Fitzpatrick Liam - Top 10 Hong Kong

Clockwise from top: Junk boat in Victoria Harbour, tai chi practice, Clock Tower in Kowloon, Happy Valley Races, Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery, Peak Tower, Po Lin Monastery

A quiet island of fishing villages, which became a colonial outpost and then transformed into a hub of international trade, Hong Kong has a rich heritage and unique culture. The ancient temples, bustling markets, tall skyscrapers, beautiful beaches and mountains combine to make it one of Asias most exciting territories. With Eyewitness Top 10 Hong Kong, its yours to explore.

We love Hong Kong: the seething crowds, the futuristic harbourside cityscapes, the unashamed lust for success. What could be better than shopping for designer fashion in Tsim Sha Tsuis malls, looking down over the frenetic city from the cool heights of the Peak, riding the romantic Star Ferry between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island, breakfasting on Michelin-starred dim sum or joining the cheering crowds for a night at the Happy Valley horse races? Its all here, packed into this tiny territory on Chinas Pearl River Delta.

Yet Hong Kong isnt all just superficial glitz. Along with the neighbouring cities of Macau, Shenzhen and Guangzhou, there are centuries of history here; the population is a melange of Chinese, European, Indian and southeast Asian migrants. Glimpse the different cultures inside smoky temples, at dawn tai chi sessions in the parks, in traditional New Territory villages, or amongst the bustling market stalls. The packed calendar of events offers a similar mix, from the annual Rugby Sevens to the ear-shattering firework displays that ring in the Chinese New Year.

This guide is designed to bring together the best of everything the territory has to offer, from Tai Long Wans best beaches to the hottest nightclubs in Lan Kwai Fong. There are tips throughout, plus 11 easy-to-follow itineraries, designed to tie together a clutch of sights in a short space of time. Add inspiring photography and detailed maps, and you have the essential pocket-sized travel companion. Enjoy the book, and enjoy Hong Kong.

EXPLORING HONG KONG

For the sheer variety of things to see and do, visitors to Hong Kong are spoiled for choice. Whether you are here for a short stay or just wanting a flavour of this great city, you need to make the most of your time. From jaw-dropping cityscape views to remote tropical beaches, here are some ideas for two and four days of sightseeing in Hong Kong.

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Two Days in Hong Kong

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Day 1

Morning

Begin on Hong Kong Island with a dim sum breakfast, then follow Hollywood Road to the to admire the modern architecture.

Man Mo Temple is dedicated to the gods of war and literature.

Afternoon

Head to .

The Peak Tram provides its passengers with some of the best views of Centrals skyscrapers as it climbs to the top.

Day 2

Morning

Catch an early ferry to Lantau Island and ride on the Ngong Ping 360 cable car to the .

Afternoon

Head to .

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Four Days in Hong Kong

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Day 1

Morning

Ascend for glorious views of the city and its islands, and glimpse some of the worlds most expensive properties.

Afternoon

Check out village.

Day 2

Morning

Spend the whole morning at .

Afternoon

After lunch from for a seafood meal.

Day 3

Morning

Begin the day at the .

Afternoon

Explore Nathan Roads shops, taking afternoon tea at to pick up some souvenirs, as well as food for dinner.

Day 4

All day

Spend a full day either exploring s lively bars.

Happy Valley Racecourse is an entertaining place to spend the evening.

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Top 10 Hong Kong Highlights

Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery, Lantau Island

Top 10 Hong Kong Highlights

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THE PEAK

With Hong Kongs most spectacular views, cooler climes and quiet wooded walks, its no wonder Victoria Peak is so popular, in particular with tourists and the super rich, who occupy the exclusive properties clinging to its slopes. The Peak Tram takes under 10 minutes to reach Victoria Gap, pinning you to your seat as its hauled up the sheer slope at the end of a single cable (dont worry, its safety record is spotless).

NEED TO KNOW

Bus 15C from Central Star Ferry 2522 0922 www.thepeak.com.hk

Peak Tram: 7ammidnight daily; single/return HK$32/$45

Google Map

• If it is misty or theres low cloud, delay your visit as youll miss the excellent views.
• Avoid taking the tram on weekends and public holidays as the queues are extremely long.
• In the Peak Tower, several restaurants overlook the harbour. Lu Fengs local specialities are a must try. For the fantastic sea views over to Lamma Island, dine or have a drink on the Peak Lookouts lovely garden terrace.