Exploring Hong Kong's wonders with Kids

Our Local Expert Says:

Reknowned Hong Kong style breakfast place, all day tea restaurant with steamed milk and egg whites, tea sets. Fascinating service speed, long lines and complete Chinese crowd. Staff know how much you ought to pay simply by a glimpse at your plates. The scrambled eggs are nothing like anything you will have tasted elsewhere.

Description:

Very reknowned Hong Kong style all day breakfast place, all day tea restaurant with steamed milk and egg whites, tea sets. Fascinating service speed, long lines and complete Chinese crowd. Staff know how much you ought to pay simply by a glimpse at your plates. The scrambled eggs are nothing like anything you will have tasted elsewhere.

Description:

Tung Choi Street (Ladies Market) and Fa Yuen Street are the essence of Mong Kok, Ladies market is probably the most famous street market in Hong Kong for tourists. Fa Yuen street sells sports-shoes and later turns into an outlet street market that locals tend to visit more. Mong Kok used to be a Mango Plantation Village and it is difficult to imagine now, Mong Kok has the reputation of being the most densely populated urban areas in the world. Pedestrian traffic is amazing so the best way to absorb its atmosphere is simply to walk the streets. Cars and people fight for road space, nothing is considered a traffic jam because most of the time the cars are just waiting for people to finish crossing. Rather than Nathan Road, take Sai Yeung Choi Street South, although hardly glamourous or relaxing, Mong Kok oozes with life and character. You should go in the evening after dark because then you can see the shop signs lit up in all kinds of neon lights in Chinese - just like what you see on postcards.

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The Goldfish Market is on Tung Choi Street south of Prince Edward Road West, and it is the place for fish lovers to go to for all manner of fish-related products. Not only are there all sorts of different kinds of fish, including many colourful tropical fish, but there are also other special sea creatures like small jelly-fish, Brazilian tortoises and dainty sea horses. Also on offer are a variety of fish tanks ranging from the ubiquitous bowl to enormous tanks, as well as all sorts of plants and rocks with which to create that perfect fish home.

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Originally, the bird market was on Hong Lok Street, but it relocated to this Chinese-style bird garden on Yuen Po Street. There are hundreds of birds on display and the price of a bird is often decided by how well the bird sings. Apart from the birds, there are also other accessories for sale, including bamboo and teak cages, ceramic water vessels and food containers, and different types of bird food, including live crickets sold by the bag-full.

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This infamous road extends all the way through 4 districts. This road is the artery of Kowloon Peninsula, join the throngs of shoppers and tourists for a wander down Hong Kong's most famous strip. You'll be hustled by touts, bustled by crowds and dazzled by the glittering window displays. It stays busy until past 2am and it will be what you've envisioned on postcards. Park Lane is the major shopping area on Nathan Road, then there's St. Andrews Church and Granville Road which branch off. Nathan Road, was named after governor Sir Matthew Nathan but everyone thought such a wide road was unnecessary at that time of 1880's and Nathan Road became known as "Nathan's Folly." Nowadays, across Tsim Sha Tsui, at the start of Hong Kong's famous 'Golden Mile'. With glittering neon lights and crowded roads lined side by side with tourist shops and just about everything else you could imagine.

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Located in front of The Peninsula hotel on the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, the Space Museum is easy to spot with its white-domed planetarium. It's divided into two parts: the Exhibition Halls with their Hall of Space Science and the Hall of Astronomy, and the Stanley Ho Space Theatre. The Hall of Space Science explores the human journey into space, with exhibits on ancient astronomical history, science fiction, early rockets, manned space flights, and future space programs. Several interactive rides and exhibits (most with weight and height restrictions) include a ride on a virtual paraglider, a harness that holds occupants aloft with the same approximate gravity they'd experience walking on the moon, and a multi-axis chair developed for astronaut training that gives the sensation of tumbling through space. The Hall of Astronomy presents information on the solar system, solar science, the stars, and the universe. However, I find the museum, which opened in 1980, rather dated. Come only if you have kids and extra time on your hands, in which case you'll spend about an hour here.

The Stanley Ho Space Theatre presents mostly OMNIMAX screenings with a projection system that produces an almost...

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Stretching from the Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry to Hunghom, this promenade offers some of the best views in Hong Kong, especially at night, when the Hong Kong skyline is lit up with neon signs. The Promenade is a popular place for lovers, joggers, photographers with tripods and the occasional fisherperson fishing in the waters of the harbour. During the Chinese New Year fireworks display, tons of people crowd into the area to watch the spectacle.

