3 days in Hong Kong is all you really need to experience this beautiful city. The landscape is truly remarkable. The city is broken up into islands filled with green mountains. Of course when I heard there were mountains I looked for hiking opportunities, and luckily there are plenty!
I highly recommend grabbing an octopus card from the customer service counter inside the subway. You put money on this card and you can use it to pay for the metro, bus, as well as shops! It’s really convenient.
I stayed in Tsim Sha Tsui, which is where most tourists stay. Specifically I stayed at The Chungking Mansion, which is a large building with tons of cheap accommodation options. The first floor is a creepy market so if you are a female solo traveler you may not want to book here.
TIP: When you are shopping in the many markets try haggling.
Day 1: Get lost shopping in Mong Kok! Enjoy walking around Kwoolon park and walk the Kwoolon promenade after sunset. At night check out the temple street market. And if you are feeling up to a more lively night go down to Lan Kwai Fong for some nightlife bars and club.
Kwoolon Park
Kwoolon Promenade
Day 2: Take the number 3 Chei Wan blue line to Shau Kei Wan then take the number 9 bus to the start of the infamous Dragon’s back trail. The hike takes around 2 hours and can be extremely exhausting in the heat and humidity of the summer. So be prepared if you are visiting in summer like I did. After the trail head down to Big Wave beach, which is another hour hike and enjoy hanging out on the beach. They also have surf and paddleboard rentals there. You can check out Sheik O beach also if you want. Then make your way to Victoria’s peak around dusk to see the view during the day and at night. There is a tram that takes you up to the top or you can just hop on the number 15 bus (cheaper option). Alternatively if you are still up for some walking there is an option to hike up to the peak. Finish up the night with dinner at Ying Kee seafood hot pot restaurant 😉 and of course have a hot pot!
The Dragons Back Trail
Big Wave Beach
Victoria’s Peak
Hot Pot
Day 3: Get prepared to see a highlight of Hong Kong today. Take the train to Tung Chung station. Then take the Ngong Ping cable car up through the mountains and pass through the islands. When you get close to the top you will be greeted by views of the Big Buddha (Tian Tan). At the top you can visit the Big Buddha, walk around the Po Lin monastery, and take a stroll on wisdom path. There are also many hikes available at the top, as well as restaurants and shops. After head down on the cable car. You can check out Tai O a small fishing town on the west coast of the island or Pui O beach. At night try out Tim Ho Wan for some dim sum.
Wisdom Path
Bye Bye Hong Kong
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