An Overview of Hongkong’s Districts

The vibrant metropolis on the South China Sea is divided into four main regions. To give you a better overview of the city, you’ll find a summary of the different districts and their top attractions below.

• Hongkong Island
• Kowloon
• New Territories
• Outlaying Island

Hongkong Island – Asia’s Manhattan

My very first thought when arriving on Hongkong Island? Asia’s Manhattan, home to the world-famous skyline. And maybe you’re now asking yourself: what can you actually experience in such a giant concrete jungle? Sure, admiring the skyline, shopping in luxurious malls or partying until late at night are definitely part of the experience.

But is that really all Hongkong Island has to offer? Absolutely not.

How about riding the world’s longest outdoor escalator system? Hiking through nature on a 50-kilometre trail? Or relaxing with a swim at one of the island’s beautiful beaches?

Hongkong Island is surprisingly diverse and far more than just endless skyscrapers. Besides the impressive urban scenery, you’ll also discover a remarkable amount of nature, parks, hiking trails and even traditional fishing villages. You can enjoy amazing food, visit amusement parks, explore nightlife or spend hours shopping.

Top Attractions on Hongkong Island

• Central District Hongkong Island
  
  • Observation Wheel and AIA Vitality Park
  • Ride the Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour
  • Hongkong Park
  • Edward Youde Aviary (Bird Park) in Admiralty
  • Victoria Peak viewpoint
  • Mid-Levels Escalator
  • SoHo
  • Lan Kwai Fong
• Wan Chai District Hongkong Island
  • Golden Bauhinia Square
  • Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
  • Computer Center
  • Happy Valley
• Causeway Bay District Hongkong Island
  • Victoria Park
  • Shopping
• Other Interesting Areas on Hongkong Island
  • Kennedy Town
  • Ocean Park
  • Repulse Bay
  • Shek Oh

You can find more information about the attractions on Hongkong Island in our travel guide. A complete overview of all Hongkong attractions in detail can be found in this article.

Kowloon – A District of Contrasts

Rich or poor, beautiful or ugly, day or night, contrasts are part of everyday life. But what does that have to do with Kowloon? Just like in real life, two completely different worlds collide here.

On one side, you’ll experience the highly touristy atmosphere along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. On the other, areas like Mong Kok immerse you in a chaotic, loud and deeply traditional urban environment.

Compared to the polished and modern image of Hongkong Island, with its business towers, office workers and glossy appearance, Kowloon feels much more authentic. Many people consider it the “old Hongkong”, and in many ways, that description feels accurate. Here, you’ll encounter a far more traditional Chinese-Asian atmosphere.

Kowloon – What Is There to Discover?

So what attractions should you actually explore in Kowloon? In my opinion, there are three places you absolutely shouldn’t miss during your Hongkong trip.

One major highlight is walking along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. This 1.6-kilometre waterfront walk features several interesting spots, including the famous Avenue of Stars. While strolling from one attraction to the next, you’ll constantly enjoy breathtaking views over Hongkong’s skyline. Honestly, this walk alone will probably push your camera or phone storage to its limits.

The Highlight of Mong Kok

For me personally, one of Kowloon’s biggest highlights is Mong Kok. Especially in the evening, the district comes alive with colourful neon signs and glowing billboards. Here, you’ll discover chaotic street markets, delicious street food and endless shopping opportunities. From clothes and bargain deals to electronics and even goldfish, you can find almost anything in Mong Kok.

Experience Traditional Hongkong

Do you enjoy traditional architecture? Looking for a peaceful escape from Hongkong’s hectic city life? Then you’ll probably love Diamond Hill.

This district is home to a beautiful wooden temple complex built in traditional Chinese style. Surrounded by modern skyscrapers and embedded within a lush green park, the temple creates an incredible contrast between old and new Hongkong. Go there and experience it for yourself.

If you’re looking for more affordable accommodation in generally expensive Hongkong, Kowloon is also one of the best areas to stay.

• Mongkok
  • Ladies Market
  • Langham Palace
  • Mongkok Computer Center
  • Flower- und Bird Market
  • Sneakers Street
  • Goldfhish Market
  • Temple Street Night Market
• Victoria Harbour
  
  • Star Ferry (Pier)
  • Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
  • Symphonie of Lights
  • Hongkong Museum of Art
  • Hongkong Cultural Center
  • Avenue of Stars / Garden of Stars
• Diamond Hill
  • Chi Lin Temple
  • Nan Lian Garden

You can find more information about Kowloon’s attractions in our travel guide. A complete overview of all Hongkong attractions in detail can be found in this article.

New Territories – Where Temples Become the Highlight

Do you love temples? Great, so do I. As a true temple enthusiast, I’ve already visited and admired countless temples around the world. Whether in Chiang Mai, Bangkok or Angkor Wat, they all have one thing in common: they’re impressive, magnificent and unforgettable.

