Hong Kong has finally reopened its borders to international travellers though flight circuit breakers and seven days of compulsory quarantine will not jump-start tourism right away, the move is definitely a big step in the right direction. If you are visiting, (the summer is currently glorious!) we have compiled a list of unique, must-see attractions while in town.
1. Victoria Peak Garden
Tramming all the way to The Peak is always a must for every visitor in Hong Kong, however if you’re looking for a respite from the bustling crowds and prefer a moment of calm with the family, Victoria Peak Garden, just a 10-minute walk from the summit and main attraction, is just the place to go.
Formerly the Mountain Lodge of the Governor of Hong Kong, which was demolished in 1946, its Chinese-style garden remains as one of the most scenic and lush parks in the city. Renovated in 2015, the pavilion is the perfect spot for families to picnic and little ones to run free while appreciating the city’s colonial heritage. The Gardens feature a vast open space and ample grassy lawns, and Victorian-style structures, such as gazebos on colonnades, a water fountain and benches that offer resting areas for visitors.
2. Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden
Hong Kong is home to hundreds of centuries-old Chinese temples and monasteries that are heavily trafficked by the city’s seven million residents and passing tourists, namely the 18,000 square-metre Wong Tai Sin Temple. However, one MTR stop over, just a stone’s throw away from the high-rise residential buildings and bustling highways of Diamond Hill is the serene Chi Lin Nunnery — one of the largest Buddhist temples in the city and the largest handmade wooden building in the world.
Established in 1934, it features an impressive interlocking system that — believe it or not — was built without any use of nails. Opposite the temple, the Nan Lian Garden is a tranquil resting area to appreciate the quiet sounds of nature away from the busy city. The complex houses 16 halls of different Buddha statues, as well as a school, library, dentist and multiple residences for the elderly.
Also Read: Six beautifully unique temples to visit in Hong Kong
3. Po Toi Island
Located at the southeastern tip of Hong Kong Island, just 3km from Aberdeen and Stanley, Po Toi Island boasts beautiful natural rock formations, gorgeous views of the Tai Wan Bay, and one of the best seafood the city has to offer right by the pier and Po Toi Beach.
This underrated and lesser traveled island offers a picturesque destination for an ocean getaway. Whether you are travelling by the service kaito (small ferry) or mooring your own sloop, take in the breathtaking sights of the island’s natural rock formations and ocean views by trekking along the island’s moderately easy trail along the shore. Finally, a trip here would not be complete without a stop at Ming Kee Seafood restaurant — lauded by the city’s gourmand for its excellent seafood.
4. Mini Great Wall of Cheung Chau Island
Another island worth a visit is Cheung Chau. An easy stroll along the paved trails that line the idyllic coastline leads visitors to either the North Pavillion or the path towards the Mini Great Wall.
While the former serves gorgeous panoramic views of the pristine South China Sea and several other Instagram-worthy landmarks along the way, the lesser trafficked trail to Mini Great Wall is the perfect opportunity to let kids experience nature and all its natural beauty. As part of the Cheung Chau Family Trail, the path is an easier alternative but is equally scenic. The trail ends at the less crowded Kwun Yam Beach where the local-favourite seven-decade Hing Kee bar serves fresh mocktails and cold bears by the shore.
And if you’re looking to take a piece of Hong Kong home with you, the island is also famed for its a handmade craft stores and specialty coffee. Those shopping for novelty will surely be keen.
Also Read: Island Getaway: A quick sight-seeing guide to Cheung Chau
5. Shun Sum Yuen Farm
Who doesn’t enjoy the sight of sunflowers on a sunny day? Tucked away in San Tin, Yuen Long is one of the city’s best kept secret, the stunning Shun Sum Yuen Farm.
Giving off total summer vibes, the farm — spanning 7,000 sq.ft — grows fields of yellow, gold, orange, and even red sunflowers, that come from Japanese and Dutch origins and blooms from June to August. It may be a little out of the way, but it will surely be the highlight of your summer as you walk through a field of towering sunflowers.
Other Unique Things To Do:
Explore the city’s growing craft breweries and distilleries
As part of the ever growing micro-cultures in the city, craft beers and spirits has been experiencing a boom among locals and expats. From the likes of the pioneer Hong Kong Beer Co., and the well-established Young Master Brewery to homegrown 100% locally produced premium craft gin distillery Two Moons Distillery, there are plenty to choose from when picking a place to book a tour and sample the city’s unique twist on your favorite tipple.
Create your own pearl jewellery
The city’s only pearl guided tour and pearl workshop, the Hong Kong Pearl Cultivation Association organises weekly fun, educational workshop that teaches visitors about the secrets of pearls and sharing their knowledge of 4,000-year old pearl history and culture as an effort to make pearls more accessible to the public, while raising the awareness of sustainable development as part of the city’s revitalisation of the fishery and agriculture industry.
The workshops allows participants to shuck their own farm-grown Hong Kong Akoya Pearls, design, create and decorate their own pearl accessories.
Bid farewell to the iconic Star Ferry
The iconic Star Ferry ride, though not unknown to tourist, is one that should not be missed this time around. One of the city’s most popular attraction, the scenic ferry ride across Victoria Harbour with the view the city’s skyline in the backdrop may be one of the last locals and visitors will experience.
Due to the city’s 2019 political unrest, followed by almost three years of Covid-19 pandemic, the ferry company has struggled to keep up its services in the face of dwindling crowds and tourist, and may sadly suspend its journey after 142 years in service.
Also Read: Hong Kong: Natural wonders you didn’t know existed