Photo credit: INSTAGRAM/@RCEE_XANDRAHRAIN, DORAN ERICKSON VIA UNSPLASH

10 fun and interesting things to do in Hong Kong

From shopping for sneakers to hiking to a waterfall, there’s something for everyone.

Celeste Lim

Yogurt lover with a Spotify playlist for every mood.

Published: 12 November 2020, 1:05 PM

On Nov 11, Singapore’s Ministry of Transport announced that Singapore and Hong Kong will start the world’s first travel bubble on Nov 22.

Up to 200 travellers will be able to fly into Hong Kong and Singapore on one single flight each day. This will be subsequently increased to two flights a day from Dec 7. 

For those excitedly planning their trips, here are 10 fun things you can do in the country. 

1. Get good deals at night markets

Hong Kong is known for its many street markets and night markets that sell a variety of items including souvenirs, clothes and handicrafts.

Most store vendors at markets are open to bargains, so don’t be afraid to negotiate for a lower price when buying items, but make sure not to push your luck!

Some popular markets in Hong Kong include Temple Street Night Market and Ladies Market.

 

Most market stalls are open from evening to midnight. PHOTO CREDIT: FLORIAN WEHDE VIA UNSPLASH

2. Shop at Sham Shui Po

Sham Shui Po is one of Hong Kong’s oldest but trendiest neighbourhoods, known for its textile industry and fabric shops. 

Yen Chow Street Hawker Bazaar sells fabrics, Yu Chau Street sells beads and sewing supplies, and Nam Cheong Street sells ribbons and laces. Alternatively, you can get ready-to-wear clothes at Cheung Sha Wan Fashion Road.

 

The neighbourhood is frequented by local fashion designers. PHOTO CREDIT: HAYLEY LYLA VIA UNSPLASH

 

The neighbourhood also has non-garment shops: Golden Computer Center and Arcade sells electronics such as gaming consoles and computers, and Wong Kee Flea Market sells a variety of toys.

3. Admire Hong Kong’s skyline from Tsim Sha Tsui

Tsim Sha Tsui is famous for its amazing view of Victoria Harbour. It also lends itself to the best view of  A Symphony of Lights, a daily sound and light show that utilises laser lights and fireworks.

 

The light show, which starts at 8PM every night, involves 42 different buildings. PHOTO CREDITS: TUAN NGUYEN VIA UNSPLASH

 

The area is well-known for the Avenue of Stars, the Hong Kong equivalent of Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, as well as its 44m-tall Clock Tower. You can also check out some cool shops, including one for vintage cameras.

4. Get your fortune told at a temple

Visiting a temple is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture, as Hong Kong locals frequently go to temples to pray and make incense offerings. 

Many temples in Hong Kong also offer “Kau Chim”, a method of fortune telling with Chien Tung (fortune sticks) and moon blocks.

 

Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple is famous for its accurate fortune tellings, attracting millions of people each year. PHOTO CREDITS: TIFF NG VIA PEXELS

5. Tuck into some authentic dim sum

Although Singapore has no shortage of dim sum, going to an authentic dim sum restaurant in Hong Kong is a must-do for any tourist.

Typically paired with yum cha (tea), these bite-sized delicacies come in various forms: Fried, steamed, baked or deep-fried.

 

Dim sum is typically served in the morning or early afternoon, but some places serve it all day long. PHOTO CREDIT: DORAN ERICKSON VIA UNSPLASH

 

Choi Lung Teahouse is a popular restaurant you can check out. Or, if you’re willing to pay more, you can try Tin Lung Heen, which has received two Michelin stars.

In case you can’t wait to travel to Hong Kong to try its authentic cuisine, popular Hong Kong brands in Singapore are running promotions until Nov 15. Find out more here.

6. Get new kicks at Sneakers Street

Unleash your inner hypebeast by shopping for shoes at Sneakers Street, which has over 100 retail shops selling all sorts of sneakers, trainers, sporting equipment and apparel.

The street’s shops have something for all ages, including limited or special edition sneakers. 

All shoes sold on the street are authentic. Some popular athletic brands such as Adidas and Nike have even set up flagship shops there.

 

Unless you are purchasing new models, there is a high chance you can get good discounts of up to 60 per cent on your shoes. PHOTO CREDIT: INSTAGRAM/@2MILES2DISCOVER

7. Take the peak tram to Sky Terrace 428

Sky Terrace 428 is named after its height – a whopping 428m above sea level. It is Hong Kong’s highest observation tower, providing a 360-degree view of Hong Kong’s skyscrapers and Victoria Harbour.

 

While you can reach the deck by MTR, bus or car, the peak tram is arguably the best way there as it provides a picturesque view and direct entry to the terrace. PHOTO CREDIT: KDWK LEUNG VIA UNSPLASH

 

While there, you can drop by the Peak Market, a shopping mall with several stores, eateries and the Madame Tussauds Museum.

8. Tour the Hong Kong Cemetery

One of the most unique ways to learn about a country is learning about the people that helped build it – by looking at their tombstones

On the Happy Valley Cemetery Tour, guests get a private tour of the old cemeteries in the Happy Valley District. They will learn about the people – from powerful politicians to famous celebrities – buried there, and how they contributed to Hong Kong.

 

Many of the dead at the cemetery practised different religions, including Islam, Catholicism and Hinduism. PHOTO CREDIT: HONG KONG TOURISM BOARD

9. Shower under a waterfall

The closest thing we have to a waterfall in Singapore is the Rain Vortex at Jewel Changi Airport, so a trip to Hong Kong is a great opportunity to admire some natural waterfalls.

Ping Nam Waterfalls and Sheung Luk Stream are some picturesque locations where you can stand under a waterfall or take a dip in the water. Remember to wear a swimsuit under your normal attire.

 

You may need to hike to get to some of the waterfalls, but it is worth it for the view. PHOTO CREDIT: INSTAGRAM/@RCEE_XANDRAHRAIN

10. Fulfil your childhood fantasies at Hong Kong Disneyland

No trip to Hong Kong is complete without a visit to its largest theme park, Hong Kong Disneyland.

The park currently has seven different “lands”, including Fantasyland with the iconic Castle of Magical Dreams and Toy Story Land, inspired by the well-loved animated franchise.

Don’t forget to download the Hong Kong Disneyland app before your visit to check for waiting times at the various attractions.

 

Do note that you have to make a reservation seven days before your arrival, and all guests are required to undergo temperature screening and wear face masks. PHOTO CREDIT: KON KARAMPELAS VIA UNSPLASH

 

If you do not plan on visiting Hong Kong during the travel bubble, you may consider having a staycation in Singapore instead.

As rules and restrictions are ever-changing during the COVID-19 pandemic, remember to do your research and look up the protocols of locations you plan to visit. Stay safe and enjoy your vacation!

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