(by Tsem Rinpoche and Stella Cheang)

Hong Kong. The name conjures up images of gleaming skyscrapers, long stretches of heavenly street food, endless shopping options and a vibrant nightlife. In short, carefree indulgence. It is not wrong to indulge and temper the journey of life with light-hearted experiences. Such experiences, especially when shared with family, friends, and even strangers with whom our paths cross, contribute to the completeness of the human existence.

However, why not combine pleasure with merit by adding to your itinerary some of the holy sites for which Hong Kong is also renowned? The only real difference between an ordinary holiday and a pilgrimage is the motivation for the journey in our minds.

While on a trip to visit holy places, we must remember to leave behind the mental garbage that we tend to accumulate, and focus on developing a good motivation to activate our innate spiritual dispositions. In this manner, we can activate the blessings of these sacred power places to develop higher qualities in this lifetime.

Stella Cheang

Location

Hong Kong, the first Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, is located off its southeastern coast at the mouth of the Pearl River Delta in the South China Sea. It comprises of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon Peninsula, the New Territories and more than 200 outlying islands.

The name ‘Hong Kong’ means ‘Fragrant Harbour’. Its strategic location combined with a deep but sheltered harbour are the main reasons why Hong Kong has become the gateway between China and the world.

One of the world’s busiest and most modern metropolitan cities, Hong Kong operates at a pace faster than most. Hence, it will be helpful to familiarise yourself with its geographical layout prior to your visit.

• Hong Kong Island: This is Hong Kong’s financial, political and economic hub. Besides the spectacular skyline and luxury shopping malls, it is also home to many historical tourist attractions, including the famous Victoria Peak.
• Kowloon Peninsula: This former industrial area, once known for its low-end accommodation, is now the infamous Kowloon City brimming with international gourmet eateries, museums, markets and the Avenue of Stars.
• The New Territories: This area north of Kowloon that comprises of outlying islands like Lantau Island and Lamma Island, is home to the world-renowned Tian Tan Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, Hong Kong Disneyland, parks and temples.

About 40% of Hong Kong’s territory consists of protected country parks. A 20-minute drive from just about anywhere in the city will bring you to sublime beaches and lush green mountains.

Population

In the mid-19^th century, Hong Kong’s population was barely 130,000. Vigorous immigration began taking place in the late 19^th century when Hong Kong was still a collection of small fishing villages but showed great economic promise as a harbour, especially after the British colonised the island.

Today, with slightly over 6,300 people per square kilometre, Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated modern cities in the world. Residents enjoy a high standard of living, on par with other major metropolises like Tokyo.

The majority of the population is of Han descent and originates from various regions of Canton in China. However, they proudly identify themselves as Hèung Góng Yàhn 香港人, a term which roughly translates as ‘Hongkongers’ or ‘Hong Kongese’ in English.

More than 95% of Hong Kong’s seven million population is ethnically Chinese and they speak fluent Cantonese and English. The Cantonese dialect is more popular than Mandarin, the official language of China.

Climate

Hong Kong’s climate is formally known as an ‘oceanic monsoon climate’. Characteristic of this is its mercurial weather and temperature changes throughout the year. In fact, it is an unspoken rule for Hong Kongers to carry an umbrella all year round as they experience an average of 101 rainy days annually.

Hong Kong has four distinguishable seasons:

History

Hong Kong’s rich history dates back to the Qin Dynasty circa 220 B.C. Coins and relics from the Han Dynasty circa 200 B.C. were uncovered in Kowloon in the 1950s. There are also historical records of Arabian and Persian sailors who anchored at Hong Kong, and of others who came to acquire porcelain-making skills in the Tang Dynasty period around 618 A.D. to 907 A.D.

During the 17^th century reign of Emperor Kangxi, many traders from the West arrived; first the Portuguese and the Dutch, and then the French. To contain the influx of foreign merchants to the mainland, foreign traders were limited to the port of Canton in Hong Kong. This marked the start of Hong Kong’s steady commercial growth and development.

Trade was unfavourably unilateral as the Chinese imported very little while foreigners could not get enough of all things Chinese; tea and silk were the most popular items and greatly sought after. However, all this changed when the British introduced opium.

As opium consumption among the Chinese grew exponentially from the 1770s, the drug became the “real money” in China’s black market. At its height, there were an estimated one million opium addicts, from poor coolies and middle class traders to rich merchants, soldiers and high-ranking government officials, men and women alike.

By the 1820s, the opium trade had turned into an economic crisis for the Chinese. Two wars were fought against this unwelcomed Western influence, first from 1840 to 1842, and again from 1856 to 1858. Following this series of unsuccessful attempts to oust them, the administration of Hong Kong was transferred to the British, officially marking the start of the period of colonisation.

It was then that Hong Kong began its evolution from a collection of two dozen villages to one of the greatest port cities the world has ever seen. The population swelled as Chinese refugees fled the chaotic mainland for Hong Kong, attracted by the thriving opium trade and unusual financial opportunities. The rapid population expansion persisted until after World War II.

Many of Hong Kong’s monuments, attractions and major corporations were built in this era. Some examples are the Happy Valley Horse Track in 1844, the Man Mo Temple in 1847, St. John’s Cathedral in 1849, the HSBC bank in 1864, and the 1.4 km Peak Tram to Victoria Peak in 1888.

The immigrants from mainland China were not all desperate illiterates trying to secure a living. In fact, some were successful businessmen, bankers, financiers, entrepreneurs and property tycoons in their homeland, Shanghai and Ningbo, who brought with them financial capital and the skills to grow their riches riding on British entrepreneurial policies.