Hongkong is home to several worthwhile temples as well, although they often aren’t quite as spectacular as the temples you’ll find in places like Thailand or Myanmar. While temples in those countries tend to shine with golden details and grand architecture, Hongkong’s temples are generally more modest and understated in comparison.

Of course, every rule has its exceptions, and Hongkong is no different.

The main attraction in the New Territories is the famous Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery. Apart from that, this region offers fewer classic tourist attractions compared to other parts of Hongkong.

You can find more information about the temple in our detailed Hongkong travel guide.

Outlying Islands – Far Away from the Skyscrapers

Have you also fallen in love with Hongkong’s skyline? Every great love sometimes needs a little break to keep the excitement alive. So why not escape to one of the many islands surrounding Hongkong, give your skyline romance a short pause and look forward to seeing it again later? I’m sure you’ll fall in love with it all over again.

Hongkong is surrounded by more than 263 islands, quite an impressive number, right? These islands offer the perfect escape from the hectic city life. Whether it’s Lantau, Lamma or Cheung Chau, each island has its own unique atmosphere and attractions waiting to be discovered.

If you’re looking for nature, relaxing beaches, unique temples or even a visit to Disneyland, the Outlying Islands have plenty to offer.

Following in Buddha’s Footsteps…

My personal Outlying Islands highlight is definitely Lantau Island. Via an impressive cable car ride, you’ll reach Ngong Ping and the famous Tian Tan Big Buddha. Surrounded by beautiful nature and several remarkable buildings, the 34-metre-high Buddha statue towers above the landscape as the island’s main attraction.

Lantau Island is also home to charming fishing villages and Hongkong Disneyland.

Lamma and Cheung Chau

Lamma Island and Cheung Chau are especially perfect for hiking and beach relaxation. The atmosphere on both islands feels peaceful and laid-back, creating a fantastic contrast to the busy streets of central Hongkong. Tourism here is much less intense and the islands still maintain a relatively authentic and traditional charm.

All of these islands are easy and affordable to reach by ferry or cable car.

Islands I Can Recommend Visiting in Hongkong

• Lantau Island
  • Ngong Ping Cable Car
  • Ngong Village
  • Tian Tan Big Buddha
  • Po Lin Monastery
  • Tai O Fishing Village
• Lamma Island
• Cheung Chau

You can find more information about the Outlying Islands in our detailed Hongkong island travel guide.

Getting Around in Hongkong – Make Use of the Excellent Public Transport System

Getting around in Hongkong is incredibly easy and offers a wide variety of transport options. Whether by bus, MTR or ferry, you can reach virtually all attractions and districts using the city’s excellent public transport system.

Taxis are also widely available, although they are significantly more expensive than public transport and many drivers speak very limited English.

Octopus Card

I highly recommend getting an Octopus Card. With this single rechargeable card, you can use ferries, buses and the metro system throughout Hongkong.

Another major advantage is that you never need to worry about carrying enough coins for your journey. It also saves you from constantly queueing at ticket machines or service counters to buy tickets.

The Octopus Card is additionally accepted as a payment method in many shops and convenience stores, including places like 7-Eleven.

You can find more information about Hongkong’s public transport system and the Octopus Card in the article Getting Around in Hongkong.

Ideal Length of Stay for Hongkong

That really depends on what you want to see and, of course, on your budget. Hongkong is an expensive city, and your trip definitely won’t be a bargain, something you should absolutely keep in mind while planning.

Personally, I consider three days in Hongkong the absolute minimum. Within that timeframe, you should be able to cover the city’s main highlights, including Victoria Peak, Victoria Harbour, Mong Kok and a ride on the famous Ding Ding tram.

As for the maximum length of stay, there are practically no limits. You could easily spend two weeks in Hongkong, if not much longer, without getting bored. The city is incredibly diverse and constantly offers something new to discover.

You can explore the skyline and city districts, go shopping, experience the nightlife, hike through nature, visit the surrounding islands or even enjoy a beach holiday.

Where to stay in Hongkong

Where I stayed – Dorsett Mongkok (Kowloon)

Located in the heart of Kowloon, the Dorsett Hotel offers a convenient base for exploring Hongkong. You’ll find various shopping and dining options in the surrounding area.

The rooms are simple but functional, and the nearest MTR station (Olympic Station) is about a 10-minute walk away. Popular attractions such as the Ladies Market, Temple Street, Tsim Sha Tsui, and the Avenue of Stars can be reached by metro in around 15 to 20 minutes.

The Dorsett Mongkok is not as centrally located as some other hotels, but for Hongkong standards, it falls into the more affordable range. If you’re not in a rush and want to keep your budget under control, this could be a good option for your stay.

