Hong Kong Tour

Where to Shop in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is the shopping capital of the world. It has the busiest business districts, where all good things come and go. If you shop for anything like fashion, food and grocery, specialist shops, etc, it’s best to know where to look. Here’re a few shops that may give you a jolt on where to start.

Markets in Hong Kong come in many shapes and sizes. There are day markets and there are night markets, name it… Hong Kong has it all. Markets selling clothing, plants, watches, knick-knacks, lots of wares, and they even sell pet birds and cages too.

The Temple Street Night market just on Kansu Street and Jordan Street, Kowloon, is consisted of up to 400 stalls offering an assortment of merchandise from clothes, CDs, cheap watches, Cantonese opera and even snake soup. As you realize everything’s going peculiar by the minute, this market will even blow your mind with more weird things. This exciting market is open daily from 8pm-11pm.

If you’re looking for raw materials, then Stanley Market is just the thing you’re looking for. Situated in Central, Hong Kong, the Stanley market is also consisted of several stalls selling merchandise ranging from pottery, silk cloth and Chinese knick-knacks.. Just remember to take bus number six from Exchange Square, and the bus will take you to Stanley in no time.

If you’re sassy and want to go classy, then fashion shops are your ticket to the perfect shopping experience. If you’re fond of branded stuff, but are too expensive for you, why not try the Prada Warehouse and Joyce Boutique? These shops drop their prices up to 50% on designer names like Martin Margiela, Comme de Garçon, Armani, Marni, and Costume National. But the discount doesn’t stop there. Dickson Warehouse Boutiques offer items with brand names like Charles Jourdan, Polo by Ralph Lauren, and Kenneth Cole. This boutique drops their items from up to 90% off! Check out these shops, The Dickson Warehouse Boutique can be found in New World Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui. You can go to the South Horizons in Ap Lei Chau to drop by the Prada Warehhouse. Joyce Boutique is at Ocean Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui.

Harvey Nichols also opened shop last September 2005, and is also a great place to check an array of luxury brands. Harvey Nichols is situated in the Landmark, 15 Queen’s Road; you cannot miss this five storey establishment, which also includes a restaurant on the fourth floor.

The Factory Outlet is another great discount shop. The Factory Outlet drops their merchandise from up to 90% in discounts. If you’re lucky you might find items from Nicole Fahri, Ralph Lauren, Emanuel Ungaro, Calvin Klein, Jigsaw and Banana Republic. Check out the factory at Fa Yuen Street in Mong Kok, Hong Kong.

If you’re buying or just window shopping, these spots will be the best options for you to try. Look for the best deals and maybe you’ll find what you’re looking for. Happy Shopping!

When to Go to Hong Kong?

Like any decision you make in life, you should consider the timeliness and appropriateness of everything you do. Trips are not any different form those decisions you make, you have to make sure you’re taking the perfect time off and all preparations are good to go. Here are few tips on how to make that perfect trip. Our destination: Hong Kong.

What’s the best time to go to Hong Kong? Let’s check out Hong Kong’s weather.

Hong Kong has four seasons just like any topographical region. Hong Kong has a subtropical climate, which means it is prone to a lot of typhoons year around. Typhoons are really nasty if forecasted on a scale of 8. If this happens, businesses and establishments close down to shelter themselves and hide to safer ground. But don’t worry; the local news centers will forecast any approaching typhoon.

Spring in Hong Kong is between March to mid-May. Humidity rises at 82% and temperature ranges between 18°C to a balmy 27°C. The evenings can be a little bit cool so having light jackets along with your wardrobe is a good idea. Summer in the tropics can be a little sticky, as humidity is at its peak during this season. The humidity in the air reaches almost 86%, not to mention the temperature reaches 26° C to a steaming 33°C. It’s so hot you can see a mirage on pavements and you can tell it’s hot because you’re sweating a lot. Including cotton shorts and short-sleeved shirts are perfect. Bringing with you a hat or an umbrella, can shield you from the scorching rays of the sun. Sunglasses are a must too.

Autumn brings clear sunny days. The temperature ranges from 18°C to 28°C and humidity drops at 72%. Short sleeves and light jackets will do fine. Winter offers a big relief from humidity and significant decrease in temperature as well. Temperature drops to 14°C to 20°C, it is a good idea to bring those overcoats, as nights can get a little chilly, especially when you’re in air-conditioned establishments.