This was a pivotal period for Hong Kong, when it played the role of the world’s gateway to China. It greatly enhanced the local standard of living and defined the modern city that Hong Kong has become today. By the time the British returned Hong Kong to China, it was a critical centre of business, financial trade, tourism, fashion and entertainment.

Where to Go: Tourist Attractions

Outwardly, Hong Kong is a wild city that never sleeps, but at its core it is quite the opposite. The majority of the population consists of families which have practised Buddhism or Taoism for many generations. Hongkongers are naturally drawn to spirituality and show genuine respect for all religions and places of worship. Furthermore, their temples and outdoor statues are meticulously preserved to cater to the large number of local and foreign pilgrims.

Apart from spiritual sights, there are plenty of other attractions that are uniquely Hong Kong. Here are some top picks by geographical location that can easily be included in your Hong Kong holiday itinerary.

Places of Interest: Hong Kong Island

Tung Lin Kok Yuen 東蓮覺苑

Tung Lin Kok Yuen is a nunnery, educational institution and historical site which is currently home to about 100 nuns and lay devotees. It was founded in 1935 by Lady Clara Ho-Tung, a faithful Buddhist who dedicated much of her time to charitable activities. She also took on the Bodhisattva Vows.

Tung Lin Kok Yuen was built with the funds that Lady Clara’s husband gifted her for their 50^th wedding anniversary. Its exterior is a union of traditional oriental and classical western elements. The interior houses a large display of ancient and valuable sculptures, plaques, calligraphies and paintings, each with a unique story to tell.

Address:
15 Shan Kwong Rd, Happy Valley, Hong Kong

Nearest MTR:
Central station, Exit B.
Take the tram from the station and alight at Happy Valley.

Opening Hours:
9:00am to 5:30pm daily. They break for lunch from 11:30am to 12:30pm.

Victoria Peak

One of the most prestigious neighbourhoods since colonial times, Victoria Peak is the highest point of Hong Kong and features stunning views that stretch all the way to the green hills of the New Territories. The tram ride up to the peak is a matchless experience in itself.

Located at the top of the hill, the Peak Tower is as vogueish as modern Hong Kong architecture gets while the Sky Terrace within boasts a 360-degree vantage point from which patrons can dine with a panoramic backdrop of Hong Kong.

Address:
Mid-Levels, Hong Kong

Nearest MTR:
Central station.
Take Exit J2 to ride the Peak Tram from the Peak Tram Lower Terminus

Opening Hours:
7:00am to midnight

Ocean Park

Ocean Park Hong Kong is a marine life-themed park featuring more than 80 attractions, thrilling rides and performances. Located on the southern side of Hong Kong Island, it occupies an area of roughly 10 million square feet and has been crowned the 13^th most visited theme park in the world.

The two major attractions are the Waterfront and the Summit, which are connected by cable car and the Ocean Express train. The park celebrated its 40^th anniversary in 2017.

Address:
Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong Island

Nearest MTR:
Ocean Park station, Exit B

Opening Hours:
10:00am to 6:00pm

Entrance Fees:
HK$480 for one-day general admission, suitable for ages 12 years and over.
Check their official website for special rates: oceanpark.com.hk

The Monster Building

The “Monster Building” is the nickname for a complex of five adjacent high-rise buildings that resemble a walled city, namely Oceanic Mansion, Fook Cheong Building, Montane Mansion, Yick Cheong Building and Yick Fat Building.

The imposing edifice is the best way to get a feel of Hong Kong’s population and accommodation density, especially when seen from the courtyard enclosed by the buildings. It has become a favourite filming location in recent years.

Address:
Montane Mansion, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong

Nearest MTR:
Quarry Bay station, Exit A.
Walk along King’s Road towards Tai Koo. The entrance to Montane Mansion and Oceanic Mansion is within three minutes’ walk from the junction at Mount Parker.

Lan Kwai Fong

Lan Kwai Fong is the hottest nightlife spot in Hong Kong, where patrons can find more than 90 bars and restaurants to satiate their taste buds and quench their thirst. This assembly of popular watering holes is frequented by tourists, expats and white collar workers employed in the vicinity.

Lan Kwai Fong also hosts its own street carnivals during festivals like Halloween, Christmas and New Year.

Address:
Central, Hong Kong

Nearest MTR:
Central station, Exit D2.
Walk along Theatre Lane and up D’Aguilar Street.

Opening Hours:
3:00pm to 3:00am daily

Places of Interest: Kowloon Peninsula

Tin Hau Temple Complex 天后古廟

The Tin Hau Temple Complex comprises of five adjacent temple buildings, namely Tin Hau Temple, Shing Wong Temple, Kwun Yum Temple, Shea Tan and Hsu Yuen. It is located in Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon with the Yung Shue Tau public square in front and the popular Temple Street night market surrounding the complex.

These temples are houses of worship to the Goddess of the Sea, Tin Hau; the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin; as well as other deities.

Address:
56-58 Temple St, Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong

Nearest MTR:
Yau Ma Tei station, Exit C; or Jordan station, Exit A

Opening Hours:
9:00am to 5:00pm

Chi Lin Nunnery 志蓮淨苑

Chi Lin Nunnery dates back to the 1930s and is famous for its elegant wooden architecture, sacred Buddhist relics, soul-soothing lotus ponds and beautiful statues made from gold, clay, wood and stone.

Address:
5 Chi Lin Drive, Diamond Hill, Kowloon

Nearest MTR:
Diamond Hill station, Exit C2

Opening Hours:
9:00am to 4:30pm

Nan Lian Garden 南蓮園池

Situated opposite Chi Lin Nunnery is the 3.5-hectare Nan Lian Garden, built in Tang Dynasty style. The circuit that runs through the grounds is meant to be traversed in a clockwise direction, and it regales the eyes with wonderful views of the Lotus Pond, the Blue Pond, the Pavilion of Absolute Perfection, and the Chinese Timber Architecture Gallery, amongst many other stunning buildings and natural features.

