Hong Kong Highlights

There are many tourist attractions and local sites to see in Hong Kong. Since I have been here, I have spent a good amount of time exploring them. There are still many that I hope to see before I leave but here are a few of the highlights.

The Peak:

The Peak is probably the #1 tourist site in Hong Kong. It is situated on a mountain on Hong Kong Island and offers fantastic views of the city. Most people take the tram (a exciting and steep ride) to the top. There are several good hiking paths and roads that also lead up to the Peak. One path begins close to where I live, and I have taken this 45 minute hike up to the top several times.

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Peak

Nathan Road:

Nathan Road is one of the high-end shopping streets in Hong Kong. It is lined with lights and interesting to see at night. It leads from the Harbor to Mong Kok area with more shopping and restaurants. It is on the Kowloon side of Hong Kong Island.

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New Territories:

The New Territories are where many of the residents of Hong Kong live. I have not spent much time here but did see many of the public housing that is located on the island. Over 40% of the population lives in some kind of public housing. It is a less expensive option than private housing but does not offer much personal space in this dense city.

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Repulse Bay:

Repulse Bay is one of the 10+ beaches on the island and a short bus ride away from campus. Many expats live in this area.

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Stanley:

Stanley is a wealthy area on the southern end of Hong Kong Island. It is near many beaches and good restaurants and is a popular place for expats. It has a quaint market with Chinese trinkets and other goods.

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Peninsula Hotel:

This hotel is an institution in Hong Kong (and probably the most expensive). It is a popular place to have afternoon tea and reflects the British influence on Hong Kong.

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Causeway Bay:

Causeway Bay is a busy shopping area on Hong Kong Island. It even has an area called Times Square (nothing like the Time Square in NY).

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Big Buddha:

The Big Buddha is located on one of the outlining islands in Hong Kong. You can take a tram with a glass bottom to the site. It feels very touristy, but it is fun to have a vegetarian meal at the temple there.

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