Off the beaten path: Hong Kong's Cultural Kaleidoscope

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:

To China this may seem like a rather insignificant everyday happening, but to a westerner, seeing hundreds of voluntary Tai Chi devotees going through the paces is quite the Kodak moment. Each morning in the rising mist of dawn Victoria Park fills with the concentrated focus of Tai Chai disciples, who, through their movement, seemingly match the silent feel of the moment. It is not only a spectacle of sight, but also of Chinese culture in general.

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Once the Whitefield Barracks, the site of military barracks for British and Indian troops, the 14 hectare Kowloon Park is an oasis of green in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui. Those who are familiar with old photgraphs of hong Kong will remember the image of a broad, tree lined Nathan Road.

The parkland attractions include a bird lake and aviary, a maze, Chinese gardens and a banyan tree court. Sculpture Walk is an open-air exhibition featuring works by local sculptors and a magnificent bronze statue by Sir Eduardo Paolozzi. At night, the sculptures are illuminated. Kowloon Park is also home to the Urban Council Health Education Exhibition and Resources Centre, the Hong Kong Museum of History, and a large sports complex.

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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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From the Hakka to the Hang Seng, from Neolithic to Neocapitalist, this excellent information-stop will divulge everything you ever wanted to know about Hong Kong's history but were too afraid to ask. On show are old photographs, ancient costumes, snuffboxes used by former governors, and even a reconstruction of a 100 year old street. Guides are available and a good half-day spent roaming the exhibitions will leave you educated, elated and exhausted. Plenty of bars in the Tsim Sha Tsui area are on standby to boost faltering spirits. Free all day Wednesday.

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The mysteries of science and technology come to life here, with plenty of hands-on exhibits sure to appeal to children and adults alike. More than 500 exhibits cover four floors, with sections devoted to the life sciences; light, sound, and motion; meteorology and geography; electricity and magnetism; computers and robotics; construction; transportation and communication; occupational safety and health; energy efficiency; and food science and home technology. Children ages 3 to 7 can have free reign of an area designed especially for them. Visitors can play with different optical illusions, enter a rotating room to learn physics in a noninertial frame, "freeze" their shadows on a wall, pick up remote voices with a large parabolic disc, play with bubbles, navigate a flight over Hong Kong Island or Kowloon at night, watch the mechanisms of an eight-cylinder gasoline engine, and learn about herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine. There are exhibits designed to test a visitor's fitness, such as lung capacity, endurance, and blood pressure. The computer section has more than 30 personal computers for guests to learn about computer software, including word processing for children and...

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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The Jade Market, just west of Nathan Road on the junction of Kansu and Battery Streets, is where vendors sell various shades and qualities of jade, a greenish stone found in East Asia. Actually more a place for locals than for tourists, visitors may have to suffer a long bargaining session with persistent vendors before arriving at a good deal for a high-quality piece of jade. Nevertheless, there are also plenty of trinkets and souvenirs at much lower prices.

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This traditional Tin Hau Temple is one of the most popular sites for the filming of Hong Kong gangster movies. Located just a block north of the Jade Market, it is yet another one of the many temples in Hong Kong dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea. The public square of this temple complex is a favourite place for Chinese chess players and acts as the communal heart of Yaumatei. In front of the main temple, there is a row of fortune-tellers, who are only to keen to help temple visitors see into the future.

Description:

Travelers who are allergic to ugly hotel rooms will want to head straight to Hong Kong's first -- and still hippest -- boutique hotel, opened in 2004 by a Singaporean 20-something entrepreneur and designed by Philippe Starck. From the moment guests step into the low-key lobby with its teak wood floors, white sheer curtains, and whimsical furniture and are greeted by staff in chic Shanghai Tang-designed uniforms, they know this is no ordinary abode. Stylish rooms (35 sq. m/380 sq. ft.), bathed in white and divided into living, dining, and working areas, feature kitchens and home theater units with surround sound. One- and two-bedroom suites are also available. Guests enjoy free local telephone calls, free Internet access, complimentary continental breakfast and cocktail hour, free access to a local gym, and access to both Kee, a private members' club, and the VIP area of Dragon-i. I wouldn't be surprised if some people check in and never move out, especially with this incentive: Long-staying guests get a free massage.

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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.

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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.

Description:

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?

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What would you expect to find next door to the Big Buddha? The answer is, of course, the largest Buddhist monastery in Hong Kong. Once a peaceful haven for Buddhist monks, this monastery is now firmly on the tourist trail. Wander around the temples, take in the views of the surrounding lush countryside and do not forget to sample some of the vegetarian cooking served by the monks in a huge dining hall. Try to get to the monastery via Mui Wo, and you will experience a truly hair-raising bus journey along narrow, steep and windy roads. Great fun!