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Brash, glittering it's the tourist's Hong Kong with an overwhelming mass of people and shops. Most of the cheapest hotels are around here, including Chungking Mansions - a steep contrast between the Peninsula which is just right across the Road. All buses that have "Star Ferry" written on them will take you to Tsim Sha Tsui, you can always take the MTR Subway as well, the best exit to get out would be Exit A. Start at the star ferry pier and explore Harbour City, Hong Kong's mega mall complex that is luxury and stocks eye-candy handbags as well as the lastest fashion. There are a number of excellent world class museums, a dome shaped Space Museum, the Cultural Centre but the History Museum being the highlight.

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One of the National Geographic Traveler "fifty places of a lifetime" - crossing the Victoria Harbour in Star Ferry. The Star Ferry has preserved its original looks, feel and smell since the 1960s era when Star Ferries were the main form of transport for Hong Kongers to cross the harbor between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. What is meant by a Star Ferry trip is the main line from Tsim Sha Tsui to Central. Gaze up at Hong Kong's majestic skyline, which is an erratic stretch of skyscrapers, hotels and apartment blocks. The nighttime views, when Hong Kong glitters like a diamond, are a dramatic Red Neon lights and Golden glitter reflected against the lapping waters. As the cheapest therapy in town, few people disembark in anything but the lightest of moods.

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One of Hong Kong's star attractions and one of the deepest container ports in the world, the harbor is shielded on both sides by stunning skylines-skyscrapers and Victoria Peak on one side, and the Tsim Sha Tsui shoreline on the other. Everyday, hundreds of ferries, tugs, junks, speed boats, and barges chug up and down the shore, carrying people and cargo, only pausing for typhoons. Best viewed from the famous Star Ferry, or the Harbour Cruises.

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Food has never featured prominently in their movies, but Hollywood stars seem to have a thing for American-Mexican cuisine. Located near the Harbour City shopping mall, Planet Hollywood is huge and offers great tasting food till late at reasonable prices. The movie memorabilia attracts tourists the food itself is enough to warrant a visit.

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The overwhelming number-one choice among low-cost accommodations has long been the YMCA on Salisbury Road, which has the good fortune of being right next to The Peninsula hotel just a 2-minute walk from the Star Ferry and MTR subway station. Although expensive for a YMCA, the location and facilities are worth the price, especially since it offers Tsim Sha Tsui's cheapest rooms with harbor views. Great for families are its inexpensive restaurants and sports facility boasting two indoor swimming pools (a lap pool and a children's pool, both free for hotel guests except those in dormitory), plus gym, squash courts, and indoor climbing wall (fees charged). The rooms vary from 17 singles (none with harbor view) and more than 250 doubles and twins (the most expensive provide great harbor views), to suites with and without harbor views that are great for families. Although simple in decor, these carpeted rooms are on a par with those at more expensively priced hotels in terms of in-room amenities. For budget travelers, there are dormitory-style rooms, each with two bunk beds, individual reading lights, private bathroom, and lockers, available only to visitors who have been in Hong Kong fewer...

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Repulse Bay is one of the more controversially styled beaches, and may or may not the best choice for swimming. Deep Water Bay along the South Coast is a better choice for swimming and Repulse Bay is a better place for a suntan. This popular sandy bay has many facilities, such as shops, restaurants and bars, and during the summer the beach is packed with young friends, families, old couples. The eastern end of the beach is home to statues of the goddess of mercy, Kwun Yun, and the goddess of the sea, Tin Hau. The nearby Tin Hau temple is a sure draw The nearby temple houses many other religious figures, including a four-faced Buddha draped in pearl necklaces and ornaments. In front of the temple is the Longevity Bridge, and it is said that anyone crossing it can add three days to his or her life. Repulse bay is home to millionaires so be sure to pay attention to the many Villas around this area that may cost over billions.

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No one can miss a tour of the south coast of Hong Kong Island. The beaches of Repulse Bay, Deep Water Bay and the fishing village of Stanley are among the scenic treasures here. Compared to other parts of the island, the south side has a very different character, more greenery, and expensive villas perched on the hillsides and along the seashore. Great sea views can be had along a leisurely stroll from Deep Water Bay to Repulse Bay, which are connected via a convenient raised walkway.

The overall impression is definitely more French Riviera than over-crowded Hong Kong.

