Hong Kong

Hong Kong Museum of History

The Hong Kong Museum of History showcases Hong Kong's archaeological, cultural and natural history through a display of cultural objects, artefacts, photographs, traditional costumes and models that span 6,000 years. Glorious period sets tell the story of Chinese life in replicas of village houses, streets and stores. These memorials to the past are contained within an incredible building opened in the year 2000.

Police Museum

The Police Museum showcases a display tracing the development and history of the Royal Hong Kong Police Force from 1844 to today. The main exhibit encompasses a significant number of artefacts relating to the Hong Kong Police Force from uniforms and firearms, to historical archives and photographs. Other exhibits look at the major factions which have influenced the status quo namely the triad societies and narcotics (Hong Kong was founded on the narcotics trade). The Police Museum is an interesting visit, which provides insight into the dedication of the officers who served within this elite force. The Police Museum is currently closed for renovations, with no scheduled date to re-open.

Aberdeen

Some 200 years ago, Hong Kong's Aberdeen district was a haven for pirates. Located on the southern shore of Hong Kong Island, it is home to the Tanka boat people and has become a popular tourist destination where visitors can experience on hand the traditional lifestyle of boat dwellers and sample fresh seafood. Aberdeen is a lively marina crammed with junks, sampans, water taxis (kai do), cruisers and yachts. The fishing harbour is a wonderful way to experience the activity of life on water. Tours along Aberdeen's watery stretches can be enjoyed onboard one of the many sampans offering half-hour trips around the harbour and the sensory delights of Hong Kong cuisine can be experienced within the unique environment of the famous Jumbo Floating Restaurant.

Macau

The cultural influence of Portuguese life threaded through a Chinese framework has produced a unique landscape in Macau, fused with contrast and complexity. Here Baroque churches and colonial mansions appear from the cobbled pavements interspersed with plazas and cafes. Visitors are enticed here by the lure of gambling and the glitz of its promise. Macau's attractions are exemplified in its architectural heritage. St Paul's Cathedral is one such legacy that dates back to the early 17th century. It is an Italian-designed building perched on a hilltop that is most spectacular when illuminated against a night sky. The vantage point from the Fortaleza de Monte is a good place to reflect on the defensive role it played against Dutch assault in 1622 alongside an exploration of the museum and meteorological observatory. The classic Chinese temple of A-Ma rests at the base of Penha Hill. Its name derives from Tin Hau, Queen of Heaven, or the Honoured Mother. Myth has it that a poor girl saved the fishing vessel, on which she was travelling, from the ravages of a storm. In tribute to her this temple was built and is a place of pilgrimage for Macau's fishing community. Another temple dedicated to the power of female intervention is the Kun Iam Temple, built in honour of the Goddess of Mercy, located in the northern reaches of the peninsula. It was here in 1844 that the first trade and friendship treaty between USA and China was signed. Macau is 37 miles (60km) west of Hong Kong; ferries take around an hour to get there and leave every fifteen minutes.

Lantau

Lantau is the largest of the 235 outlying islands in Hong Kong, being almost twice the size of Hong Kong Island. It is better known for its walking trails and beaches and provides a pleasant respite from crowds and shopping. The main arrival point to the island by ferry is at Mui Wo (Silvermine Bay). The finest beaches are located along the west coast, most notably Cheung Sha. Besides beaches, Western Lantau is the location of the Po Lin Monastery, the largest temple in Hong Kong. Beyond the doorstep of this vast temple is the world's largest outdoor Buddha. Aptly named Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha), the bronze statue sits contemplatively from the reaches of Ngong Ping Plateau. From the monastery buses will transport one to the quaint fishing village of Tai O. Here little wooden houses perch on stilts and much of life flows from the fishing industry that sustains it. Lantau's north shore is predominantly a farming region. The main attraction here however is the historical Tung Chung Fort, which was built in the early 19th century as part of a short-lived attempt to suppress the opium trade and defend the coastal area from pirates. Six old Qing Dynasty cannons dating back to 1832 stand on the ramparts. Development has changed the landscape of the Northeastern stretches of Lantau, known as Discovery Bay. Here upmarket housing complexes, shopping malls, yacht clubs and golf courses promise to provide the ultimate designer lifestyle at a price.

Western Market

This indoor market is held in a four-storey red brick colonial building that was constructed in 1906. After extensive renovation it re-opened in 1991 and now occupies an entire block at the western end of Central Hong Kong. The building houses a variety of shops and stalls that sell a range of products from curios to assorted silks and fabrics. From here one can hop onto Hong Kong's ancient double-decker tram headed for Wan Chai, Causeway Bay and Happy Valley.

Victoria Peak

Much of the pleasure derived from a trip to Victoria Peak lies in the journey to its summit. The funicular railway or peak tram has steadily made its way up the mountain since 1888. Energetic travellers can scale the real peak that extends 140m (459ft) above the tram terminus. From the top, marvellous vistas open out onto central Hong Kong and across to Kowloon. Victoria Peak used to serve as a hill station in colonial times and later became the location of exclusive summer homes. Today it is a popular tourist spot offering a cooler perspective from which to contemplate the pleasures of travel to the region. The Peak Tower on the summit houses numerous attractions, like a Ripley's Believe it or not 'Odditorium', shops and restaurants.

