Hong Kong: An eye to the future, a foot planted in the past
Beyond its famous skyline, Hong Kong offers rich culture, scenic hikes, historic neighbourhoods and world-class cuisine
There are cities you merely visit and then there are cities that make a home in your heart.
Hong Kong is firmly in the latter.
Hong Kong at first glance seems to be a city racing into the future, shiny skyscrapers, neon-lit streets, efficient public transport and a skyline straight out of a sci-fi film. Spend a little more time here and another side starts to unfold.
Sandwiched between luxury malls and financial towers are centuries-old temples, fishing villages, traditional tea houses and quiet mountain paths overlooking the sea. As a result Hong Kong is an experience of contrasts.
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I got to Hong Kong, expecting a breakneck-paced urban adventure. What I found was a place that surprised me in every way.
The skyline is the first thing that gets you. From Victoria Peak one can get the most iconic Hong Kong view. It is crazy to see the city from above as the sun sets and thousands of lights start to twinkle across the harbor. The buildings stand against the sky, one next to the other. Ferries pass on the water below. It's a view that makes you realise why Hong Kong is so often said to have one of the world's most beautiful skylines.
But the magic of Hong Kong is more than its modern face.
One of my favorite moments from the trip was riding the historic Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour. For a few Hong Kong dollars the ferry gives you million dollar views. The short ride between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon gives you a front row seat to the city's architectural magnificence. Once you get to the Kowloon side the energy changes. Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok are busy, crowded and full of life.
One of the best views of the skyline at night comes from the waterfront promenade in Tsim Sha Tsui, especially during the 'Symphony of Lights' show. Mong Kok, on the other hand, is chaotic in the best way possible – street food stalls, neon signs, local markets and endless crowds moving in every direction. It's like the movies.
Hong Kong has more to offer culture and history buffs than just shopping and city views.
The spiritual side of the city is revealed in places like Wong Tai Sin Temple and Man Mo Temple. Locals go to Wong Tai Sin Temple to pray for health, luck and love. The colourful architecture and the scent of incense that fills the air creates a peaceful atmosphere in the middle of the city's rush. The hanging coils of incense inside the dimly lit Man Mo Temple made me feel like I was stepping back in time.
And then there is the Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island – one of the most known landmarks of Hong Kong. The journey is an adventure in itself. The Ngong Ping cable car flies over mountains and sea with breathtaking panoramic views. Once there, it is rewarding both physically and spiritually to climb the stairs to the massive bronze Buddha.
Lantau Island also led me to one of the most charming places in Hong Kong, Tai O, the traditional fishing village often called the "Venice of Hong Kong."
Walking through narrow lanes and seeing everything from houses and local snack stalls to entire seafood markets on stilts feels otherworldly. It's quiet, simple and totally authentic – a world away from the polished image of central Hong Kong. What surprised me the most about Hong Kong was the amount of nature it has to offer.
People know Hong Kong as an urban jungle, but around 40% of the territory is country parks and protected land. Hiking lovers can enjoy the Dragon's Back trail, which runs along the coast and is one of the best urban hikes in Asia. Beach lovers can escape the city to Repulse Bay and other similar spots for some R and R.
And then there is the food. Arguably one of the very best reasons to visit Hong Kong.
Hong Kong is a food lover's paradise. Every meal is a part of the journey, from Michelin-starred dim sum to humble street-side egg waffles. One must try authentic dim sum in a bustling local restaurant. Staple foods include Har Gow, Siu Mai and barbecue pork buns. Street food lovers should check out the curry fish balls, pineapple buns and egg tarts. And for tea lovers, you must try Hong Kong-style milk tea at a Cha Chaan Teng.
Shopping is another major attraction. Luxury brands fill the streets of Central and Causeway Bay, while bargain-hunters can browse the local markets including Ladies' Market and Temple Street Night Market. Hong Kong is a city that caters to all budgets, whether you want to buy designer goods or just some quirky souvenirs.
But it's not just the attractions that make Hong Kong special, it's the feeling of the city.
It is the sound of trams clattering through the Central. The aroma of roasted chestnuts in winter. Neon lights reflecting on wet streets after the rain. A blend of Cantonese tradition and global modernity. The juxtaposition of old apartment buildings with futuristic skyscrapers. Somehow the contrast works out.
The essence of the city is in its stories. From each street corner, from each ferry ride, temple visit, market walk and hiking experience, there are more layers. It is a place which allows you to hike through the morning above the sea, visit a fishing village in the afternoon, and in the evening dine in an area framed by one of the most spectacular skylines in the world.
To me, Hong Kong was more than just a vacation. It was an affirmation of how a city could be traditional and futuristic at the same time.
And maybe, that is what makes Hong Kong unique.
