Hong Kong has a special energy that is difficult to describe. In the city center, millions of people are squeezed into a very small space, but the entire infrastructure is functioning flawlessly. Every corner has something new and unique: whether it be an ancient temple, a store with the most modern electronics, or a man walking with a birdcage in his hands.
Hong Kong has another side: forested mountains, hiking trails, beautiful beaches, islands, and traditional fishing villages.
As a special administrative region of China, the city is an interesting fusion of ancient Chinese culture and its worldview, formed during the times of independence from mainland China. Hong Kong is rightly considered one of the most impressive cities in the world, which always has something to catch the eye.
“Star Ferry”
The famous Hong Kong ferry service “Star Ferry” was launched in 1880. Due to its low cost, it is one of the cheapest travel options. Victoria Harbor is a real beehive of ships of all sizes, between which the ferry captain confidently maneuvers.
While sailing along the main route (Kowloon – Hong Kong), it will be difficult not to appreciate the splendor of the city’s dense towers, complemented by green mountains towering in front of you. At the same time, the sea breeze is good for a refreshing, and the wide-open spaces allow you to recover from your stay in a cramped urban environment.
Don’t worry about the ferry schedule: ships leave every few minutes during the day and slightly more in the evenings. So you will almost always have the opportunity to sit in good seats in the front or along the side.
The return trip to Kowloon is equally impressive. If you choose the right time, you can enjoy a show called “Symphony of Light”. The large-scale laser show, touching the skyscrapers on both sides of the harbor, is one of the free attractions. Watching this show is a very popular evening activity in Hong Kong.
Urban views
Hong Kong is home to some of the most beautiful and recognizable skyscrapers in the world. Dense high-rise buildings on Hong Kong Island and Kowloon blend in with the mountainous landscape and the harbor to make the city views special. In the harbor, there is a clear contrast between the traditional Chinese junk boats and the modern skyscrapers in the background.
At night, the landscapes change a lot, as the sky darkens, and the lights of the night city become at the head. Two of the best places for city views:
- Victoria Peak;
- Kowloon embankment near the clock tower, from where Hong Kong is visible. The Star Ferry pier is also nearby. It is also a great place to watch the Symphony of Lights laser show at night.
Victoria Peak (or simply “The Peak”)
You cannot say that you have seen all the beauty of Hong Kong until you have appreciated its views from Victoria Peak, which many simply call “The Peak”. Take the tram to this scenic vantage point for a panoramic view of the skyscrapers, bustling city, harbor, and surrounding islands. The tram station is located near the entrance to Hong Kong Park near Murray’s house.
Most of the Peak is occupied by a vast park with lush greenery, nature trails, and even more beautiful viewpoints of the thriving metropolis below. You can also go down the trail to the city, but you should take into account the presence of intersections with other paths and full-fledged roads.
It is best to visit the Peak in the evening when the scenic skyline is illuminated by skyscrapers against the backdrop of the night sky. This is one of the best places to see the city at night. If the tram journey seems too long for you (or if you want to go to the Peak directly from the hotel), you can always order a taxi to the top.