One of the Asia’s most cosmopolitan city, Hong Kong makes an unforgettable first impression. Relatively small in size and very densely populated, Hong Kong is a territory of contrasts, merging its rich English and Chinese heritages. Hong Kong welcomes visitors with an iconic skyline, colourful traditions and some of the best attractions travellers will ever witness. You’ll see futuristic skyscrapers, high-tech transportation, countless restaurants, shopping malls, colonial relics, and Buddhist temples. If you’re looking for something to do on the weekend, you have plenty of attractions to choose from. Here are the 36 best things to do in Hong Kong on the weekend.
1. Tai O Fishing Village
Located on the western side of Lantau Island, Tai O is a small fishing town with a name meaning Large Inlet. Despite its settlements not being there that long, Tai O has a very rich history. There you can find few archaeological sites dating all the way back to the stone age. The island, once used as a base for pirates and smugglers, was occupied by Portuguese forces in the 16th century. Tai O was even an entry point for illegal immigration after the Chinese Civil War! Today, many tourists come to see the Chinese White Dolphins or sample traditional salted fish and shrimp paste. At the end of the day, there’s also an incredible sunset.
2. Symphony of Lights
Seen best from the Avenue of the Stars at Victoria Harbour, the Symphony of Lights is the world’s largest permanent light and sound performance. It is a nightly display that starts at 8pm every night including weekends and lasts for 14 minutes. It was first inaugurated in 2004 and it is organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board. The show centers on the themes of Awakening, Energy, Heritage, Partnership, and Celebration. Currently, there are a total of 47 buildings that participate in the show.
3. Jumbo Floating Restaurant
Part of Jumbo Kingdom, the Jumbo Floating Restaurant was established in 1976. It is well-known among locals as a place of both incredible décor and delicious food. The Jumbo restaurant is a fine dining establishment that is perfect for every special celebration. From Queen Elizabeth II to Tom Cruise, numerous famous personalities have dined here while admiring beautiful scenic views of Hong Kong. What are some of the Jumbo Floating Restaurant’s best dishes? Try Flamed Drunken Shrimp – Seafood lovers will adore this spicy shrimp dish, accompanied by the finest wine. For dessert, Fresh Mango Pudding is a local favorite.
4. Chi Lin Nunnery
Located in Diamond Hill, the Chin Ling Nunnery is a Buddhist temple complex founded in 1934. It was built in the traditional Tang architectural style, using no nails. Instead, it relied on the woods being cut in a specific way so they could be interlocked together. These are the only buildings constructed in this manner in all of Hong Kong. The Chin Lin Nunnery sits opposite the Nan Lian Garden. It has one library, sixteen halls, a bell tower, a drum tower, and a pagoda, covering an area of 33,000 square meters. It also houses statues of the Sakyamuni Buddha made of gold, clay, wood, and stone.
5. Nathan Road
Located in the urban area of Kowloon, Nathan Road is well-known to both locals and tourists. It is a street filled with landmarks, shops, and restaurants. Running from north to south, Nathan Road starts not too far from the famed Victoria Harbour and ends at its intersection with Boundary Street. Five of the Mass Transit Railway stations are located along Nathan Road, along with many different bus routes. Though often highly trafficked, this is a great place to look for shops, restaurants, or attractions. Keep an eye out for the landmarks St. Andrew’s Church, iSQUARE, Kowloon Masjid, and Islamic Centre.
6. Victoria Harbour
Victoria Harbour is a natural harbor that sits in a highly urbanized area. Its strategic location made it a crucial spot in Hong Kong’s history and the British colonization of the island. Hong Kong first appeared in a marine chart created for the East Indian Company. Surrounded by numerous islands, there are many companies that offer ferry rides and harbor tours that allow you to see Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong skyline from the ocean. Victoria Harbour is also where you’ll find the Avenue of the Stars. You can also see the world’s famous Symphony of Light show each night. On special occasions like Chinese New Year, a fireworks display will take over.