Address:
60 Fung Tak Road, Diamond Hill, Kowloon

Nearest MTR:
Diamond Hill station, Exit C2

Opening Hours:
7:00am to 9:00pm

Wong Tai Shin Temple

This well-known shrine is dedicated to the immortal saint who is known for fulfilling the prayers and wishes of devotees. Every Chinese New Year’s eve, thousands of devotees wait outside the temple and rush in at the stroke of midnight to offer incense sticks at the main altar. They believe that the earlier they offer the incense, the better luck they will have that year.

Address:
2 Chuk Yuen Village, Wong Tai Sin, Kowloon

Nearest MTR:
Wong Tai Sin station, Exit B2

Opening Hours:
7:00am to 5:30pm

Victoria Harbour

Many people say Victoria Harbour is the must-see sight of Hong Kong and consider any trip incomplete without a visit here. A narrow but deep strait stands between Victoria Harbour promenade and the impressive Hong Kong skyline where the iconic skyscrapers of the Bank of China, HSBC and the IFC Towers soar majestically into the sky.

At night, “A Symphony of Lights” that includes more than 40 buildings on both sides of the straits lights up the harbour. It was named by the Guinness Book of Records as the “World’s Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show.”

Address:
Admiralty, Harcourt Road

Nearest MTR:
East Tsim Sha Tsui station, Exit L6

A Symphony of Lights:
8:00pm nightly

Avenue of Stars

Created in 1982 in collaboration with The Hong Kong Film Awards Association, the Avenue of Stars is styled on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Selected superstars of the Hong Kong film industry are given the honour of having their names displayed and handprints memorialised here.

The Avenue of Stars is currently closed for an upgrade and exhibits have been temporarily moved to the Garden of Stars at Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East.

Address:
Waterfront Podium Garden

Nearest MTR:
East Tsim Sha Tsui station, Exit J

Opening Hours:
Open 24 hours

Places of Interest: The New Territories

Po Lin Monastery 寶蓮禪寺

Located on Ngong Ping Plateau in Lantau Island, Po Lin Monastery was founded in 1906 by three monks from Jiangsu Province. The main temple houses three bronze statues of the Buddha, representing his past, present and future lives, as well as many Buddhist scriptures.

Address:
Po Lin Monastery, Ngong Ping, Lantau Island

Nearest MTR:
Tung Chung station.
Take the Ngong Ping Cable Car or buses NLB No.2 or No.23 from outside the station to reach the monastery.

Opening Hours:
8:00am to 6:00pm daily.
The vegetarian kitchen runs from 11:30am to 4:30pm on weekdays, and until 7:00pm on weekends and public holidays.

Tian Tan Buddha 天壇大佛

The giant seated Buddha Shakyamuni statue is not only an extension of the revered Po Lin Monastery, but also a grand attraction in its own right. Completed in 1993, this bronze statue is 34 metres tall, weighs over 250 metric tonnes and is reputed to be visible from as far away as Macau (60 km away) on a clear day.

Surrounding the Buddha are six statues known as ‘The Six Offering Devas‘, which are depicted praising and making offerings to Him. The statue sits atop three floors which house holy relics of Buddha Shakyamuni.

Address:
Ngong Ping Rd, Lantau Island, Hong Kong

Nearest MTR:
Tung Chung station.
Take the Ngong Ping Cable Car or buses NLB No.2 or No.23 from outside the station to reach the adjoining Po Lin Monastery.

Opening Hours:
10:00am to 5:30pm

Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery 萬佛寺

Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery is an impressive complex nested on a hillside that is accessible by a stairway of more than 400 steps. Modelled after Tang Dynasty architecture, the construction of this monastery was started by the Venerable Yuet Kai (月溪法師) and his followers in 1951 and was completed in 1957.

The monastery’s main attraction is its collection of 13,000 Buddha statues, a nine-storey pagoda and the unique arhat statues that line the stairs leading to the main complex.

Address:
Lots 358-359,IN D 185, Shatin, Hong Kong

Nearest MTR:
Sha Tin station, Exit B

Opening Hours:
9:00am to 5:30pm daily.
The monastery’s vegetarian restaurant is open from 10:30am to 4:00pm.

Miu Fat Monastery 妙法寺

One of Hong Kong’s most eccentric Buddhist complexes, the Miu Fat Monastery was constructed in 1950 and is now home to three gold-plated statues of Buddha Shakyamuni. Each is about 5 metres tall and located in the Mahavira Hall.

The other main attractions are the sculptures of dragons coiled over pillars, huge stone elephants and many other Buddha statues.

Address:
18 Castle Peak Road (Lam Tei), Lam Tei, Hong Kong

Nearest MTR:
Mongkok station.
Take bus 63X from the station.

Opening Hours:
9:00am to 7:00pm

Tsz Shan Monastery 慈山寺

Tsz Shan Monastery houses the world’s second-tallest outdoor Guan Yin statue. This bronze statue is 76 metres in height, more than twice the height of the Big Buddha on Lantau Island. Most of the HK$1.5 billion building costs were donated by local business magnate, Li Ka-shing.

The temple opened its doors to the public in April 2015 but access is only granted through advance online bookings. Try to make your reservation well in advance because places are limited. Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive an email with the booking reference number, date of your visit, time of entry and total number of visitors; this confirmation must be presented at the time of entry.

Address:
88 Universal Gate Road, Tai Po, New Territories

Nearest MTR:
Tai Po Market station.
From here, minibus routes 20B and 20C, and bus routes 75K and 275R stop near Universal Gate Road.

