Things to Do in Hong Kong

About Hong Kong

Where East embraces West in a symphony of neon lights and ancient temples, Hong Kong pulses with an energy that's both frenetic and harmonious. This vertical city rises from emerald harbors like a glittering forest of glass and steel, where century-old dim sum traditions flourish in the shadows of tomorrow's architecture. Here, the fragrance of incense mingles with the aroma of street food, and the gentle clatter of mahjong tiles echoes alongside the whispered negotiations of global commerce. Hong Kong invites you to lose yourself in its labyrinthine markets, where fortune tellers share corners with luxury boutiques, and then find yourself again on mist-shrouded peaks overlooking one of the world's most spectacular harbors. This is a place where every sense awakens – from the steam rising off a bowl of wonton noodles to the cool morning air atop Victoria Peak, where the city spreads below like scattered diamonds on black velvet.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Get an Octopus Card immediately upon arrival – this electronic payment system works on all public transport (MTR, buses, trams, ferries) plus taxis, convenience stores, and restaurants. The MTR is incredibly efficient and connects all major areas.

Money: Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for street food and local markets. ATMs are abundant. Tipping isn't mandatory but 10% is appreciated at restaurants.

Cultural Respect: Remove shoes when entering temples and homes. Don't point with your index finger – use an open hand. Avoid touching someone's head. When receiving business cards or gifts, accept with both hands and examine respectfully.

Food Safety: Street food is generally safe – look for high turnover stalls with locals queuing. Tap water is safe to drink. Try dim sum for breakfast, visit a cha chaan teng (tea restaurant) for local flavors, and don't miss roast goose.

When to Visit

Hong Kong's subtropical climate offers distinct seasons with varying advantages. October to December delivers the ideal weather window, with temperatures ranging 20-26°C (68-79°F), minimal rainfall (20-40mm monthly), and crystal-clear skies perfect for Victoria Peak views. Expect peak season pricing with hotels 30-40% higher. January to March remains excellent with cooler temperatures (16-23°C/61-73°F) but occasional drizzle. Spring (April-May) brings warming weather and blooming flowers, though humidity begins rising. Summer (June-September) is hot, humid, and wet with temperatures reaching 29-33°C (84-91°F) and heavy rainfall (300-500mm monthly). Typhoon season peaks July-September, but offers the best hotel deals with rates 40-50% lower. Key festivals include Chinese New Year (late January/February) with spectacular celebrations but higher prices, the Dragon Boat Festival (June), and Mid-Autumn Festival (September/October) with beautiful lantern displays. Winter travelers enjoy comfortable sightseeing conditions and moderate crowds, while summer visitors benefit from dramatic savings and fewer tourists, provided they can handle the heat and occasional storms. Shoulder seasons (March-April, November) offer the best balance of weather and value.