Overview
Hong Kong is one of the busiest cities and ports in the
world. Yet it is not the hectic pace of life that will leave you breathless.
Instead, it is the
very serenity of the Peak that will make you catch your breath….
This hill on the southern shore of Hong Kong Island will indeed
leave you speechless with wonder at the stunning panorama that can be seen
at its pinnacle. The marvelous vista is further enhanced by its lovely, walks
under a canopy of trees and by the Victoria Peak Garden, the former residence
of the Governor of Hong Kong. And the ride on the Peak Tram is an experience
not to be missed!
An ideal place to spend some quality time with family, friends
and loved ones. Enjoy a picnic at the Peak, where you'll be serenaded by Mother
Nature's very own musical ensemble - the chirping birds and crickets, accompanied
by the rustling leaves and gentle whisper of the breeze.
Simply stunning - the view atop the Peak will have even the most
hardened of sceptics marvelling at the beauty of Mother Nature's handiwork.
So, take a little trip up to the Peak, where you'll learn to rediscover and
love the simple things in life!
Western District
The pioneers of America headed west, where they found a whole
new land and forged a whole new life; visitors to Hong Kong should also 'Go
West', all the way to Western District - to get a better glimpse of the Chinese
culture and life of the Hong Kong Chinese.
With lots of antiques, crafts and curios on sale in Western District,
visitors would no doubt get a feel of the diverse beauty of the culture. With
the traditional medicine shops proudly proclaiming their cure-alls derived
from various herbs and animal parts, visitors would certainly gain an eye-opening
experience of the old practices of the local people. And with its old, sculptured
temples - some more than a hundred years old - visitors will definitely celebrate
the spirit of life, as the locals know it.
The Western District epitomises all that the Chinese of yesteryear
hold dear. The uniqueness of the old way of life is still partly preserved
in the Western District; this area is all the more attractive for showing up
the contrast of a life and culture that is slowly but surely giving way to
the hip and modern way of life. So, head out 'west' for a blast from the past!
The Star Ferry
In Hong Kong, one of life's simple pleasures is taking
a ride on the Star Ferry that enables commuters to get from Kowloon to Hong
Kong and vice-versa. The decks of the ferries offer one fabulous views of
the island.
Starry-eyed romantics will not want to miss this ride and lovers
who only have eyes for each other will no doubt have to tear their gazes from
each other as the panorama will just about steal your breath away, particularly
at twilight time, when it is especially enchanting, with man-made lights lighting
up in unison with the twinkling stars in the darkening sky.
So, for the many of us who cannot afford a luxury cruise, there're
always the ferries of Hong Kong to set the lovely relaxing mood of an adventure
at sea. Just close your eyes and let your imagination sail the Seven Seas….
Cheung Chau
Cheung Chau means "Long Island" and the fishing community
still live in real wooden junks - their traditional homes. But there is a difference
here, these boats have very modern equipment to find fishes!
Vehicles are virtually non-existent here and visitors get to
enjoy a relaxing walk as they make their way down the waterfront, simply called
the "Praya". Seafood drying in the sun, fresh shellfish on sale and
seafood restaurants are common sights here. The Praya becomes a pretty promenade,
a la Mediterranean, in the evenings, while the weekends see lots of visitors
from Hong Kong coming over for day-trips.
To the western end of Praya Road, is the over-200 year old Pak
Tai Temple, dedicated to the Taoist god of the sea. It features traditional
Chinese temple architecture, with ceramic figurines mounted on the roof. The
image of the deity is the one with the serpent and tortoise under his feet.
The people started honouring Pak Tai after the deity was said to have driven
away evil spirits which brought pirates and a devastating plague.
Every year, the villages hold a procession and the Cheung Chan
Bun Festival as thanksgiving to the deity, and huge towers consisting of sweet
buns are erected in front of the temple.
LAMMA ISLAND
Lamma Island makes a wonderful weekend getaway or a day trip
destination. Its close proximity to Hong Kong makes it possible and convenient
for the people of the main island to enjoy a ferry ride over for a night of
banqueting and reveling as there are many affordable restaurants and eateries
serving excellent Chinese and Western fare.
The clear air and sandy beaches which give way to green hills
complete with butterflies, trees and villages; the picturesque view that awaits
from a pavilion at the top of a little hill on Hung Shing Yeh Beach - all do
wonders for the soul. The little grocery shops, the bars and the lovely restaurants,
some built out over the water - they do wonders to your appetite!
