10 Historical Places in Hong Kong

By Dom Bewley
Published: July 18, 2024
10 Historical Places in Hong Kong

Top 10 lists are all the rage these days, from the 10 best films of the year, to 10 ways to change your life right now. We don't deal in fads but are happy to jump on the top 10 trend. So, without further ado, these are our picks of the 10 best historical places in Hong Kong!

Including:

  • Aberdeen Fishing Village
  • Victoria Peak
  • Tian Tan Buddha
  • Wong Tai Sin Temple
  • and more!
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Aberdeen Fishing Village

Aberdeen Fishing Village dates back to the 18th century, back when Hong Kong was a much smaller settlement than it is today. Some of that history remains today, including the Hung Shing Temple that dates back to the 1700s, as well as a number of fishing boats throughout the centuries.

Why not take a tour of the area, where you'll see and snap all the sights, board a houseboat from the 1960s, and then tuck into a traditional fish and noodle broth often consumed by the local fishermen?

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Victoria Peak

Back in the 19th century, when Hong Kong was a British colony, Victoria Peak was prime real estate for white Europeans. As the highest hill on the island, measuring over 1800 feet, it offered amazing views of the developing city. And being so high up, it also has a cooler microclimate when compared to street level.

Nowadays, the mountain has predominantly returned to its verdant roots, but it still offers visitors the best views of the city and historic nature trails to explore. Getting up there is easy enough, thanks to the Peak Tram, which goes from the city streets to the top of Victoria's Peak.

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Tian Tan Buddha

While the Tian Tan Buddha was only built in the 1990s, that's technically the past and, therefore, technically historic! But given the spectacle that it provides, it earns its place on our list.

Also known as "Big Buddha", Tian Tan Buddha is massive. 112 ft tall, over 280 tons of bronze, and perched atop Ngong Ping on Lantau Island, it's one of the most prominent sights in Hong Kong. So go see it, take some pics, and revel in its spiritual significance.

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Take a historical tour of the city

If just one historical place isn't enough, why not a bunch? On this historic tour of Hong Kong, you'll get your steps in while seeing the sights.

Explore the myriad architectural delights of Central District, including Gothic Revival, classic Colonial, and elegant Neoclassical buildings that rub shoulders with modern skyscrapers. Stop for snaps in Statue Square, then see Norman Foster's famous HSBC building up close.

Other highlights include lush Hong Kong Park and historic Hollywood Road, home of Tai Kwun, aka the former Central Police Station Compound, with its beautiful courtyard and original prison cells to explore.

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Wong Tai Sin Temple

Found in north Kowloon - in Lion Rock, to be exact - is the Wong Tai Sin Temple. Also known as the Great Immortal Wong Temple, the distinct red and bronze Taoist temple was built back in the 1920s and is a hugely popular tourist destination to this day.

So, why not go and smell the incense that wafts out of there on a daily basis, bask in its grand, spiritual design, and take some photos while you're at it?

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Man Mo Temple

Man Mo Temple is certainly one of the oldest temples that still stand in Hong Kong, having been built around the 1850s. Thankfully, it's considered a protected historical sight now, so it's likely to still be standing decades from now. But there's no time like the present, so go check it out on your visit.

Dedicated to King-Emperor Man and Holy King-Emperor Kwan - patrons of study - it was often visited by students hoping to do well in school. Nowadays, its double-eave, green tiled rooftop, and courtyard layout are indicative of the Qing dynasty and more than earn a place on your camera roll.

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Kowloon Walled City Park

Kowloon Walled City has an interesting past, to say the least. Originally a military stronghold during the 1400s, it later became a hodge podge of makeshift flats and residences for miscreants until it was demolished some 30 years ago.

Today, a beautiful park lies atop the remains, but elements of its past have been preserved for visitors and locals alike. So go see its lush green spaces and marvel at the interesting artifacts that remain, including The Yamen, a Qing-era building, and what remains of the South Gate.

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Chi Lin Nunnery

Getting its name from the nuns that used to go there in the 20th century, Chi Lin Nunnery is actually a large Buddhist temple. Rebuilt in the last 30 years to match the traditional Tang Dynasty style of architecture, it absolutely deserves its place on this list as one of the 10 historical places to visit in Hong Kong.