Opening Hours:
9:30am to 5:00pm

Bookings:
tszshan.org

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/HKTszShan.mp4

Tsing Shan Monastery 青山禪院

Founded by Reverend Pui To, a travelling Indian monk, 1,500 years ago, this historical monastery is believed to be the birthplace of Hong Kong Buddhism. Attracted by the serene setting, Reverend Pui To stopped to meditate at the spot where the monastery currently stands.

The existing structure was rebuilt in the 1920s and now houses shrines and temples for different deities and Bodhisattvas.

Address:
Tsing Shan Monastery Path, Tuen Mun, New Territories, Hong Kong

Nearest MTR:
Tsing Shan Tsuen station.
Take the light-rail line 610, 615 or 615P and alight here.

Opening Hours:
6:00am to 6:00pm

The Yuen Yuen Institute 圓玄學院

Established in the 1950s by monks from Sanyuan Gong, this temple in the Tsuen Wan District was built to spread the principles of three religions: Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism, as well as to promote the eight virtues and social welfare.

Its sprawling grounds are dotted with temples, pavilions, monasteries, prayer halls, decorative gardens and ponds. The main attractions are a replica of Beijing’s Temple of Heaven, and the Hall of Rocks which features rocks of interesting shapes, including those of the 12 signs of the Chinese Zodiac.

Address:
Sam Dip Tam, Tsuen Wan, New Territories

Nearest MTR:
Tsuen Wan station, Exit B1.
Alight here and walk five minutes to Shiu Wo Street and take either minibus 81 or a taxi to the Yuen Yuen Institute.

Opening Hours:
9:00am to 5:00pm daily

The Western Monastery 西方寺

This Buddhist monastery was built in the 1970s in the style of a Chinese palace. A Bodhisattva statue at the entrance leads to the two-storey main monastery complex where monks chant mantras and Buddhist services take place.

Among the attractions are a nine-storey pagoda, pavilions, gardens and lotus ponds.

Address:
Lo Wai Village, Tsuen Wan, New Territories

Nearest MTR:
Tsuen Wan station, Exit B1.
Alight here and walk five minutes to Shiu Wo Street and take either minibus 81 or a taxi to Western Monastery. It is located just next to the Yuen Yuen Institute.

Opening Hours:
9:00am to 5:00pm daily

Hong Kong Disneyland Park

Situated on reclaimed land in Penny’s Bay, Lantau Island, Hong Kong Disneyland is a theme park that lets everyone relive the magic of childhood. It is inspired by fairy-tale dreams divided into seven lands, Adventureland, Grizzly Gulch, Mystic Point, Toy Story Land, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland and Main Street.

Address:
Disneyland Lantau Island, Hong Kong

Nearest MTR:
Disneyland Resort station

Opening Hours:
9:00am to 6:00pm (Monday to Friday)
9:00am to 5:00pm (Weekends and public holidays)

Entrance Fees:
HK$619 for one-day general admission, suitable for those aged 12 – 64 years of age.
Check their official website for special rates: hongkongdisneyland.com

Lamma Island

A multicultural and free-spirited town that showcases the traditional laid-back life in a fishing village. The shops, boutiques and cafes at Yung Shue Wan Main Street are major tourist attractions, even for local Hongkongers. The island’s hiking, beaches and coastal views are further reasons for its popularity.

Address:
Lamma Island, Hong Kong

Getting There:
Take a ferry from Central Pier 4 to either Yung Shue Wan or Sok Kwu Wan

Tai O Fishing Village

Tai O Fishing Village gives visitors a glimpse of the traditional life of Hong Kong’s original settlers, the Tanka people. Situated on a river mouth, the houses are built on stilts atop the water with narrow wooden footbridges connecting the entire village.

Address:
Tai O, Lantau Island, Hong Kong

Nearest MTR:
Tung Chung station.
Take Bus 11 from Tung Chung town centre.

Festivals

Hong Kong’s major events are celebrated with spectacular, colourful and energy-packed festivities which make for a distinctive cultural atmosphere. The trademark firework displays are reserved for selected dates of the year.

Chinese New Year

Infused with rich tradition and history, Chinese New Year is the most colourful and widely celebrated festival in Hong Kong. It was recently listed by Forbes as one of the world’s 10 best festival extravaganzas along with Germany’s Oktoberfest and Brazil’s Carnival.

Chinese New Year fireworks display in Hong Kong

The event’s grandeur lies in the huge International Chinese New Year’s Parade with band performances on the evening of the first day, an impressive fireworks display over Victoria Harbour on the second day, and the Chinese New Year horse races on the third day. Some businesses in the city shut their doors for all three days.

Cheung Chau Bun Festival

Usually falling in May, this one-of-a-kind festival is celebrated only in Hong Kong. Set against a backdrop of folklore and the enchanting Cheung Chau Island, which is a short ferry ride from Hong Kong city, the highlight of the Cheung Chau Bun Festival occurs at midnight of the last day — the very peculiar “Bun Grabbing Contest”.

This is when participants scale a 60-foot Bun Tower in an attempt to grab as many lucky buns as possible within three minutes. There are also lion dance performances, martial arts performances, parades and food offerings throughout the five-day celebration.

Dragon Boat Festival

Crowned the most exciting festival of the year, the centrepiece of the Dragon Boat Festival is the adrenaline-pumping dragon boat race. The fierce marine battles are held over a period of three days, and are undoubtedly a more spectacular version of the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race.

Dragon Boat race, Hong Kong

The Dragon Boat Festival usually falls in the months of May or June and attracts huge crowds from around the world. Race tickets must be purchased considerably in advance as they are usually sold out by Chinese New Year.

