Hong Kong: A Family Adventure in the Pearl of the Orient

Hong Kong is a city that offers endless possibilities for families who love to explore, learn, and have fun. Whether you are looking for thrilling rides, cultural experiences, scenic views, or delicious food, you will find something to suit your taste in this vibrant and diverse metropolis.

In this blog post, we will share with you our family's adventure in Hong Kong, where we spent a week visiting some of the best attractions, enjoying the local cuisine, and discovering the hidden gems of this amazing city. We'll also give you some tips on the best time of day and best times of year to visit, as well as the transportation options that will make your trip easier and more convenient.

Top 10 Attractions in Hong Kong for Families

Hong Kong has a plethora of attractions that cater to different ages, interests, and budgets. Here are our top 10 picks that we think you and your kids will love.

1. Hong Kong Disneyland

No trip to Hong Kong is complete without a visit to Hong Kong Disneyland, the happiest place on earth. This theme park is our family's favorite, as it has something for everyone, from classic Disney rides like "It's a Small World" and Space Mountain, to newer attractions like the Iron Man Experience, Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars, Mystic Manor, and the Ant-Man and the Wasp: Nano Battle. We also loved the shows, parades, and fireworks that brought the magic of Disney to life.

Tip: The best time to visit Hong Kong Disneyland is between October and December, when the weather is comfortable and the crowds are manageable. You can also save money and skip the queues by buying your tickets in advance online or using the Octopus Card or e-Wallet to pay for your rides.

2. Star Ferry

One of the most iconic and affordable ways to see Hong Kong is by taking the Star Ferry across the Victoria Harbour. This ferry service has been operating since 1888, and offers stunning views of the skyline, the water, and the mountains. You can choose to sit on the upper or lower deck, and enjoy the breeze and the scenery as you sail from Tsim Sha Tsui to Central or Wan Chai, or vice versa.

Tip: The best time to take the Star Ferry is in the evening, when you can witness the spectacular Symphony of Lights show, a nightly display of laser beams and LED lights that illuminate the buildings on both sides of the harbour. The show starts at 8 p.m. and lasts for about 10 minutes.

3. Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha)

If you are looking for a spiritual and cultural experience, you should visit the Tian Tan Buddha, also known as the Big Buddha, on Lantau Island. This bronze statue is the largest seated Buddha in the world, measuring 34 meters high and weighing 250 tons. To reach the Buddha, you have to climb 268 steps, but the reward is worth the effort, as you will be greeted by a serene and majestic sight, as well as panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and sea.

Tip: The best time to visit the Big Buddha is in the morning, when the weather is cooler and the crowds are smaller. You can also combine your visit with other attractions on Lantau Island, such as the Po Lin Monastery, the Ngong Ping Village, and the Tai O Fishing Village. To get to Lantau Island, you can take the MTR to Tung Chung Station, and then take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, which offers a scenic and thrilling ride over the hills and the water.

4. Hong Kong Science Museum

If you and your kids are into science and technology, you will love the Hong Kong Science Museum, which features over 500 interactive exhibits that cover various topics, such as robotics, transportation, energy, sound, light, and more. You can also watch educational films at the museum's dome-shaped Omnimax Theatre, which has a screen that is 23 meters in diameter and can seat up to 350 people. The museum is a great place to stimulate your curiosity and creativity, as well as to have fun and learn something new.

Tip: The best time to visit the Hong Kong Science Museum is on Wednesdays, when the admission is free for all permanent exhibitions. You can also check the museum's website for the latest information on special exhibitions, events, and workshops that might interest you and your kids.

5. Hong Kong Skyline

One of the most impressive and photogenic sights in Hong Kong is the skyline, which showcases the city's modern architecture and urban landscape. You can admire the skyline from different perspectives, such as from the Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island, which offers a bird's eye view of the city and the harbour; from the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, which stretches along the waterfront and features the Avenue of Stars, a tribute to Hong Kong's film industry; or from the Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck, which is located on the 100th floor of the International Commerce Centre, the tallest building in Hong Kong.

Tip: The best time to see the skyline is at night, when the buildings are lit up and create a dazzling contrast with the dark sky. You can also take advantage of the free telescopes that are available at some of the viewing points, such as the Victoria Peak and the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, to get a closer look at the details and the movements of the city.

6. Hong Kong Tramways (Ding Ding)

Another way to experience the charm and the history of Hong Kong is by riding the tram, or the ding ding, as the locals call it. The tram is the oldest form of public transport in Hong Kong, dating back to 1904, and runs on a 13-kilometer track that covers the main areas of Hong Kong Island, from Kennedy Town to Shau Kei Wan. The tram is a convenient and cheap way to get around, as well as a unique and nostalgic way to see the city's sights, sounds, and people.

