Famously known as the “Pearl of the Orient”, Hong Kong has become an increasingly popular vacation spot, and it’s not difficult to see why. Boasting jaw-dropping skyscrapers, mouthwatering food adventures, and much more, we’ll take you to discover 8 reasons why you should visit Hong Kong for your next holiday.
Hong Kong’s modern landscape surprises at every turn
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When looking up unbelievable sights of skyscrapers worldwide, the view of a modern Hong Kong is sure to pop up. Ranked the fourth most densely populated region worldwide, it’s easy to identify the need for such tall buildings around Hong Kong. From residential units to local and international business hubs, Hong Kong’s modern outlook is one that you’ll have to see and believe.
At sundown, you’ll see a different side of Hong Kong. With a skyline illuminated by the warm glows of buildings – be it homes that welcome their locals or offices with bright LED advertisements – the modern landscape of Hong Kong is always ready to surprise at every turn.
See how tradition meets modern when you visit Hong Kong
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As modern as the region is, it doesn’t mean that Hong Kong has forgotten its roots. Instead, you’ll often find plenty of traditional buildings spread across different areas of Hong Kong, perfectly blending the old and new into an unbelievable sight. In fact, it’s not uncommon to find age-old brick and mortar buildings dating to the 70s or 80s set next to modern glass-clad skyscrapers in a single area.
To get the best views of the traditional and modern Hong Kong at a go, we recommend catching a tram that takes you through the bustling streets of Hong Kong Island. Fondly known to the locals as “ding ding” cars – a tribute to the bells that ring from the tram – this is a fun and affordable way to visit Hong Kong. The best views are often at the front seat of the top cabin, and the cooling breeze from the winds that blow in as the tram makes its way down the streets is a great welcome on warm, humid days.
Beyond the sights, Hong Kong is where you’ll still see plenty of traditional celebrations held on a large scale. For instance, exciting events such as the International Dragon Boat Races held at the Victoria Harbour is one of the must-see traditions when you visit Hong Kong.
Subsequently, you’ll have to catch the Cheung Chau Bun Festival held in Cheung Chau Island annually. Featuring a 60-foot-tall “bun mountain” constructed using bamboo poles and later covered with the iconic Ping On Buns, you’ll be able to see locals scale the towers to get their hands on these buns. Previously a tradition to pray for the safety of fishing communities from pirates, the display remains just as exciting today, even as a spectator.
Foodies must visit Hong Kong for their gastronomy offerings
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And while we’re on the topic of buns, those on the hunt for a gastronomical adventure of a lifetime should definitely visit Hong Kong. Offering a great food scene of local and international flavours, Hong Kong is where you’ll find Michelin-recognised fine dining restaurants, old-time local favourites, and street food bites all co-existing in a single area.
Popular dishes such as the traditional roast goose and freshly steamed dim sum served from metal carts often come to mind whenever you mention Hong Kong meals, although there’s so much more to explore when you dine like a local. For example, you shouldn’t miss out on heading into a mum-and-pop run Hong Kong-style char chaan teng diners if you seek the authentic meal deal.
A hearty bowl of macaroni soup with ham – a dish that sounds as odd as it looks – is a common breakfast when you visit Hong Kong. You’ll also find fresh bakes like the pineapple bun (that oddly has no pineapples!) and egg tarts are favourites for those who want an on-the-go meal.
Breathtaking nature can be found all across Hong Kong
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For many, Hong Kong may feel like a region that’s filled with nothing but buildings tall and short especially when you’ve been around for long. However, this cannot be more untrue, as you’ll often find breathtaking nature if you simply know where to look.
The Victoria Peak – also known as Mount Austin – is a frequent spot for locals and tourists alike who want a glimpse of Hong Kong from above. As the tallest hill in Hong Kong, Victoria Peak is where you’ll catch views of Central, Victoria Harbour, Lamma Island, and Hong Kong’s surrounding islands all at once.
This is also where you’ll find Asia’s very first funicular railway which was opened in 1888 known as the Hong Kong Peak Tram. Keeping up with the times, however, the tram has since received an extensive refurbishment, with works recently completing in 2022. Lasting approximately 10 minutes, a ride on the Hong Kong Peak Tram covers a 1.27km journey that takes you up 396 metres above sea level.
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, Victoria Peak is one of Hong Kong’s most popular hiking destinations. An easy climb even for the non-frequent hikers, this route will last approximately 1 hour, with plenty of dining, refreshments, and shopping opportunities waiting at the top at the Peak Galleria mall.
Furthermore, Hong Kong is also home to pet-friendly beach spots if you’re travelling with a furry companion. Beaches such as Long Ke Wan in Sai Kung, Shek O Back Beach in Shek O, and Kwun Yam Beach in Cheung Chau are some of the best-rated beaches for your pets to truly run out their energies – all while you rest and relax by the surrounding cafes and restaurants.
All these experiences in the outdoors are a stark contrast to Hong Kong’s typically busy cityscape lifestyle, which is why you’ll often find families unwinding at these spots with their loved ones come weekends.
Shopping experiences in Hong Kong are unlike any other
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If you’re someone who enjoys a shopping spree every time you’re on a holiday, then you’ll love the shopping experiences that Hong Kong has to offer. From modern multi-storey malls featuring a variety of international brands to neighbourhood spots where you’ll find the best local buys, the only thing you’ll have to think about is how much luggage you have when you visit Hong Kong.