It's the world's largest hand-made wooden building, and its beautiful, intricate designs cover more than 360k square feet. Go for the architecture and history; stay for the huge ornate statues of gods and goddesses.

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Wan Chai Blue House

If you're after one of the most unusual places in Hong Kong, this historical flat block is sure to break the top 10. Yes, it's just a flat block, but it's also entirely blue, a listed building, and just so happens to be built in the 19th-century style popular in South China at the time.

It's also a massively popular tourist destination, thanks to its striking blue color, and the Hong Kong House of Stories event space that's open to one and all. Featuring historical exhibits and artifacts, it's a great way to get a sense of what life was like back then.

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Clock Tower

Built back in 1915, the Hong Kong Clock Tower is easily one of the 10 best historical places to visit in the city. Once standing tall by the Kowloon–Canton train station, now it is all that remains.

At over 140 feet tall, it's hard to miss. And its distinct red brick 'stripe' along the center makes it easy fodder for a whole bunch of vacation snaps.

So now you know about the 10 best historical places in Hong Kong! If you want to make the most of your visit, check out Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can also see the more modern experiences in the city for one low price!

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do in Hong Kong at Night
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Things to do in Hong Kong at Night

Night owls, rejoice! If you're looking for the best things to do in Hong Kong at night, check out our picks of the best experiences from dusk 'til dawn! Including: Does Hong Kong have good nightlife? Can you drink alcohol in Hong Kong? Is Hong Kong foreigner friendly? The best things to do in Hong Kong at Night! Does Hong Kong have good nightlife? Experiencing the vibrant pulse of Hong Kong's nightlife is an essential part of any visit to the city. In iconic entertainment hubs like Lan Kwai Fong, SoHo, and Wan Chai, Hong Kong presents a wide range of nightclubs that cater to all tastes and budgets, ranging from opulent exclusivity to budget-friendly merriment. Can you drink alcohol in Hong Kong? Thankfully, yes, you can drink alcohol in Hong Kong. If you couldn't, the clubbing scene would be a little bizarre. But it's not just clubs. You'll find tons of bars and pubs flogging their fizzy wares, and you can pick up booze from most supermarkets if you fancy a quiet night in - or a few drinks before the main event! Is Hong Kong foreigner friendly? Due to its identity as a global financial center and its history as a former British colony, Hong Kong generally extends a warm welcome to foreigners. For residents, encountering foreigners is a familiar sight, particularly in urban areas, and they have become accustomed to coexisting with them. That also means that a lot of people speak conversational English at the very least, and menus tend to have English included as well. Things to do in Hong Kong at Night: Big Bus Night Tour If you want to see all the city's biggest landmarks in one go, but shy away from that pesky sun like some kind of vampire, you're in luck. All aboard this captivating Big Bus Night Tour, a voyage that guides you through the vibrant core of Kowloon. Traverse through iconic urban landmarks, such as Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui, the Temple Street Night Market, the bustling Canton Road, the iconic Clock Tower, and the awe-inspiring Hong Kong Coliseum. As you traverse these lively nocturnal destinations, relish in the panoramic grandeur of the neon-soaked cityscape that composes the city's skyline. The journey culminates at the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, an ideal vantage point to witness the mesmerizing spectacle of the 'A Symphony of Lights' show. Speaking of... Things to do in Hong Kong at Night: A Symphony of Lights For nearly two decades, 'A Symphony of Lights' has illuminated Hong Kong's skyline, delighting millions of tourists. So, if you're looking for things to do at night in the city, you won't want to miss it. This multimedia extravaganza encapsulates Hong Kong's vibe to a tee, with its fusion of technological dynamism and culture. Backed by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra's wonderful score that features both modern instrumentation and traditional Chinese flutes and Erhu, it's a feast for both eyes and ears. The show itself is now spread across 43 buildings, combining searchlights, lasers, LEDs, and more, to create an immersive outdoor experience like no other. Words do not do it justice. You really have to see it for yourself. To catch the show, the best viewing spots include Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, Avenue of Stars, Golden Bauhinia Square promenade, and Victoria Harbour's sightseeing ferries. Things to do in Hong Kong at Night: Wildfire Pizza Bar Looking for a delightful break between attractions? Swing by Wildfire Pizza Bar and savor a complimentary drink and a side of French fries on us! And yes, once you've seen their delectable pizzas, you'll order one too! With two convenient spots, you can choose either The Peak location for breathtaking panoramic vistas of Hong Kong, or the Avenue of Stars outlet if you've been exploring the iconic names. A beverage of your choosing will join your complimentary French fries. Pick from refreshing beer, wine, or juice, and stay hydrated! Things to do in Hong Kong at Night: Legend Heroes Park Fancy swapping actual reality for virtual reality? Head to Legend Heroes Park and explore other worlds that'll distract you from the dumpster fire that is planet Earth! Dive into two hours of heart-pumping enjoyment across four captivating zones. Venture into the Arena for cutting-edge VR escapades, a pulse-pounding domain of high-speed shoot 'em ups, adrenaline-pumping car races, spine-tingling alien invasions, and sidesplitting bumper car chaos. Immerse yourself in immersive cinematic quests at Prime, while DPlay offers a sporty flair with vintage arcades and timeless tabletop favorites. Challenge pals at the 8-player PC station, engage in one-on-one air hockey and penalty shootouts, and unleash your archery prowess. And if you need to refuel, the on-site barista bar will take care of your caffeinated needs. Things to do in Hong Kong at Night: Rooftop Bars And finally, make the most of Hong Kong's skyline by grabbing a drink at a rooftop bar. There are tons to choose from, but below, we've picked our three faves! Discover the captivating Terrible Baby, a Jordan gem on the 4th floor of Eaton HK, offering a tantalizing cocktail array. With its quirky indoor ambiance and expansive terrace providing views of the Jordan neighborhood, the bar sets the mood with live musicians during evenings. Ascend to the 17th floor of H Zentre in TST to find Aqua Spirit, a rooftop bar framing a spectacular Victoria Harbour panorama through slanted floor-to-ceiling windows. While lacking an outdoor terrace, its celebrated ultramodern decor and delectable Italian-Japanese cuisine are highlights. Experience the epitome of rooftop allure at Vibes, an oasis with lotus-shaped fires, bamboo groves, and private cabanas. Dance to live DJ sets under the stars, or unwind on Thursdays with the popular G&T night. Vibes stands as a pinnacle of Hong Kong's rooftop scene. And those were our picks of the best things to do in Hong Kong at night! If you night owls dare to venture into the blinding sun, check out some of Hong Kong's best daytime experiences with Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all the city's best bits for one low price!
Dom Bewley
Hong Kong in January
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Hong Kong in January

Are you heading to Hong Kong in January? Check out our guide to the month, and find out what to pack, what to expect, and where to go to make the most of it!Including:Is January a good time to go to Hong Kong?What is the cheapest month to travel Hong Kong?What month is the rainy season in Hong Kong?Hong Kong in January Is January a good time to go to Hong Kong? January is a great time to visit Hong Kong, as it's outside of the busiest season, and the weather is a lot more palatable for most of us Westerners! However, don't expect scorching heat - as January is the coldest month of the year. What is the cheapest month to travel Hong Kong? October is the cheapest month to travel to Hong Kong, for both flights and accommodation. This may be due to the lack of seasonal events over this period, or simply because October is a pretty quiet month travel-wise for many people.   What month is the rainy season in Hong Kong? May - September is the wettest season in Hong Kong while also being the hottest. 80% of Hong Kong's rainfall occurs during this period, so if you visit Hong Kong in January, expect a cool and dry experience!   Hong Kong in January: Weather January is Hong Kong's coldest month, with temperatures in the province hitting average highs of 66°F during the day and average lows of 58°F in the evening. So, even at its coldest, Hong Kong in January is incredibly mild and pleasant. Coupled with the month's low rainfall, you're in for a treat! So, when packing, take these temperatures into account. Make sure to pack warmer clothing for the evenings and some lighter jackets for the day. You can comfortably leave the wooly hats, scarves, and jackets at home, though, unless the thought of 58°F evening gives you chills.   Hong Kong in January: Seasonal Events Unfortunately, there aren't a lot of seasonal events that happen in Hong Kong in January. You have the Gregorian New Year - the one most of us celebrate - on January 1, which people do celebrate in Hong Kong, but not to the same extent as out West. The only other event that can occur in January is the Lunar New Year. However, because that date moves depending on the moon, it isn't set in stone. Because of this, it's worth looking it up online to see if it lands on your vacation! Things to do in Hong Kong in January So, what can you do on your January vacation in Hong Kong? Well, we'll include a mix of both indoor and outdoor activities so you can make the most of it!   Things to do in Hong Kong in January: Disneyland If you're bringing the little ones with you on your Hong Kong vacation, you can't go wrong with a trip to Disneyland! Hong Kong's biggest - and arguably best - theme park has tons of thrills and spills for all ages. Inside, you'll find themed rides featuring some of Disney's most recognizable characters, from Elsa to Ironman. By the time you've seen them all, you'll have helped save the world countless times! You can even stay on-site if you want to make the most of your visit, as Disneyland Hong Kong offers a number of unique hotels themed around different eras and characters from the company's history. And, with a mix of indoor and outdoor experiences, Disneyland Hong Kong is the perfect place to visit in January!   Things to do in Hong Kong in January: Big Bus Sightseeing Tour If you like to sightsee and want to get all of it done in a day, there's no better way than on a Big Bug Sightseeing Tour. With them, you can hop off at any stop, take a closer look at one of many Hong Kong landmarks, and then get the next bus to continue your trip. They give you the control you need to see what you want when you want, making them the perfect way to tick all your bucket list entries in 24 hours. With your Big Bus ticket, you can see Victoria Park, Man Mo Temple, Lan Kwai Fong, Causeway Bay, and more. And, with ten languages available through the audio guide, you'll be kept in the loop about the history of each one in the run-up to reaching it, so you can decide if you want to get off and have a browse. And hey, if you're more of a night owl, you can even do it at night.   Things to do in Hong Kong in January: Legend Heroes Park Beat the evening chill with a trip to another reality. At Legend Heroes Park, you'll find a wealth of gaming goodness, from VR to arcade cabinets, and even old-school-cool games like air hockey. Your ticket gives you two hours to explore and play whatever you please, from zombie shooting co-op VR fun to classic arcade games like Pacman and Streetfighter. You can even grab a coffee and a snack at the on-site cafe to keep yourself fueled for more gaming fun!   Things to do in Hong Kong in January: Madame Tusaauds If you're traveling to Hong Kong alone in January, you may want some company. Why not meet your fave celebs in wax form? From K-Pop stars to historical figures, make your way through several themed zones and meet some of the world's greatest icons. And that's everything you need to know about visiting Hong Kong in January! If you're sticking around for a while and the above suggestions won't fill out your itinerary, don't worry; Go City's got you covered. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see the best of the rest for one low price!
Dom Bewley
Things to do in Hong Kong for Chinese New Year
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Things to do in Hong Kong for Chinese New Year

Many countries in East Asia celebrate Chinese New Year. And, considering Hong Kong is now a part of China, it's hardly groundbreaking news to discover that they do too. No matter where you are, Chinese New Year is about family. Dom Toretto would be proud. It's a time for families to come together, be thankful for what they have, and look forward to the future with hope. So, if you're visiting Hong Kong over the Chinese New Year, what will you be able to get up to? Below, we'll explore all the best things to do in Hong Kong for the Chinese New Year. We'll also give you an overview of 2024's Zodiac animal and what that means to people born in their year! Including: When is the Chinese New Year? What does the Year of the Dragon signify? Things to do in Hong Kong for Chinese New Year Chinese New Year Parade Victoria Harbour Fireworks Chinese New Year Horse Races Spring Lantern Festival When is the Chinese New Year? In 2024, the Chinese New Year is on February 10. This year, that means it's the Year of the Dragon. If you celebrated Chinese New Year in 2023 or before, you'll notice that February 10 is a different date from years past. Well observed! Chinese New Year isn't celebrated on a set date but follows the Chinese Lunar Calendar, which, as you can gather from the 'lunar' title, depends on the moon's cycles. However, as a vague rule of thumb, Chinese New Year typically falls between 20 and 50 days after the Gregorian calendar's New Year, which is January 1. If you didn't know the calendar used in the West was called the Gregorian calendar, well, you're welcome. What does the Year of the Dragon signify? In the Chinese Zodiac, the Dragon represents power, honor, success, and luck. But there are other variables here too, which are determined by the year. For 2024, the Year of the Dragon is combined with the wood element to create the Year of the Wood Dragon. Wood also connotes two additional traits - curiosity and creativity. People born on this specific date are said to be go-getters, developing unique ideas and then zoning in on them. Driven to succeed, they're often predisposed to a career in business, though, as they're also said to be funny and diplomatic, perhaps their path is not set in stone. Of course, non-believers may consider all of this complete conjecture, but for those who do believe, it's clear why being born on the Year of the Wood Dragon is considered a blessing! Things to do in Hong Kong for Chinese New Year Right, enough backstory; let's get to the main event! If you're looking for things to do in Hong Kong for Chinese New Year, these are the big hitters no traveler should miss! Chinese New Year Parade The Chinese New Year Parade is one of the most popular New Year events in Hong Kong. Drawing crowds of thousands every year who line the streets in Tsim Sha Tsui, why not join them and witness the countless colorful floats, lively dragons, traditional Chinese dancers, and bands that make the parade so special? Things kick off pretty late (typically, the parade starts at 8PM), but festivities in the area normally start at 6PM. If you want to get a good spot, you should definitely get there a few hours early. Perhaps the best course of action is to spend the day exploring the nearby sights and landmarks. That way, you won't be "wasting" time waiting for the parade standing idly. But what's nearby? Well, Hong Kong's biggest mall, Harbour City, just so happens to be nearby. So, if you fancy doing some light shopping - you won't want a ton of bags with you when watching the parade - it's the perfect time. If you have no interest in that, check out the Avenue of Stars, Kowloon Park, Nathan Road, or the Temple Street Night Market for some snacks instead. Disclaimer: In 2023, the Chinese New Year Parade was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It's still being determined whether the parade will take place in 2024. As such, it's worth checking online ahead of your trip, just to make sure the parade, as well as other Chinese New Year events, are canceled. Chinese New Year Fireworks Over Victoria Harbour On the second day of the Spring Festival, Victoria Harbour typically holds a massive firework display. Lasting around 25 minutes, it usually coincides with the daily Symphony of Lights, which elevates the spectacle to new heights. For the best views, head to Tsim Sha Tsui, Central, Wan Chai, by boat, or from The Peak. Disclaimer: Like the parade, fireworks were canceled in 2023. Check ahead online to see if the fireworks are back on. Chinese New Year Horse Races Horse races might not be your cup of tea, but for more than 100,000 crowded into Sha Tin Racecourse on day three of the Chinese New Year, it's one of the most exciting things about the celebrations. But these aren't your average, run-of-the-mill horse races. Instead, this special day of races is organized by the charity 'Hong Kong Jockey Club', and the day's entertainment raises money for good causes. Expect races, traditional shows, performances, and the opening ceremony, which features plenty of the color red - a staple of Chinese New Year. Disclaimer: Like the parade and fireworks, the New Year horse races were canceled in 2023. Check ahead online to see if the fireworks are back on. The Spring Lantern Festival And at the end of it all, you can see out the Chinese New Year at the Spring Lantern Festival. Hong Kong will fill up with thousands upon thousands of colorful lanterns, and you'll also catch live performances, carnivals, and much more as you wander the city. So those are the biggest and best things to do in Hong Kong for Chinese New Year! If you plan to spend a good few days in the city, why not fill up your itinerary with fun with Go City? With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all the city's best bits for one low price!
Dom Bewley

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