Things to Do in China

Choose from 356 Fun Things to Do in China

Shuanglin Temple

Located in southern Pingyao County, Shuanglin Temple is famous for the 2,000 painted clay sculptures dating back to the Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing Dynasties of China. The temple was originally founded in the late sixth century, but the current structures were built during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

The south-facing temple is divided into 10 halls, each containing its own collection of painted sculptures. Some of the highlights among them include the likeness of Avalokitesvara in the Hall of Sakya, a seated statue of Guanyu in the God of Battle Hall and a thousand-armed Bodhisattva inside Bodhisattva Hall.

Practical Info

You can reach the temple via a public bus from Pingyao city. Leave yourself at least a couple of hours to walk around the temple and admire the detailed sculptures.

Pingyao, Jinzhong, Shanx, China

Daily 9am-7pm

CNY 40

From $ 294

Shijia Hutong Museum

The center of Beijing once consisted of an extensive network of narrow alleyways known as hutongs. Linking the capital’s traditional courtyard homes, these residential neighborhoods were a hive of activity and everyday life. While the city is still dotted with these traditional residences, Shijia Hutong Museum is unique in that it’s specifically designed to preserve the history of hutong culture.

The museum spans 1000 square meters, with various exhibition rooms showcasing items depicting hutong life as it was decades ago. Among the items are labor contracts from the 1920s and 1930s, old faded bus tickets, and baskets used by traditional Chinese households. There are also rooms fashioned according to the typical domestic furnishings of Beijing family homes from the 1950s through to the 1980s.

One of the exhibition rooms has been transformed into a mock up studio, where you can listen to recordings of the various sounds of hutong life, all at the touch of a screen. Sounds vary from birds tweeting and the calls of various street peddlers, to the sound of workers sharpening their tools and knives.

Insider’s Tip: It’s worth listening to all of the sounds in the museum’s studio until you get to the sound of the time being called out, which occurred every two hours after nightfall during the Qing dynasty.

Practical Info

The Shijia Hutong Museum is located just a few hundred meters north of contemporary Jinbao Jie and the Dongdan shopping area. It's around a 10-minute walk from Exit A of Dengshikou Station on Line 5 of the subway.

24 Shijia Hutong, Beijing, China

9:30am-4:30pm (Closed on Mondays)

From $ 43

Shu Yuan Men Street

Valuable historical monuments attract tourists from all over the world to Xian. Among them is the Shu Yuan Men Street, which was once the location of the famous Guanzhong Shuyuan Academy, an institute of classical learning and one the most important schools in Shaanxi Province. Today, the road remains dedicated to different types of study and everything revolves around art and culture. On both sides of the black stone road, two-story stores mimic the antique style of the Ming and Qing Dynasties - an attempt by the city planners to restore the ancient road to its former glory. Traditional Chinese brushes, ink, paper and ink stones as well as silk, jade and porcelain can be found here. Among the racks of calligraphy brushes, ranging from delicate drawing utensils to brushes almost as big as feather dusters, works by famous artist, such as Liu Wenxi, who drew the images found on the 100 Yuan note, can be purchased.

Despite the fairly recently constructed and renovated houses, stepping into Shu Yuan Men Street is like stepping into another time. After watching the calligraphists creating their pieces of art without spilling a drop of ink and hearing the sounds of bamboo flutes, melodies created by shopkeepers to attract more customers, sometimes, visitors can even try to dip their own brushes into an inkpot and attempt to paint the complicated Chinese characters. Delicate, hand-cut and painted shadow play figures made of leather once were a popular form of entertainment and told the folk-tales and legends of ancient China. The technique required for creating this popular handicraft is extremely challenging, but you can still find the intricately crafted figures sold in this street.

Practical Info

You can find Shu Yuan Men Street behind the traditional red and gold archway on South Avenue. To get there, take one of the many busses to the Nanmen South Gate stop and walk east. Shops are usually open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., but of course, the street can be visited at any time of day.

Shu Yuan Men Street, Xian, China

From $ 31

Sichuan Opera House

For more than 100 years dancers, singers and other performers have been presenting traditional Sichuan operas for travelers and tourists seeking a true cross cultural experience. Divided into two distinct spaces, the VIP Chinese Opera House and the Liyuan Opera House, Sichuan Opera House is a must-see stop on any Chengdu visit.