Spring should be the best time to visit Hong Kong, as the humidity during the summer can sometimes be unbearable, especially if you came from a humidity-free location of the globe. Spring also hosts the time for the International Food Fair, Every January brings about 15,000 tourists around the world to witness this fun and exciting event.

So what do we really need to bring? Well, it all depends on what reason you have going there. If you’re there to enjoy the beaches, then dress down to your swimsuits. If you’re up for stroll around the sights, then pack those stout shoes. If you’re there for a business trip, throw in a few suits in that luggage. No need to bring those thick woolies for winter, you won’t need them. You can bring light jackets if you want.

It’s always a good idea to know what to expect when traveling. Being prepared in a foreign land saves you a lot of money, like buying things that you shouldn’t have. Knowing a little bit about your destination saves you money and you can use that money to buy yourself maybe some souvenirs instead.

What to see in Hong Kong?

When visiting Hong Kong you primarily do two things: first you shop, then, you see the sights. Hong Kong offers the best tourist spots in the world. Indulge yourself on a voyage of rich history and discovery. The most famous building and monuments in the world can be experienced in this southeastern island this side of the continent.

In the town of Sha Tin, New Territories you will find the famous Temple of the Ten Buddhas. The walls of this magnificent structure, consists of Buddha statues dating back from its completion in 1957. Tourists visit this famous monastery to get in contact with the monks and to ask for spiritual healing. This hilltop structure can be reached by climbing 500 steps from the base of the hills of Sha Tin. Take the walk and feel the worth.

The walls of the Wong Tai Sin Temple, is a place of tranquility and serenity. If you’re looking for a place to ease out and enjoy soul searching, this place has a place in the ranks. Located at Yuen Village in Wong Tai Shin, the temple has stunning Chinese gardens, the Confucian Hall and even offers fortune telling for a small fee. It’s a quick pace to go to, and nice alternative from the Temple of Ten Buddhas. But then again, why not visit both?

How about sightseeing? Hong Kong boasts its steepest funicular in the world the Peak Tram at Victoria Peak. Hong Kong’s most identifiable monument, the Peak, is probably the only place in Hong Kong that you will feel the tropical climate. Just walk around the crag to enjoy the spectacular view. You can reach the Peak via tram from the Central Terminal in Garden Road. You can also travel around it from Lugard Road where you can experience the awe-inspiring views of Macau, and the other islands spread about the Metro. There is also a sprawling view of the Aberdeen Harbor that is located in the south.

If you’re up for a knowledge-filled ride, why not visit some of the famous museums in Hong Kong? Hong Kong’s Museum of Art is located in Salisbury Road in Kowloon. Open Fri-Wed, its collection includes Chinese Antiquities, historical pictures, and a collection of Xubaizhai Chinese Calligraphy. Just nearby, another museum hosts a different collection telling the history of Hong Kong’s culture and the natural environment in the mainland. The Hong Kong Museum of History is open on Wed-Mon and is located at Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon. Housing one of the best planetariums in the world, The Hong Kong Space Museum, is a must-see for science freaks. The Omnimax film screen is a great family experience that will wake up those sleeping neurons.

Take a walk on Hong Kong’s finest parks. The Hong Kong Park and The Zoological and Botanical Gardens, are a nice reprieve from the pollution in the city. Visit tranquil nature and breathe in the fresh air of the rich vegetation, while checking out a mix of various animals and rare plants.

The list never ends and the experience nothing short of one of your life’s most memorable ones!

Weatherwise, October, November and most of December is the best months to visit Hong Kong; the skies are clear and the sun shines. The June to August heat/rain combo might push your endurance but there’s a lot of sunshine. The hotels tend to offer substantial discounts outside the high stations of March-April and October-November. The route can early be difficult during New Year Chinese in the last January/- February.
Time

Many prefer to visit Hong Kong during November and December in that there are pleasant breezes, a pile of sun and comfortable temperatures. January and February are ACCEPTABLE times to visit, but the temperature can fall to 10°C below (50°F). Hotter temperatures make march and April the pleasant months to go, but in May the air gets to be uncomfortable sticky and humid. The typhoons around strike Hong Kong the majority of the years between May and September, although it is the city so preparation would need well to be a very great storm to interrupt your route too much.