What makes shopping in Hong Kong an experience unlike any other is also how you’ll find the unique monikers for their shopping areas. A spot that comes to mind includes Hong Kong’s very own “Sneaker Street” that stretches between Argle Street and Dundas Street. True to its namesake, this is where sneakerheads can find some of the hottest drops of the season at reasonable prices – and they’re authentic too.
Other interesting spots include the Temple Street Night Market, where you’ll find antique knick-knacks for cheap or the Apliu Street Flea Market that has every electrical part and component you can ever imagine. It’s a real gem for thrift hunters and retro seekers, as you’ll never know what you’ll uncover while strolling by these open-air markets.
Holidaymakers who want to take home a piece of heritage when they visit Hong Kong should also take the opportunity to discover the iconic TWEMCO mechanical clock manufacturer. Located on the 2nd floor of Cheung Fat Industrial Building in Tai Kok Tsui, this world-famous household brand of retro flip clocks has been in the industry since the 1960s. Manufactured on-site and by manual labour, each of the TWEMCO clocks are a piece of art that serves as a sweet reminder to your time in Hong Kong.
You can reenact iconic movie scenes shot in Hong Kong
Movie buffs stay alert, because you may just be able to reenact some of your favourite scenes from the movies or series you’ve come to love when you visit Hong Kong. A prime location for many films, Hong Kong is a real gem for anyone who enjoys walking in the footsteps of their favourite actors or actresses.
Movies such as Doctor Strange, Deadpool 2, and Rush Hour 2 all come to mind, although the list is so extensive that you’ll want to spare several days to see them all. For anyone who grew up watching series from the popular broadcasting company, TVB, a visit to Hong Kong to re-create your top series scenes is a must. What’s more, you may even bump into a celebrity or two if you’re lucky, or even watch a production being made along the streets of Hong Kong.
While you’re there, don’t forget to pop over to the Avenue of Stars located along the Victoria Harbour waterfront in Tsim Sha Tsui. Inspired by the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles, USA, the Avenue of Stars pays tribute to the celebrities making up the Hong Kong film industry. Handprints of big names including Chow Yun-fat, Andy Lau, Maggie Cheung, and even our home pride Dato’ Michelle Yeoh can be found here.
As you stroll down the promenade, you’ll also come across a bronze memorial statue of the late martial artist, Bruce Lee. The sculpture that was completed in 2005 was created by contemporary artist Cao Chong’en.
There’s something for everyone WHEN YOU VISIT Hong Kong
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Whether you’re travelling solo, exploring with your partner on a romantic escapade, or packing for a family vacation, you’ll find a visit to Hong Kong a true holiday to remember for all. This is because there is plenty to see, do, and taste in Hong Kong – much of which we have covered above.
But did you know that Hong Kong is also home to one of the twelve Disney Parks worldwide? Open to visitors since 2005, this 310-acre theme park is the second Disneyland to set foot in Asia. Welcoming guests of all ages, this magical land is a fantastic addition to any couple’s or family itinerary when you visit Hong Kong.
While it’s known to be the smallest of Disneyland Parks around the world, Disneyland Hong Kong is where you’ll find the first and largest “Frozen” themed area, aptly named “Frozen World”. Of course, this is also where you’ll truly get to let it go and enjoy a piece of the kingdom of Arendelle.
Should you wish to immerse yourself in every local Hong Konger’s childhood instead, then a trip to Ocean Park Hong Kong may just be your ticket. Despite entrance fees costing less than those of the Magical Kingdom, Ocean Park Hong Kong offers just as many – if not more – activities for the whole family. From animal attractions to thrilling adventures and live shows, we absolutely recommend popping into this iconic theme park when you visit Hong Kong.
Travelling to and around Hong Kong is easy
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Finally, an exciting reason to visit Hong Kong is how easily accessible it is. With plenty of direct flights from Kuala Lumpur daily, you’ll quickly find yourself in Hong Kong in just 4 hours. What’s more, you can even take advantage of the exclusive Malaysia Airlines sales fares from Holiday Tours that run from now until the 31st of December 2025.
Students travelling with Malaysia Airlines will also benefit from special student-only deals such as fare discounts and checked baggage of up to 45kg. So, whether you’re about to explore Hong Kong on a semester break or you’re looking to study in this region, Malaysia Airlines will get you there.
A crowd favourite as you arrive in Hong Kong is to travel on their MTR trains – or rather to visit their colourful stations. Social media enthusiasts shouldn’t miss this opportunity to capture some of the most aesthetically pleasing footage, right from the stations themselves. This is a fun activity that many adopt when they visit Hong Kong, and the pictures you’ll find on a variety of platforms are great testaments to why it’s worth your time.
Above ground, visitors who want to experience a unique way to travel between the Hong Kong Island and Kowloon may also consider catching the iconic Star Ferry across the Victoria Harbour. With fleets operating mainly between Central, Tsim Sha Tsui, and Wan Chai, a ride on the Star Ferry is one of the most affordable and memorable ways for you to visit Hong Kong from the waters.
With all that’s said, we believe the time is now for you to visit Hong Kong for yourselves. To benefit from the best deals or if you simply want to enjoy a hassle-free holiday that’s planned out for you, be sure to reach out to our holiday advisors – we’re always ready to help make your dream trip to Hong Kong come true.