 

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The Salisbury – centrally located (Kowloon)

The Salisbury stands out with its excellent location in Kowloon, right by the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. You can reach the Avenue of Stars within just a 5-minute walk. Most rooms offer spectacular views of Victoria Harbour and Hongkong’s iconic skyline.

Many of Kowloon’s main attractions are right on your doorstep. Other sights, such as the markets in Mong Kok, can be reached by MTR in around 20 to 30 minutes. The nearest metro station is just around the corner and only a short walk away.

The hotel not only offers functional rooms but also features an indoor pool.

Compared to the Dorsett Hotel mentioned earlier, The Salisbury is priced slightly higher, but it also offers a much more central location. In my opinion, it provides great value for money and strikes a good balance between a prime location and an affordable stay. It’s definitely one of my top choices for my next trip to Hongkong.

Price & availability*

 

Regent Hong Kong (Kowloon)

The Regent Hong Kong also impresses with its perfect location right on the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. Most of Kowloon’s main attractions are within walking distance and can be reached in just a few minutes. There’s also an MTR station nearby.

At the Regent, you can expect true five-star comfort, along with stunning views of Victoria Harbour and Hongkong’s impressive skyline. The hotel also features an outdoor pool and, for Hongkong standards, spacious rooms with excellent amenities.

However, a stay at the Regent is not for budget travellers. All Hotels in Kowloon here.

Butterfly on LKF Boutique Hotel (Hongkong Island – Central)

Hongkong Island is home not only to many of the city’s top attractions, but also to its iconic skyline and dense forest of skyscrapers. This is where you’ll find international corporations – and those who can afford to live here are certainly at the top end of Hongkong’s price range. As a result, the Central district is one of the most expensive areas in the city, and accommodation here reflects that.

A centrally located option that still offers good value for money is the Butterfly on LKF Boutique Hotel. The hotel is within walking distance of major sights such as Lan Kwai Fong, the Mid-Levels Escalator, and Hong Kong Park.

The Peak Tram, which takes you up to Victoria Peak with its incredible skyline views, is also just a short distance away.

Hotel Madera Hollywood (Hongkong Island – Central)

Hotel Madera Hollywood is located in the vibrant Central district on Hongkong Island and is perfect if you want to be right in the middle of the action. Thanks to its central location, you can quickly reach many of the city’s main attractions, as well as trendy restaurants and bars.

The spacious suites offer a charming mix of modern comfort and retro design. The hotel also features a fitness centre, so you can stay active during your trip.

Wharney Hotel (Stadtteil Hongkong Island – Wan Chai)

Das Wharney Hotel befindet sich im lebendigen Wan Chai-Viertel, einem idealen Ausgangspunkt, um Hongkong zu erkunden. Von hier aus erreichst du schnell das Nachtleben, Restaurants und Einkaufsmöglichkeiten. Die Zimmer sind komfortabel und bieten alles, was du für einen angenehmen Aufenthalt brauchst. Besonders erwähnenswert ist der Aussenpool, der an heissen Tagen für eine willkommene Abkühlung sorgt, sowie die Sauna, die nach einem langen Tag Entspannung bietet.

Holiday Inn Express Hong Kong (Hongkong Island – Causeway Bay)

Holiday Inn Express in Causeway Bay offers a central location at a fair price. Situated right next to Times Square, it’s perfect for convenient shopping.

The rooms are simple and comfortable, and the included breakfast makes for an easy start to the day. The location is especially practical if you want quick access to the city centre or explore the lively surroundings.

Best Time to Visit Hongkong

The best time to visit Hongkong is during the European autumn, winter and spring months. During summer, heavy rainfall and even typhoons can occur.

In general, the ideal travel period is between September and April. During these months, the weather is usually much more stable and rain is less frequent. Temperatures and humidity levels are also far more comfortable compared to the hot and humid summer season.

Conclusion on Hongkong

For many years, I dreamed of visiting Hongkong and finally experiencing the breathtaking view of its gigantic skyline with my own eyes. In total, I spent two weeks exploring Hongkong Island, Kowloon, the New Territories and the Outlying Islands. Like most visitors, I initially expected skyscrapers, impressive skylines and endless shopping streets.

However, Hongkong offers so much more and turned out to be an incredibly diverse destination. From beaches and untouched islands to amusement parks, gigantic shopping malls and arguably one of the most spectacular skylines in the world, Hongkong truly has something for everyone.

The city completely fascinated me and I’m certain I’ll return again in the near future.

Do You Have Any Questions About Hongkong?

Did this overview inspire you to visit the incredible megacity of Hongkong? Do you still have any questions? Then feel free to use the comment form below or check out our detailed travel guide covering Hongkong’s top attractions in depth.