Some people claim there is little to do in Hong Kong other than shop, shop and shop some more. 🛍️
Er, well, that's not even close, and as expected, what to do and see depends on what you like to do. So shopping is not all there is; this page should clarify that.
Since this is my site, I will cover the things that mainly interest me. 😊
As a bit of a history buff, liking Asian art and photography and walking everywhere, yes, even in the blast furnace that passes for summer in Hong Kong, there is an extensive range of things to do.
And yes, I will start with shopping, even though it's not my primary interest when travelling.
It should not be a surprise to anyone, but Hong Kong is a shopping mecca, with shopping centres around every corner and just about anything you would think of available.
Release the inner geek and go shopping for technology at any of the specialist shopping centres that I am aware of. And yes, I know there are others, which I will add when I can and maybe even after I visit them on future trips. You can read my thoughts on technology shopping in Hong Kong here, or use the links below to read how my visits went during various trips.
This suburb located on the Kowloon side of the harbour is the home of the well known Golden Computer Arcade, which is the place to go for anything PC or console related; then comes the Apliu Street markets which are the place to go for tools, electronic components and just about everything else you can think of.
This computer centre in the Kowloon suburb of Mon Kok is mainly a place to visit for just about anything PC related. It is located not far from Sham Shui Po on the same MTR line, so it is just as easy to get to. This centre contains several floors of small shops, laid out the same way as most of the others. Just be aware that for some reason they seem to open later than others do.
Yet another dedicated technology wall, but this time located on Hong Kong Island right next to the Wan Chi MTR station. It's laid out just like all the others, a collection of small shops over several floors, this time with the exception of a few camera stores; it's focused on computers. So, almost everything you can think of for your computer can be found here.
This mall is similar to the others: small shops over several floors, but this time, there is just about everything you can think of, even slightly tech-related. So, not focused on anything, there are the usual phone stores, but also networking gear, and on the upper floors, some tools and general electronics parts. It's more than a little off the beaten track, but well worth the visit.
An interesting place, a local friend put me on to it as a source for just about everything camera-related. So no, it's not a badly named phone store, or a very old game. Anyhow, heading in, it's just like the computer shopping centres I have visited all over HK, a rabbit warren packed with small shops.
Hong Kong is full of markets, ranging from odd street sellers to full-fledged street markets with many stalls and even some hawker centres. Bargains can be had at most of them. Here are some examples, again with the tale of my visits and words of warning for the Jade Market.
This is just like most of the other markets in Hong Kong, but with one big difference: the atmosphere is electric, and if you are looking for a food experience, you can get just about anything here. No, not only food but small stalls selling the usual collection of goods. Visit for the food, stay for the atmosphere and bargain hunting.
Located in Sham Shui Po in Kowloon, and close to the Golden Computer Arcade. There are the usual stalls selling just about anything tech-related, and behind them are shops selling a wide range of products. For example, if you are looking for tools, then you can get just about anything, plus things like electronic components and test equipment.
This market was recommended to me after yet another bad experience at the jade market, more on that later. Anyhow, Cat Street, located in Upper Lascar Row on Hong Kong Island, also sells jade as well as antiques, but all without the pushy sales tactics; in place of that are better quality products. In short, if you want Jade, go here and NOT the Jade Market.
Located on the far side of the Island, it is mainly known for its markets but also hosts some of the dragon boat festival races. I have been visiting the markets and surrounding areas since the 90s and, with each visit, end up learning more, and no, not just that bargains can still be found, but good places to eat, more walks to take, and even more photo ops.
This one is interesting and disappointing all at the same time. The interesting part is that it's a well-known market for jade products, and the disappointment is all due to the terrible, pushy attitude of some of the stallholders and the "questionable" quality of some of the products sold there. To me, if you want Jade, I would head to Cat Street Markets on Hong Kong Island.
This one, also located in Mon Kok in Kowloon, sells various items such as clothing, souvenirs and, as always, street food. Do not be put off by the name; this is not a market for women, but for everyone. Shock horror for my 2026 visit, those weather gods looked the other way, and actually let me visit this market, check out this
Hong Kong is literally full of shopping centres; just wandering around, it seems like on every corner you turn, there is another one. Rather than go into specifics, here are some of the major ones.
