Joanna James
Coupled with the tapestry of East meets West, tradition with modernity, Hong Kong is a special cultural experience for first-time visitors. From ancient temples and heaving markets to architectural marvels, this city's rich heritage is begging to be investigated. Herein follows a guide to the most significant cultural attractions that Hong Kong has to offer.
On Lantau Island, the Tian Tan Buddha, or Big Buddha, is a gigantic figure that commands a view over the surrounding countryside from the heights of a hill. The site is reached via a car that passes over picturesque views of the surrounding lands. At the foot is the quiet Po Lin Monastery with its intricately beautiful Buddhist architecture and trimmed gardens. Take a walk down to the nearby Wisdom Path, a route lined with wooden steles bearing inscriptions in the form of Buddhist prayers. It is spiritual, and serene, and gives insight into one of Hong Kong's most deeply ingrained Buddhist traditions.
Tucked away in Sheung Wan, Man Mo Temple is an oasis in the sea of energy that bombards the city's streets. This 19th-century Taoist temple worships the gods of literature, Man Cheong, and war, Mo Tai. It is mystic here, with aromatic smoke created by coiled incense spirals as soon as one steps inside. The intricate carvings and gold altars of the temple tell a different story of craftsmanship of ages past. This cultural gem is conveniently located for visitors staying at Cosmo Hotel Hong Kong and should not be hard to fit in.
For a slice of local life at its most colourful, head to Temple Street Night Market. This crowded marketplace really comes alive when the sun goes down, offering everything from street food delicacies to souvenirs and fortune-telling sessions. The market truly becomes an overwhelming sensory experience with the colourful stalls lining up along the streets, the sizzling food in woks, and energetic chatter from vendors and shoppers alike. It acts, therefore, as a perfect destination for the budget traveller in conjunction with stays in any of the budget hotels in Hong Kong, making it easy to take in all that the bustling cultural hub has to offer without having to burst one's wallet.
Situated amidst a confluence of the historical and modern, Tai Kwun is Hong Kong's revitalized heritage and arts centre. This complex, comprising art galleries, interactive exhibitions, and open courtyards holding cultural performances, used to be the police station during the colonial era. Take a step into the well-preserved prison cells and listen to the stories of Hong Kong's colonial days. There are cool cafes and shops, too, where you can balance learning and indulging with leisure.
The Star Ferry is more than transportation; it is an icon that defines culture in Hong Kong. Since 1888, the ferry has been connecting Hong Kong Island to Kowloon, offering striking views of the city's skyline. The boat ride gives a contrasting view of Victoria Harbour's historic vessel against the towering skyscrapers. It is especially magical at sunset and hence memorable for any first-time visitor.
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.