Arrive early to watch dancers and singers expertly apply makeup and get an up close look at the colorful traditional costumes that bring life to this one-of-a-kind act. Audience members will experience the music of five ancient styles, including thumping percussion and high-pitched melodies. Stick puppets and hand shadows are part of this multi-sensory experience that is sure to redefine the meaning of opera for western travelers.

Practical Info

The opera house is located in the Chengdu Cultural Park on Qintai Road. Shows take place every evening from 8 pm until 9:30 pm.

Qintai Lu #23, Chengdu, China

Ticket prices start at 150 yuan

From $ 20

Star Ferry Pier

The Star Ferry Pier in Hong Kong serves as the launching spot for the Star Ferry on the Hong Kong Island side of Victoria Harbour. Located in Central, the current Star Ferry Pier is actually the fourth to bear the name since the Star Ferry first started carrying passengers across the harbor in 1888. The current structure was designed to resemble Edwardian style of the second generation pier, including a clock tower and five bells.

While modern transportation allows commuters and travelers to traverse the harbor via tunnels or the subway, riding the Star Ferry is inexpensive and much more scenic, with views of Hong Kong’s famous skyline on either side of the harbor.

Even if you choose not to ride the Star Ferry, it’s still worthwhile to pay a visit to the pier. Head toward the waterfront restaurant on the second floor of the building and turn right to access a public viewing platform for views of Victoria Harbour and the Kowloon side of Hong Kong.

China

From $ 53

St Joseph's Church

Located on Wangfujing Street in the Dongcheng District of Beijing, St. Joseph's Church (sometimes referred to as the East Cathedral), is one of four significant Catholic cathedrals in Beijing. The construction of the church was finished in 1655, making it the second oldest in the city after the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.

Throughout the years, St. Joseph’s Church has seen a number of restorations. It’s a huge and imposing grey stone building, predominantly Romanesque in style but with some Chinese architectural features. Over the years it has become not only an important venue for Catholics, but also a significant cultural site and a popular attraction for visitors to Beijing.

Practical Info

St. Joseph’s Church is located at 74 Wangfujing Street. The nearest subway station is Wangfujing.

74 Wangfujing St, Dongcheng, Beijing, China

Vary

From $ 18

Shek O Peak (Dragon's Back)

Considered one of the best urban hikes in Asia, Dragon’s Back runs along a ridge, resembling its namesake, in Shek O Country Park. It’s a great way to escape Hong Kong’s concrete jungle and see stunning views of Shek O beach, Tai Long Wan (or Big Wave Bay), Tai Tam Bay, Stanley Peninsula, and the South China Sea.

The Basics

Dragon’s Back is one of the most popular hikes in Hong Kong, with a difficulty level ranging from easy to moderately challenging. At 5 miles (8 kilometers) long, it forms the eighth and final stage of the Hong Kong Trail.

With straightforward access and a well-marked trail, Dragon’s Back is easy to navigate independently. Those who prefer to hike with company and who wish learn more about the trail and hiking in Hong Kong can go on a guided hike.

Things to Know Before You Go

Stock up on supplies in Shau Kei Wan before starting the hike, as there are no ways to restock on the trail.
A scenic spot overlooks Shek O beach to the east and Dragon’s Back to the northwest.
Shek O Peak, at 932 feet (284 meters), is the highest point of the trail and a good spot to enjoy views of Shek O and Tai Long Wan.
Many people choose to hike all the way to Big Wave Bay beach, but you can also catch a minibus for part of the last portion of the hike.

How to Get There

Take the Island line MTR to Shau Kei Wan Station. Take Exit A to Shau Kei Wan Bus Terminus and bus no. 9 to To Tei Wan entrance on Shek O Road. You can also take the Shek O minibus next to the bus terminus. Look for the well-marked trailhead next to To Tei Wan village.

When to Get There

Although it’s possible to hike the Dragon’s Back trail year-round, the Hong Kong summer heat and humidity can be overwhelming for some people. It’s best to start earlier in the morning before it gets too hot and crowded. This is a popular hike, especially on weekends.