Located on Hong Kong Island, and home to a wide variety of shops ranging from the usual local small stores to the large chains such as Uniqlo and the massive Sogo department store, and yes there is also a street market which is one of the must-visit places when visiting. Just be aware, this area can be very crowded especially at the weekend.
Yes, another of the Hong Kong mega malls; this one is spread over multiple levels and contains the usual collection of chain stores mixed in with some smaller local stores. It's got something for everyone, a wide selection of international and local foods, and even an ice rink. And best of all, it's even got its own MTR station, so it is very easy to get to.
Back in the day, when I first moved to Hong Kong, my hotel was attached to this mall, so it was my first encounter with shopping centres, and where I learnt about the open late/close late way of working. There are actually two different malls in this centre, the Harbour City Mall and the Ocean Terminal.
One of the most well-known shopping streets in Kowloon, with a collection of just about any type of shop you can think of. I have been visiting for decades, and over the years, there have been so many changes; for example, way more high-end brand stores, especially around the harbour end of the street. Then comes the neon, or to be more accurate, the lack of it. 😒
I will freely admit I knew little about this place and did not even know it existed until a local friend told me about yet another shopping centre, but this time with a cruise ship as its landmark. From my investigations, it does look interesting, and not just as a shopping destination, but its landmark looks like a good photo opportunity, especially after dark.
Yes, we all know that Hong Kong is made up of many islands and not just Hong Kong Island. And yes, while there is much to see on Hong Kong Island, many others are well worth a visit; here are some examples, including the main one, complete with the tale of my visits over the years.
Hong Kong Island is the second largest island, home to many attractions located just south of Kowloon, yes, the one with the majority of the high-rise towers that are featured in tourist shots.
There are many ways to get to Hong Kong Island; as expected, it's well-served by buses, taxis, MTR trains, and multiple ferry services. When it comes to me, my preferred method of getting from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island is to use the iconic Star Ferry service. Yes, it's old, but if you want the real Hong Kong experience, you need to take this service at least once.
Located on Hong Kong Island, and home to a wide variety of shops ranging from the usual local small stores to the large chains such as Uniqlo and the massive Sogo department store, and yes there is also a street market which is one of the must-visit places when visiting. Just be aware, this area can be very crowded especially at the weekend.
Located on Hong Kong Island, Aberdeen used to be a fishing village and these days is best known for its dragon boat races held most years. Back in the day, it was the home of the famous Jumbo Kingdom floating Restaurant, and yes, even though I have dietary restrictions, I was taken there back in the mid-90s, and can say it was an experience not to be missed.
The district on Hong Kong Island is known as the business and retail hub on the island and is home to multiple shopping centres, the terminus for the Peak tram service, the Stock Exchange, ferry wharves, including the iconic Star Ferry, plus connections to many other islands such as Peng Chau and Lantau.
Is yet another area on the road to Stanley, being a few km before Repulse Bay. Even given the location, I had only visited it a few times, and that's usually as a stop on the very long Stanley to Kennedy Town coastal walk. As for Deepwater Bay itself, there is a small beach but not much else; yes, not even a kiosk or even Seven-Eleven.
If you look at any photo of Hong Kong Island, you cannot miss the Peak, which sits on top of Victoria Peak and offers views of the city that are stunning, and from personal experience over decades, I can say it is not exaggerated. Put simply, if you visit HK and the weather gods are on your side, visit the Peak; you will not be disappointed.
On the way to Stanley, it is well worth stopping. There is the beach, which is stunning, and the Tin Hau temple, located at one end of the beach, is a must-see for all visitors regardless of their personal religion. This is another area that I have been visiting for several decades, and even after all those visits, I still come back, even if just for lunch and to take in the atmosphere.