Hungry Ghost Festival

Fanned by popular horror movies, the Hungry Ghost Festival is one of Hong Kong’s most widely-celebrated festivals of the year. It usually falls in August and is somewhat scarier than its western counterpart, Halloween.

The Hungry Ghost Festival is intrinsically linked to the Chinese practice of ancestor worship.

The Chinese believe that restless spirits and ghosts are given this opportunity to roam freely amongst the living, and some of them return with vengeance on their minds. Therefore, it is common to find believers and non-believers alike burning ‘Hell Notes’ during the festival as a way to appease restless spirits.

Christmas and New Year’s Eve

Towards the end of each year, from Christmas Eve to New Year’s Day, Hong Kong is ablaze with glittering lights and extravagant displays. Most buildings on the harbour front are brightly decorated for the festive period, a breathtaking sight not to be missed.

Christmas in Hong Kong

In recent years, the New Year countdown and fireworks are launched from both skyscrapers on the island and platforms on the harbour. The magical display illuminates the night and is visible from just about anywhere in Hong Kong.

Shopping

Hong Kong is one of Asia’s most renowned free port cities, and has been at the crossroads of global trade for at least the last two centuries. Thus, there is no shortage of shopping opportunities and venues here. Hong Kong’s economy is, without a doubt, one of the world’s most brilliant representations of consumerism.

Avid shoppers frequent Hong Kong for local snacks and street food, discounted computers and electronics, fashion and beauty items, jewellery and luxury watches, as well as toys and traditional arts and crafts.

Here are the top ten shopping venues that offer the variety and price range to suit every shopper’s budget.

1. Temple Street Night Market, Yau Ma Tei

Fans of popular Hong Kong movies, especially from the 1990s and 2000s, will be quite familiar with Temple Street Night Market as it has been featured as a backdrop in many memorable movies. This rowdy street market is located in Jordan, Yau Ma Tei in central Kowloon. Once the sun begins to set, the traders set out their merchandise while opera singers and fortune tellers begin to emerge.

Address:
Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon

Nearest MTR:
Yau Ma Tei station, Exit C or Jordan Station, Exit A

Opening Hours:
Starts at 2:00pm but gets lively only after dusk. Opens till midnight.

2. Ladies’ Market, Mongkok

Ladies’ Market gets its moniker from the large number of stalls selling ladies’ apparel and accessories like cheongsams, silk pyjamas, watches and handbags. More than 100 stalls are laid out along a kilometre-long stretch on this street. It is the perfect place for any avid shopper to practise and hone their haggling skills.

Address:
Tung Choi St, Mong Kok, Hong Kong

Nearest MTR:
Mong Kok station, Exit E2

Opening Hours:
12:00pm to 11:00pm

3. Sneakers Street, Mongkok

Adjacent to Ladies’ Market, Sneakers Street is probably the most popular place in all of Hong Kong to find bargain sports shoes and sporting attire. Over 50 shops carry branded sporting apparel at discounted prices.

Address:
Fa Yuen Street, Mong Kok

Nearest MTR:
Mong Kok station, Exit E2 or D3

Opening Hours:
11:00am to 10:00pm

4. Harbour City, Canton Road

Situated right in the centre of the giant bazaar district, Tsim Sha Tsui, on the west side of Canton Road, is Hong Kong’s largest shopping mall, Harbour City. It is a popular place to buy luxury items and relax in high end eateries between shopping.

Address:
3-27 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon

Nearest MTR:
Tsim Sha Tsui station, Exit A1

Opening Hours:
10:00am to 9:00pm

5. Cat Street Market, Sheung Wan

This junk market is famous for antiques, rare Ming dynasty furniture, ancient snuff bottles, Mao statues and wooden handicrafts. There is an interesting story behind the name ‘Cat Street’. In the 1920s, this neighbourhood bazaar had evolved into a market for antiques, second-hand items and was a well-known place from which to buy stolen goods. In Cantonese, stolen goods are called ‘rat goods‘ and the people who buy them are called ‘cats’, hence the name ‘Cat Street’.

Address:
Hollywood Road and Upper Lascar Road, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Island

Nearest MTR:
Central station, Exit D2.
Follow the sign towards The Centre, then take the Central–Mid-Levels Escalator to exit at Hollywood Road.

Opening Hours:
11:00am to 6:00pm

6. International Finance Centre (IFC) Mall

This is a modern business complex that houses offices, the Four Seasons Hotel, Michelin-starred restaurants and more than 200 luxury boutiques. It is connected via covered walkways to several other luxury complexes in Central Hong Kong and to public transit hubs.

Address:
8, Finance Street, Central

Nearest MTR:
Hong Kong station, Exit A or E1

Opening Hours:
10:00am to 10:00pm daily

7. Wanchai Computer Centre, Wan Chai

One of the most popular places to buy computer-related products and electronics in Hong Kong, the Wanchai Computer Centre consists of an assortment of independent stalls within a multi-floor mall. You can find a wide range of consumer gadgets here including desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones, accessories, screens, parts and cameras. Do haggle.

Address:
130, Hennessy Rd, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

Nearest MTR:
Wan Chai station

Opening Hours:
10:00am to 9:00pm (Monday to Saturday)
12:00pm to 8:00pm (Sunday)

8. Stanley Market

Less crowded than Ladies’ Market and the Temple Street Night Market, Stanley Market’s draw is its distance from the city and proximity to the beach. Besides offering an excellent selection of souvenirs, ornaments and fashion, the seafront boulevard of al fresco restaurants offers a wide array of choices for a laid-back lunch.

Address:
Stanley New Street and Stanley Market Road, Stanley, Hong Kong Island

Nearest MTR:
Causeway Bay station, Exit F1.
Walk to Jardine’s Bazaar and then take minibus 40.

