Hong Kong is a city of business and bustling street, and temples and very serene trails, and charming fishing villages all in the same city. Of course, the most of the travelers visit famous Victoria Peak, Disneyland, and Tsim Sha Tsui, but they who go a bit deeper will find a different side of the city. While Hong Kong is full of destinations off the beaten path, they tend to disappear away from the crowds.
If you’re a traveller who is seeking for an immersive experience, a HongKong tour is not merely about sightseeing but finding out about the city that has more to give. A well thought Hongkong tour package can lead you to the hidden treasures of Hong Kong beyond the usual tourist places and introduce you to the city’s culture, history and natural beauty through surprising places.
Here are some hidden gems in Hong Kong: off-the-beaten-path experiences.
1. Tai O Fishing Village
Tai O is an historic fishing village with iconic stilt houses and tranquil waterways on the Lantau Island. The vividly dry markets, seafood stalls, the sense of abandonment, all add up to one taste of the city’s former self that could exist nowhere else besides out of the chaos of central Hong Kong, but here in Tai O. Visitors can take a boat ride around the village, admiring the scenery and if luck is with them, they can spot the rare pink dolphins that frequent the waters nearby.
2. Ping Shan Heritage Trail
The Ping Shan Heritage Trail in the New Territories is a must for history lovers. It is a well preserved cultural trail which brings visitors to ancient walled villages, ancestral halls that are hundreds of year’s old and historic temples dating back to the Tang Dynasty. This is a rare opportunity to walk through this area and learn about Hong Kong’s rich heritage while being in a peaceful environment that contrasts so much with the modern landscape of the city.
3. Dragon’s back
Dragon’s Back is considered to be one of the most scenic hikes in Hong Kong, with breathtaking views of lush greenery and the South China Sea. The trail is relatively easy, hikers cross rolling ridges and end up at Big Wave Bay where they can relax on the sandy shore. The escape is refreshing, the journey is fantastic and exciting, and the coastal landscapes are beautiful and perfect somewhere to escape the city.
4. Sham Shui Po
Central and Mong Kok are well known for their dining but Sham Shui Po is a culinary gem that remains hidden. Traditional bakeries, street food stalls and small family owned places that serve Hong Kong food are everywhere in this neighborhood. Classic local treats like egg waffles, pineapple buns, Cheung fun, and so much more features at the lively streets piled with local markets and vintage stores with visitors having the opportunity to indulge.
5. Chi Lin Nunnery & Nan Lian Garden
Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden is a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kowloon, away from the city’s fast pace. Well landscaped gardens, lotus ponds, traditional wooden architecture surround what is the Buddhist complex, built in the style of the Tang Dynasty. For those looking for spiritual reflection, a quiet place to relax, this secret sanctuary is like no other in Hong Kong, and is open to visitors whether seeking spiritual reflection or a quiet space to unwind.
6. Sai Kung
Sai Kung is known as the “Back Garden of Hong Kong” and a paradise for outdoor lovers. With crystal clear waters, secluded beaches and caves to see, the region really lures people into the outdoorsy ways such as kayaking, snorkeling and hiking. There are remote islands on which to explore or fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants. It is a perfect escape from the city’s chaos, its natural beauty is a perfect place to escape to.
7. Yick Cheong Building
If you are among those who wish to view Hong Kong’s distinctive urban landscape then the Yick Cheong Building, otherwise known as the ‘Monster Building,’ is worth a visit. It is a densely packed residential complex that shows off the city’s architectural density and has appeared in several Hollywood films. The high-rise apartment blocks are towering and symmetrical, and make a striking visual effect, which is why it is a popular spot for photographers who want to capture the Hong Kong high rise living.
8. Cape D’Aguilar
One of Hong Kong’s best kept secrets, Cape D’Aguilar is a dramatic cliffs, rugged coastlines and sea caves paradise for nature lovers. It is a secluded peninsula with a contrasting skyline and creating a peaceful picturesque place for hiking and photography. It is a fantastic place to visit for those who want to avoid the crowds and experience the raw beauty of Hong Kong’s coastline, as the area is largely untouched.
9. PMQ
PMQ was once a police dormitory after its transformation into a creative hub home of local artists, designers, and entrepreneurs. It is a place with independent boutiques, art exhibitions and unique concept stores, so it is an exciting place for the people who are interested in Hong Kong’s creative scene. The handcrafted goods are available for browsing, workshops are held, and coffee can be enjoyed at one of the trendy cafés, all without having to leave the city.
10. Ap Lei Chau
Although Ap Lei Chau is one of the smallest islands in Hong Kong, it is one of the few places in the city where you can escape just a few minutes away. It’s a known name, for its peaceful atmosphere, seafood markets and scenic waterfront, it offers a perfect place to relax from your busy life. Visitors should not be surprised that Mount Johnston rewards with panoramic views of the South China Sea, as it is essentially a short hike, and nature lovers and photographers will also enjoy the scenery here.
Conclusion
Hong Kong is a city that never fails to amaze, and much more than its famous landmarks. You have no shortage of adventures to be had from fishing villages and heritage trails to secret hideaways and artistic hubs. If you are unaware of these hidden gems, you probably missed Hong Kong’s real side and unfortunately did not have a chance to have a more real and authentic experience in the city itself.
An excellent HongKong tour package will give visitors the opportunity to find these unique locations and experience a more authentic visit. A well planned HongKong tour will see you hiking along the picturesque trails, or attending to local delacies, or whenever exploring the historic places you will find all that makes Hong Kong a world class city.