Hong Kong Layover Guide (HKG)

Hong Kong Cable Car

This is a stunning 25-minute ride that shows beautiful scenes of the South China Sea, a panorama of the Hong Kong International Airport, 360-degree views of Ngong Ping Plateau, the mountainous terrain of Lantau Island and the grassland slopes of North Lantau Country Park while freeing you of the populated city. The cable car covers 5.7 km and you can slowly enjoy the ride until you reach the top to greet the Tian Tan Buddha. » book this tour

Evening Boat Cruise Tour

This is an opportunity to cruise the Victoria Harbour in one of the city’s finest and iconic traditional Chinese junk boats as you take in epic views of the city’s harbor and skyscrapers from the water and enjoy the famous Hong Kong skyline illuminate at night. There are cruises all day long but the evening is the best time to cruise just as the sun is setting or wait until the fall of darkness as the city lights glimmer across the water. » book this tour

Private Tour with a Local

Get to know Hong Kong through the eyes of perceptive local tour guides as you learn about tips of the city such as the best modes of transport to use while learning about the history of Hong Kong and discovering native secrets. This way, you make the most of your stay. It is also a great way to meet other travelers and make new friends. » book this tour

Hong Kong Disneyland

Disneyland is where fairytales really do come true. Experience endless fun in seven magical lands and enjoy your favorite Disney stories just as in the classic Disney films. There are many amusement park thrills at Hong Kong Disneyland Park such as Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars and Hyperspace Mountain that can be an adrenaline rush for adults. Kids can also enjoy the ride, It’s a Small World and family fun rides and events such as the Toy Soldier Parachute Drop and the Mad Hatter Tea Cups.

Time required: Full Day.

Airport to here: Taxi takes an average of 15 minutes while trains take an hour and 30 minutes.

Victoria Harbour and the Star Ferry

The Star Ferry provides a cheap conveyance to the residents of Hong Kong and tourists getting access to one of the most scenic harbors in the world. They used to take 2 to 3 Hong Kong dollars, giving the passengers a comfortable, affordable and enjoyable ride across the harbour.

Time required: Set aside 1 an hour for the ferry ride and some time to explore Victoria Harbour.

Airport to here: Typically takes a Taxi 30 minutes and public transport takes an hour.

Victoria Peak

This is one of the best ways to see Hong Kong in its full glory and it offers one of the best views of Hong Kong at night. The view from Victoria Peak, also known as The Peak shows nature trails and very beautiful sights over the metropolis. The Peak even has an observation deck and is easily accessible. Make sure to take the tram to the top of this scenic viewpoint to see the skyscrapers, bustling city, harbor, and surrounding islands. At the end of the tram ride, you will find the Peak Tower and Peak Galleria, with shops, restaurants, and the observation deck.

Time required: You will need at least an hour to enjoy The Peak.

Airport to here: Taxi takes an average of 45 minutes while public transport typically takes an hour and 45 minutes.

Tian Tan Buddha Statue

The Big Buddha is one of the iconic sights of Hong Kong. It is one of the largest statues of its kind and it rests on a beautiful setting surrounded by the green forest and views out over the ocean and islands. It is found on Lantau Island and regardless of the type of transport to get there, the views from the base of the statue are well worth the effort.

Time required: At least an hour would be the minimum.

Airport to here: Typically takes a Taxi 40 minutes and public transport takes an hour on average.

Ocean Park

This theme park has everything you can ask for and more such a walk through old Hong Kong, a Grand Aquarium, roller coasters, rides, and a look at rare and exotic wildlife. The Grand Aquarium has thousands of fish from 400 species, a Reef Tunnel, and a chance to get hands-on with sea stars and sea cucumbers. There is also the Giant Panda Adventure, where they’ll see giant pandas, red pandas, and the endangered Chinese Giant Salamander. There are also exciting rides including the Raging River, Hair Raiser, Mine Train, and the Eagle.

Time required: Full day.

Airport to here: Typically takes a Taxi 50 minutes while public transport can take more than an hour.

Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery

Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery is found in Sha Tin. What it is known for is the main access to the monastery which is reached by walking up a long and curving set of stairs lined with hundreds of golden statues. Upon reaching the top, the path opens into a square in front of the main temple that offers a beautiful and peaceful escape from the bustle of central Hong Kong and a look at the countryside. The complex was finished in the 1950s but is listed as a historic site and contains more than 10,000 Buddhas.

Time required: Set aside an hour or 2 to enjoy the monastery.

Airport to here: Taxi takes an average of 40 minutes while public transport typically takes 45 minutes.

Wong Tai Sin Temple

The Wong Tai Sin Temple is located in Kowloon. The temple was built to honor the Taoist god Wong Tai Sin. The locals believe this god brings good luck and healing. During the fall, there is a festival is held at the temple in the name of Wong Tai Sin. The temple has several parts which include the Hall of Three Saints, the Good Wish Garden, and another hall dedicated to Confucius and his 72 disciples. There are usually fortune-tellers in the large hall. It is customary for guests to donate the temple’s maintenance.

Time required: Set aside 1 or 2 hours to explore the temple.

Airport to here: Typically takes a Taxi 40 minutes and public transport takes an hour.

Temple Street Night Market

In the evening, the night market begins. It is an open-air market where visitors can find countless shops and stalls selling a large variety of items from food to clothes. It is a great place to bargain for cheap clothes and watches, street food, trinkets, and teaware.

Time required: Set aside at least an hour to explore the Temple Street Night Market.

Airport to here: Typically takes a Taxi 30 minutes and public transport takes 50 minutes.