8 Experiences You Can’t Miss In Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a city like no other. A global financial powerhouse that is home to 7.5 million people, this former British colony is a cultural melting pot with Cantonese roots and an energy that rivals that of New York City. Here, skyscrapers rise above lush mountains, while historic temples are sandwiched between colorful street markets. The city is full of contrasts — modern and traditional, luxury and simplicity — making it a fascinating place to explore.

1 Hop on the Victoria Peak Tram

For a quintessential Hong Kong experience, catch a ride on the historic Peak Tram, which has been bringing passengers up to Victoria Peak since 1888. A vintage funicular with retro charm, it offers beautiful views of the city skyline and harbor as you make your way 1,000 feet up the mountain. The ride is quick (only 7 minutes) and especially fun for families. Once you’ve arrived, take a walk along the Circle Road that encircles Victoria Peak for some of the best views of Hong Kong. The walk will take about an hour so wear comfortable shoes and bring water with you.

2 Visit the M+ Museum

One of Hong Kong’s newest museums, M+ is a must for contemporary art lovers. Designed by the renowned Swiss architecture firm Herzog & de Meuron, the building provides a sleek space for ambitious art installations and exhibitions. Be sure to visit the SIGG Collection, one of the largest collections of contemporary Chinese art in the world. Created between 1972 to 2012, the stirring works document the artists’ responses to the social and political changes in China after the Cultural Revolution, economic reforms and globalization.

3 Dine at Amber at the Mandarin Oriental

Opened in 1963, the flagship Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong has epitomized luxury for over six decades, exporting its distinctive Asian aesthetic across the world and transforming the global hospitality industry. Located in the heart of Central, the iconic hotel is set within the old Queen’s Building, which dates to 1899, and introduced many luxurious firsts in the region, including bathtubs in every room. With wood-paneled walls, Breguet clocks and art dating back to the Qing dynasty, the Mandarin Oriental is an opulent time capsule that reflects Hong Kong’s golden era. Along with its 434 opulent suites, it also has an array of dining options, from refined Cantonese cuisine at Man Wah to Japanese izakaya at The Aubrey, one of Asia’s 50 Best Bars.

But its stand-out experience is at Amber at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, an ambitious fine-dining restaurant led by Chef Richard Ekkebus. Amber combines French culinary techniques with Asian influences, showcasing the potential of consciously sourced seasonal ingredients. Awarded two Michelin stars and a Green Michelin Star for its commitment to sustainability, Amber offers both fine meats and seafood but truly shines with its vegetarian menu which features a dairy-free burrata dish flavored with rose and lemon verbena, or risotto with cashew nut butter, togarashi and summer squash.

4 Climb up to the Big Buddha

Trade skyscrapers for mountain air with a visit to the Tian Tan Buddha, or “Big Buddha” that sits atop Lantau Island. A symbol of Hong Kong’s spiritual heritage, the 34-meter bronze statue was constructed in 1993 by the monks of the nearby Po Lin Monastery to promote Buddhist teachings. A popular pilgrimage site that draws devotees from around the world, the Buddha is located 268 steps on a verdant peak with panoramic views of the mountain landscape and the South China Sea. Enjoy a leisurely hike up or hop on the Ngong Ping 360 cable car for an easier ride to the peak. You can reach Lantau Island on a scenic ferry or underground on Hong Kong’s impressive MTR (Mass Transit Railway).

5 Enjoy a Spa Treatment at the Four Seasons

Set to celebrate its 20th anniversary next year, the Four Season Hotel Hong Kong was the first Four Seasons to open in Greater China, setting a new standard of luxury for the region. A light-filled property with enviable views of Victoria Harbor, it’s a luxurious perch to watch the world go by. With 399 spacious rooms and suites, the aesthetics here are clean and contemporary, with elegant nods to Chinese culture through silk paintings and figurative ink artworks throughout. And the hotel’s location couldn’t be better: it is directly connected to the IFC Mall and just a short walk from the ferry piers.

From dining at Michelin-starred restaurants and sunbathing at the rooftop pool, there’s plenty to keep you busy during your stay, but don’t miss the chance to unwind at the Four Seasons Hong Kong Spa, a sanctuary of wellness with a focus on holistic health and clean beauty brands. A highlight is the Ignae Digital Detox, which uses Azorean skincare products to counter the effects of our all-consuming digital lifestyles. Aromatherapy oils and traditional Chinese medicine techniques are combined with blue light serum and reflexology to restore balance and revitalize the body and mind.

6 Wander around Mong Kok

Located across the harbor from Hong Kong Island, Kowloon is the soul of the city—and Mong Kok is its beating heart. One of the densest urban areas in the world, Mong Kong a buzzing district that captures the frenetic energy and spirit of Hong Kong. Known for its towering buildings, bustling markets, and neon-lit streets, many of Hong Kong’s most iconic cityscapes are shot here. Historically a working-class neighborhood, it has transformed into a business center where global brands co-exist with local shops. Stop by the famous Ladies’ Market and Sneaker Street to browse knock-off wares.

7 Explore the Chi Lin Nunnery

A peaceful escape amidst Hong Kong’s urban sprawl, Chi Lin Nunnery is a visual juxtaposition to the city’s towering skyscrapers. Founded in the 1930s to house Buddhist nuns, it was rebuilt in the 1990s in the Tang Dynasty architectural style using ancient techniques. Its wooden pavilions house statues of the Buddhas, while its lotus ponds and bonsai gardens create a sense of tranquility and harmony. Walk across the bridge to visit the Nan Lian Garden, another charming verdant retreat. Here you can enjoy a plant-based meal at Chi Lin Vegetarian, a restaurant located beneath a waterfall that serves health-conscious dishes prepared according to Buddhist philosophy.

8 Catch the Symphony of Lights

The Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront has one of Hong Kong’s best views at all hours of the day, but be sure to arrive at 8 p.m. for a special show after dark. The Symphony of Lights, launched in 2004, is a free 10-minute multimedia show that projects lasers and LED displays upon more than 40 buildings on both sides of Victoria Harbor. Grab a spot along the promenade or hop on a harbor cruise to watch the city sparkle from the water.