Located on the far side of the Island, it is mainly known for its markets but also hosts some of the dragon boat festival races. I have been visiting the markets and surrounding areas since the 90s and, with each visit, end up learning more, and no, not just that bargains can still be found, but good places to eat, more walks to take, and even more photo ops.
One of the must-visit locations on Hong Kong Island, regardless of whether you are following horse racing, the atmosphere is worth a visit. I have only visited once, and that was decades ago. I am someone who does not gamble or have much interest in horse racing. Still, I would never have missed that experience.
An animal-themed park located on Hong Kong Island. I have both driven and walked past many times, but never managed to visit until 2026. Now, it's home to panda cubs, which makes the already good photo opportunity even better. As for the other attractions at the park, I have been told I have never grown up, so the rides look interesting.
A mainly commercial area between Admiralty and Causeway Bay, and is the home to several government offices, the exhibition centre, and the Arts Centre. It is served by the usual Bus, Taxi, and Tram services, but it also has its own Star Ferry connection to Kowloon. During my last visit, I did the waterfront walk to Central along the waterfront, which is stunning.
The first part of Hong Kong that I stayed in when I first arrived back in the day. Back then, it was very much the older part of the city, and on reflection, I would call it the "Real HK". Back then, it was mainly older-style apartments with the odd office tower. These days, it's been heavily modernised with high-rise, but even after all the changes, it's much quieter than other areas.
I have a long history with this small island located just off the much larger Lantau Island, which I passed every day while commuting from Discovery Bay into the city, and yes, I have visited multiple times. However, most were in less-than-ideal weather. Still, I will try again, as it's one of those places that draw me to visit, and no, do not let its small size put you off, there is much to see.
It's no real surprise to those who know me that I like walking everywhere, so walking all over the island was a no-brainer for me. Anyway, getting off the ferry, the first thing I spotted was a Welcome Supermarket, and a total lack of traffic, not that there is much in the first place. What I did notice was that Peng Chau is very walker-friendly, just watch out for the bikes.
These temples are all over Hong Kong, and I have visited many, ranging from the tiny to the very impressive. These temples are dedicated to the Chinese Sea Goddess Tin Hau, who is better known as Mazu. These temples are something that should be visited and treated with the respect they deserve. You will find some that even allow photography.
I found this temple totally by accident while just wandering, and yes, I did go in and take a few photos. And yes, non-flash photography was allowed. After some research after my very brief visit, I found that this temple is also known as "Dragon Mother Temple", with the story saying Lung Mo was an ordinary woman who raised five dragons.
Given my liking of Chinese architecture, and after talking to several local friends, they all recommended I visit this temple when I made it to Peng Chau without the weather gods interfering. As for the temple, my research showed that this temple was built in the 18th century under a stunning Banyan tree to honour the goddess Kam Fa, or the Lady Golden Flower.
This was one of the three temples I was planning to visit when I finally made it to Peng Chau without getting drowned. It's a relatively new one, built back in the 1950s, and is dedicated to the seven sisters who never married, and is believed to aid couples wanting to start families. On my most recent visit, those weather gods were determined to stop me from exploring more.
Back in the early 20th century, there were two leather factories located in the centre of the island. They ran until the occupation during WWII and closed with the rise of synthetics. These days, it is what I would call an arty area, with displays of many different types of art, some made of junk welded, others made of bottles and tiles, all combined with some colourful graffiti.
The first time I visited Peng Chau back in the day, it was in the middle of winter, so the beach was deserted, although the friend who was playing tour guide told me it can be crowded during the warmer months. We walked the full length, but carefully avoided the far too cold water, and then there was the trash in the water, which, at the time, was up there with the worst.
Lantau is the largest of the Hong Kong islands, and for a while, back in the day, was where I called home. Today, it's home to the international airport, several towns, some beaches and tourist attractions, such as Disney and the Po Lin Monastery.
Another place that I have visited a few times over the years, but never found the time to explore fully. All this changed in 2026, when everything aligned, and yes, even the weather gods, who let me just wander around taking photos.