Lamma Island is just the place for you if you love good food
and Mother Nature. So check into one of the few hotels there and check out
all that Lamma Island has to offer.
Stanley
Stanley is THE place for bargain hunters and patrons who love
dining alfresco. But it is also known for its historic sites and colonial buildings,
mainly the oldest police station and Murray House - the former British army
quarters.
Another interesting venue to stop by is the temple of the goddess
Tin Hau, patron saint of the sea, who also protects the villagers of Stanley.
The Military Cemetery is also a place of interest, unusual though it is. Make
you way along to St. Stephen's Beach and you'll be able to rent a small boat
to take you over to tiny Po Toi island, where the ancient rock carvings take
center stage. Another interesting attraction there is the "Shell Rock".
As it name implies, it looks like a shell and rises ten metres above the spur.
Tai Tam Reservoirs
Water, water everywhere
But nary a drop to drink - until it has been treated, that is!
Surrounded by the southeastern hills of Hong Kong Island, hidden
from the city, are the Tai Tam Reservoirs. It is the largest of the island's
reservoir. Visiting it is a relaxing way to spend an hour or two, especially
when all that you need to do is to take a stroll down a hill.
En route to the reservoir itself are a picnic area and a viewing
station. Take a rest at the pavilion below the Tai Tam Intermediate Reservoir,
and look out at the bigger Tai Tam Tuk Reservoir. Water flows from the surrounding
valley and from the western slopes of Dragon's Back in Shek O. Keep walking
along the road and you'll find yourself in some lovely shaded woodland beside
the reservoir. A picturesque bridge completes the tour and minutes later, you'll
find yourself back at Tai Tam Road.
Mongkok Markets
Mongkok is famous for its markets; there are four very interesting
ones for you to check out - the Yuen Po Street Bird Garden, the Flower Market,
the Goldfish Market and the Ladies' Market.
Bird sellers and their prized songbirds are the main attraction
on the grounds of this Chinese courtyard of the Bird Garden. Bird paraphernalia
of all types are sold here, from cages to bird snacks. Say it with flowers,
fresh or dried, and the best place to get them in all of Hong Kong is at the
Flower Market. It is the centre of Hong Kong's retail and wholesale flower
trade. The shops and sidewalk resemble a veritable paradise, with blooms of
all colours, shapes and sizes imaginable! Exotic flowers and potted plants
come from all over the world. It is open daily from 7.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m.
At the Goldfish Market, tropical fish in bright hues dart around
playfully amid coral in tanks. The market operates from 10 a.m. until 6.00
p.m. each day. A visit there might just be the thing to win you over, even
if you aren't really a fish enthusiast. The Ladies' Market is a misleading
name as it gets its fair share of attention from the men as well. And no, they
aren't cross-dressers as the market has on sale all manner of clothes and accessories
as well as beauty products and other knick-knacks. Best of all, they are bargain
priced!
Museum and Galleries
Hong Kong's museums aren't just about old things - they are a
varied combination of old and new, and of East and West. There are many museums
with different themes and there'll be one that is bound to catch your attention.
Scattered all over Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and the New Territories,
they are a wonderful source of information on heritage, culture and natural
history, art, science and technology. There are even the Flagstaff House Museum
of Tea Ware, the Hong Kong Racing Museum and the Lei Cheng Uk Han Tomb Museum!
One museum that is worth visiting just to see its traditional
Chinese architecture is the handsome Tung Wah Museum. It can be found in the
Old Main Hall, the only surviving building of the Kwong Wah Hospital. Open
daily from 10 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. - and you can make arrangements to have someone
take you on a guided tour by calling +852 27700867. Take them up on their offer;
it's free, by the way….
Hong Kong Bank Building
Said to be the most expensive building ever built, the Hong Kong
Bank Building epitomizes the harmonious mix of an ancient practice with high-tech
wizardry. Its very design is based on the art of feng shui, of which harmony
of elements, shapes, size and colour is essential in producing and maintaining
the balance of energy. An imbalance of energy bodes ill for all.
Giant pillars hold the entire magnificent building up and people
can walk under the bank and come out on the other side. When standing directly
under the bank, you will be able to see right into the heart of the building
if you look through the huge glass atrium. This comes as no surprise, since
the inside is transparent.
Macau
The former Portuguese enclave, Macau retains its air of Southern
European dignity with its open air cafes, public squares, places with quaint
Portuguese names, lots of Portuguese restaurants and the occasional palm tree.