The Giant Buddha or Po Lin Monastery is the world’s largest, outdoor, seated bronze statue that is placed on top of Ngong Ping plateau in the fantastic mountain area of Lantau Island.

The seated Buddha is known to be 34 meters high and took over 10 years to be completed, the weight is 250 tones.

The Buddha statue attracts Buddhists and non-Buddhists from all over Asia.

The Po Lin Monastery or Giant Buddha is placed at the fantastic mountain scenery on the 520 meters high Ngong Ping plateau.

Besides the huge statue, ther’s also varied statues of gods. There’s also a vegetarian lunch prepared by monks.

To go to the Po Lin Monastery it’s a short walk to the traditional village of Ngong Ping. Ngong Ping is the place where you can enjoy many kinds of attractions as well as shopping and dining. A bus or taxi is available to look into other area of Lantau Island.

Repulse Bay is located in the southern part of Hong Kong Island. It is one of the most fantastic bays in the region. It is known that the name came from the battle of 19^th century in which the British army repulsed attacked the pirates. And now, the Repulse Bay is a deluxe residential area for dine, relax, and many other marine activities.

The beach’s water is long with clear pure blue liquid that gently lapped the seaside. The sand is somewhat golden brown and soft. Moreover, the water temperature is ranging from 16 degree Celsius to 26 degree Celsius all year round; it is also a nice for locals and visitors or tourists to stay and escape the heat.

Swimming at the Repulse Bay is evidently known and the bay is supplied with safety for shark. They use nets for prevention and platforms. Lifeguards are also on duty during summer time.

Besides marine activities, they also have large facilities for visitors or tourists and locals. Under the shade near the beach there are barbecue racks available for barbecuing party. Moreover, the place is filled with hotels, supermarkets, cafes and mini-shops. The lighthouse near the beach is also a known area to take photos for remembrance. Sunset waiting and watching is also popular pastime for visitors or tourists and locals. There’s also the Zhenhai Tower Park. The Zhenhai Tower Park is built in a kind of traditional Chinese style. It is also located near the beach. A large statue of the Queen of Heaven and the God of Mercy is placed in the front of the park.

The Peak is Hong Kong’s popular attraction. It is fantastic. If you look down from The Peak will be astonish by the breath taking view of the city’s surrounding, world-known Victoria Harbor and Kowloon, towering skyscrapers and greenery hillsides.

It will be an unforgettable experience. There’s nothing in the world like it. The tram is 373 meters high. It is also immersing that the buildings you will be passing looks like leaning at a 45 degrees angle. Whether climbing up or climbing down, You will fall in love with this engulfing experience.

In the Peak, there are numerous locations providing splendid views of the city below. There’s also the Peak Circle Walk or go straight to the Lugard Road Lookout for pleasing views over the harbor. Moreover, the Lions View Point Pavilion, viewing terrace at the Peak Galleria and the Peak Tower Sky Terrace is also Hong Kong’s tourist attraction place.

Hong Kong Island is the glitzy big brother of Kowloon - a tightly packed, towering paean to market capitalism that hasn’t been dented one jot by Chinese rule. The bustle of people living and working is the biggest attraction on the island, although many visitors head around to Aberdeen, on the southern side of the island, where 6000 people live or work on junks anchored in the harbour. Sampan tours of the Aberdeen Harbour are definitely worth the expense. The other major draw is the floating resturant

The most popular beach is Repulse Bay, also on the southern side of the island, but itgets extremely crowded on weekends. Stanley, with its laid-back atmosphere, is another good spot for escaping Hong Kong’s hustle and bustle, although it is the hustle and bustle that brings people here in the first place - if you want real solitude, you’ve come to the wrong place. City attractions include the Central Market, which visitors will have no trouble finding (just sniff the air), the old Man Mo Temple and the Zoological & Botanic Gardens. Hong Kong Island is steep, so if your’e heading away from the harbour, do as the locals do and ride the 800m outdoor escalator.

If you’re in the Hong Kong Island, you’d be mad to miss a trip to the top of Victoria Peak, 552m above sea level. The views are giddyingly beautiful in every direction, with the vista of the business district, Victoria Harbour and Kowloon especially grand. In true Hong Kong style the main viewing deck is on the roof of a large shopping mall.