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Stanley used to be common fishing village located on the southernmost part of the Island and now has developed to be a famous tourist spot. The main transport that takes you to Stanley would be the buses. Stanley is typically referred to as Stanley Market. A great place to hunt for keychains with English to Chinese names, Chinese calligraphy pens, tourist jade pendants and plenty of souvenir T-shirts. One of the best T-shirts read "I am lost in Hong Kong". If shopping is tiring, there are places to relax and enjoy the view, with rows of bars and restaurants along Stanley's waterfront for you to fill your stomach. A visit to Stanley would not be complete without making a trip to the 18th century Tin Hau Temple and its two beaches: Stanley Main Beach and St. Stephen's Beach, on the western side. Both beaches are sandy and rocky. A better choice to take a short trip to the nearby Deep Water Bay for swimming.

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If you're a kid or a kid at heart, you'll love Ocean Park, a combination marine park and amusement center. Situated along a dramatic rocky coastline on the island's southern shore, the park is divided into two areas: a "lowland" and a "headland," connected by cable car (and, in 2012 -- after a massive redevelopment that will double the number of its attractions -- an underground funicular). Because of the wide range of attractions, Ocean Park is interesting for children and adults alike. Facilities are first class, and Ocean Park is Asia's first accredited member of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association.

The lowland is subdivided into several areas and attractions. The most popular residents of Ocean Park are An An and Jia Jia, a pair of pandas presented as gifts from China. Kids' World has kiddie rides, playgrounds, remote-control cars and boats, shows geared toward children, and shooting-games arcade. Swimming with the dolphins is available at Dolphin University (applications must be made at least 5 days in advance).

From the lowland, visitors board cable cars for a spectacular 8-minute ride over a hill to the headland, while being treated to great views of the coastline and the...

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Ruby's follows the tradition of many American-style bar and grill combinations, serving huge portions of steaks, burgers and pasta with cheapish beers on the side. Clean and modern, the restaurant is conveniently divided into 30 percent smoking and 70 percent non-smoking area. The place does lack in character, unlike Mad Dogs immediately below. There is no happy hour because the beer, which costs around HK$30 a pint, is pretty cheap anyway.

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A famous spot among locals, Honeymoon Dessert serves up some of the most authentic chinese dessert specialties in Hong Kong. The Durian pancake is a mainstay. Be adventurous and try Honeymoon.

Description:

The overwhelming number-one choice among low-cost accommodations has long been the YMCA on Salisbury Road, which has the good fortune of being right next to The Peninsula hotel just a 2-minute walk from the Star Ferry and MTR subway station. Although expensive for a YMCA, the location and facilities are worth the price, especially since it offers Tsim Sha Tsui's cheapest rooms with harbor views. Great for families are its inexpensive restaurants and sports facility boasting two indoor swimming pools (a lap pool and a children's pool, both free for hotel guests except those in dormitory), plus gym, squash courts, and indoor climbing wall (fees charged). The rooms vary from 17 singles (none with harbor view) and more than 250 doubles and twins (the most expensive provide great harbor views), to suites with and without harbor views that are great for families. Although simple in decor, these carpeted rooms are on a par with those at more expensively priced hotels in terms of in-room amenities. For budget travelers, there are dormitory-style rooms, each with two bunk beds, individual reading lights, private bathroom, and lockers, available only to visitors who have been in Hong Kong fewer...

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This two hour cruise on board a Chinese-style junk, sadly without sails, first sets off towards the eastern end of Victoria Harbour, sailing past the skyscrapers lining the northern shore of Hong Kong Island. The cruise then heads towards north-eastern Kowloon, passing Lei Yue Mun Fishing Village before sailing back to Causeway Bay for the firing of the famous noon-day gun. Boarding takes place at the Kowloon Public Pier in Tsim Sha Tsui and at Queen's Pier in Central. The tour is free of cost.

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Not only home to some of Hong Kong's glitziest skyscrapers, Central is also host to many glamorous boutiques, department stores and shopping malls. Top-end international designer labels as well as home-grown talent cater for those never seen in last season's collection. Anyone on a budget need not despair though, as small side streets are crammed with market stalls overflowing with cheap clothing and fashion accessories. Although never empty, the pavements become even more crowded at lunchtime as sharp-suited business people flock to trendy restaurants and coffee shops offering tasty but pricey Asian and international cuisine. Jam-packed noodle bars, tucked into steeply inclined lanes around the Central Market, offer an equally filling alternative at rock-bottom prices. Central provides a melting pot of icy cool fashion and food outlets surrounded by hot and humid market streets, a mix that typifies Hong Kong's attitude of 'anything goes'. Glamorous 'ladies that lunch' shopping in expensive boutiques; business people dining in chic eateries; market stalls offering anything from fresh vegetables to designer copies: Hong Kong's premier shopping district has all this and more. Payment... read more

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The most elegant symbolic skycraper in your mind along Hong Kong's waterfront. Built by American Chinese architect IM Pei and completed in 1989 around the time of the joint declaration.

