As Asia’s top global city, Hong Kong is a mix of ancient Chinese history and modern culture. From sacred temples to Lantau Island, Hong Kong has things to offer that you can’t find anywhere else in the world! This amazing city is a number one destination for many travelers and professionals in Asia. If you’re lucky enough to intern here, you won’t be short of trips and excursions.
To experience the best views of Hong Kong’s famous skyscraper skyline, go to The Peak at night. You’ll be able to see all of Hong Kong and Victoria Harbor, an amazing panoramic view! Visitors can take the Peak tram all the way up the mountain. It’s been running for hundreds of years and at 552m high offers an unbeatable view.
The Temple Street Night Market is known as the most lively, bustling, authentic market in Hong Kong. The market starts at Man Ming Lane and goes all the way to Nanking Street. Here you can experience the authentic tastes, smells and bargains of Hong Kong! You can choose from the open air food stalls, clothes stalls, jewelry and trinkets and even fortune tellers, herbalists and opera performances. The market officially opens in the afternoon but most sellers arrive at about 6pm.
Man Mo is one of Hong Kong’s oldest temples. A peaceful and serene location, this sacred place of worship is dedicated to the gods of literature. It was built in 1847 during the Qing dynasty by wealthy Chinese merchants. Here you can see the beautiful, colorful architecture and even see your future by visiting one of the fortune tellers inside.
The famous Happy Valley, a green area between Wan Chai and Causeway Bay, is where people gather to enjoy horse racing. It’s one of the oldest and most famous architectural sites in Hong Kong and was founded in the 1840s. The racing season runs from September to June and the entry fee is only HK$10. If you’re in Hong Kong in this season, make sure you head down to the races for a great atmosphere and fun day out!
If you want to get out of the busy streets of Hong Kong for a weekend, visit the picturesque Lantau Island. The beautiful scenery and historical sites will amaze you and have you convinced you’re not in Hong Kong anymore! The most popular activity when visiting Lantau Island is climbing Phoenix Mountain to view and admire the sunrise.
Located on Albany Road Central District, the gardens were originally meant just for plants, but now houses animals as well. There are 300 birds, 70 mammals, and 20 reptiles so you have plenty to see! One of the favorite attractions is the Bird House where you will have the chance to see the American Flamingo, Bali Mynah, Hawaiian Goose, and Red-crowned Crane.
1. Hong Kong, by Barbara Willi, CC-by-2.0
2. Night Market (33 of 33).jpg, by Martin Moscosa, CC-by-2.0
3. Courtesy of The Intern Group