Listly by Joanna James
As one of Asia's top vacation destinations, Hong Kong offers visitors a host of exciting activities. Here are ten of the most engaging things to do during a holiday in the island nation.
Often considered a rite of passage, a cruise along Victoria Harbour on a traditional Chinese junk boat is a must for all first time visitors to Hong Kong. Not only is the ride the best way to witness the Hong Kong skyline but an ideal vantage point from which to catch the Symphony of Lights.
Occupying pride of place on the Po Fook Hill Mountains, the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery is an iconic temple every traveller must explore during a trip to the island. The hike up to the mountain alone is well worth the effort as the 9 storey pagoda with its shrines, halls and pavilions is truly awe-inspiring.
When in Kowloon, there's no way to spend one's evening than with some retail therapy at the Temple Street Night Market. Ideal for bargain hunters and those in search of cheap souvenirs, the food stalls at this sprawling market are another reason tourists head to the venue.
Hong Kong is renowned for its unusual food concepts and eating dessert before the main meal is a popular activity among locals and expats. The Dessert Kitchen is a venue that capitalizes on this concept with an array of mouth-watering Asian desserts and treats.
Taking a ride on the longest outdoor escalator in the world is another must for travellers. Located in The Central Mid-Levels, the escalator which travels 2624 feet from Central Hong Kong to the Western districts is also a great way to see the countless shops and restaurants that line the way.
As the self-declared nightlife hub in Hong Kong, Lan Kwai Fong is the perfect place to be once the sun goes down in Hong Kong. Home to the country's best bars, nightclubs, restaurants and karaoke lounges, the party scene in Lan Kwai Fong is anything but disappointing. In fact, a whopping 90 pubs and restaurants are found in this area alone.
Dubbed Asia's finest urban hike by TIME Magazine, the Dragon's Back trail is no ordinary hiking trail in Hong Kong. Offering trekkers panoramic views of the city below, this challenging hike is a great way to spend time outdoors during a Hong Kong getaway. Visitors based at the Park Hotel Hong Kong or any other 4 star hotels in Hong Kong can organize the hike with the help of local tour operators.
Compared to the Hollywood Walk of Fame due to the nature and the sheer number of Hong Kong film star plaques that line the streets the Avenue of the Stars is a one of a kind tribute to screen legends in the country. From Bruce Lee to Jackie Chan, find the plaques dedicated to your favourite Hong Kong actions heroes here.
Head up to the Sky Terrace at Hong Kong's most popular lookout point The Peak to truly get a bird's eye view of the island nation. A tram ride to the top is also available while those who prefer to hike can also do so.
Also known as the Tian Tan Temple, climbing the 268 steps up to the Big Buddha, the biggest Buddha sculpture in a seated position on the planet is another fun and memorable activity in Hong Kong.