Statue Square

This square is an amalgamation of Hong Kong's contemporary architecture that reaches its most spectacular manifestation in the designs of the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation and the Bank of China Tower .The most significant feature of the HSBC building is that it has been designed without a central core, a feat of structural engineering blended with the ultimate in aesthetic principles. The Bank of China Tower became a much-debated conversation piece following its construction, largely because of the asymmetrically-designed pinnacle that acquires differing perspectives depending on one's vantage point.

Wong Tai Sin Temple

This grand Taoist temple is one of the most frequently visited temples in Hong Kong. It is dedicated to Wong Tai Sin, a legendary hermit who reputedly had healing powers and could foretell the future. A number of fortunetellers ply their trade in the temple complex and there is also a large pharmacy. The ornate temple with its red pillars, gold ceilings and decorative latticework is usually full of people burning incense and making floral offerings. The temple also has a lovely adjacent park called the 'Good Wish Gardens', a peaceful green spot with waterfalls tumbling over rocks.

Ocean Park and Middle Kingdom

The Ocean Park and Middle Kingdom is a theme park spread over two parts, connected to each other by a cable car. A spectacular aquarium, reputed to be the largest in world, is complemented by a funfair containing a roller coaster, space wheel, octopus and swinging ship amongst its rides. Entrance fee also includes a visit to the ancient Chinese Middle Kingdom.

Big Buddha

The Big Buddha, or Tian Tan Buddha, is one of the tallest outdoor seated bronze Buddha statues in the world, seated near Po Lin Monastery. It is a popular tourist destination and a major centre of Buddhism in Hong Kong. The 112-foot (34m) high statue sits on a lotus throne on top of a three-platform altar and is surrounded by eight smaller statues of gods. Inside the three floors beneath the Buddha visitors can access the Hall of the Universe, the Hall of Benevolent Merit and the Hall of Remembrance. Visitors can climb the 268 steps to reach the platform where the impressive figure is seated.

Ngong Ping 360

The Ngong Ping Cable Car is a spectacular four-mile (6km) ropeway that affords panoramic views over the bay and surrounding area on its 25-minute journey to the Ngong Ping Village. As visitors approach the cable car terminal on top of the plateau views will include the huge Tian Tan Buddha Statue and the Po Lin Monastery. The Ngong Ping Village is situated right next to the cable car terminal, which features attractions such as 'Walking with Buddha', the 'Monkey's Tale Theatre', and the 'Ngong Ping Teahouse', as well as an assortment of shopping and dining options. Walking with Buddha plunges visitors into a multimedia presentation that follows the life of Siddhartha Gautama (the man who became Buddha) and his path to enlightenment, while the Teahouse provides demonstrations of traditional Chinese tea ceremonies. The 'Monkey's Tale Theatre' presents a charming and comical show inspired by famous Buddhist Jataka stories that will enchant both old and young alike.

Hong Kong Science Museum

Four floors of exhibits cover a range of hands-on science and technology related subjects, including light, sound, motion, magnetism, electricity, robotics, virtual reality and much more. This museum is extremely popular because of its hands-on approach, allowing children and adults alike to learn through involvement. The most prominent exhibit is a 72-foot (22m) tall twin tower Energy Machine which, when activated, triggers a series of displays to produce spectacular audiovisual effects demonstrating various forms of energy.

Hong Kong Disneyland

The fifth Disneyland Resort in the world, but also the smallest, Hong Kong Disneyland offers a magical adventure in four themed lands similar to other parks, namely Main Street USA, Fantasyland, Adventureland and Tomorrowland. Mickey Mouse welcomes visitors of all ages to the happiest place on Earth, which also includes attractions exclusively designed for Hong Kong. Particular care has been taken to incorporate Chinese culture into the design, such as a feng shui layout, and the omission of the number four in the numbering of floors in each of the two hotels. In addition to the numerous rides and various events and attractions, shops sell Disney souvenirs and restaurants offer a variety of food throughout the park.

Kowloon Park

A good outdoors attraction for children on holiday in Hong Kong is Kowloon Park, which has aviaries, outdoor swimming pools, canals and a waterfall for kids to enjoy. The lake is home to a beautiful flock of flamingos, and the themed sections and open-air sculpture area are also interesting to see. The Chinese garden, playground and soccer pitch are yet more fun features of the park.

Avenue of Stars

The Avenue of Stars is Hong Kong's version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, celebrating famous icons of Hong Kong cinema. Situated along the seaside promenade, there are great views of Victoria Harbour. The Avenue is also a great place to view the Symphony of Lights, a music and laser show staged every night at 8pm. The show is presented in English on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays; Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays it is in Mandarin and Sundays in Cantonese.

Hong Kong Wetland Park

Children on holiday in Hong Kong who want to see crocodiles, butterflies and mangroves should head to the Hong Kong Wetland Park, a man-made oasis. Interactive and educational games are another feature to enjoy at the park, as are the sound booths where kids can compose wetland symphonies using the sounds of this fascinating eco-system.

Toy Library

A favourite for kids on holiday in Hong Kong is the Toy Library, on the second floor of Central Library. The library has areas where children can play 'house' or 'doctors and nurses', and there is also a games catalogue available. On the same floor, the Junior Library has a large selection of books in English for kids, as well as a pleasant reading area.