Longer Hikes in Hong Kong

Those with more time looking to do a longer hike can choose additional portions, or the entirety, of the Hong Kong Trail, which is 31 miles (50 kilometers) long, from the peak to Big Wave Bay. Other trails to consider include the 62-mile (100-kilometer) MacLehose Trail, the 48-mile (78-kilometer) Wilson Trail, and the 43-mile (70-kilometer) Lantau Trail.

Hong Kong, China

From $ 72

Shigatse

With approximately 50,000 residents, the sprawling city of Shigatse is Tibet’s second-largest town. Home to thriving businesses, unique shopping and a number of religious and historical sites, Shigatse attracts travelers from across the globe—in part, because the central police station proves one of the easiest (and quickest) places to get a Nepal tourist visa.

The city is divided into two distinct sections: the tiny Tibetan town, which serves as a nod to the city’s roots, and a contemporary Chinese neighborhood that offers travelers a bit more modern flare. Travelers can venture to the Tashilhunpo monastery, where Panchen Lamas come to worship at the feet of the world’s largest bronze Buddha. The free market and gift market in the city’s Old Town neighborhood are great places to spend an afternoon searching for handmade crafts from local artisans, while the nearby Shigatse Fortress offers travelers an impressive look at the city's past.

Practical Info

Shigatse is located on the Friendship Highway and accessible via public bus and minibus from Lhasa, Gyantse, Lhatse, Sakya, Dromo and several other destinations.

Shigatse, Tibet, China

From $ 1,880

Splendid China

Shenzhen’s Splendid China theme park features a vast array of miniature replicas of China’s most famous landmarks. The 75acre (30hectare) park showcases the history, culture, traditions, art and architecture of the various ethnic groups of China through the structures, which are about 1/15th the size of their reallife counterparts.

The buildings and historical attractions featured at Splendid China include famous sights such as the Terracotta Army, the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City (Imperial Palace), the Summer Palace, and a mini replica of the Li River. Further miniature scenes from China’s natural world include the Huangguoshu Waterfall, Stone Forest and West Lake.

There are also several indoor and outdoor performances held at the park’s China Folk Culture Village.

Practical Info

Splendid China is situated by Shenzhen Bay in Overseas Chinese Town (OCT). It is around a 40-minute train ride from Luohu Station to the OCT stop on Line 1 of the Shenzhen Metro; take Exit D on arrival at the station. Alternatively, it’s a 30-minute bus ride, with numerous buses serving the area.

9003 Shennan Avenue, Shenzhen 518000, China

9am-6pm

Adult: CNY 180; Junior (Under 1.5 meters): CNY 90; Child (Under 1.2 meters): Free

From $ 82

Six Harmonies Pagoda (Liuhe Pagoda)

A 7-story tower that looks deceivingly taller, the Six Harmonies Pagoda (Liuhe Pagoda) was constructed in 970 to ward off evil spirits believed to be responsible for the Qiantang River’s tidal bore. The pagoda is a masterpiece of ancient Chinese architecture and an enduring symbol of the city of Hangzhou.

The Basics

This ancient lighthouse is easily recognizable from anywhere along the river and is renowned for its harmonious blend of light and shadows. Modern day visitors to the pagoda can ascend the spiral staircase to the top of the seventh story for a view of the surrounding area and the twice-daily tidal bore.

A small park located next to the pagoda features exhibitions detailing the history and culture associated with the Chinese pagoda, as well as mini-replicas of some of the world’s most famous ancient Chinese pagodas. Many sightseeing tours of Hangzhou, including day trips from Shanghai, include a visit to the eye-catching landmark.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Six Harmonies Pagoda is a must-see for first-time visitors in Hangzhou.
You’ll have to pay an entrance fee for the pagoda grounds, as well as a smaller charge to climb the pagoda itself.
Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to climb to the top of the pagoda.
The pagoda doesn’t have an elevator and is not wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

To get to the pagoda by public transportation, take one of several public buses to either Liuhe Ta Station or Zhijianglu Liuheta Station. Or, book a tour that stops at the pagoda.

When to Get There

The pagoda is open daily from quite early in the morning to early evening. The bore tide is at its most dramatic around the Mid-Autumn Festival, but this is also when the pagoda is at its most crowded.