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Sham Shui Po is totally geared up for the local market and is not the place to go looking for designer goods. Computer fanatics will love the Golden Computer Centre and New Capital Computer Plaza, where all the latest computer and high-tech products are sold. Apliu Street Market, on the other hand, is a good place to look for interesting electrical accessories, including everything from old room fans to second hand mobile phones and television sets.

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Chao Inn offers authentic Chiuchow Chinese cuisine, a Northern Chinese type cuisine. The food is always delicious and a favorite among locals to bring visiting guests. Located in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui's shopping area at the prestigious 1 Peking Road, the restaurant offers a spectacular view of Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong Island skyline. Not only do you get a beautiful view, but the price doesn't put a hole in your wallet. Best to book in advance for dinner.

Description:

Travelers who are allergic to ugly hotel rooms will want to head straight to Hong Kong's first -- and still hippest -- boutique hotel, opened in 2004 by a Singaporean 20-something entrepreneur and designed by Philippe Starck. From the moment guests step into the low-key lobby with its teak wood floors, white sheer curtains, and whimsical furniture and are greeted by staff in chic Shanghai Tang-designed uniforms, they know this is no ordinary abode. Stylish rooms (35 sq. m/380 sq. ft.), bathed in white and divided into living, dining, and working areas, feature kitchens and home theater units with surround sound. One- and two-bedroom suites are also available. Guests enjoy free local telephone calls, free Internet access, complimentary continental breakfast and cocktail hour, free access to a local gym, and access to both Kee, a private members' club, and the VIP area of Dragon-i. I wouldn't be surprised if some people check in and never move out, especially with this incentive: Long-staying guests get a free massage.

Description:

Lamma has long enjoyed its well-deserved reputation as a hippie hangout. Although the atmosphere is still artsy, the handover to China and changes in immigration laws for British citizens has seen the bohemian community shrink considerably. Rents are still cheap however, making property very affordable. For a great day out, take the ferry from Central to Yung Shue Wan, spend some time on Hung Shing Ye Beach and then hike over to Sok Kwu Wan for an evening meal in one of the many seafood restaurants before heading back to Central or Aberdeen.

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Great food and a hip atmosphere makes Deli Lamma a favourite hangout for the Islanders, whether for breakfast while reading the morning papers, for late lunch or dinner. The menu includes French, Continental, Mediterranean, Indian and other favourite cuisines, and a CD music machine gives diners the option to play their kind of music while enjoying their meal. Deli Lamma prides itself as having the longest happy hour, from 8a-10p daily, except on Sundays.

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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 outlying Islands are abundant because Hong Kong has more than 80 big and small island but Peng Chau and Lamma Island are two Islands worth visiting the most. Ferries from Central Pier will take you there and the ferry trip in itself is worth it for the cool sea wind and views. Peng Chau is quite similar to Cheung Chau, just much smaller. Home to fishing hamlets, as is the case with most outlying islands. Peng Chau does also have a small rattan and hand-painted ceramics industry. A walk through the rabbit-warren lanes of the town leads past some of the shops selling these local wares, as well as many sweet Chinese desserts and local salted preserved fish and shrimp.

Lamma Island, on the other hand, has gained a reputation as a hippy expat hangout. Rumors circulate that the Japanese used Lamma during their World War II occupation. Supposedly, they used the island as a snake farm, with many snakes flown in around the world - explaining the numerous unusual breeds on the island. Now creates dangerous and exciting Lamma that numerous nature-loving residents now live on. Still quite an alternative culture from mainstream Hong Kong. Be sure to take note of the last ferry times or else... read more

Description:

For a fantastic day trip far from the madding crowd, get yourself down to the main pier in Sai Kung, and wait for an old woman to come up and grab your arm, gesticulating wildly towards Sharp Island. Sampans are fun, though slightly noisy boats, and the scenery is terrific. You can request other routes, or arrange to be dropped off at Hap Mun Bay, or Kiu Tsui Beach, then hike around Sharp Island's trails for the day, and get picked up at an appointed time.

Description:

Travelers who are allergic to ugly hotel rooms will want to head straight to Hong Kong's first -- and still hippest -- boutique hotel, opened in 2004 by a Singaporean 20-something entrepreneur and designed by Philippe Starck. From the moment guests step into the low-key lobby with its teak wood floors, white sheer curtains, and whimsical furniture and are greeted by staff in chic Shanghai Tang-designed uniforms, they know this is no ordinary abode. Stylish rooms (35 sq. m/380 sq. ft.), bathed in white and divided into living, dining, and working areas, feature kitchens and home theater units with surround sound. One- and two-bedroom suites are also available. Guests enjoy free local telephone calls, free Internet access, complimentary continental breakfast and cocktail hour, free access to a local gym, and access to both Kee, a private members' club, and the VIP area of Dragon-i. I wouldn't be surprised if some people check in and never move out, especially with this incentive: Long-staying guests get a free massage.

