Hong Kong is a vibrant, fast-paced city where East meets West, blending towering skyscrapers with lush mountains, ancient temples, and bustling street markets. As a Special Administrative Region of China, it operates under a unique "one country, two systems" framework, maintaining its own legal and economic structures. Known for its world-class cuisine, efficient public transport, and dramatic skyline, Hong Kong is also rich in culture and history. Whether you're hiking the green hills of Lantau Island, exploring neon-lit streets in Mong Kok, or sipping dim sum in a teahouse, Hong Kong offers a dynamic mix of tradition and modernity.
China
Asia 2025 Photographic
by Ellie Smith
Hong Kong
Most Skyscrapers in the World
Hong Kong has more skyscrapers than any other city — over 9,000 buildings taller than 14 stories, and more than 550 buildings over 150 meters tall.
Dim Sum Capital
Hong Kong is known as the dim sum capital of the world. The phrase "yum cha" (飲茶), meaning "drink tea," often refers to going out for dim sum — small, flavorful Cantonese dishes.
Home to the World’s Longest Escalator System
The Central–Mid-Levels escalator is the longest covered outdoor escalator system in the world, stretching over 800 meters and elevating more than 135 meters from bottom to top.
Dual Identity
It’s a "Special Administrative Region" (SAR) of China, which means it maintains its own legal system, currency (HKD), immigration rules, and more, under the principle of "One Country, Two Systems".
No Sales Tax
Shopping in Hong Kong is a treat — there’s no VAT or sales tax, making it a popular shopping haven for luxury goods and electronics.
70% Green Space
Despite its urban density, around 70% of Hong Kong’s land is countryside, nature parks, and beaches. Hiking trails like Dragon’s Back or Lion Rock offer epic views right near the city.
World’s Tallest Seated Bronze Buddha
The Tian Tan Buddha (a.k.a. Big Buddha) on Lantau Island is 34 meters tall, weighs 250 tons, and was once the largest seated bronze Buddha in the world.
Cinema Royalty
Before Hollywood knew them, Hong Kong cinema had legends like Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and Wong Kar-wai. Its film industry was one of the world’s largest during the 1980s and 90s.
A Busy Port Since 1841
Victoria Harbour is one of the deepest natural harbors in the world and remains one of the busiest container ports — a global shipping hub for over 180 years.
It Celebrates a Fire Dragon Dance
Every year during the Mid-Autumn Festival, the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance features a 67-meter dragon with over 10,000 incense sticks — a smoky, dazzling, and ancient tradition.