Tip: The best time to ride the tram is during the day, when you can see more of the street life and the activities of the locals. You can also hop on and off the tram as you please, and explore the different neighborhoods and attractions along the way. To pay for the tram, you can use the Octopus Card or cash, but make sure you have the exact fare, as no change is given.

7. Nan Lian Garden

If you are looking for a tranquil and beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, you should visit the Nan Lian Garden, a classical Chinese garden that is located in the Diamond Hill area of Kowloon. The garden covers an area of 3.5 hectares, and features landscaped hills, ponds, waterfalls, rocks, plants, and timber structures, such as pavilions, bridges, and pagodas. The garden is designed to reflect the harmony and balance of nature, and to provide a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for visitors.

Tip: The best time to visit the Nan Lian Garden is in the morning, when the weather is cooler and the garden is less crowded. You can also visit the adjacent Chi Lin Nunnery, a Buddhist temple complex that showcases the traditional wooden architecture and craftsmanship of the Tang Dynasty. The garden and the nunnery are both free to enter and open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

8. Victoria Harbour

Victoria Harbour is the heart and soul of Hong Kong, as it is the natural and historical landmark that defines the city's identity and character. The harbour is a busy and lively waterway that connects Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, and serves as a hub for trade, tourism, and entertainment. You can enjoy the harbour from different angles, such as from the Star Ferry, which offers a classic and scenic ride across the water; from the Hong Kong Observation Wheel, which gives you a panoramic and thrilling view from above; or from the Harbour City, which is a mega shopping and dining complex that faces the waterfront.

Tip: The best time to enjoy the harbour is in the evening, when you can witness the Symphony of Lights show, a nightly display of laser beams and LED lights that illuminate the buildings on both sides of the harbour. The show starts at 8 p.m. and lasts for about 10 minutes. You can also join a harbour cruise, which offers a romantic and festive way to see the show and the city lights, while enjoying a buffet dinner, live music, and drinks.

9. Ngong Ping 360

Ngong Ping 360 is a cable car system that takes you from Tung Chung to Ngong Ping, a cultural and religious site on Lantau Island. The cable car ride is an adventure in itself, as it spans 5.7 kilometers and offers spectacular views of the mountains, the sea, and the airport. You can choose to ride on a standard cabin or a crystal cabin, which has a glass bottom that allows you to see the scenery below. Once you reach Ngong Ping, you can visit the attractions there, such as the Big Buddha, the Po Lin Monastery, the Ngong Ping Village, and the Wisdom Path.

Tip: The best time to visit Ngong Ping 360 is in the morning, when the weather is clearer and the queues are shorter. You can also buy your tickets online or use the Octopus Card or e-Wallet to pay for your ride. To get to Tung Chung, you can take the MTR to get to Tung Chung, you can take the MTR to Tung Chung Station, which is the last stop on the Tung Chung Line.

10. Ocean Park

Ocean Park is another theme park that is popular among families, as it combines thrilling rides, animal exhibits, and educational shows. You can enjoy the roller coasters, such as the Hair Raiser, the Mine Train, and the Arctic Blast, which will give you an adrenaline rush and a scenic view of the sea. You can also see the marine life, such as the dolphins, the seals, the penguins, and the sharks, and learn more about their habitats and conservation. You can also watch the shows, such as the Symbio, a multimedia spectacle that features water, fire, and light effects.

Tip: The best time to visit Ocean Park is between January and March, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. You can also buy your tickets online or use the Octopus Card or e-Wallet to pay for your rides. To get to Ocean Park, you can take the MTR to Ocean Park Station, which is on the South Island Line.

Transportation Options in Hong Kong

Hong Kong has a well-developed and efficient public transportation system that makes it easy and convenient to travel around the city. Here are some of the transportation options that we used and recommend:

• MTR: The MTR is the subway system that covers most of the urban areas of Hong Kong, as well as some of the outlying islands and the airport. It is fast, clean, and reliable, and has signs and announcements in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin. You can use the Octopus Card or e-Wallet to pay for your fares, or buy single-journey tickets at the stations. You can also download the MTR Mobile app, which provides information on the routes, schedules, and fares of the MTR.

• Bus: The bus is another option to get around Hong Kong, especially if you want to see more of the street life and the scenery. The buses are air-conditioned and comfortable, and have signs and announcements in English and Chinese. You can use the Octopus Card or e-Wallet to pay for your fares, or pay with cash, but make sure you have the exact amount, as no change is given. You can also download the CitybusNWFB app, which provides information on the routes, schedules, and fares of the buses.