Description:

Just as Admiralty is the extension of Central, Tsim Sha Tsui East is the extension of Tsim Sha Tsui. This big piece of land was the result of a large reclamation project in the 70s and did not exist until 1980. Now it has become a major hotel, shopping and nightlife area, with excellent views of the harbour and the north-shore of Hong Kong Island. The Museum of Science and the Museum of History are also in this area.

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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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Admiralty, sandwiched between Central and Wanchai, has in fact become an extension of busy Central. The area is characterized by modern landmarks, such as the deluxe Pacific Place shopping and hotel complex, the new Supreme Court Tower of Hong Kong and Hong Kong Park. A relaxing afternoon can be had at any one of the five star hotels adjoining Pacific Place, all of which offer a delicious afternoon tea buffet accompanied by spectacular views of Victoria Harbour or Victoria Peak!

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Flagstaff House, located in Hong Kong Park, is the oldest colonial building in Hong Kong -- the best place to go if you want to see typical Hong Kong architecture of 160 years ago. The house was completed in 1846 in Greek Revival style for the commander of the British forces. Now a museum devoted to the subject of tea culture in China, its collection includes about 600 pieces of tea ware ranging from earthenware to porcelain, primarily of Chinese origin, dating from the 7th century to the present day. However, only 150 or so pieces are on display at any one time, with exhibitions changed two or three times a year. I always find them fascinating, especially the exhibits describing the various kinds of tea and tea-making methods favored by the major dynasties. Don't miss the museum shop, which sells beautifully crafted teapots as well as teas. You can see everything here in about 30 minutes.

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Hong Kong Park is not just a park: it features an aviary, greenhouse, fountain plaza, lily ponds, playgrounds, artificial waterfall, viewing tower, visual arts centre, museum, restaurant, indoor games hall and even a marriage registry. Some people say it looks anything but natural. Still, it is beautiful in its own odd way, with high-rise buildings on one side and mountain greenery on the other. The aviary houses over 150 species of birds and visitors walk on a suspended wooden bridge around 10m above the ground to look at the birds perched in tropical greenery at eye level.

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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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In the midst of some formidable modern architecture stands the neo-classical structure of the Legco Building. The Goddess of Justice above the main entrance dates back 1912 when the building was originally opened as the Supreme Court. In the early 1980s the Legislative Council took over occupancy. Many of the Legislative Council meetings are open to the public, which is a great way to get a look inside this old colonial beauty. Check out the Legco website to see what is on and then call during office hours to reserve a seat.

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The Cenotaph was erected in remembrance for those who sacrificed their lives in the First World War and the Second World War. From Statue Square you will see, not just the Cenotaph but also the three main bank towers of Hong Kong: HSBC, Bank of China and the Standard Chartered. This greenery amidst the three giant buildings is Central's "green lung" and a gathering place for thousands of foreign Filipino maids on Sundays. Right next to the Cenotaph there is the swank Mandarin Oriental Hotel and Princes' Building and of course the Landmark. The MTR is the best mode of transport to use to get to Central. Surrounding Status Square, the legislative Council (LEGCO) is an impressive reminder of colonial times still standing next to futuristic chrome and glass, it used to be the next best thing to the British parliament but now the High Court has moved to Admiralty.

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Housed in a building - the former ice house for a dairy manufacturer and built in 1892 - that is as cool and funky as the art inside, the Fringe Club is the undisputed centre of the local alternative arts scene. The main Nokia gallery hosts a panoply of exhibitions and installations, from photos to performance art. The attached Fringe Club Bar also serves as the AGFA gallery, and focuses on work by local artists. This bar is, incidentally, also one of the cheapest spots for drinks and live music in the area.

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Oil Street, located within easy access of the Fortress Hill MTR train station, has become even more alternative than Central's Fringe Club. Nothing more than a warehouse area, artists have been able to acquire cheap studio rents and promote their work either individually or cooperatively. Not everything is for sale - there is a lot of performance art and installation work going on in here - but most pieces will cost a fraction of what you would pay in the upmarket Central galleries.