Join the throng of snap-happy tourists - you won’t be disappointed. If you have time, it’s worth making the trip to the top both in daylight (ideal to get your bearings) and at night, when the mass of lights around the harbour will take your breath away and make you wish you had a better camera. The actual peak is a ten-minute walk west and up.

The best time to visit Hong Kong

Visiting Hong Kong can be enjoyed all-year-round From September to the end of February mild climate can be enjoyed, while from May to mid-September the weather is bit humid and warm. Between May and September, Eighty per cent (80%) of Hong Kong’s precipitation take place, August always experience the heavy rainfall.

Chinese festivals in Hong Kong are captivating and thrilling adventure experiences that are practiced in different months of the year.

Huge amount of people join the celebrations of Hong Kong’s major traditional festivals which are celebrated colorfully and vociferously. There is nowhere else in the world can be seen as festive as the ambiance or Fireworks, jovial feasting, lion and dragon dancers, incense smoke, Chinese opera, mah jong, fortune-telling, carnivals and parades another than Hong Kong.

The unique culture of this modern East-meets-West destination can only be experienced differently through the festivals that it celebrates. Throughout the year there are festivals that a visitor can chose from to enjoy.

To get the best seats Join a tour group in the house during any of the city’s festivals.

First Moon
Chinese New Year
Day 1

7 Feb 2008

Birthday of Che Kung

Day 2

8 Feb 2008

Spring Lantern Festival

Day 15

21 Feb 2008

Third Moon
Ching Ming Festival
4 Apr 2008
Birthday of Tin Hau
Day 23

28 Apr 2008

Fourth Moon
Cheung Chau Bun Festival
Day 8

12 May 2008

Birthday of Lord Buddha
Day 8

12 May 2008

Birthday of Tam Kung
Day 8

12 May 2008

Fifth Moon
Dragon Boat Festival
Day 5

8 Jun 2008

Sixth Moon
Birthday of Kwan Tai
Day 24

26 Jul 2008

Seventh Moon
Seven Sisters Festival

Day 7

7 Aug 2008

Yue Laan (Hungry Ghost) Festival
Day 15

14 Aug 2008
Eighth Moon
Mid-Autumn Festival
Day 15

14 Sep 2008

Monkey God Festival
Day 16

15 Sep 2008
Birthday of Confucius
Day 27

26 Sep 2008

Ninth Moon
Chung Yeung Festival
Day 9

7 Oct 2008

Eleventh Moon
Dong Zhi (Winter Solstice) Festival
21 Dec 2008

Entering Hong Kong is Easy and Comfortable

 Depending on nationality tourists from most countries can enter Hong Kong without a visa for seven days to six months. Chinese consulates in different countries can easily assist and advice the latest status.

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is the best government office to assist tourists. They are service consultants, who can handle general queries and also provide comprehensive tourist information which helps foreign visitors abreast of the latest events and attractions in this vibrant city. Offices of this government agency are conveniently located at the airport, Lo Wu (border crossing with Mainland China) and in Causeway Bay on Hong Kong Island and across the harbor in Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon. Dropping in the offices are easy in downtown information centers where a visitor can also book tours or purchase unique Hong Kong souvenirs. They also offer multilingual hotline to visitors for convenience.  

Visitor Information & Services Centers

Hong Kong

Hong Kong International Airport
Transfer Area E2 and Buffer Halls A and B, Arrivals Level, Terminal 1
7am - 11pm (Hong Kong standard time) daily
Tourist literature and i CyberLink (access to DiscoverHongKong.com) available 24 hours

Lo Wu
Arrival Hall, 2/F, Lo Wu Terminal Building
8am - 6pm (Hong Kong standard time) daily
Tourist literature and i CyberLink (access to DiscoverHongKong.com) available 24 hours

Kowloon
Star Ferry Concourse, Tsim Sha Tsui
8am - 8pm (Hong Kong standard time) daily

Hong Kong Island
MTR Causeway Bay Station (near Exit F)
8am - 8pm (Hong Kong standard time) daily

Visitor Hotline (multilingual) +852 2508 1234

The HKTB has opened a Visitor Information & Services Centre in Beijing providing information and visitor services to residents or anyone in Beijing planning a visit to Hong Kong.

Beijing

Tel: +86 10 8518 3775
E-mail: bejwwo@hktb.com