It is a residential development on Lantau Island that's popular with expats, and yes, back in the 90s, that included me, so I have many memories of life there, some good, some bad and some just interesting. Anyhow, since I lived there, it has more than doubled in size, and it is now broken up into Discovery Bay and Discovery Bay North.
An unforgettable experience for anyone visiting Lantau; it starts from Tung Chung and runs to Ngong Ping Village, offering stunning views of Lantau Island and the airport in the distance. I first experienced this trip not long after it opened and was so impressed that it made it on my must-do list for more recent visits, especially when staying on Lantau, which puts it very close.
When I first visited this Monastery over 30 years ago, I was impressed, which should not be a surprise, as I have a liking for traditional architecture. This first visit was in the middle of winter, so the weather gods were not on my side, but still, it was a good place to visit. As for the Big Buddha, that's impressive, although my bad knees took one look at the steps and said nope.
Located on Lantau Island, not that far from where I used to live, but so far, each time I have tried to visit, the weather gods were against me. A theme park in the rain is not something I have ever wanted to experience. From what various people tell me who have visited, it's up there with those in the US, so having experienced the US parks, I expect good things.
Lamma Island is the third largest, and another one I have had a long experience with, although I have not visited for many decades. Again, something which is planned to change in the next trip, when I will make sure I have the time to explore the island fully, and after some initial research, I have found a few things to see.
Just like with the other islands to visit, the only real way to get to Lamma Island is by water. This time, there are choices, with a service that runs from Central district wharves on Hong Kong Island, and also one from Aberdeen. For my next trip, maybe I will combine a visit to Aberdeen with Lamma Island, and take the ferry from Aberdeen and come back to Central.
There are Tin Hau temples all over Hong Kong, and I have visited a number of them, ranging from the tiny to very impressive. These temples are dedicated to the Chinese Sea Goddess Tin Hau, who is better known as Mazu. These temples are something that should be visited and treated with the respect they deserve. You will find some that contain stunning interiors.
From my research, this is the most popular on Lamma Island, and has the sort of facilities you would expect from a popular beach: showers, toilets and changing rooms, etc. Now, on the subject of beaches, I am Australian, so as you would expect, I know beaches, and yes, I live close to several, so when I finally make it to this one, it's got some high standards to live up to.
This is another interesting one that a friend put me on to; he tells me it claims to be a museum dedicated to the history of Hong Kong's fishermen. It's a combination of a museum and a theme park. Not having visited yet, I cannot really comment; however, this place has piqued my interest, so when I visit Lamma Island later this year, this is on the must-visit list.
Yet another one which I had been planning to visit for many years, just never managed to make it, those weather gods must really hate me. All this changed during my 2024 trip when I managed to make it to the island and explore. Quite a few things to see and do.
The only real way to get to Cheung Chau Island is by water. This service runs from the central district wharves on Hong Kong Island, close to where the Star Ferry, Discovery Bay and Peng Chau Chau services operate. For my visits, just like with the Peng Chau trips, I usually sit outside on the top deck to really take in the harbour traffic and general atmosphere.
While talking to some locals, a few mentioned that this cave was an interesting place to visit. Digging into it, it seems its origins are related to the kidnapping of a local by pirates back in the 19th century. I also found other references to pirates and using the cave as a treasure-hiding place. No time on the latest visit, but it's one for the next visit, late 2025.
Even after living in HK, this was a new one on me; I had never heard of it. So with the weather gods seeming to be happy with me, I figured I would visit. After some digging, I found it's part of the Family Trail. Just be aware, this is no easy walk; there are what look like endless steps, so my decision to do this in summer was not a good move, even for me.
When I arrived in Cheung Chau and started exploring, I noticed a sign for this temple, so with my known liking for Chinese architecture, it was a must-visit for me. The walk from the ferry wharf was short and opened up to one of the most impressive temples I had seen in Hong Kong, and heading inside it was just as impressive as the outside was. Highly recommended.
This was a new one for me now. At the same time, I remember watching the impressive Tsing Ma Bridge being built while commuting from Discovery Bay, I never even noticed the small island on the Lantau end of the bridge. But that all changed while researching this page and finding a theme park located there. Hmmmmm, interesting, a visit on a future trip.