Macau has a colonial past 300 years longer than Hong Kong's but
it has somehow managed to preserve its superb collection of historic buildings
and crumbling backstreets. Do make it a point to see the beautiful Baroque
churches, old fortresses and the culturally-rich mansion houses. They stand
proud amongst the newer high-rise hotels, wide highways, concrete bridges and
elegant casinos - which is what Macau is really famous for!
Having made its fortune from the gaming tables, Macau is one
prosperous place today, as can be seen from the large-scale construction and
from its airport. In Macau, blackjack, roulette and poker are just a few of
the names of the game!
Country Parks
Despite its concrete façade, Hong Kong is still very much
eco-friendly; in fact 75% of its areas are lovely green countryside. As such,
it has much to offer its residents and visitors in terms of outdoor recreation
and fabulous views.
With its lush vegetation, Hong Kong has an impressive variety
of marine and wildlife, especially on its many outlying beaches. Most of these
are uninhabited but some are accessible, and visitors can spend some glorious
time in the wild, admiring the many birds and animals that call Hong Kong their
home.
Hong Kong's country parks are also ideal for hiking as there
are extensive trails with fantastic views. Half-day hike or a whole day one
- its your call.
TOURS & CRUISES
Another attractive feature in Hong Kong is the novel way tourists
can go sightseeing. Tours and cruises are available and are a wonderful, relaxing
way to see the sights.
Just sign up for one (or two or more) of the cruises that are
available, and you'll be taken to certain areas of Hong Kong. Some of these
cruises come with a dinner package and the stunning views will leave you speechless
with wonder. Join a guided tour of the city or take a helicopter ride for a
thrilling aerial view over mountains, towns and the harbour.
Rocks of Ages ... and ages ago
Day after day, the woman makes her way up the hill over looking
the sea, her baby cradled at her bosom. Day after day, she looks out, hoping
to see her husband return from the sea. And day after day, the fisherman's
wife waits in vain for her husband never returns. She waits until this day,
or so the locals say, because the Gods had turned her to stone because they
took pity on her sad, lonely vigil.
This is the famous rock known as the Amah Rock in the New Territories,
and it resembles a woman cradling a baby and nearby is the Lion Rock, named
such for very obvious reasons. Some might say that Hong Kong is a barren, rocky
place but this is not quite true, as the rocks have nurtured the imaginations
of the people.
Rock carvings in Hong Kong add to the mystical beauty of the
hills. Relics from the Bronze Age, 3,000 years ago, most of them overlook the
sea and bear geometric patterns similar to those found on pottery and bronze
vessels of that period. In some, one can see vague hints of human or animal
figures, thought to represent their gods or goddesses and tribal totems. And
in front of them, there are platforms and ledges.
Only think, could there have been sacred holy gatherings, sacrifices
to the gods, rites of passage performed here? Or could the ancient people have
prayed, given offerings or even exchanged vows here? What mystery! If only
the rocks could speak, what stories they would tell. As it is, the carved surfaces
of the rocks only make us wonder even more about the ancient people who used
to live there.
There are many carvings to be found in Hong Kong. Eight of them,
in Shek Pik, Cheung Chau, Po Toi, Wong Chuk Hang, Big Wave Bay, Lung Ha Wan,
Kau Sai Chau and Tung Lung, are protected by the Antiquities and Monuments
Office. Of these, the carving in Tung Lung is Hong Kong's largest and features
a dragon.
Ascott of the east
The Chinese business acumen is world-renowned, sometimes for
its sheer audacity in taking risks. This risk-taking seems to have translated
itself into the leisure activities of the people. And this is why horseracing
is such a popular sport in Hong Kong.
Racing season is from September to June every year, with prestigious
events like the Hong Kong International Races, Queen Elizabeth II Cup and the
Hong Kong Derby. Usually, races are held on Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesday
evenings. There are two racing courses in Hong Kong, Happy Valley on Hong Kong
island and Sha Tin in the New Territories.
Why not be one of the 54,000 excited spectators at the recently
renovated Happy Valley Race Course, especially when the races are held at night.
The tracks take on a magical look when it is illuminated by numerous spotlights.
But if you're not into betting, you could always find out about
the history of horse racing in Hong Kong which started in the 1840's at the
Hong Kong Racing Museum. This museum is made all the more authentic because
it is located at the Happy Valley track and it tells the love story between
man and horses through its eight galleries and showcase cinema. The historic
Jockey's Club, which promotes the sport, is also to be found there,
It is quite an uncommon thing that a racecourse should be an
attraction to non-gamblers, but in Sha Tin, it is just so. It is one of the
best racetracks in the world, and can seat 85,000 but visitors must obtain
special admission badges to enter the visitors' Box or the Betting Lounge.