Opening Hours:
10:00am to 7:00pm daily

9. Citygate Outlets Mall, Lantau

The Citygate Outlets Mall is the largest outlet mall in Hong Kong with over 90 international brands like Armani, Nike and Esprit offering products at hugely discounted prices all year round. Many tourists make a trip to Citygate their final shopping spree in Hong Kong before heading to the airport. Be sure to keep some spare cash for this last stop.

Address:
20 Tat Tung Road, Lantau Island, Hong Kong

Nearest MTR:
Tung Chung station, Exit C

Opening Hours:
10:00am to 10:00pm daily

10. Times Square, Causeway Bay

Times Square is one of the latest additions to the infamous Causeway Bay district, best explored during the night when the spellbinding lights are on. The area is famous for the fact that some of the shops welcome customers even well after midnight.

Address:
1 Matheson St, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong

Nearest MTR:
Causeway Bay station, Exit A

People and Culture

The hardworking and educated people of this former fishing village turned world-class financial, trading, and business centre have inherited a hybrid culture of both the East and West. After the handover in 1997, the government adopted a bi-literate and trilingual policy where English and Mandarin Chinese are the official languages while Cantonese is the de facto spoken dialect.

Western attire has always been accepted as part of the culture, especially in business and formal settings. Traditional Chinese dresses and long gowns embroidered with unique oriental designs are usually reserved for special occasions and festivals. Hongkongers are fashion- and style-conscious; those who lack basic modesty and cleanliness of attire are frowned upon.

Martial arts is widely accepted as a form of exercise and sport in Hong Kong. Its practice is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and passed down from generation to generation. It is also a constant and recurring theme in a large number of films produced locally for both cinema and television since the 1960s, and remains one of the most passionate pastimes for Hongkongers.

Hong Kong has a long history of betting on horse racing and playing Mahjong. Dubbed as part of the local “intangible cultural heritage,” Mahjong is often played for relaxation but usually involves an element of gambling. While Mahjong shops and parlours are not as common as they once were, friends and families still regularly get together for games.

Hongkongers are extremely superstitious; the purchase of property or land cannot be done without first consulting a Feng Shui expert about its location, orientation and the most suitable dates to conduct the transaction. The same goes for important events like weddings, product launches and key announcements. The interior layout of an office or residence is usually the product of Feng Shui alignments.

Hongkongers are also very particular about numbers and believe the spoken sound of a number or word must be auspicious. For example, the number eight or the word ‘fish’ have positive connotations in Cantonese and are very highly regarded. On the other hand, most Hong Kong buildings skip the numbers four and thirteen because of the inauspicious sound and bad luck associated with them.

Religious beliefs are undoubtedly an integral part of Hong Kong culture as people pray and make offerings at more than 600 temples, shrines and monasteries across the territory. Most Hongkongers practise an amalgamation of Taoism, Buddhism and ancestor worship. Taoist priests along with Buddhist monks and nuns are held in high regard, and are often invited to officiate at festivals, ceremonies and rituals.

Etiquette

A modern city moulded by centuries of British colonisation, Hong Kong has adopted many fundamentals of western etiquette while retaining certain delicate elements of oriental traditions. For example, acquaintances greet each other with a nod or a handshake if they stop to talk. The western notion of “ladies first” is often visible in business settings but reverts to a patriarchal approach in traditional family gatherings.

Hierarchy remains important in social settings; seniors or higher ranking persons are introduced and served first. Similarly, at family gatherings, older people are greeted first. Generally, Hongkongers tend to be uncomfortable with body contact, though women generally exhibit lesser inhibition with other women. Gift giving is important when you visit a home and at an introductory business meeting. Gifts are given wrapped and are not opened in front of the giver.

Uniquely Hong Kong

There are some experiences found only in Hong Kong.

Public Transport Utopia

Compact Hong Kong is home to one of the world’s most sophisticated (and complicated) public transport networks. Big buses, minibuses, ferries, railways, subways and tramways are all interconnected. Public transportation can take anyone to any part of Hong Kong all year round.

Convenience Store Overkill

The combination of 7-Elevens, Circle-K stores and other competitors place Hong Kong on the world map for having one of the highest densities of convenience stores, at roughly one in every 3.5 sq. km. These stores are packed with ready-to-eat snacks and operate round the clock, all year round.

Cashless Living

Anyone can travel, dine and be entertained in Hong Kong without carrying any cash. With just an ‘Octopus’ card, anyone, including tourists, can do away with using physical currency for everything from public transportation and meals at participating cafés and restaurants to products from vending machines, 7-Eleven stores, Park n’ Shop stores and a growing list of other merchants.

Food Paradise

When it comes to indulging your gastronomic avatar, Hong Kong is a foodie haven. According to a report by CNN Travel, there is one restaurant for every 600 people in Hong Kong, making it the highest concentration of eateries in the world. The variety is almost without limit, but this ‘Must-Eat-In-Hong Kong-List‘ is not just about the taste but also the dining experience.

Dim Sum

Traditional Hong Kong dim sum meals are boisterous culinary affairs with a madness level second to none. Modern-day dim sum joints are more classy and the intensity of the experience may pale in comparison but they still offer the same top-quality dim sum flavour.

Recommended options include:

• Lin Heung Kui

Address: 2-3/F, No.46-50 Des Voeux Road West, Sheung Wan
Opening Hours: 6:00am to 11:00pm

• Tim Ho Wan

Address: Tim Ho Wan Sham Shui Po, G/F, 9-11 Fuk Wing Street, Hong Kong
Opening Hours: 10:00am to 9:30pm

Congee

Congee is a thick rice porridge served as a breakfast staple in Hong Kong. A bowl of piping hot silky-smooth congee never fails as a comfort food, and goes well with an assortment of flavours and side dishes.

