The only remaining night market on the island is located on Temple Street, and a visit to this location is worth it not only for shopaholics but also for foodies and curious travelers.
While making your way through this enticing and vibrant market, expect to come across thousands of stalls selling everything from traditional Chinese arts and crafts to semi-precious stones and electronics.
The market is also filled with traditional street-food restaurants where you can sample local dishes such as fresh fish, spicy crab, and clay pot rice.
Another popular attraction around the Temple Street Night Market is the fortune tellers. While they’re technically not located within the market (you’ll find them close to the Tin Hau Temple Complex), they’re famous among Temple Street’s visitors.
Each fortune teller has a small stall with a table and chair, and a variety of methods of fortune telling are used, including examination of the hands and Chinese astrology.
Address: Temple St, Jordan, Hong Kong
Hong Kong Park
Hong Kong Park is the ultimate destination for an idle stroll in Hong Kong. Located just a 3-minute walk from the Peak Tram, the park is filled with century-old trees and colorful blooming flowers, including the famous bombax ceiba, also known as the red cotton tree.
Boasting a glittering artificial lake and a waterfall, Hong Kong Park is also visited by an array of bird species, such as the blue-winged leafbird, the golden pheasant, and the white-crested hornbill, making it a prime spot for bird watching.
Address: 19, Cotton Tree Drive
Hong Kong Science Museum
The Hong Kong Science Museum is a family-friendly museum home to state-of-the-art interactive exhibits that cover diverse areas of science: electricity and magnetism, biodiversity, and earth science, to name a few.
Bucket-list experiences in the museum include creating your own hills and rivers in a sandbox, closely admiring some beautiful minerals, exploring forests and mangroves, and visualizing the wave pattern of sound inside a long transparent tube.
The top highlight of the Hong Kong Science Museum, however, is the 22-meter-high Energy Machine, which is the largest machine of its kind in the world and occupies four stories of space.
This mighty exhibit demonstrates energy conversion through the movement of balls down the towers, producing dramatic sounds and visual effects.
Address: 2 Science Museum Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui East
Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery
One of Hong Kong’s most captivating attractions is the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery, a hidden gem tucked away in the bustling city.
Although the name suggests a single building, the monastery is actually a sprawling complex of over 12,000 square meters with multiple halls, pavilions, and gardens.
Built in the 1950s, the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery is a relatively new addition to Hong Kong’s cultural landscape, but it is no less stunning than its more ancient counterparts.
What sets this monastery apart is its vibrant and eclectic collection of more than 12,800 Buddha statues, each one unique in style and expression.
Address: 221, Hong Kong
Hong Kong Zoological & Botanical Garden
Another top attraction in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong Zoological & Botanical Garden. Located in the heart of the city, this peaceful oasis covers 5.6 hectares and is home to over 1,000 species of plants and animals.
The garden was established in 1871, making it one of the oldest zoological and botanical gardens in the world.
Visitors can wander through lush greenery, admire beautiful blooms, and explore a variety of themed gardens, including the Camellia Garden and the Magnolia Garden.
You’ll also get the chance to get face to face with primates, reptiles, birds, and mammals, such as the Asian small-clawed otter and the Malayan porcupine.
The highlight of the garden is undoubtedly the red pandas, who are always a hit with visitors.
Address: Albany Road, Central, Hong Kong
Dragon’s Back Trail
The Dragon’s Back Trail is one of Hong Kong’s most amazing hikes. It is known for its stunning views of the city’s skyline, lush greenery, and scenic coastline.
The trail is located in Shek O Country Park, in southeastern Hong Kong Island between Wam Cham Shan and Shek O Peak, making it easy to access from central areas of Hong Kong.
It’s named after its unique shape, resembling the spine of a dragon as it winds its way along the ridge of Shek O Peak.
As you hike along the Dragon’s Back Trail, you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
On one side, you can see the azure waters of the South China Sea and the picturesque Big Wave Bay.
On the other, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of Hong Kong Island’s densely forested hills and valleys.
FAQ
What is Hong Kong most known for?
Hong Kong is a bustling metropolis known for its luxury shopping spots, majestic skyline, temples, shrines, and monasteries.
What is the best place to view the Hong Kong skyline?
Victoria Peak offers the most fantastic views of the Hong Kong skyline and Victoria Harbor.
What are the top attractions on Hong Kong Island?
The top Hong Kong attractions are:
- Victoria Peak (Mount Austin);
- Victoria Harbour;
- Hong Kong Central neighborhood;
- Man Mo Temple;
- Lantau Island & Big Buddha;
- Disneyland Hong Kong;
- Ocean Park;
- Hong Kong Space Museum;
- Hong Kong Heritage Museum;
- Hong Kong Museum Of History;
- Hong Kong Observation Wheel;
- Kowloon Walled City Park;
- Hong Kong Railway Museum;
- Wong Tai Sin Temple;
- Chi Lin Nunnery;
- Temple Street Night Market;
- Hong Kong Park;
- Hong Kong Science Museum;
- Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery;
- Hong Kong Zoological & Botanical Garden.
Is Hong Kong located in mainland China?
Hong Kong is a sovereign territory of the People’s Republic of China. It maintains a high degree of autonomy; hence it’s not considered to be part of mainland China.
What is the best time to visit Hong Kong?
The best time to visit Hong Kong is autumn and early winter, from late September to late December. This is when the weather boasts pleasant temperatures sitting comfortably between 15ºC and 25ºC.
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