An Ingenious Optical Illusion

When standing outside the octagonal pagoda, the exterior walls appear to have 13 stories with 104 iron bells hung from the eaves at each corner. Once you step inside, however, you’ll find the spiral staircase only leads to seven floors, each with a small chamber enshrining a figure of the Buddha.

China

Varies

From $ 54

Solitary Beauty Peak

Rising 217 feet (66 meters), Solitary Beauty Peak has been a famous scenic spot in Guilin since ancient times. Also known as the “Pillar of the Southern Sky,” it’s one of the area’s highest peaks. Climb to the pavilion at the peak to take in sweeping views over the city.

The Basics

In addition to the two-story Solitary Peak Pavilion, other highlights include the Xuanwu Pavilion, Three Gods Memorial Hall, Three Guests Temple, and Guanyin Hall. There are also a number of notable caves at the base of the peak, including Dushu (Study) Rock, Taiping (Peace) Rock, and Snow Cave. At the east end of the peak, you’ll find Yueya (Crescent) Pond, with its distinctive crescent shape, and the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Tower.

It’s possible to visit Solitary Beauty Peak independently, but because most of the posted information is in Chinese only, visitors will gain more insight and appreciation of its historical significance on a guided tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture panoramic views of Guilin from the top of Solitary Beauty Peak.
You should be in reasonably good shape and wear sturdy shoes if you’re planning to climb to the peak, as there are 306 steep steps to get to the top.
Solitary Peak is part of the larger Prince Jinjiang Mansion. Plan to spend several hours to explore both sites, which are covered in the entrance fee.

How to Get There

Solitary Beauty Peak is located in the Prince Jingjiang Mansion, in the center of Guilin. Take the No. 1, 22, 30, or 100 bus and get off at Lequn Crossing stop, and walk east. Or take the No. 10, 11, 8, or 98 bus and get off at the Liberation Bridge stop, and walk north.

When to Get There

Solitary Beauty Peak is open year-round. Opening hours are longer during the summer and shorter during the winter. Summer will be hot and humid, which may make it more uncomfortable climbing to the peak.

How Solitary Peak Got Its Name

Solitary Beauty Peak got its name from a famous line in Southern Dynasty Poem by Yan Yanzhi: “None can surpass this solitary peak in beauty.” In addition to “Pillar of the Southern Sky,” a third name for the peak is “Purple Golden Hill,” so named because at dawn and at golden hour, the peak resembles a figure wearing a purple gown with a golden belt.

China

Varies

From $ 93

Shikumen Museum

The Shikumen Museum is a small traditional stone-gate house located in the Xintiandi area of Shanghai’s Huangpu District. The aim of the museum is to present traditional Shanghai life as it was 100 years ago, with a mock-up of a typical home on the lower level and a small museum at the top. Shikumen is a style of house that once dominated Shanghai, and this example has been wonderfully restored and transformed into a fascinating place to visit.

There are several main rooms to explore, all featuring period furniture and filled with interesting artefacts and antiques. Items range from traditional Chinese rosewood furniture, to sewing machines and various household objects. The small exhibition upstairs contains a series of sketches and photographs focusing on various elements of traditional family and working life.

Insider’s Tip

As the Shikumen Museum is quite small, it doesn't take much time to visit (around 30 minutes), making it particularly easy to visit with children.

Practical Info

The closest metro stations to the museum are Huangpi Road South on Line 1 to the north, and Xintiandi on Line 10 to the south.

Lane 181, Taicang Road, Shanghai 200121, China

Open daily 11am-11pm

CNY20

From $ 59

Shufeng Yayun Teahouse

Located in the Chengdu Culture Park, the Shufeng YaYun Teahouse was once a gathering place for famous Sichuan operatic actors. Now, it is one of the hot spots for visitors to Chengdu and holds the China Sichuan Opera Unique Skills Performance each evening. This helps preserve and share traditional Sichuan arts while providing a glimpse into the past as one of the most popular Sichuan Opera theaters in the area.

Don’t be misled by the term "opera" in relation to the performance that takes place here; instead, it’s more of a variety show of traditional Sichuan exhibitions like puppetry, dancing, singing, music, hand shadows, comedic theater and the culmination: face changing. The performances take place in an open-air theater, and light snacks are served. Knowledge of Mandarin is not necessary, as there is a translator at the show.