Recommended options include:

• Sang Kee Congee Specialist Shop

Address: 7-9 Burd Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Opening Hours: 6:30am to 9:00pm, closed on Sundays

• Mui Kee Congee

Address: 11-12, 4/F Fa Yuen Street Market, Mong Kok
Opening Hours: 7:00am to 3:00pm

Roast Goose

Roast goose is a hallmark Cantonese dish in Hong Kong’s culinary tradition. The crispy skin and juicy flesh are the products of the skills of both the chef and the breeder.

Recommended options include:

• Yung Kee

Address: 32-40 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong
Opening Hours: 11:00am to 11:30pm

• Sham Tseng Chan Kee Roasted Goose

Address: 427-427A Reclamation Street, Mong Kok
Opening Hours: 7:00am to midnight

Claypot Rice

This is a simple dish of rice steamed with cured meat and an assortment of other ingredients, then stirred together. It is a repository of as much taste and flavour as one can get from a rice dish.

Recommended options include:

• Hing Kee Claypot Rice

Address: 15, Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon
Opening Hours: 6:00pm to 1:00am

• Four Seasons Claypot Rice

Address: 46 Arthur Street, Yau Ma Tei Kowloon
Opening Hours: 6:00pm to midnight

Wanton Mee

Wanton noodles are usually sold in small, unassuming shops with limited menus set along busy streets. The eggy noodles and flavourful broth keeps foodies coming back for more.

Recommended options include:

• Mak’s Noodle

Address: 77 Wellington St, Central, Hong Kong
Opening Hours: 11:00am to 9:00pm

• Ho Hung Kee

Address: 1204-1205, 12/F Hysan Place, 500 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay
Opening Hours: 11:30am to 11:00pm

Visas

Travellers to Hong Kong do not need to obtain a visa for China, but are required to adhere to Hong Kong’s Immigration Policy. Citizens of 170 countries from around the world can travel to Hong Kong visa-free for between 7 and 180 days. Citizens of other countries require a visa.

For more information, please visit the official immigration website: immd.gov.hk

Getting There

By Plane

You can fly direct to Hong Kong on more than 100 airlines from more than 140 cities around the world. All international flights land at and depart from the acclaimed Hong Kong International Airport.

The airport is a major transport hub and travellers have plenty of choice when it comes to traveling to and from the facility, including the Airport Express, public buses, taxis and hotel coaches. The Airport Express is the most popular choice as it is fast and comfortable.

From Airport to City:

To Hong Kong city (24 mins ride)

• First train – 5:54am
• Last train – 12:48am

From City to Airport:

From Hong Kong (24 minutes ride)

• First train – 5:50am
• Last train – 12:48am

From Kowloon (22 minutes ride)

• First train – 5:53am
• Last train – 12:52am

From Tsing Yi (14 minutes ride)

• First train – 6:00am
• Last train – 12:59am

If you need more flexibility, the best alternative is to take a taxi from or to the airport. Travellers arriving in Hong Kong can hire a cab from the taxi stand by the left-hand ramp outside the Arrival Hall.

Taxis in Hong Kong are colour-coded based on their operating areas and are separated by different rows at the pick-up area:

• Red indicates Urban taxis that serve all destinations throughout Hong Kong, including the airport but not Tung Chung Road and roads in south Lantau.
• Green is the colour of New Territories taxis that serve only the New Territories and specific roads in Lantau.
• Blue Lantau taxis serve the airport and all destinations in Lantau.

Taxi fares in Hong Kong are regulated and charged according to the meter. For example, a ride on a Red taxi from the airport to the main district of Hong Kong Island will cost just under HK$400, and around HK$270 to Jordan or Mongkok.

For indicative fares of more destinations, please refer to the Hong Kong airport official website: hongkongairport.com

By Ferry

The raison d’etre of Hong Kong is its harbour, which is well-connected to Macau and selected ports in China by high speed ferries. There are several modernised arrival and/or departure terminals across Hong Kong, and they are accessible from any part of the city. The two main ones are the Hong Kong–Macau Ferry Terminal and the China Ferry Terminal.

Hong Kong–Macau Ferry Terminal

Address: 168-200 Connaught Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Nearest MTR: Sheung Wan station, Exit D
Opening Hours: 7:00am to 12:00am

China Ferry Terminal

Address: 33 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Nearest MTR: Tsim Sha Tsui station, Exit A1
Opening Hours: 7:00am to 12:00am

By Train

For travellers who prefer to travel by land, there is always the option of the railroad. From the station located in Hung Hum, Kowloon, you can board a train that plies the Beijing-Kowloon route and travels through Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Dongguan, Foshan and Zhaoqing. It will be joined in the near future by another railway station in West Kowloon that will connect Kowloon with Shenzhen and Guangzhou.

Getting Around

The Unique Hong Kong Tramway

The tram system is one of Hong Kong’s first forms of public transportation. It runs in the northern part of Hong Kong Island between Shau Kei Wan and Kennedy Town, with a circuit loop through Happy Valley. This tram system is the only one in the world that operates a double decker train and is itself a tourist attraction.

Check out the fares and schedules on their official website: hktramways.com

The Inexpensive and Hassle-free Taxis

For an expensive city like Hong Kong, taxi rides are surprisingly inexpensive compared to other similar cities. The first two kilometres of a ride is fixed at HK$24 for Red taxis, HK$20.50 for Green taxis and HK$19 for Blue taxis. Every subsequent 200 metres is charged at roughly HK$1.60, with exact rates set by the taxi company. Special taxis that can accommodate passengers on wheelchairs are available.