• Taxi: The taxi is a convenient and affordable way to travel in Hong Kong, especially if you are traveling in a group or with luggage. The taxis are metered and have signs and receipts in English and Chinese. You can pay with cash, Octopus Card, e-Wallet, or credit card. You can also use the HKTaxi app, which allows you to book, track, and pay for your taxi online.

• Minibus: The minibus is a small bus that can seat up to 16 passengers, and runs on fixed or flexible routes. The minibus is a quick and cheap way to travel in Hong Kong, especially to some of the less accessible areas. The minibus has signs and announcements in Chinese only, so you might need to ask the driver or the passengers for help. You can pay with cash or Octopus Card, but make sure you have the exact fare, as no change is given.

The Octopus Card is a smart card that can be used to pay for public transport, as well as other services and products, such as convenience stores, restaurants, vending machines, and more. You can buy and reload the Octopus Card at any MTR station, convenience store, or service center. You can also download the Octopus app, which allows you to check your balance, transaction history, and rewards.

The e-Wallet is a mobile payment service that can be used to pay for public transport, as well as other services and products, such as online shopping, food delivery, and more. You can download and register for the e-Wallet app, such as AlipayHK, WeChat Pay HK, or PayMe, and link it to your bank account or credit card. You can also scan the QR codes or use the NFC function to pay with your phone.

Top 5 Local Authentic Foods to Try in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a food paradise, where you can find cuisines from all over the world, as well as some local specialties that are unique to the city. Here are five of the most authentic and delicious foods that you should try in Hong Kong:

• Dim Sum: Dim sum is a Cantonese tradition of serving small plates of steamed, fried, or baked dishes, such as dumplings, buns, rolls, and pastries. You can enjoy dim sum at any time of the day, but it is especially popular for breakfast or brunch. You can order from a menu or from the carts that circulate around the restaurant, and share the dishes with your friends or family. Some of the most famous dim sum items include har gow (shrimp dumplings), siu mai (pork and shrimp dumplings), char siu bao (barbecued pork buns), and dan tat (egg tarts).

• Roast Goose: Roast goose is a classic Hong Kong dish that is usually served with plum sauce and rice. The goose is marinated with spices and roasted until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender and juicy. The best roast goose can be found at restaurants that specialize in this dish, such as Yung Kee, Yue Kee, and Kam's Roast Goose.

• Egg Waffles: Egg waffles are a popular street snack that are made from a batter of eggs, flour, sugar, and milk, cooked in a special iron mold that creates a honeycomb-like pattern. The waffles are crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside, and can be eaten plain or with toppings such as chocolate, peanut butter, or ice cream. You can find egg waffles at many street stalls or cafes, such as Mammy Pancake, Lee Keung Kee, and Oddies Foodies.

• Fish Balls: Fish balls are another street snack that are made from minced fish meat, shaped into balls and boiled or deep-fried. They are usually served on skewers with a spicy curry sauce or a sweet and sour sauce. You can find fish balls at many street food stalls or markets, such as Temple Street, Mong Kok, and Tai O.

• Pineapple Bun: Pineapple bun is a type of sweet bread that has a crunchy and sugary crust on top, resembling the skin of a pineapple. Despite the name, there is no actual pineapple in the bun, but some versions may have a custard or butter filling. You can enjoy pineapple bun as a breakfast or a snack, with a cup of milk tea or coffee. You can find pineapple bun at many bakeries or cha chaan teng (local cafes), such as Kam Wah Cafe, Tai Cheong Bakery, and Lan Fong Yuen.

Local Favorite Restaurants in Hong Kong

Hong Kong has a plethora of restaurants that cater to different tastes, budgets, and occasions. Here are some of the local favorites that you should try in Hong Kong:

• Tim Ho Wan: Tim Ho Wan is a Michelin-starred dim sum restaurant that is known for its high quality and affordable prices. The restaurant has several branches in Hong Kong, but the original one is in Mong Kok. Some of the signature dishes include the baked barbecue pork buns, the steamed shrimp dumplings, and the pan-fried turnip cake. Be prepared to queue up for a table, as the restaurant is very popular and does not take reservations.

• Under Bridge Spicy Crab: Under Bridge Spicy Crab is a seafood restaurant that specializes in spicy crab, a dish that consists of a whole crab cooked with garlic, chili, and black beans. The restaurant allows you to choose the level of spiciness and the size of the crab, and also serves other seafood dishes, such as clams, prawns, and scallops. The restaurant is located in Wan Chai, under the Canal Road Flyover, hence the name.

• Kau Kee Food Cafe: Kau Kee Food Cafe is a noodle shop that is famous for its beef brisket noodles, a dish that features tender beef brisket and chewy noodles in a clear or curry broth. The shop has been operating for over 90 years, and has attracted many celebrities and politicians. The shop is located in Central, and is usually crowded during lunch and dinner hours.