7. Ngong Ping Village
Ngong Ping Village was built to look like an old traditional village despite only opening in 2005. Filled with souvenir shops, teahouses, and restaurants, this is a great place to buy gifts and try local cuisines. You’ll also learn about legends through the Monkey’s Tale Theater and the Walking with Buddha Show. The buildings draw on traditional Chinese architecture. Nhong Ping Village occupies 15,000 square meter of land and is situated just 10 minutes away from the famous 34-meter Tian Tan Buddha. The best way to access the Ngong Ping Village is through the Ngong Ping 360 terminals. This is a gondola lift that takes you up the Ngong Ping Highland on Lantau Island.
8. Ngong Ping 360
Ngong Ping 360 is the gondola lift connecting downtown Tung Chung with Ngong Ping. The cable cars give you a beautiful 360 view of Lantau Island as you go through your journey. At the top Ngong Ping is where you can find Ngong Ping Village, the Tian Tan Buddha, the Po Lin Monastery, and the Wisdom Path at Lantau Trail. On weekends it can get particularly crowded, so head there early.
9. Po Lin (Precious Lotus) Monastery
The Po Lin Monastery is a Buddhist monastery first established over a century ago, in 1906. Dedicated to Guanyin, the monastery has three bronze Buddha statues representing past, present, and future lives. It is also home to the Tian Tan Buddha, a giant Buddha statue. This was built in 1993 and now attracts countless devotees and tourists every year. The Monastery is easily accessible through Ngong Ping Village and through Ngong Ping 360.
10. Tian Tan Buddha
Tian Tan Buddha is a large bronze Buddha statue located in the Po Lin Monastery at the Ngong Ping Plateau. It is a very popular tourist attraction for visitors and locals on weekends. This giant 34-meter statue symbolizes the harmonious relationship between humans and nature. It took 12 years to build it, but they finally completed this artistic and religious wonder back in 1993. The Tian Tan Buddha is surrounded by six other smaller bronze statues that are known as the “The Offerings of the Six Devas”
11. Lantau Trail
Lantau Trail is located in the New Territories of Hong Kong. It is 70 kilometers long and certainly, a must-walk trail for any outdoor lovers. The Lantau Trail follows a circular path divided into 12 different sections. They’re all marked every 500 meters to help you keep track of where you are. There you can find the Wisdom Path, and the Po Lin Monastery, and catch the beautiful sunrise from the top of Lantau Peak.
12. Kowloon Park
Once part of the British Army’s Whitfield Barracks, Kowloon Park now covers an area of 33 peaceful acres. Over 70 buildings were demolished to accommodate the stonewall trees, the bird lakes, Kowloon Park Swimming Pool, rose gardens, and more. Kowloon Park is also the home of the Hong Kong Museum of History and the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre. You could easily spend the whole weekend here relaxing in various areas of the park, exercising, or visiting the unique museums.
13. Nan Lian Garden
Located in Diamond Hill, the Nan Lian Garden is a classical Chinese garden designed in the Tang Dynasty style. It covers 3.5 hectares with beautiful ponds and wooden structures. You can see all these enchanting features characteristic of the Tang-style while following the one-way circular route that covers the entire garden. Admission is free, and the Nan Lian Garden is open every day from 7am-9pm.
14. Peak Tram
The Peak Tram runs from Garden Road Admiralty all the way to Victoria Peak. It is a funicular railway with six different stops. The route covers 1.4 kilometers (0.87 miles) in a 400-meter (or just about 1,312 feet) climb and has been operating since May of 1888. Once you get off the tram, you can visit attractions like the Peak Tower and Madame Tussauds. There’s also a shopping mall with plenty of food options too.
15. Victoria Peak
Also known as Austin Mountain, Victoria Peak is the highest mountain in Hong Kong. Back in the 19th century, wealthy Europeans would build their homes in the area. They could take full advantage of the beautiful views and refreshing climate. Though it continues to serve as a high-end residential area, today it attracts millions of tourists each year.
16. the Peak Tower
Located at Victoria Gap, the area surrounding the Peak was once reserved exclusively for the wealthiest residents. This is due to the stunning views of Hong Kong. Today, though, the Peak Tower is a source of fun and entertainment. Its one of the favorite hangouts for locals on weekends. Be it shopping or exhibits, there’s a lot to see and enjoy. You just need to catch a short tram ride up the hill.
17. Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
Located at the Peak Tower in Victoria Gap, the Madame Tussauds Hong Kong was the first of the franchise’s to open in Asia. It houses the most famous Hong Kong personalities such as Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee. But they also have royalties like Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana. Some of the more popular figures include David Beckham and even music legends like Freddie Mercury and Elvis Presley. Be ready to see and photograph some of your favorite idols!
18. Aqua Luna
Enjoy the beautiful Hong Kong sun while feeling the ocean waves sweeping through your hair. Or, marvel at the amazing Symphony of Lights while eating a delicious gourmet meal. If any of these sound like heaven, then Aqua Luna is the experience for you. Regardless of which package you choose, you’ll have the unique opportunity to board a red-sail Chinese junk boat. You’ll love the incredible views of Hong Kong skyline.
19. Lan Kwai Fong
Lan Kwai Fong was once the place you’d go if you were looking for a marriage arranger. Now, this small square is known for its cobblestone pavements, street performers, bars, clubs, retailers, and festivals. Every year huge crowds flock to Lan Kwai Fong’s Halloween and Near Year’s Eve celebration. With a wide variety of retailers and leisurely activities, there is something here for everyone.
20. Avenue of Stars
Honoring the celebrities of the Hong Kong movie industry, the Avenue of Stars runs along Victoria Harbour. At night, this is a popular spot to view the Symphony of Lights display, as you’ll see beautiful panoramic views of the Victorian Harbour. On the weekend, it’s a relaxing walk for locals after some fresh air and scenery. Modeled after the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Avenue of Stars has the handprints and plaques of numerous celebrities.
21. Man Mo Temple
The Man Mo Temple is a temple dedicated to the civil and literature gods. They’re known as Man Tai (or Man Cheong) and Mo Tai (or Kwan Tai), the patrons of students and scholars. Though there are many Man Mo Temples in Hong Kong. But this one, located at Hollywood Road, is the largest and most popular.
22. Hong Kong Disneyland
Opened since 2005, Hong Kong Disneyland is Hong Kong’s largest amusement park. With seven different zones, Disney spared no expenses when building this amazing park. Explore Grizzly Gulch, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Toy Story Land, Adventureland, Mystic Point and Main Street, U.S.A. They made sure to incorporate elements of Chinese culture and even followed the rules of feng shui.
23. Noah’s Ark
This life-size replica of Noah’s Ark is located at Man Wan Island. You’ll learn about the Judeo-Christian myth of Noah. Of course, it’s specially designed to be engaging for kids. You can also explore a small nature park. The ark itself has multiple levels, some are even available for an overnight stay.
24. Hong Kong Maritime Museum
The Hong Kong Maritime Museum focuses on teaching about Hong Kong, China, and Asia’s maritime history. It is managed by the Hong Kong Maritime Museum Limited, The Hong Kong Maritime Museum Trust, and the Hong Kong Museum Endowment. All three of these are charitable organizations. Its thirteen galleries are spread along three floors, displaying over 1,000 objects. The Hong Kong Maritime Museum also has a rooftop café overlooking the Victoria Harbour.
25. Trick Eye Museum Hong Kong
The Trick Eye Museum Hong Kong celebrates optical illusion in the most entertaining way possible. Making use of Trompe-l’oeil technique, the Trick Eye Museum creates a fun environment for learning and appreciating art. With five themed zones, there’s plenty for you to explore. Get your cameras ready, as this interactive experience is one you’ll never forget.
26. Hong Kong Railway Museum
The Hong Kong Railway Museum is located in the area of Tai Po. It opened December 1986 where the Old Tai Po Market Railway Station used to be. Its architecture resembles southern Chinese temples. In the museum, you can find six historical coaches and even a steam locomotive on exhibition. It’s open daily from 10am-6pm, but its closed on Tuesdays. Admission is free.