The Efficient and Affordable MTR

The MTR (Mass Transit Railway) is Hong Kong’s rapid transit railway system that includes 84 railway stations and 68 light rail stops. Connecting Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and other districts, it is one of the two most common modes of public transportation in Hong Kong with over four million trips on an average day.

For the convenience of tourists, MTR offers tourist tickets that cater to particular needs, for example, the Airport Express Travel Pass, the Tourist Cross-boundary Travel Pass, the Adult Tourist Day Pass and Child Tourist Day Pass. These passes can be purchased online or directly at the airport.

The Large Fleet of Buses and Minibuses

Buses are the other most common mode of transportation in Hong Kong, with more than 5,000 double-decker buses, normal buses and minibuses serving all of Hong Kong except a few outlying islands.

Bus services usually start at 5:30am and run until midnight, and are supplemented with a smaller number of night buses that operate from midnight to 5:00am on selected routes. The fares are affordable, ranging from HK$3 to HK$20 for buses and HK$2 to HK$10 for minibuses, depending on the distance and route.

Figuring out which bus to take can be tricky unless you spend some time studying the route maps placed at bus stations and on bus company websites. The final destination of each bus is displayed on its front in both English and Chinese. To get off a minibus, the ability to speak some Cantonese will come in handy. Do not forget to prepare the exact amount for the bus fare or do away with the hassle entirely and use an Octopus card.

Where to Stay

When you are in a city as vibrant and trendy as Hong Kong, rest assured that you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation. Popular hotel chains of all budget ranges dot Hong Kong Island and Kowloon Peninsula. Here are some of the preferred choices of frequent travellers:

Hong Kong Island

Budget: The Mini Hotel

The prime draw of the Mini Hotel in Central Hong Kong is its excellent location for party-goers — it is just around the corner from Lan Kwai Fong, Hong Kong’s most happening waterhole. The rates are affordable and suitable for solo travellers or those who prefer not to share a room.

• Address: No. 38 Ice House Street, Lan Kwai Fong, Central, Hong Kong
• Booking is available through agoda.com, booking.com and tripadvisor.com

Boutique: The Pottinger

The Pottinger Hong Kong offers visitors a modern heritage residence complete with exceptional in-room oriental designs, with the vibrant neighbourhood of Central Hong Kong right on your doorstep.

• Address: 74 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong with the main entrance at 21 Stanley Street
• Booking is available through agoda.com, booking.com and hotels.com

Luxury: The Upper House

The Upper House sits on top of Pacific Place, a glossy shopping complex, providing guests with a fantastic view of the city. The hotel has one of the most spacious standard rooms in Hong Kong, setting it apart from other luxury hotels.

• Address: Pacific Place, 88, Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong
• Booking is available through agoda.com and booking.com

Kowloon Peninsula

Budget: Panda’s Hostel

Panda’s Hostel is centrally located in Tsim Sha Tsui and promises style and convenience for travellers who need quick access to MTR stations. It is a one-minute walk from Tsim Sha Tsui station.

• Address: Nathan Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
• Booking is available through agoda.com, booking.com, trivago.com and tripadvisor.com

Boutique: The Luxe Manor

The Luxe Manor is a luxury boutique hotel built in the style of grand European houses, but infused with a dash of quirky charm. Located in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, it is a short one-minute walk from Nathan Road.

• Address: 39, Kimberley Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
• Booking is available through agoda.com, booking.com and tripadvisor.com

Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton

The Ritz-Carlton is one of the world’s leading hotel chains and its Hong Kong flagship does not disappoint. From the building, one can enjoy a stunning panorama of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and the loop of the harbour that separates the two.

• Address: International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Hong Kong
• Booking is available through agoda.com and booking.com

Useful Books

Hong Kong by Jan Morris

Written in 1988 by the famed Jan Morris, a historian, author and travel writer whose portraits of cities, notably Oxford, Venice, Trieste, Hong Kong, and New York City are equally as dazzling and affectionate as her real-life personality.

In the Land of Pagodas: A Classic Account of Travel in Hong Kong, Macao, Shanghai, Hubei, Hunan and Guizhou

If you want to infuse a bit of imagination into modern Hong Kong, see it as it was 150 years ago through the eyes of French traveller, Alfred Raquez. This book will add exuberant colour to your trip to Hong Kong.

VIDEO: Hong Kong City Guide

This short three-minute Lonely Planet travel video shows you around Hong Kong city.

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/HongKongCityGuide.mp4

Sources:

• https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/hong-kong-worlds-greatest-city/index.html
• https://www.topchinatravel.com/hongkong/hongkong-facts.htm
• https://www.gettingstamped.com/hong-kong-travel-tips/
• https://www.tripadvisor.com.my/Travel_Guide-g294217-Hong_Kong.html
• http://www.china-mike.com/china-tourist-attractions/hong-kong/history-timeline-part1/
• http://www.tszshan.org/home/new/zh-hk/index.php
• http://www.everyculture.com/Ge-It/Hong-Kong.html

For more interesting information:

• Visiting Hong Kong
• 86 Grand Statues of the World
• Amazing Xuanzang and His Journey to the West
• 8 Holy Buddhist Pilgrimage Sites – Part 1
• 8 Holy Buddhist Pilgrimage Sites – Part 2
• Wonderful Japan-Tokyo
• Wonderful Korea-Seoul
• Wonderful Japan-Hokkaido
• Wonderful Japan-Okinawa
• Wonderful Nepal-Lumbini
• The Great Council of Lhasa
• Tibetan Astrology
• Monlam Festival at Labrang Monastery
• Excellent Travelogue of Holy Places in Tibet
• The King of Prayers

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If you are in the United States, please note that your offerings and contributions are tax deductible. ~ the tsemrinpoche.com blog team