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Built in 1855, and extensively redesigned during the wartime occupation by the Japanese, Government House has been home to 25 British governors until 1997. Today, it is used for entertaining VIPs, and for fund-raising events. Government House is closed to the public, but it throws open its doors for one Sunday in March every year, allowing the populace an opportunity to view the gardens filled with beautiful azaleas. Alternatively, the 46th floor of the The Bank of China Tower is a great place for a birds-eye view of this monument to Hong Kong's colonial history.

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This distinctive red and granite neo-classical building, which dates back to Edwardian times, is currently home to the Court of Final Appeal but has enjoyed a colourful past. The original structure dates back to the 1842 and housed the first governor of Hong Kong, Sir Henry Pottinger. It is likely the building served as one of the early homes of the Legislative Council. The French Mission bought the building in 1915 and renovated it, adding a chapel in the northwest corner and a dome. It was sold back to the government in 1953 and was declared a Hong Kong monument in 1989.

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So the fun evening of partying in Lan Kwai Fong is over, but what to do about a night that is definitely still young? Okay, how about grabbing a few cans of beer from the bar and walking to Duddell Street, which is only five minutes away. Just off Ice House Street, the stone steps at Duddell Street were built between 1875 and 1889 and are lit by the only surviving gas street lamps in Hong Kong. An ideal spot, in fact, for whiling away those late night hours, relaxing and enjoying the night air.

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Cat Street used to be famous for its arts and crafts. But, today, as many dealers have moved to the Cat Street Galleries (near Lok Ku Road) and, with the growth of new antique shops on Hollywood Road, Cat Street has become a flea market for junk collectors. Still, you can find fascinating collections of odds and ends, and bits and pieces, and all sorts of useful and useless treasures.

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Carved along the hillside was built in 1844 for the British regiment attached there and named after the holly wood trees that used to line the street. It winds its way down from the upper section of "Central" into the heart of Sheung Wan at Queen's Road West, and makes for a fascinating stroll. At night, the upper part of Hollywood Road is home to crowds and crowds of young and professional groups of people come and party in the clubs of SoHo (South of Hollywood Road). Soho is gaining a growing reputation as the place to seen partying. The Western District of the road are lined with dozens of antique stores and other shops selling all manner of merchandise. Here you can buy snuff bottles, carpets, bird cages ornate name seals that are made to order, paintings etc. Most of the stores are for the serious collector but as move farther and farther down west, the glass fronted stores with expensive displays give way to traditional Chinese knickknacks or making and selling coffin, funeral wreaths and antique reproduction.

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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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This is the place to ponder the state of the Hong Kong arts scene, discuss the works of Brecht, or ostentatiously read books by authors with unpronounceable East European names. The Fringe Club Bar is where the alternative arts crowd gathers for drinks and to sample some of the excellent programmes on offer. The choice of drinks might be limited but this is one of the more convivial places for a civilized evening out in Central.

Original music in its gallery bar from 10:30pm on Friday and Saturday with jazz, rock and world music getting the most airplay. There's a pleasant rooftop bar open in the warmer months. The intimate theatres, each seating up to a hundred, host eclectic local and international performances in English and Cantonese.

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If you don't embarrass yourself by falling down the stairs leading to this hip basement venue, decorated in chic Asian style, you might find this a welcome refuge for an early evening drink or a quiet place to chill Monday and Tuesday nights. Things heat up the rest of the week after 9pm, however, when the resident DJ's house music entices people to the small dance floor. Open 6pm Monday to Friday and 8pm Saturday, closing at 1am Monday to Thursday and 5am Friday and Saturday.

Description:

Travelers who are allergic to ugly hotel rooms will want to head straight to Hong Kong's first -- and still hippest -- boutique hotel, opened in 2004 by a Singaporean 20-something entrepreneur and designed by Philippe Starck. From the moment guests step into the low-key lobby with its teak wood floors, white sheer curtains, and whimsical furniture and are greeted by staff in chic Shanghai Tang-designed uniforms, they know this is no ordinary abode. Stylish rooms (35 sq. m/380 sq. ft.), bathed in white and divided into living, dining, and working areas, feature kitchens and home theater units with surround sound. One- and two-bedroom suites are also available. Guests enjoy free local telephone calls, free Internet access, complimentary continental breakfast and cocktail hour, free access to a local gym, and access to both Kee, a private members' club, and the VIP area of Dragon-i. I wouldn't be surprised if some people check in and never move out, especially with this incentive: Long-staying guests get a free massage.

Description:

A nature reserve in the unlikeliest of spots in the northeastern New Territories designated a site of special scientific interest in 1983 and a wetland of international importance in 1995. There are over 60,000 water birds have wintered in and around the Mai Po, including endangered species such as Saunders' Gull and a quarter of the world's population of the Black-faced Spoonbill. In addition to the birds, the heart of the reserve is made up of 24 traditionally operated shrimp ponds (locally called gei wai), which are now the only such ponds in Hong Kong, and possibly in southern China.

