Traveling to Hong Kong soon or simply want to play tourist in your own city? Discover the greatest tastes, sights, sounds and experiences at these Hong Kong tourist attractions.
Wondering what Hong Kong tourist attractions are worthwhile? The city is truly a treat for the senses. Take in the aroma of the unique street food, gaze at majestic traditional Chinese architecture at Chinese temples or feel first-hand the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong markets. And if you’re looking to make the most of your time in Asia’s world city, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite Hong Kong tourist attractions, for you to discover!
Hong Kong tourist attractions
Attractions in Kowloon
1. Avenue of Stars
Taking a stroll down the Avenue of Stars in Tsim Sha Tsui is an absolute must-do for anyone visiting Hong Kong. This iconic waterfront promenade is akin to Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, but it’s a tribute to the megastars of Hong Kong cinema. Strike a pose next to statues of legends like martial arts master Bruce Lee or Cantopop queen Anita Mui! As you wander along, you’ll come across over 100 handprint plaques embedded in the pavement. The Avenue of Stars offers a dive into Hong Kong’s film heritage, all set against the backdrop of the Victoria Harbour. And when the nightly Symphony of Lights show illuminates the harbour, the atmosphere is nothing short of enchanting. This is definitely one for the itinerary!
Do your homework by checking out these classic Hong Kong movies before your trip!
Avenue of Stars, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
2. Star Ferry
Looking for a top tourist attraction in Hong Kong that won’t break the bank? Hop on the Star Ferry! For just a few dollars, you can take in the views of the skyline from the upper deck and cross Victoria Harbour in a piece of Hong Kong’s history. For those who want to get the full experience, book a Star Ferry Water Tour that can be taken at sunset or at night during the Symphony of Lights show.
Find out more about the Star Ferry.
3. Wong Tai Sin Temple
Your visit to Hong Kong won’t be complete without visiting one of the many iconic Chinese temples in town. Located in the local neighbourhood of the same name, Wong Tai Sin Temple is one of the busiest temples in Hong Kong, with over 10,000 visitors every day. Step inside the opulent hall and say a prayer to Wong Tai Sin – you might just have your wish granted!
While you’re here, uncover hidden gems in the neighbourhood with our guide to Wong Tai Sin.
Wong Tai Sin Temple, 2 Chuk Yuen Village, Wong Tai Sin, Kowloon, Hong Kong, p. 2327 8141
4. West Kowloon Cultural District
The West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) is truly revolutionising Hong Kong’s art scene. This buzzing cultural quarter is drawing in the creative crowd with its contemporary museums, verdant parks, and public art. Make sure to head straight for the futuristic M+ to check out its exhibits. Plus, you simply can’t miss the incredible views of Victoria Harbour from the Art Park, especially as the sun dips below the horizon! And not to mention the adorable pooches that prance around this dog-friendly park. Finally, the Hong Kong Palace Museum is not to be overlooked if you’re keen on learning more about ancient Chinese art and relics.
West Kowloon Cultural District, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 2200 0217
5. Ladies’ Market
While the 852 has no shortage of luxurious shopping destinations and glitzy malls, there are plenty of affordable shopping options like outlet malls and street markets for you to splurge on a budget, too. The most popular local market is Ladies’ Market, located on Tung Choi Street in Mong Kok. Market stalls stretch a distance of 1km and offer a diverse selection of women’s clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. It’s not uncommon to see a large crowd huddling along Tung Choi Street from noon until midnight.
Tired from all your shopping? Take a break at our fave Mong Kok cafes.
Ladies’ Market, Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong
6. Go museum hopping
Culture vultures, this one’s for you. Hong Kong has no shortage of museums to explore. Whether it be the immersive and educational Space Museum and History Museum, or the lively and vibrant Hong Kong Museum of Art, there’s bound to be something for everyone. We recommend starting your museum hopping journey along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, since this is where Hong Kong’s major museums lie.
Plan your way around Hong Kong with our guide to local museums!
Attractions on Hong Kong Island
7. The Peak Tram
Experience the beauty of the city with The Peak Tram, where you can enjoy the breathtaking view of Hong Kong as you go uphill on what used to be the first cable funicular in Asia. Established in 1888, the tram is famous for its spectacular visual illusion, where the high-rise buildings at the right side of the tram will appear to fall toward The Peak due to the steep track that reaches up to 27 degrees. You can catch the train from the Garden Road Peak Tram Lower Terminus, where you can purchase your Peak Tram Sky Pass to access The Sky Terrace 428 on top of The Peak. When it comes to iconic Hong Kong tourist attractions, this has to be on the list.
Take a sneak peek at our ride on the Peak Tram!
The Peak Tram, Peak Tram Lower Terminus, Garden Road, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2522 0922
8. The Peak
An icon in the city and one of the most popular Hong Kong tourist attractions, The Peak is the highest mountain on Hong Kong Island. An area famous for its prestigious residents, Victoria Peak attracts tourists from all over the world. In particular, the Peak Galleria is a popular entertainment venue complete with avant-garde architecture. It houses a range of shops and restaurants alongside Hong Kong’s very own Madame Tussauds, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the city. While you’re here, don’t forget to go to The Sky Terrace 428. This 360-degree viewing platform is located at the top of the tower, reaching 428 metres above sea level, and boasts a stunning view over Hong Kong both day and night.