The 74 storey Bank of China's feng shui was reputed to be bad news - well not for the bank itself but for all the buildings around it. Its sharp corners, built in four triangular glass and steel shafts with an oriental flavour of the spikes on the roof, supposedly radiates bad vibes.

Nevertheless, there is no observation deck on the 73/F so instead the highest that you will be able to go to is the 64/F where the majority tourists take photos of the stunning harbour views.

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Designed by British architect Sir Norman Foster, the building cost nearly a billion Hong Kong dollars to construct and was the world's most expensive building when it was completed in 1985. The bank does not have tours for the public, but information booklets about the building are available at the reception desk on the first floor. Whilst there, it is worth having a look at the internal structure of this monolith, which is made up of a giant atrium surrounded by floors suspended from steel masts. Outside, the two bronze lions have been guarding the entrance since 1935.

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In order to experience some true traditional Hong Kong markets, Li Yuen Street East and West are the two mystically cobblestone alley way streets that juxtapose the glitzy skyscraper area of Central. From dried salted fish, preserved Duck Eggs, sauces to export outlet clothing, key chains, cashmere cardigans, shoes and tourist knick knacks these two streets are a must visit if you are at Central and are designated by the Hong Kong Tourism Board as sights not to be missed. At discounted prices and with plenty of choice, some clothing stores are not to be missed. Best times to visit Li Yuen Street East and West would be during the afternoon because some stalls do not start business until 3pm. Ask anybody after getting out of Central MTR Station exit D how to get to

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OK, who wants to see an escalator? Well, this 800-metre hillside escalator starts from Connaught Road Central, runs to the Hang Seng Bank Building on Des Voeux Road Central, then passes through the Central Market and continues to climb past Hollywood Road to the prime Mid-levels residential district. The free ride from Central to Conduit Road takes about 20 minutes, a lot quicker than walking up which usually takes forever. The longest covered outdoor escalator system in the world, the system took two and a half years and more than HKD205 million to build.

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You don't have to go all the way to Beijing to have Peking Barbecued Duck. Yue Kee is a well known local favorite in Hong Kong for its specialty in barbecued duck and goose. Their barbecued duck and goose are always perfectly seared with crispy skin and juicy meat on the inside. The restaurant is located in Sham Tseng in the New Territories so it's best to catch a taxi to get there if you don't know your way around. It's also best to book in advance but be prepared to wait in line even with a reservation.

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No visit to Hong Kong is complete without a visit to the Peak. What is the most authentic way of getting there? The Peak Tram no doubt. Before the Peak Tram opened, hardly anyone travelled to the Peak. Part of the experience is watching the faces of tourists glow with delight as they climb the steepest slopes of Victoria Peak on the Tram. The Tram, which is itself an attraction, dates back to 1888 with new and larger cars installed in 1989. These cars are pulled by 1,500m steel cables wound on drums. Passengers sit back for a literally vertical ride enjoying panoramic views as the car steadily makes its way to the top. The Peak Tram station is located right opposite the Hong Kong US Embassy and the best way to get to the Tram station would be to take the bus. Expect long queues if you go right before 7pm, the peak is a tourist haven and you will be able to take postcard pictures of Victoria Harbour line.

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If you haven't been to Victoria Peak (also known simply as the 'Peak'), then you haven't been to Hong Kong! All visitors to Hong Kong should go to the Peak for panoramic views of the city, which have to be amongst the most spectacular in the world, especially at night. A walk around the Peak reveals further scenic vistas over the greener western parts of Hong Kong Island, and the viewing platforms on top of the Peak Tower and Peak Galleria are a must for anyone with a camera. A tram will get you to the top. You can check the website for specific details.

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This is an easy one-hour walk along the pedestrian road that snakes its way round the famous Victoria Peak. On offer are spectacular views of Victoria Harbour and the outlying islands, whilst passing by a number of beautiful villas built in the early days of Hong Kong. You can take the historic Peak Tram from Central to the starting point of the 2.8 kilometre walk. When you reach the Peak, start either from Lugard Road or Harlech Road.

