The name Hong Kong, literally meaning "fragrant harbour", comes from the city’s history of trading fragrant incense. The iconic modern skyline of Hong Kong reveals what a long way the city has come - it’s more trading floors now than trading flowers. A symbol of the vast development of modern China it is also very much a unique place in the Chinese powerhouse, thanks to its former status under British rule. It’s far from all politics and commerce here, though, as this is a city that loves to play. There’s plenty for tourists to do: world-class shopping, fine dining, cheering with the crowds at the horse races or watching playful puppet shows. However, that fragrant harbour still exerts a pull, and sipping a drink as the sun sets there is nothing better than to watch the boats coming and going.
.Areas & Neighbourhoods in Hong Kong
Central District - Hong Kong’s central district is the heart of this buzzing metropolis. In the evening this area lights up with amazing acrobatic and opera shows and a vibrant clubbing scene.
Hong Kong Island Harbour - This busy port is the first place you’ll see when arriving on Hong Kong Island. It’s a lovely spot for people watching and eating fresh fish from a street stall.
Kowloon - Shop, shop and then hit the shops again in this peninsula’s marvellous mix of malls and street markets.
Shanghai Street - Strolling down Shanghai Street is like stepping back in time. This street is fantastic for picking up interesting souvenirs such as lucky sayings carved on bamboo sticks or pretty ceramic bowls.
Things to See in the City of Hong Kong
For a breathtaking view ride the Star Ferry on a clear night from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island Harbour to see the city illuminated in all its grandeur. Hong Kong’s numerous skyscrapers are a spectacular sight and many have rooftop bars allowing tourists to see the city from another view. Those interested in architecture will enjoy visiting St John’s Cathedral and Li Seung Chun. The cathedral’s stunning stain glass windows tell stories of the local people such as fisher women, while Lui Seng Chun presents an intriguing combination of Chinese and European architectural styles. The electrifying colours of the Yuen Po Street Bird Garden and Flower Market are a must see. The rainbow collection of birds and flowers are a beautiful sight. A visit to the Lam Tsuen Wishing Tree will present another unique photo opportunity. Laden with paper streamers tied to oranges this tree is a symbol of good luck.
Things to Do in the City of Hong Kong
The options for things to do in Hong Kong are endless. Start your day on the Aberdeen Promenade to stroll through the city’s infamous fish market of enormous water tanks teeming with sealife. There are also funky karaoke parlours in this area. Hong Kong is known for its shopping, there are options for everyone from glamorous malls to vintage dens to bustling bazaars. The city is also famous for the Happy Valley Racecourse where the animated atmosphere of cheering and drinking with punters is great fun. A good place to take the kids is Ocean Park with its vast selection of both white knuckle rides for big kids and more gentle attractions for the young ones or Hong Kong’s very own Disneyland®. Then, for a bit culture, there’s the Hong Kong Heritage Museum where the children’s area includes interactive play zones and mock-ups of traditional Cantonese villages. To fill up for a busy day in Hong Kong nothing beats a bowl of freshly steamed dim sum. As one of the world's top culinary capitals, dining here will not disappoint.
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