Joanna James
Home to some of Asia's most iconic theme parks and recreational hotspots, Hong Kong is a sightseer's dream destination. Here are some of the country's most popular points of interest every traveller must visit at least once.
As one of the largest and most impressive theme parks on the island, Ocean Park is no ordinary family-friendly leisure hub. Spread out across a whopping 9, 15,000 square meters, the venue is home to the Wavefront and the Summit which are connected not only by ocean express train but also by an aerial cable car. The venue's aquarium is the main reason most visitors tour, Ocean Park, as there are 50 marine species occupying its confines.
Often described as the mother of all attractions in Hong Kong, the country's Disneyland theme park is the main reason some tourists vacation on the island in the first place. Sprawled across a vast expanse, Hong Kong Disneyland is among the biggest theme parks in the world and the happiest place on earth for most children living in the region. Divided into seven zones named Toy Story Land, Adventureland, Fantasyland, Main Street, U.S.A, Tomorrowland, Mystic Point and Grizzly Gulch, the locale allows one to live out childhood dreams in a landscape peopled by beloved cartoon characters.
Whether one is based at the Dorsett Mongkok or any one of the other Mongkok hotels in Hong Kong or even Macau, no trip to the island nation would be complete without taking in the views from Victoria Peak. Located on West Hong Kong Island this iconic observation deck boasting an elevation of 552 meters is where all of Hong Kong's diverse landscapes can be glimpsed from a vaulted vantage point.
Also known as the Tian Tan Buddha statue, the Big Buddha on Lantau Island is not a point of interest that is just reserved for culture buffs and Buddhist devotees. The mammoth sculpture found near the Po Lin Monastery displays the Buddha Shakyamuni in all his splendour. Reached via a series of 268 steps, the statue made entirely in bronze and comprising 202 individual pieces also commands panoramic views of the city below. The Tian Tan Buddha Statue welcomes visitors from 10.00 am to 5.30 pm.
Hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers visiting Hong Kong should not miss the chance to walk along the Dragon's Back ridge which connects Shek O Peak with Wan Cham Shan. The staggering views on either side are the main reason to follow this hiking trail which is ranked among the top urban trails for trekkers.
Taking place down Salisbury Road in Tsim Sha Tsui, the Symphony of Lights is a one of a kind audio-visual spectacle that takes place at regular intervals from 8.00 am to 8.15 pm. This light and sound show which is best viewed after dark takes place with an impressive 42 buildings serving as its backdrop. Having earned a mention in the Guinness Book of World Records, it is one of the most rewarding experiences of a Hong Kong holiday.
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