27. Hong Kong Wetland Park
The Hong Kong Wetland Park has 10,000 square-meters of area dedicated to conservation. In 2007, it won the Award of Excellence in the Asian Pacific Competition from Urban Land Institute. It contains numerous exhibitions showcasing the importance of biodiversity and conservation. The Hong Kong Wetland Park is also home to Pui Pui, a female saltwater crocodile who is almost like a local celebrity. Spend the weekend here and take in the natural surroundings, away from the bustling city noise of Hong Kong.
28. Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple
The Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple is a well-known Taoist shrine, popular with both locals and tourists. Famous for its “What you request is what you get” prayer, this temple features some beautiful traditional Chinese architecture. The stunning red pillars and gorgeous carvings make them unique.
29. Hong Kong Space Museum
The construction for the Hong Kong Space Museum first began in 1977. It is now made up of two main exhibition halls: the Hall of Cosmos and the Hall of Space Exploration. Known for its unique egg-shaped dome, the museum was the first local planetarium with a fully automatic control system. It holds numerous yearly activities such as the Astronomy Carnival, Astronomy Happy Hour, film sessions, lectures and much more.
30. Hong Kong Heritage Museum
Located right next to the Shing Mun River, the Hong Kong Heritage Museum is managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department. It opened back in 2000. With a focus on history, art, and culture, you’ll see five main permanent exhibits. These are the Children’s Discovery Gallery, Cantonese Opera House, T. T. Tsui Gallery of Chinese Art, Chao Sao-an Gallery, and the Jin Yong Gallery Gallery. The museum also has a 350-seat theatre that holds the occasional Cantonese opera performance.
31. Mai Po Nature Reserve
In 1995, Mai Po was recognized as a “Wetland of International Importance” by the Ramsar Convention. Today, the Mai Po Nature Reserve is managed by the world famous WWF. While maintaining this incredible habitat, they promote wild life and ecological conservation. It also offers both training and guided tours to help raise awareness of the environment. If you love nature and need some fresh air, then there’s no better place than Mai Po Nature Reserve. You’ll see birds, otters, butterflies, and dragonflies in their natural habitat.
32. Hong Kong Science Museum
Located right next to the Hong Kong Museum of History, the Hong Kong Science Museum officially opened back in 1991. It is within walking distance of the Hung Hom Station. The Hong Kong Science Museum seeks to promote interest in all sorts of science and inspire a love for learning. With numerous permanent exhibits, demonstrations, interactive displays, and special exhibitions, the Hong Kong Science Museum is a great attraction for kids.
33. Hong Kong Museum of History
Established in 1975, the Hong Kong Museum of History has a floor area of 17,500 square meters. It has exhibitions dedicated to Hong Kong folk culture, the Opium Wars, the beginnings of the city, and even the Japanese occupation during World War II. There’s also an opportunity to watch fascinating lectures on different periods of history. This is a must-visit for any history lover or anyone who wishes to know more about Hong Kong’s fascinating past.
34. Ocean Park
Ocean Park is not just a marine park, but it is also the second-largest theme park in Hong Kong. Open since 1977, Ocean Park covers 226 acres with rides and attractions. The park itself is divided into two different sections: The Summit and The Waterfront. For a real treat, try to visit Ocean Park during Halloween, as it holds one of the most extravagant celebrations of the holiday in all of Asia. And of course, there are some amazing rides for kids and adults.
35. The Hong Kong Observation Wheel
The Hong Kong Observation Wheel attracts over 2,000 visitors on a daily basis. It is 60 meters in height and overlooks the beautiful Victoria Harbour. Each capsule seats about ten people, and the entire ride takes an estimated 10 to 20 minutes.
36. Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck
See the beauty of Hong Kong from above while at the Sky 100 Hong Kong Observation Deck. As the name implies, this 360-degree observation deck sits on the 100th floor of the International Commerce Centre. Once you enter the elevator, it only takes you a minute to get to the observation deck. The views of Victoria Harbour – be it during the day, evening, or night – are always breathtaking. Take a picture with your friends and family, admire the city, and enjoy a nice meal. This is one experience you can’t miss.
With all these activities, it’ll easily occupy you for a 2 week trip, let alone a weekend. But if that’s not enough, head over to Macau. Its just a quick boat ride away. Read this guide before heading there:
