Things to do Alone in Hong Kong

Things to do Alone in Hong Kong

Heading to Hong Kong alone this year, or have a few hours to spare until a connecting flight? Check out our picks of the best things to do by yourself in the city. From Sightseeing tours to art classes, we've got you covered.

Including:

  • Hop-on, hop-off Sightseeing Tour
  • Ngong Ping Cable Car and Village Experience
  • Chinese ink painting class
  • Hong Kong Maritime Museum
  • ...and more!
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Image courtesy of TungCheung/Shutterstock

Hop-on, hop-off Sightseeing Tour

If you've never been to Hong Kong before, you might want to get most of the touristy stuff out of the way in one go. That way, you'll have more time to hit up the social side of the city, bar hop, or meet new people on your travels. If that sounds like what you're looking for, then this hop-on, hop-off bus tour of the city will give you the freedom to explore the landmarks you want more closely.

You'll find audio guides on each bus that are available in 10 languages, so no matter where you go, you'll get the lowdown on every place you pass. Then, when the bus pulls up, you can either get off, explore, and hop on the next bus, or stay aboard and travel to the next landmark. It's an easy way to see what you want, when you want.

And what will you be seeing? Well, depending on the route you choose to ride, you'll see Victoria Park, Man Mo Temple, Lan Kwai Fong, Causeway Bay, and plenty more besides. And, without any pesky friends or family in tow, it's one of the best things to do alone in Hong Kong. After all, you needn't negotiate where to get off - you're in complete, blissful control. Just as it should be.

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Ngong Ping Cable Car and Village Experience

Whether you're willing to admit it or not, cable cars are one of modern life's most joyful additions. Nothing beats sitting in a suspended cable car as you rise into the heavens, seeing the ground beneath you slowly shrink. It must be what the gods felt like, back when they were cool and threw lightning bolts and stuff. Anyway, if you want to feel godly, take this cable car up to gloriously serene Ngong Ping and explore the more spiritual side of Hong Kong.

You'll arrive in Ngong Ping Village, and from there, you can explore the awe-inspiring Tian Tan Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, and the Wisdom Path, so be sure to save some time to explore these wonderful sites! Tian Tan Buddha is arguably the best of these; a huge, golden statue of Buddha that can be seen for literal miles on a clear day.

Then, when you've explored to your heart's content, take the car back down the city streets and carry on. Just make sure to bring a photographic machine, because you'll be taking more pictures than there are stars in the sky.

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Chinese ink painting class

If you're a fan of Chinese artwork throughout the centuries, why not learn to do it yourself? At this traditional ink-painting class, you'll learn to stroke like the masters. Brush stroke, mind - get your head out of the gutter.

The Ka Atelier studio is a peaceful sanctuary nestled in the center of busy Hong Kong, making it the perfect place to escape the city and a wonderfully serene location for learning. Students are given traditional tea before learning the ropes, strokes, and that's not all folks. Once you understand the technique, you'll learn how to paint bamboo, which is not only a staple of Chinese culture, but one of the more intuitive objects to paint. Then, you'll create your very own bamboo masterpiece you can take home with you. Feel free to show it off to all your friends and family - they're bound to care.

And if you're looking for things to do alone in Hong Kong, surely learning has to be up there?

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Hong Kong Maritime Museum

Another of life's great solo joys is going at your own pace, wherever and whenever you want. Take museums, for instance. What if your partner, friend, or family member has no interest in visiting a maritime museum? What if they begrudgingly go but speed-run the exhibits, forcing you to do the same? Madness, we tell you! Instead, head to the Hong Kong Maritime Museum alone, look at everything slowly, soak up all that sweet knowledge, and then leave feeling like a better human being.

And what a way to explore! Hong Kong has a rich maritime history that dates back centuries. Wander the museum's halls, and you'll see historic ship models, navigational instruments, and maritime artifacts from way back when. There are also immersive multimedia installations that cater to visitors of all ages, ensuring the learning experience is a little less dry.

Then, when your brain is so stuffed with information you can barely think, stuff your face with delicious treats at the museum cafe. What a day.

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LockCha Tea Workshop

Tea fan? Why not do the solo dance all the way to this Tea Workshop at LockCha, learn all about traditional tea and its origins, and then try a variety of Chinese teas?

LockCha is a Canton-style tea house that blends traditional and Western decor, making it a stylish place to enjoy sipping on one of Hong Kong's most popular drinks. And, with five different teas to enjoy at the end of your historical journey through China's relationship with tea, you'll be sipping like royalty.

Just remember to take all that sweet knowledge back home with you and regale tales of your tea exploits to your colleagues around the water cooler.

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World War 2 Walking Tour

And finally, we'll end our exploration of the best things to do alone in Hong Kong by stretching our legs and our minds. If you're unaware of Hong Kong's important role in the Second World War, prepare to be made aware!

On this walking tour, your guide will bring personal stories to life, explaining the British surrender to Japan, Japan's occupation, and their eventual defeat. On the way, you'll visit key locations from the war and see relics from the era. You'll also learn about Japan's not brilliant treatment of the local population.

History buffs or the casually curious will both enjoy this walking tour, so go ahead and book it. Right now.

And those were our picks of the best things to do alone in Hong Kong! Looking for more vacation inspiration? Check out Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can also see all the city's best bits for one low price!

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do with Kids in Hong Kong
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Things to do with Kids in Hong Kong

Are you bringing the kids with you on your Hong Kong vacation? Check out our picks of the best things to do with your little ones in the city and keep them tantrum-free! Including: Is Hong Kong good to visit with kids? How many days to spend in Hong Kong with kids? Which month is best to visit Hong Kong? Things to do with Kids in Hong Kong Is Hong Kong good to visit with kids? There are tons of things to do with kids in Hong Kong, so it's definitely a good choice. With a ton of theme parks, arcades, landmarks, and places to eat, so there will be never a dull moment for the little ones! How many days to spend in Hong Kong with kids? You'll need at least 2-3 days to tackle all of the suggestions on our list, so bear that in mind when booking your flights and accommodation. Of course, if you're traveling from further afield, you may want to spend even longer in the city. Which month is best to visit Hong Kong? Ideal periods to visit Hong Kong are from March to April or October to November. That way, you miss the hot and humid summers, as well as the colder, drier winters. Things to do with Kids in Hong Kong: Hong Kong Disneyland The dream destination of kids the world over is arguably Disneyland. Full of magic, wonder, and plenty of fun things to do, it's easily one of Hong Kong's best family-friendly destinations. If you want an in-depth breakdown of the theme park, including hotels, restaurants, and all the best rides, check it out here. For the abridged version, read on. Highlights include the Castle of Magic Dreams, a place inspired by the many princesses and queens of Disney's most famous works - featuring a light and sound extravaganza at the Momentous event. Marvel fans are in for a treat, as you can join the likes of Ironman and Antman as they battle Hydra and try to save the world. And, coming in November 2023 is The World of Frozen, an entire zone dedicated to their favorite characters from the blockbuster Frozen franchise. At this point, a trip to Disneyland is almost a rite of passage for any child, so make sure your little ones don't miss out when you visit Hong Kong this year! Things to do with Kids in Hong Kong: Monopoly Dreams Monopoly has been the ruin of many a family gathering, but Monopoly Dreams does away with all of that. Instead, it provides you and your kids the opportunity to walk around recognizable landmarks from the board game and undertake fun challenges, all without a flipped table in sight! Mr. Monopoly needs your help to foil the dastardly diamond thief, and it's up to you to solve the mystery and save the day! Test your luck on the grand Fortune Board, unearth hidden clues in the Study, embark on a thrilling pursuit within the 4D theater, and seize bundles of cash within the Ultimate Banking vault. You'll also have the opportunity to engage in a colossal rendition of the beloved board game and be awed by the world's most massive playing token. Sure, it's Monopoly, but not like you've ever seen before. Things to do with Kids in Hong Kong: Legend Heroes Park If your kids are missing their screens and consoles, why not throw them a bone at Legend Heroes Park? This entertainment tour-de-force features stunning VR experiences, arcade games, and snacks to fuel their gaming bliss. Your ticket lets them experience 2 hours of everything in the venue, including VR skydiving, shoot 'em ups, super-speed car chases, terrifying alien invasions, and hilarious bumper car mayhem. Then, there are the arcades, which will fill you with nostalgia and keep them entertained to no end. There are also physical arcade games like air hockey, archery, and football games to enjoy. Then, grab a snack at the bar and check out the mini-mall on site, where you can pick up the hottest merch from toy giants like Lego and Hello Kitty. Things to do with Kids in Hong Kong: Noah's Ark Whether you're religious or not, a trip to Noah's Ark is a fun time for even the moodiest child. But what is Noah's Ark? Well, it's a life-sized replica of the bible boat, as well as a theme park. Really. Combining education, entertainment, and environmental conservation - just as Noah would want - Noah's Ark is a captivating visit for all who dare enter. The centerpiece is obviously the Ark itself, which makes a fine photo op from the outside, and features a wealth of interactive exhibits and displays offering insights into the story of Noah on the inside. Other experiences there include the Solar Tower and Solar Ark exhibit, which shine a light (pun clearly intended) on sustainable energy solutions and environmental awareness. Then, there's the Ark Garden, a peaceful park with a mini zoo and botanical gardens, and an Adventure Playground for your really little ones to enjoy. A whole world of fun, really! Things to do with Kids in Hong Kong: Wildfire Pizza Bar After all the excitement detailed above, they'll need some food to top them up. Why not stop by Wildfire Pizza Bar and get them something delicious? With us, you get a drink and french fries for free, but why not spoil them with a pick from the restaurant's mouth-watering pizza menu? You won't find many better cheese-covered bread disks in Hong Kong, so settle in for some gooey fun and make sure they're ready for your next adventure! And those were our picks of the best things to do with kids in Hong Kong! Of course, you may decide to visit the city without them at some point, and if you do, you'll want to know about the best experiences and attractions for your child-free trip. Don't worry; Go City's got you covered. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all the city's best bits for one low price!
Dom Bewley
Christmas in Hong Kong
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Christmas in Hong Kong

