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.
Hong Kong
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.
Photo: Ellie Smith
Before You Go
Visa: Many nationalities (US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia) can enter visa-free for 7–180 days. Double-check based on your country.
Currency: Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful for small shops and taxis.
Language: Cantonese is the local language. English is also widely spoken, especially in tourism and business areas.
Electricity: 220V, British-style Type G plug.
Getting In & Around
Airport to City: Use the Airport Express train to Central (about 24 minutes) or take buses (cheaper, but slower).
Octopus Card: A must-have reloadable smartcard for MTR (subway), buses, ferries, trams, convenience stores, and more.
Public Transport: MTR is fast and efficient. Taxis are reliable but drivers may not speak English—have your destination written in Chinese.
Trams (“Ding Dings”): Charming and cheap way to explore Hong Kong Island.
Where to Stay
Central / Sheung Wan: Business hub with upscale restaurants and nightlife.
Tsim Sha Tsui (TST): Great for shopping, harbor views, and museums.
Mong Kok: Budget-friendly, high energy, and packed with markets.
Causeway Bay: Excellent for shopping and mid-range hotels.
Top Things to See & Do
Victoria Peak: Take the Peak Tram for panoramic views of the skyline.
Star Ferry: A classic and scenic harbor ride between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island.
Big Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha): Visit Lantau Island by cable car or ferry.
Ngong Ping 360: Scenic cable car ride to Big Buddha with sea and mountain views.
Temple Street Night Market: Street food, cheap goods, and fortune tellers.
Mong Kok Markets: Ladies’ Market, Goldfish Market, and Sneaker Street.
Man Mo Temple: Historic temple in Sheung Wan with incense-filled air.
PMQ: Design hub with boutiques and indie brands.
Street Art: Check out the colorful murals in Central and the "Cartoon Stairs" in Kowloon Park.
Food & Drink
Must-Try Dishes:
Dim sum (try Tim Ho Wan or Maxim’s Palace)
Roast goose (Yat Lok or Kam’s)
Wonton noodles, pineapple buns, egg tarts
Dai Pai Dongs: Traditional open-air food stalls—try them for local flavor.
Tea Culture: Milk tea is a staple. Try it at a local cha chaan teng (tea restaurant).
Tap Water: Technically safe, but most locals drink filtered or bottled water.
Shopping Tips
Luxury Shopping: Central and Tsim Sha Tsui.
Street Bargains: Mong Kok, Sham Shui Po (electronics), and markets.
Night Markets: Temple Street and Ladies’ Market are the most popular.
Tax-Free: No sales tax in Hong Kong.
Cultural Etiquette
Queuing: Highly respected—don’t cut in line.
Escalators: Stand on the right, walk on the left.
No Tipping Required: Though rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated.
Temples: Dress modestly and behave respectfully.
Weather & When to Visit
Best Time: October to December (cool, dry, and clear).
Hot & Humid: May to September. Expect rain and typhoons.
Cool & Crisp: January to March. Light jacket recommended.
Safety
General Safety: Hong Kong is very safe and walkable, even at night.
Protests: Mostly peaceful if any occur—avoid crowds or political gatherings.
Typhoon Season: June–October. Monitor local alerts and don’t go hiking or boating during typhoon warnings.
Connectivity
SIM Cards: Get one at the airport or convenience stores. CSL, 3HK, and SmarTone are reliable providers.
Free Wi-Fi: Found at malls, MTR stations, and many cafes.