• Sai Kung Seafood Street: Sai Kung Seafood Street is a stretch of waterfront restaurants that offer fresh and live seafood, such as fish, lobster, crab, oyster, and abalone. You can choose your seafood from the tanks or the boats, and have it cooked in different ways, such as steamed, fried, or baked. The restaurants also provide a scenic view of the Sai Kung harbor and the surrounding islands.

• Wing Lai Yuen Sze Chuen Noodles Restaurant: Wing Lai Yuen Sze Chuen Noodles Restaurant is a family-run restaurant that serves authentic Sichuan cuisine, such as spicy and numbing dishes, hot pots, and noodles. The restaurant is located in Wong Tai Sin, and has a history of over 50 years. Some of the must-try dishes include the dan dan noodles, the spicy beef tendon, and the boiled fish with pickled cabbage and chili.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a city that has something for everyone, and choosing the best neighborhood to stay in depends on your preferences, budget, and itinerary. Here are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Hong Kong, and what they have to offer:

• Tsim Sha Tsui: Tsim Sha Tsui is one of the most popular and convenient neighborhoods to stay in Hong Kong, especially for first-time visitors. It is located on the southern tip of the Kowloon peninsula, and offers a stunning view of the Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong Island skyline. It is also home to many attractions, such as the Star Ferry, the Avenue of Stars, the Hong Kong Museum of Art, and the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. You can find a wide range of accommodation options in Tsim Sha Tsui, from luxury hotels to budget hostels, and a variety of dining and shopping options, from high-end restaurants and malls to street food stalls and markets.

• Central: Central is the financial and commercial hub of Hong Kong, and the neighborhood to stay in if you are looking for nightlife and entertainment. It is located on the northern shore of Hong Kong Island, and is connected to the rest of the city by the MTR and the tram. It is also where you can find some of the most iconic landmarks, such as the Peak Tram, the Central-Mid-Levels Escalator, the Man Mo Temple, and the Lan Kwai Fong and Soho districts. You can find many upscale hotels and serviced apartments in Central, as well as some of the best bars, clubs, and restaurants in Hong Kong.

• Causeway Bay: Causeway Bay is the ultimate destination for shoppers and families, as it is one of the most crowded and lively neighborhoods in Hong Kong. It is located on the eastern side of Hong Kong Island, and is packed with malls, department stores, boutiques, and markets, such as Times Square, Hysan Place, Sogo, and Jardine's Crescent. It is also where you can find some of the family-friendly attractions, such as the Victoria Park, the Hong Kong Central Library, and the Noonday Gun. You can find a range of accommodation options in Causeway Bay, from mid-range to high-end hotels, and a variety of dining options, from local eateries to international chains.

• Wan Chai: Wan Chai is a neighborhood that offers a mix of old and new, as well as a balance of culture and commerce. It is located on the northern shore of Hong Kong Island, and is adjacent to Central and Causeway Bay. It is where you can find some of the historical and cultural attractions, such as the Golden Bauhinia Square, the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Wan Chai Heritage Trail, and the Blue House. It is also where you can find some of the affordable and authentic restaurants and street food stalls, as well as some of the trendy and hip cafes and bars. You can find a variety of accommodation options in Wan Chai, from budget to luxury hotels, and some of the best views of the harbor and the city.

• Lantau Island: Lantau Island is the largest and most scenic island in Hong Kong, and the neighborhood to stay in if you are looking for nature and tranquility. It is located west of Hong Kong Island, and is accessible by the MTR, the bus, or the ferry. It is where you can find some of the natural and religious attractions, such as the Big Buddha, the Po Lin Monastery, the Ngong Ping Village, and the Tai O Fishing Village. It is also where you can find the Hong Kong Disneyland, the Hong Kong International Airport, and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. You can find a few accommodation options on Lantau Island, such as the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, the Novotel Citygate, and the Silvermine Beach Resort, and some of the local and seafood restaurants and cafes.

Conclusion:

Hong Kong is a city that will captivate and inspire you, whether you are a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler. It is a city that has it all, from the modern and the traditional, to the urban and the natural, to the local and the global. It is a city that offers a variety of attractions, activities, and experiences, that cater to different ages, interests, and budgets. It is a city that has a rich and diverse culture, cuisine, and history, that reflect its unique and dynamic identity.

Hong Kong is a city that you should visit at least once in your lifetime, as it will leave you with unforgettable memories and impressions. It is a city that you will want to visit again and again, as it will always surprise and delight you with something new and different. Hong Kong is not just a city, it is a destination that you will fall in love with.

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