Prestigious indeed but those outside are not left out either as there are huge
computer-controlled display panels tell enthusiasts which horses have won.
The Sha Tin Racecourse also has something for non-gamblers. Their
main attraction is at the heart of the racecourse. Penfold Park - a lovely
landscaped bird sanctuary and parkland where one can recover from the adrenaline
generated by the all that excitement at the tracks.
All in all, watching majestic beasts thundering down the tracks,
racing for supremacy, is something awesome to behold. And in Hong Kong, the
superb racecourses and bloodlines make a day at the races an experience to
remember.
Beaches
The sound of waves rustling as it breaks on the shore, the feel
of water gently lapping at your feet, the kiss of the sun on your skin and
the soft touch of the breeze…are perfect conditions for a wonderfully
relaxing day at one of Hong Kong's beaches - some crowded, some secluded, mostly
romantic and all breath-taking!
Two very well known and popular beaches on Hong Kong island are
Deep Water Bay and Repulse Bay, one leading to the other. Located on the southern
coast of the island, both are easily accessible.
The beauty of Deep Water Bay starts even before you reach the
beach; the road leading to the beach is lined by trees dotted with bright red
flame of the forest flowers, and overlooking the cliffs are stately mansions.
The beach is right next to the annexe of the Hong Kong Golf Club. There are
refreshment kiosks, toilets and lifeguard service every April to October, the
official swimming season.
From Deep Water Bay, there is a lovely little pathway that leads
to Repulse Bay, where two large statues of the compassionate goddesses, Kuan
Yin and Tin Hau, grace the terraces of the Life Guards' Club and look over
swimmers as they frolick in the water and the life guards as they patrol the
beaches. Finally, above the beach is a very picturesque scene of early 20th
century architecture.
A little way down is South Beach Bay, which is one of Hong Kong
island's most secluded spots for some sunbathing. This beach is just a little
out of the way, so there are fewer people. Nevertheless, it comes with good
facilities
Shek O is another popular weekend seaside destination, for who
can ever resist being a part of a pretty picture? And indeed, Shek O from the
surrounding hills above looks like an old Chinese community. But it doesn't
only look like an old Chinese village, it really feels like one, too, and its
traditional and rustic atmosphere is a striking comparison with the opulent
millionaires' mansions that dot the hills.
Over at the New Territories, Clear Water Bay is all about idyllic
sandy coves and country parkland surrounded by high hills. The two beaches
there come complete with facilities. Fancy riding the waves? Then make a beeline
for Tai Long Wan Beach in Sai Kung Country Park. There is not one, nor two,
but three beautiful beaches here, all connected by scenic walking trails. Tai
Long Wan Beach is not only a surfer's paradise, it also adds romance to a courting
couple with its wild beach with fenced by glorious hills which hide a really
stunning beach.
The outlying islands also have some ideal beaches. On Lamma island,
Lo So Shing Beach is closest to Sok Kwu Wan, one of the villages where one
can tuck into a hearty seafood meal straight from the sea, after spending a
blissful day on cozy sands shaded by trees.
Pui O Beach and Cheung Sha Upper Beach are two of the best on
Lantau island, located on its southern shore. White sand with mountains as
a backdrop, these two beaches make a wonderful place to get together with the
family, as refreshments, accommodation and toilets are close at hand. And if
you'd like to rough it out, then set up camp on one of the campsites there
and hire a bicycle to go around this picturesque island.
Themed Attractions
Places with special themes are ever so much fun; they are wonderful
places to while away many happy hours with family and friends. Restaurants,
a shopping centre, parks. And Hong Kong has the largest entertainment park
in Southeast Asia. As if that is not enough, Disneyland is to be opened in
2005! What more can the young and the young at heart ask for in Hong Kong?
Ocean Park and Middle Kingdom
Not only is Ocean Park the largest theme park in Hong Kong, it
is also the largest in South East Asia, with the second largest outdoor escalator
system. Opened in 1997, Ocean Park has a host of attractions that will have
everyone distracted for a good many hours or even days.
The latest attraction on Ocean Park is Pacific Pier, which highlights
the natural habitat of the sea lions and seals. Modeled after the coasts of
California, visitors will have the chance to observe the animals at play from
an underwater viewing tunnel.