Another totally new one for me; I never even heard it existed before doing some research for this page. Even more interesting, nor had any of my local friends, let alone visited. Now, while I am not religious in the slightest, when the weather gods allow, I will visit this park as it looks like it could be a good photo op. I just hope they do not push the religious aspect too hard.
Yes, in between the concrete canyons of the city, there are areas where nature can be found, and no, I am not just talking about the Zoological and Botanical Gardens, but other parks and attractions, well worth the visit.
Located close to the zoological gardens, which I have visited, I did not remember visiting this park. All that changed when I visited as part of my 2026 trip, which triggered a memory, reminding me I had actually visited some 30 years ago. As for what attracted me to the park, the Aviary and Conservatory are the main reasons for me to visit.
Given my positive experience with the Bird Paradise in Singapore and Bird Park in KL, when a friend told me about this Aviary, it was going to be a place to visit on my latest Hong Kong visit. And yes, it's a new one on me. I did not even know this existed, not sure why, as it's part of HK Park, which is close to the zoological and botanical gardens, a place I have visited before.
History is one of my areas of interest, and this being Hong Kong, there are many attractions, ranging from gardens to many temples, all of which are well worth a visit. And it goes without saying that when visiting temples, these are places of worship, and need to be treated with respect.
While I may not be religious, I am very interested in architecture and history, so visiting temples is high on my to-do list. And yes, while I am not religious, when visiting temples of other places of worship, I always show respect.
I did not even know this place existed until coming across it via some wallpaper sites, so after seeing some impressive pictures, it made the places-to-see list. This Nunnery is a large Buddhist temple complex located in the Diamond Hill district in Kowloon. it's broken up into the Nunnery and Nan Lian Gardens. Just check to make sure the Gardens are fully open.
There are Tin Hau temples all over Hong Kong, and I visited several, ranging from the tiny to the very impressive. These temples are dedicated to the Chinese Sea Goddess Tin Hau, who is better known as Mazu. They are something that should be respectfully visited. You will find some that are home to stunning decor, and from experience, photography is allowed in many.
Not just another Tin Hau temple, as from the outside it does not look as impressive as some of the others I have visited, but the inside was worth the time to look around. Just be aware that this temple can be crowded, so plan your visit carefully to not disturb the worshipers.
After visiting several other Tin Hau temples, the one at Repulse Bay stood out from every one of them; it's stunning, with the centrepiece being a pair of huge statues, complemented by multiple smaller ones and other traditional temple architecture. And all right on the Repulse Bay waterfront. In short, if you are in Repulse Bay, the temple is a highly recommended visit.
When I first visited this Monastery over 30 years ago, I was impressed, which should not be a surprise, as I have a liking for traditional architecture. This first visit was in the middle of winter, so the weather gods were not on my side, but still, it was a good place to visit. As for the Big Buddha, that's impressive, although my bad knees took one look at the steps and said nope.
When I arrived in Cheung Chau and started exploring, I noticed a sign for this temple, so with my known liking for Chinese architecture, it was a must-visit for me. The walk from the ferry wharf was short and opened up to one of the most impressive temples I had seen in Hong Kong, and heading inside it was just as impressive as the outside was. Highly recommended.
I found this temple totally by accident while just wandering, and yes, I did go in and take a few photos. And yes, non-flash photography was allowed. After some research after my very brief visit, I found that this temple is also known as "Dragon Mother Temple", with the story saying Lung Mo was an ordinary woman who raised five dragons.
Back in the day, I used to walk past all the time, but I never made the time to go and check it out. So after some digging, it seems it is one of the oldest temples in Hong Kong, built back in the 19th century. Location-wise, it's surrounded by a forest of high-rise apartment blocks, which makes it basically an island of peace in the urban jungle.
I will be honest in saying that I remember visiting various museums back in my school days and being bored by endless glass cases with dusty objects. But these days, things have changed, and while there are still glass cases, it's now more interactive. So do not let memories from school put you off; give some of these a go.