When the gei wai is drained, the areas of shallow water or exposed mud on the pond floor would provide feeding and roosting habitats hundreds of for fish-eating birds, particularly herons, egrets and the endangered Black-faced Spoonbill. Since this traditional form of gei wai management can contribute to the ecological value of the site, WWF Hong Kong is continuing with the winter drain down of the gei wai on a rotation basis. Access to the Reserve is limited so make a reservation well in advance online.

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For an inexpensive night out, you'll want to take in a show at the TakeOutComedy Club. The affordable ticket price includes a free drink at a nearby bar and you get to take in an hour and a half show. The comedians are mostly regular people with normal day jobs who do stand-up comedy by night. Some are also flown in from the US. All shows are in English and they also have some shows that are in Cantonese. If you fancy to be a prospective stand-up comedian, they also have open mic Tuesdays and free comedy classes.

Description:

Travelers who are allergic to ugly hotel rooms will want to head straight to Hong Kong's first -- and still hippest -- boutique hotel, opened in 2004 by a Singaporean 20-something entrepreneur and designed by Philippe Starck. From the moment guests step into the low-key lobby with its teak wood floors, white sheer curtains, and whimsical furniture and are greeted by staff in chic Shanghai Tang-designed uniforms, they know this is no ordinary abode. Stylish rooms (35 sq. m/380 sq. ft.), bathed in white and divided into living, dining, and working areas, feature kitchens and home theater units with surround sound. One- and two-bedroom suites are also available. Guests enjoy free local telephone calls, free Internet access, complimentary continental breakfast and cocktail hour, free access to a local gym, and access to both Kee, a private members' club, and the VIP area of Dragon-i. I wouldn't be surprised if some people check in and never move out, especially with this incentive: Long-staying guests get a free massage.

Description:

Get a little official here, for your sushi course fits ideally into a business lunch or brunch. Moreover, the beef and sashimi are fresh. Throw in the spectacular city skyline and you are in for chill, Japanese style.

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Hong Kong's most popular place of worship because of its reputed good blessings. Or wishes almost exclusively centered around money. People flock here to earn enough merit for a big win at the horse races, the lottery or any other windfall the powerful Wong Tai Sin, god of good fortune and healing, may bestow. Even if you aren't a temple fan, this really is the one to visit, simply to watch the crowds of devotees. It's a crowded, colorful spectacle and famed for its soothsayers Wong Tai Sin Temple was founded on the lower slopes of Kowloon Hills over half a century ago after a shepherd boy gained immortality through his good deeds and mystical healing powers. Tossing a bamboo can full of joss sticks and make offering of food or fruit, which isn't left behind because the god is never that hungry and no one wants good food to go to waste.

Description:

Rural furniture and farm implements are on display in this converted 200-year-old Hakka village house. The Hakkas--meaning "guest people"--arrived from central and southern China centuries ago and are among Hong Kong's earliest residents and landowners. Hakka women were forbidden from inheriting land so that ownership could be retained through the male's family. The museum is located in Hong Kong Island's easternmost district, where tourists are a rarity. Take the MTR Island line to Chai Wan and then follow signs for exit B and the museum, which is a five to 10 minute walk from the station.

Admission: Free.

Description:

For its titillating past, Kowloon City Walled City Park is a poor remnant of what the place used to be as a triad stronghold, notorious for its excess of brothels, casinos, opium dens, cocaine parlors and secret factories. During its heydays, authorities turned a blind eye towards the squatter settlement. Over the years, many films depicted Kowloon City Walled City when they wanted to convey a sense of ominous foreboding. Square buildings folded up into one another as thousands of modifications were made, virtually none by architects or engineers, until the entire City became monolithic. In 1992, after all 30,000 inhabitants of the drug-ridden high-rise slums on the 90-by-100 meter site had been re-housed, the area was cleared to make way for the park with its old almshouse and Chinese-style gardens. Nowadays it is underground triad fights are no longer seen around the area, instead replaced by the old who sit in the park, remembering the old days. In the park itself the stone plaques from the Old South Gate remain and are the only remainder of what Kowloon City Walled City used to be.

Description:

Located near the Old Government House, the Zoological and Botanical Gardens is a popular place for parents to bring their children on the weekends. The gardens are divided into two main areas: plants and aviaries in one area and animals in the other. Although the zoo is not that big, it is one of the world's leading centers for captive breeding of endangered species, and thus is worth visiting. It is also a great place to take pictures of the kids with the various spotted, striped and feathered animals on show.