Joanna James
Regarded as the epicentre of Hong Kong - Central is home to several cultural attractions that date back decades. Here are the top 10 things to do in Central.
Offering unrivalled views over the city and harbour, Victoria Peak is the number one vantage point in Hong Kong. Known simply as 'the peak' by locals, visitors have several modes of transport to reach the top - taxi, hiking or the peak tram. Once at the summit, you'll find a collection of trendy restaurants, souvenir shops, and other attractions including a Madame Tussauds, and a museum dedicated to the history of the peak.
Lan Kwai Fong is where you'll find the biggest parties in Central. There's a seemingly endless array of bars, nightclubs and restaurants in the area. Revellers show up around sunset, and crowds continue to grow well into the night until an all-out street party breaks out. With so many establishments to see, bar hopping is a must.
The exterior of this cultural attraction might not look very exciting, but inside, you'll find a riveting catalogue of the city's maritime history. The museum was renovated a few years ago so it feels modern and informative, and features exhibits ranging from the days Hong Kong was merely a fishing village, to the days of piracy, right up to modern times.
An escalator may sound like an odd tourist attraction, but these hold a world record and are definitely worth experiencing. The Central Mid-levels Escalators cover a distance of 800m and elevates up to 135m, making it the 'the longest outdoor, covered escalator system in the world'. On either side of the escalators are several shops, bars and restaurants, perfect for anyone intent on exploring through the many levels.
Inspired by the famous London Eye, the Observation Wheel is a popular tourist spot. Overlooking the famous Central Ferry Pier and several skyscrapers, visitors are guaranteed amazing views. However, the best time to visit is at night when the light show starts over the harbour.
With so many highways, tunnels, and bridges crisscrossing across Hong Kong island and Kowloon, many would assume the ferry would have been decommissioned years ago; however, Star Ferry remains as one of the city's most famous and beloved attractions. There are two crossing, but the most popular option is the Central Ferry Pier, located not far from the Observation Wheel and a few Hong Kong luxury hotels in the area, such as The Murray, Hong Kong, for example. The ferry gives visitors a glimpse back into the past as this was the only mode of transport before modern forms of transportation were introduced.
This green haven provides a welcome break from the concrete jungle that makes up Central. Aside from the walking paths, and lush greenery, the park contains several water features, an aviary, an elegant tea shop and tea museum, so there's plenty to see and do.
This beautiful preserved temple is an amazing place to experience, thanks to the incense sticks numbering on the hundreds, and their lingering smoke. Built in 1847, the timeless Man Mo Temple stands in sharp contrast to the modern business district located just 10 minutes away.
Regarded as one of the top locations for cultural performances in Hong Kong - city hall houses several concert halls and a theatre where a host of intentionally recognised artists have performed. The famed Cantonese opera productions also take place here, so if you want to take in a show, drop by city hall to check out the performance dates.
Located on a hilltop in Central, the zoo and garden offers opportunity to view several furry primates, colorful birds, and reptiles, including giant tortoises. Entry is free so do visit with the whole family.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
