When we started planning this post, we struggled to get to a final number. Picking just seven things to do in Hong Kong? Now that was a challenge! This city has a lot going for it, and a lot going on. So it doesn’t matter what kind of traveller you are; there will always be something new thing to do in the Pearl of the Orient.

Hong Kong is the perfect destination for those who have never been to Asia before. Let’s start with the language. Hong Kong is a former British colony, so English still the official language. The next most common language is Cantonese, which is really a variety of spoken Chinese dialects from the city of Guangzhou and Southeastern China. But you don’t have to worry, because signs, transportation, and menus are typically written in both English and Cantonese.

Speaking of public transportation, Hong Kong offers an amazing, quick, and cheap network of metros, trams, buses, and ferries. And they don’t just move around the city; some of them are tourist attractions that you can’t miss!

After getting lost in this city that never sleeps, you’ll definitely get hungry, and this is another amazing side of Hong Kong. Prepare to indulge in the best of Cantonese cuisine, from genuine street food to high-end restaurants. 

Are you ready to discover seven things to do in Hong Kong? Read on!

1. Victoria Peak

Our first tip may sound like a cliche, but Hong Kong is a city to see from above. Victoria Peak is Hong Kong’s highest point, rising 1,300 feet above sea level. Don’t worry about getting there though. Every day, from 7am until midnight, you can hop on the historic tram for a bird’s eye view of this incredible city.

Victoria Peak in Hong Kong

Victoria Peak is a must-see attraction in Hong Kong, but make sure you visit it early in the morning to avoid massive crowds. Or try seeing it at sunset, when all the skyscrapers light up and create and an explosion of colours. 

2. Hop on the Star Ferry

As we mentioned earlier, public transportation acts as its own Hong Kong tourist attraction. Hop on the Star Ferry and cross between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island just like a local.

This is a cheap way to get some of the best views of the iconic Hong Kong skyline along Victoria Harbour.

3. Rummage for Hidden Gems at the Temple Street Night Market

Hong Kong is full of street markets that will totally dazzle you. Get lost at this nighttime bazaar where hundreds of stalls pop up after sunset to offer a dizzying array of knick-knacks. 

Temple Street Market Hong Kong

Local tip: If you feel like buying something, don’t forget to haggle until the last second. 

4. Visit a temple

Need a break from the bustling city and loud street food stalls? Try visiting one of Hong Kong’s many temples. 

Temple Hong Kong
Photo by Maido Parv

The Wong Tai Sin Temple in Kowloon is one of the most popular. It’s a sacred space dedicated to three different religions: Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. A similar location to visit is the Man Mo Temple. Built in 1847, it’s the oldest temple in Hong Kong, named in honour of Man, the god of literature, and Mo, the god of war. The Sha Tsin’s Ten Thousand Buddhas are another must-see temple attraction where you’ll find more than 13,000 Buddhas housed within. 

5. Take a hike

Get ready to sweat on one of the city’s many hills, mountains, and country park trails. Before deciding which one you’ll explore, don’t forget to wear sunscreen and keep a water bottle in your backpack. Temperatures and humidity can be major challenges during a hike in any of these locations.

If you want to combine two of the activities from this list, you can hike to Victoria Peak instead of taking the tram. Looking for a bigger challenge and a breathtaking view? Dragon’s Back Trail was selected by TIME Asia as the best urban hiking trail. We also suggest Tai Mo Shan, which is the highest peak in HK with an elevation of more than 3,000 ft. 

6. Visit Tai O Fishing Village

You can’t miss the chance to see one of the few places left in the world to find traditional bamboo houses supported by stone columns in water. Tai O, also known as the Venice of Hong Kong, is a little village that’s been inhabited by the Tanka (boat-people) for more than 200 years. Take a little cruise around these houses and try some delicious local seafood.

7. Get lost

We could suggest many different places in Hong Kong, like the Big Buddha, the party area of Lan Kwai Fong, or even the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. However, our last and most important suggestion for Hong Kong travellers is to “get lost’!”

Get lost in the city
Photo Alexandre Tessler

Despite its size and population (almost 8 million people), HK is one of the safest places on earth. So don’t miss the chance to get lost in the city and capture some unforgettable moments. 

Ready to explore Hong Kong? Check out our blog for more tips on how to make the most of your study-abroad program!