Want to make the most of Christmas in Hong Kong? Check out our picks of all the best Christmas entertainment in the city and make it a memorable one! Including: How is Christmas celebrated in Hong Kong? Is Hong Kong good for Christmas? Is Hong Kong cold in December? How to celebrate Christmas in Hong Kong How is Christmas celebrated in Hong Kong? On Christmas Day in Hong Kong, Christians can attend church services in both English and Chinese. They're held at different times of day, so it's worth checking ahead to make sure you attend the right one! As for specific Christmas events, we'll get into those a little further down. Is Hong Kong good for Christmas? Christmas - and December as a whole - are great times to visit Hong Kong! The weather is cool and dry, and there are a ton of things to do and see. If you were worried that Hong Kong was bereft of Christmas cheer, worry no more. Is Hong Kong cold in December? With average highs of 70°F and average lows of 59°F, December is the most temperate time of year in Hong Kong. For most of us, even the low end borders on t-shirt weather, so maybe leave the Christmas jumpers at home. It's also the driest month of the year, so pack appropriately. Christmas in Hong Kong: A Disney Christmas Last year, Hong Kong Disneyland hosted A Disney Christmas, a unique seasonal experience from mid-November until January 2. And this year, it's no different. If you want the perfect mix of live music, food, and ceremony, look no further! The Disney Live in Concert! event is arguably the jewel in the crown, with a medley of genres taking the stage, from Jazz to classical, and surely some Christmas jingles and carols thrown in for good measure. There's also the Mickey and Friends Christmastime Ball, Santa Goofy's Magical Snowfall, and a tree-lighting ceremony hosted by a guest of honor. Perfect Christmas fun for all the family! Christmas in Hong Kong: Noah's Ark Noah's Ark is another spot that's perfect if you've got your little ones in tow. This family-friendly haven offers a blend of traditional and innovative Christmas activities that kids will adore. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season with Nativity Scene performances as well as seasonal cross-overs like Bear's Sushi Production Class, where your little ones will learn to cook up a storm, and Trolltech Sports Training School, which is a fun way for them to stay active. Of course, we have to mention the Ark itself. A 1:1 recreation of Noah's boat from the good book, it's quite the sight. Whether you're a Christian or otherwise, the size and scope of the Ark will blow you away. Inside, you'll find tons of interactive exhibits, restaurants, and even a hotel if you fancy staying over. Christmas in Hong Kong: Symphony of Lights Every night, Victoria Harbour treats visitors to a mesmerizing holiday light show known as the Symphony of Lights, and this year's display promises to be even more spectacular with the addition of lasers and LED screens. For the ultimate viewing experience, head to the Avenue of Stars promenade, where you can witness the show, complete with narrations and music by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra. Alternatively, savor a meal on a restaurant boat or enjoy the Symphony of Lights from the deck of the iconic Star Ferry. Loudspeakers across the harbor broadcast synchronized music and a captivating narrative to enhance proceedings. During December, many buildings join the festivities by showcasing their unique Christmas light displays, adding to the architectural choreography that graces the harbor, making it a magical holiday season in Hong Kong. Christmas in Hong Kong: Pulse 3D Light Show Over the Christmas period, Hong Kong's famous Symphony of Lights is also joined by a high-tech laser audiovisual extravaganza called Pulse 3D Light Show, which illuminates the area surrounding the clock tower at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui, conveniently located near the Star Ferry Terminal. This mesmerizing show surpasses expectations and has drawn crowds of spectators. Said lasers create a spectacle like no other, creating moving images that demand a photo or ten. Christmas in Hong Kong: Ocean Park Christmas Sensation From mid-December through to the beginning of January, Hong Kong's Ocean Park puts on its own Christmas shenanigans, with a Christmas Market, a visual show, magic, and more throughout each day. Visitors will also be treated to a giant Christmas tree, artificial snow, and a Santa's Grotto where they can sit on the big man's lap and tell him all their secret present desires! Perfect for kids and big kids alike, nothing will put you in a festive mood quite like a classic Christmas village. Christmas in Hong Kong: Sales and Markets And, finally, let's talk about shopping because, whether you like it or not, Christmas has become a consumer's paradise! And, of course, Hong Kong gets in on the act. You'll notice a significant drop in prices, as local stores and malls are eager to clear their backlog of unsold products, making room for new inventory. That doesn't mean you won't pick up any goodies - you'll just need to keep an eye out for worthwhile bargains. Typically, these sales take place in the run-up to Christmas and last all the way until Chinese New Year, so if you don't have time before December 25, you needn't worry. Shoppers seeking Christmas gifts like electronics, clothing, and other common items can explore street markets like the Ladies Market in Mongkok, offering a wide range of products from clothing and electronics to souvenirs and jewelry. For a diverse shopping experience, Temple Street near the harbor offers various products for tourists and features numerous open-air restaurants serving delicious Chinese cuisine. So, shop about and see what's good! And that's everything you need to know to make the most of Christmas in Hong Kong! If you're looking for some non-seasonal cheer to amp up your visit, check out Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all of the city's best bits for one low price!
Dom Bewley
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

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