The Peak, 128 Peak Road, The Peak, Hong Kong, p. 2849 0668
9. Lan Kwai Fong
This legendary nightlife district in Central is the go-to spot for happy hours, epic bar crawls, and some serious late-night fun. On weekends, LKF’s narrow streets get lively and packed quick! Simply go with the flow and let the crowds guide you between balconied restaurants and jam-packed bars. Lan Kwai Fong is the ultimate place to let your hair down, Hong Kong-style.
Looking to keep costs low while dancing the night away? Check out our guide to a cheap night out!
Lan Kwai Fong, Central, Hong Kong
10. Ride the tram
Trams, much like the Star Ferry, are another transportation attraction in Hong Kong. Not only are trams the first public transport system in Hong Kong, but locals also relied heavily on them to get around Hong Kong Island before the construction of the MTR and the streamlining of bus routes city-wide. In addition, riding the tram is also a great way to visualise what Old Hong Kong was like, as the tramline traces Hong Kong Island’s original coastline before land reclamation. – good para!
Intrigued? Hop on a tram and cruise along the city’s bustling streets by following our tram tour.
11. Ocean Park Hong Kong
If you feel that the rides at Disneyland are not enough to get your adrenaline pumping, check out Ocean Park instead. Established long before Hong Kong Disneyland, this theme park offers a lot more thrilling rides that would be perfect for thrill seekers. But don’t worry if you’re coming with little kids, as Ocean Park also has lots of other family-friendly attractions as well as an educational marine mammal park, oceanarium, and animal theme park. So, bring the whole gang and get up close and personal with sharks, seals, penguins, birds, fox, panda, and many other.
Ocean Park, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, p. 3923 2323
12. Hong Kong Park
As one of the best parks in the city, Hong Kong Park is a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle. With everything from the Tai Chi Garden to an aviary, the park is a haven for many. Find a patch of grass to sit back and marvel at the serene artificial lake and waterfall after a long day of exploring the city. Hong Kong Park is also home to several cultural sites – feel free to explore converted historic buildings like the Flagstaff House Museum of Teaware.
Check out more parks in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Park, 19 Cotton Tree Drive, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2521 5041
Attractions in the New Territories and Outlying Islands
13. Tai O Fishing Village
Nicknamed the “Venice of Hong Kong”, Tai O Fishing Village is a living memory of the city’s past as a fishing port. Located along the western coast of Lantau Island, this neighbourhood is well known for its seafood markets and island culture. In addition, Tai O is also one of the few remaining places in Hong Kong where you can find traditional stilt houses raised on piles over water. With the perfect combination of local culture, heritage, and unbeatable views, Tai O Fishing Village is definitely one of our fave Hong Kong tourist attractions.
See our full story on Tai O fishing village.
Tai O Fishing Village, Tai O, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
16. Ngong Ping 360
Another way to appreciate the beauty of Hong Kong from up high is by riding the Ngong Ping 360 cable car. The journey begins at Tung Chung and lasts for 25 minutes. Along the way, you’ll get a glimpse of the South China Sea, Lantau Country Park, and the Ngong Ping Plateau. The ride takes you across Tung Chung Bay to reach the angle station on Airport Island, before making a 60-degree turn towards North Lantau. If you’re not afraid of heights at all, why not choose to ride in the Crystal Cabin cable car? This special cabin features a glass bottom that gives you a bird’s eye view of the sights along the way. After reaching your destination, discover the nearby Ngong Ping Village, Po Lin Monastery, and Tian Tan Buddha – all within a short walk from the cable car station.
Ngong Ping 360, Lantau Island, Hong Kong, p. 3666 0606
17. Tian Tan Buddha
Located near one of Hong Kong’s most important Buddhist sanctums, Tian Tan Buddha is a bronze statue that sits at 34m tall on Lantau Island. This awe-inspiring site is accessible by a cable car ride up Ngong Ping 360, which ends in the nearby Ngong Ping Village. Simply take a walk into town after disembarking from the cable car and you’ll find yourself face to face with one of the five giant Buddha statues in China. That being said, prepare to take a total of 268 steps up for a closer look! Fun fact: our Big Buddha sits facing the North and is believed to safeguard Hong Kong and China by believers.
While you’re there, explore the area with our guide to Lantau Island!
Tian Tan Buddha, Ngong Ping Road, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
18. Hong Kong Disneyland
Who doesn’t love the happiest place on Earth? As the second outpost to open in Asia after Japan, Hong Kong Disneyland has become one of the ultimate family-friendly destinations in Hong Kong. Apart from families however, it’s common for visitors of all ages to meet Disney characters and go on rides at this magical wonderland. So, don’t be afraid to unleash your inner child here! Located on Lantau Island, Hong Kong Disneyland has eight themed areas: the Main Street, USA, Fantasyland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, Grizzly Gulch, Mystic Point, Toy Story Land, and the new World of Frozen. Finally, don’t forget to check out gift shops along Main Street USA and bring home some merch. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs for yourself or your loved ones, there’s something for everyone.
Hong Kong Disneyland, Penny’s Bay, Lantau Island, Hong Kong, p. 3550 3388
[This article was originally published in September 2018 and updated in 2024 by Celia Lee.]
