Joanna James
If you visited Central Hong Kong in the 80s, you would have a completely different experience. But now, with the implementation of the Metro Line, the area has become a fabulous tourist destination.
One way or the other, this is something you have to do to travel between Kowloon and the mainland. However, it has become a significant tourist attraction as well. You can go for a Star Ferry ride at any time of the day – but the night time is the best time for it as it gives you the opportunity to experience nocturnal Central Hong Kong.
Not as striking as the London Eye – but for sure, it is where the idea came from. This can be sampled any time of the day while appreciating the views across the strait including Central Ferry Pier, IFC Shopping Mall and the towering skyscrapers. Though the best time to go for a ride is during the night-time when the Symphony of Lights enlivens the area.
The country has no shortage of cliffs where you can get a bird's eye view of the city. But Victoria Peak presides over all of them. Surrounded by all the captivating sceneries, you can hike the peak at any time of the day. Once you reach the top, you will be greeted by a spectrum of attractions including gift shops, art galleries and restaurants.
With easy access from Lan Kwai Fong Hotel – one of the Central Hong Kong Island hotels – Hong Kong Maritime Museum is nestled between the Hong Kong Observation Wheel and the Golden Bauhinia Square. The museum unfolds the maritime history of Hongkong that goes back a thousand years. There are exhibits pertaining to the piracy age of Hongkong and the primitive fishing era in the Peral Delta.
The square signifies the handover ceremony that took place in July 1997. Located right outside the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Golden Bauhinia Square is considered a major tourist attraction. The gilded bauhinia flower is at its best during the nightfall as the colourful beams from the neighbouring buildings fall over it.
What's interesting about the place is that it is situated up in a hill. The zoo is located 100 meters above sea level – so it's quite a steep hike. But if you are up for it, you are in for a lovely encounter of birds, orangutans, lemurs, gibbons and other primates of the animal kingdom. There's a large aviary as well where you can see hundreds of birds and giant tortoises.
The temple was built in 1847 with the purpose of worshipping the God of Literature and the God of War. Inside the temple is filled with the characteristic aroma of burning incense presenting its visitors with a sensory experience.
The speciality in Hong Kong – dim sums are loved by everybody. To sample the best dim sums, head down to Luk Yu Tea House in the Central.
It's a shame if you travel back to your home country without tasting the street food Hong Kong has to offer, especially, if you are in Central Hong Kong. The streets are crammed with street food vendors – you won't have to go out of your way to find a delicious grub.
This is one other thing Central Hong is famous for. Come nightfall; the area turns into something rather different and exciting with locals and tourists milling around looking to have fun.
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.