With me being interested in history, specifically asian history, it was a surprise to no one that I would finally make time to visit this museum. It's been on my to-do list for several years, just never managed to make the time. The time has finally come to visit, I just picked a very wet day.
The last time I visited a railway museum was part of a school trip, and even that long ago, I have fond memories of the large locomotives and other toys. So when I found out that there was a railway museum close to the Tai Po Market MTR station, I had to visit.
This is another one I have been meaning to visit for many years, but I just never managed it. Well, this Hong Kong visit, all that changed and everything aligned, so I headed in. Put simply, it was well worth the visit; fascinating comes to mind, and half the day vanished, but then again, I am a bit of a history buff.
This is a fairly new one for me, a series of walks that link up multiple heritage sites. This, for me, is the ideal combination: being into history and being known to walk everywhere, no matter the heat or humidity.
Yes, they are everywhere these days, Hong Kong included, where, in more recent years, Disneyland opened up on Lantau Island. Er, well, not that I have visited any of them, as each time I try, the weather gods are not happy with me. Maybe on the next visit, I will get lucky.
An animal-themed park located on Hong Kong Island. I have both driven and walked past many times, but never managed to visit until 2026. Now, it's home to panda cubs, which makes the already good photo opportunity even better. As for the other attractions at the park, I have been told I have never grown up, so the rides look interesting.
Located on Lantau Island, not that far from where I used to live, but so far, each time I have tried to visit, the weather gods were against me. A theme park in the rain is not something I have ever wanted to experience. From what various people tell me who have visited, it's up there with those in the US, so having experienced the US parks, I expect good things.
Another totally new one for me; I never even heard it existed before doing some research for this page. Even more interesting, nor had any of my local friends, let alone visited. Now, while I am not religious in the slightest, when the weather gods allow, I will visit this park as it looks like it could be a good photo op. I just hope they do not push the religious aspect too hard.
There are many walks all over Hong Kong, some I have done in the past and others on the must-do list for future visits. The ones listed here are some that look interesting, combining my interests in history, photography, and, of course, walking.
We are talking about Hong Kong, so there is no shortage of photo ops, stunning architecture, landscapes, street scenes, etc. The ones listed here are some that I found to be outstanding. And yes, that's from me, and I like taking candid shots.
This was another new one for me; it's a viewing area located on the 100th floor in the International Commerce Centre. Wow, comes to mind, and that was before I had visited. The actual experience was just as good as expected; the weather gods were on my side, and the crowds managed to stay away. Getting there was easy: MTR to Kowloon Station.
The ferry service running from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island is about as iconic as it gets when it comes to HK, with just about every tourist advertisement showing the skyline usually having at least one of these ferries included. Yes, you can travel from Kowloon to the island by MTR, bus, or Taxi, but I strongly recommend taking the Star Ferry at least once.
I have been trying to make time to visit Hong Kong during this festival since the 90s, just never managed it until 2024, when everything aligned, and it finally happened. I have visited the dragon boat races held in Sydney before, but this was in a different league. The atmosphere was electric, and both classes of boat races were well worth battling with the crowds.
If you look at any photo of Hong Kong Island, you cannot miss the Peak, which sits on top of Victoria Peak and offers views of the city that are stunning, and from personal experience over decades, I can say it is not exaggerated. Put simply, if you visit HK and the weather gods are on your side, visit the Peak; you will not be disappointed.
This is one walk that I have been trying to make time to do for decades, and finally, in 2024, the weather gods cooperated. During this walk, I visited the Star Ferry Wharf, Kowloon Lookout, Avenue of the Stars and finally, actually got to see the famous Bruce Lee statue. It's an easy walk, totally flat with plenty of places for food and hydration, and one I will do again.
Normally, when I go through the airport, I am rushing, but for once, time allowed me to look around, which is when I found a sign for the Sky Bridge, which runs between two parts of the terminal buildings. It was a stunning example of form and purpose, being raised high enough to allow for traffic, and lined with large windows that gave stunning views of the airport.