Over at Marine Land, Atoll Reef, the largest reef aquarium in
the world, is quite a hit and it has over 4,000 fishes from 400 species; its
popular resident being a six-foot long 80-year old giant grouper. At the transparent
Shark Aquarium, visitors will get to marvel at the 250 predatory fishes as
well as rays through its underwater viewing tunnel. Ocean Theatre will have
you mesmerized with the antics of dolphins and seals and high divers during
its spectacular shows.
Getting up to the highland attractions is just as much fun. One
can use the escalator or take the 10-minute cable car ride with breath-taking
views. At the Headland Rides, the Dragon roller coaster, the largest in Hong
Kong, awaits, as do the other thrilling rides. There is another roller coaster
in Adventureland, the Wild Wild West of Ocean Park.
The Lowland Gardens are home to the Butterfly House, the Goldfish
Pagoda, the Dinosaur Discovery Trail and two adorable giant pandas, An An and
Jia Jia. Find out about old legends at the Discovery of Ancient World and be
thrilled at Film Fantasia, the simulator ride.
Kids' World has everything the children have ever dreamt about
- rides of every sort, on trains and merry-go-rounds. They'll also get to learn
all about caring for marine animals at the Dolphin University.
The Bird Paradise has aviaries for our 2,000 of our feathered
friends of 200 species, many of which are endangered. Elegant flamingoes and
their babies can be seen wading at the Flamingo Pond while the Bird Theatre
shows off the talents of the intelligent birds.
History comes alive in the Middle Kingdom, which tells of the
13 Chinese dynasties spanning 5,000 years in full-size replicas of buildings
and scenes throughout the times. Performances featuring lion dances, acrobatics,
cultural dances and magic shows are held at the Empress Theatre four times
a day.
Restaurants and novelty gifts shops are ready to cater to hungry
visitors and those looking for souvenirs. All in, Ocean Park is one amazing
way to spend to have a lovely time.
Aw Boon Haw Gardens
Once upon a time, there was a man named Aw Boon Haw and he was
a medicine seller. He sold the Eastern cure-all rub, the Tiger Balm, and he
became so rich, he constructed a garden, whimsical and fantastic that he wished
to share with the people of Hong Kong. A peaceful place, landscaped and peopled
with statues depicting ancient Chinese myths. Entrance is free.
Lantau Disneyland
Mickey comes to Hong Kong, and so does the whole of Disneyland!
Due to be opened in 2005 on Lantau island, this theme park brings its own special
brand of magic to touch the lives of the people of South East Asia, with its
many, many thrilling rides and magical atmosphere that'll have many people
wishing upon a star to be able to visit the park.
Themed Restaurants
Kids will be very pleased with the "Hello Kitty" restaurant
while nature lovers will probably think that the "Rainforest Café" is
really cool and those with stars in their eyes could head for the "Star
East" where dinner will be an unforgettable experience, especially those
who are fans of the Hong Kong entertainment scene as they may just find that
they will be having dinner with their idols. Kung fu buffs will no doubt have
a marvelous time at the "Bruce Lee" restaurant.
The Whampoa
The Whampoa is actually an entertainment centre-cum-themed shopping
complex in the unusual shape of a 110 metre long boat. It is "moored" at
the Hung Hom district.
Festivals
Chinese New Year
Hong Kong comes alive during the Chinese Lunar New Year. Fireworks and festive
lights fill the city and on the eve, families and friends gather for a reunion
dinner.
To usher in the new year, debts are cleared and new clothes
are bought. Decorations adorn shops and houses while light displays brighten
up the streets in Central and Tsim Sha Tsui East in Kowloon. Lion dance performances
and parades are highlights of the festivities and seasonal foods like mandarin
oranges are sold in the shops.
Spring Lantern (Yuen Siu) Festival
Known as the Chinese St. Valentine's Day, the Spring festival falls on the
15th day of the lunar new year, marking the end of New Year celebrations.
In the past, it was a day for unmarried young ladies in their best outfit
to venture out to places where eligible bachelors were gathered.
Ching Ming Festival
Ching Ming, or "Remembrance of Ancestors Day" is a day when families
visit cemeteries to clean their ancestors' graves and make offerings in respect
of them.
Tuen Ng Festival
Legend has it that Qu Yuan, a national hero drowned himself in protesting against
a corrupt government. In attempts to scare away the fish who were about
to eat him, villagers started beating drums and throwing dumplings into
the water to distract the fish.
The legend is replayed on this day in various celebrations
and dragon boat races are held, amidst the rhythmic beating of drums.
* HKTA and the Urban Council jointly organise the Annual
Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Race on the Shing Mun River in Sha Tin.
A must if you're in Hong Kong in June.
|