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This café is very popular with the hordes of tourists who scale Victoria Peak to witness one of the most impressive views in urban Asia, the view over Victoria Harbour. With a 1930s New York theme, the centre of attention is the long bar counter, an original from a bar in Queens District of New York, and it is advisable to book early to reserve a window seat! The East-meets-West inspired menu, although not cheap, features lots of tasty steaks, salads, vegetarian dishes, and an extensive wine-list.

Description:

The overwhelming number-one choice among low-cost accommodations has long been the YMCA on Salisbury Road, which has the good fortune of being right next to The Peninsula hotel just a 2-minute walk from the Star Ferry and MTR subway station. Although expensive for a YMCA, the location and facilities are worth the price, especially since it offers Tsim Sha Tsui's cheapest rooms with harbor views. Great for families are its inexpensive restaurants and sports facility boasting two indoor swimming pools (a lap pool and a children's pool, both free for hotel guests except those in dormitory), plus gym, squash courts, and indoor climbing wall (fees charged). The rooms vary from 17 singles (none with harbor view) and more than 250 doubles and twins (the most expensive provide great harbor views), to suites with and without harbor views that are great for families. Although simple in decor, these carpeted rooms are on a par with those at more expensively priced hotels in terms of in-room amenities. For budget travelers, there are dormitory-style rooms, each with two bunk beds, individual reading lights, private bathroom, and lockers, available only to visitors who have been in Hong Kong fewer...

Description:

There is only one way to get to Cheung Chau, which literally translates to Long Island, and that is by ferry from the Central Ferry pier. As you approach Cheung Chau it isn't hard to guess what the main occupation of the thriving local community is by looking at the crowded harbour full of traditional Chinese fishing boats all sizes. Numerous seafood restaurants line the quayside to take advantage of the fresh daily catches, and visitors should do the same! For forty dollars per dish, the seafood dishes are delicious and authentically Chinese. If Chinese seafood doesn't seem filling enough Fish balls, fried chicken, tofu dessert are extremely delicious local Cheung Chau snacks. Rent a bicycle and bike around the island for the best experience of the "old China" way. Infamous Cheung Po Chai little cave retreat, as legend says, is where the infamous pirate keeps his loot and is worth exploring. Once a year the whole island community comes together for The big Bun Festival. This is when Pak Tai Temple is the focus of the frenzied four-day Bun Festival in late April or early May. Alternatively, there are always beaches to head for. Tung Wan Beach is popular, but try hiking to Tung Wan Tsai... read more

Description:

The overwhelming number-one choice among low-cost accommodations has long been the YMCA on Salisbury Road, which has the good fortune of being right next to The Peninsula hotel just a 2-minute walk from the Star Ferry and MTR subway station. Although expensive for a YMCA, the location and facilities are worth the price, especially since it offers Tsim Sha Tsui's cheapest rooms with harbor views. Great for families are its inexpensive restaurants and sports facility boasting two indoor swimming pools (a lap pool and a children's pool, both free for hotel guests except those in dormitory), plus gym, squash courts, and indoor climbing wall (fees charged). The rooms vary from 17 singles (none with harbor view) and more than 250 doubles and twins (the most expensive provide great harbor views), to suites with and without harbor views that are great for families. Although simple in decor, these carpeted rooms are on a par with those at more expensively priced hotels in terms of in-room amenities. For budget travelers, there are dormitory-style rooms, each with two bunk beds, individual reading lights, private bathroom, and lockers, available only to visitors who have been in Hong Kong fewer...

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This is the biggest of all the outlying islands, almost twice the size of Hong Kong Island. Although the new town of Tung Chung next to the airport is bringing more people to Lantau, the island is still largely unspoilt and undeveloped. The general atmosphere is tranquil with many hiking trails snaking across the rugged peaks. Lantau Peak is the highest, and at nearly 1,000 metres, it is almost twice as tall as Victoria Peak. Home to the Big Buddha (not to be missed on a trip to Lantau) and the Po Lin Monastery, this escape from hectic city life should be on everyone's itinerary.

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The giant bronze Buddha Statue at Po Lin Monastery is the biggest seated, outdoor image of its kind in the world - is Lantau's number one attraction. Despite the hordes and tour buses full of tourists who flock there and the often themepark like atmosphere, it's difficult not to be impressed by the grandeur of standing right next to the Big Buddha. The Buddha is not the fat, jolly Buddha often portrayed in tacky souvenirs. Avoid the weekends, but you can stay overnight at the monastery's dormitories and wander the temple grounds early next morning. Whilst you are at Bid Buddha, why not take some time to tour "Lantau" Island as well?