Practical Info

Shufeng YaYun Teahouse is located in the Chengdu Culture Park beside Qingyang Palace and near Wuhou Ancestral Temple and Dufu Cottage. Tickets for the show cost between 150 RMB and 320 RMB, depending on the location of your seat and the time of the year.

No.23 Qintai Road, Chengdu, China

150-320 RMB

From $ 15

Sheung Wan

Situated in the northwest of Hong Kong Island, the exotic and eclectic neighbourhood of Sheung Wan is an atmospheric place to spend a few hours. An interesting mix of traditional Chinese businesses and more modern shopping experiences, Sheung Wan is a busy (and at times chaotic) working-class district.

The historic Western Market sits within an Edwardian-style mall and is home to an array of handicraft outlets. To the east of here, antiques and curio shops huddle around Cat Street, while designer outlets and trendy restaurants line up along Gough Street.

There are plenty of dried fish shops along Wing Lok Street and Bonham Strand West, where you can buy seafood and other foodstuffs alongside the locals purchasing their weekly groceries. There are also a number of traditional Chinese medicine and herbs shops, particularly along Koh Shing Street.

Practical Info

Sheung Wan is served by the Sheung Wan Station on the MRT. Trams also run through Sheung Wan.

Hong Kong, China

From $ 65

Shidu Nature Park

Shidu Nature Park is situated in the southwest of China’s Fangshan District. Sprawled across 300 square-kilometers, this scenic area is ideal for a day trip for those who enjoy nature and the great outdoors. The Juma River snakes through Shidu and is punctuated with striking limestone karst formations, making it a photogenic spot from almost every vantage point.

Adventurous types will enjoy the various activities on offer here, including bungee jumping, rock climbing, and river rafting. You may also wish to stroll around and explore all the different paintings, inscriptions, and memorials within the park. Shidu spills over into villages, with the valley making way for farm animals and scenes of rural life. Be sure to explore places such as Cottage Scenic Spot, Monkey Mountain, Wang Jingxian Valley, and Bali Valley.

If you want the freedom to enjoy Shidu Nature Park at your leisure, book a self-guided private day tour from Beijing. This allows for the convenience of getting there and back in a private vehicle with your own driver, but also the flexibility to spend the day as you wish.

Practical Info

Shidu Nature Park is located around two hours from Beijing. If not arriving as part of a tour, you can reach it by bus or train.

Did You Know? Shidu means ‘Ten Crossings’. In ancient times, ferries were built at each of the 10 main turnings in the River Juna. The name is still in use despite the fact that modern bridges have since replaced the ferries.

Shidu Zhen, Beijing, China

8am-6pm

Cost of various attractions in park varies

From $ 46

Shichahai

Shichahai is a scenic area in the northwest of Beijing that’s home to three lakes – Qinghai, Houhai, and Xihai. Dating back to the Jin Dynasty, Shichahai was once an important commercial district but is now an area for recreation. The government in Beijing declared it a Historical and Cultural Scenic District in 1992.

Shichahai literally means ‘Ten Temple Lake’, and there are indeed ten famous Taoist and Buddhist temples in the area. There are also a number of places of historic interest and remnants of old-style royal mansions, including the Prince Gong Mansion and the Prince Chun Mansion. A rickshaw ride through Shichahai’s winding narrow laneways (known as hutongs) is a popular way to see the cultural attractions of the area.

Despite its historical backdrop, these days Shichahai is more known for its lively bars and restaurants, plus its vibrant lakeside atmosphere, where locals and visitors play sports and games in the wide open spaces.

Practical Info

As it’s close to the Bell and Drum Towers and the north gate of Beihai Park, visitors can take buses from central Beijing in this direction and spend some time in Shichahai from here.

Beijing, China

From $ 45

Stanley Market

Stanley, a former fishing village on the quiet south side of Hong Kong Bay, has become one of the area’s top destinations for shopping. Its famous open-air market, a maze of streets running down toward the water, is crammed with cut-price clothing, souvenirs, silks, crafts, art, Chinese costume jewelry, and bric-a-brac.

The Basics

While Stanley Market’s popularity means prices aren’t as cheap as they once were, it still deserves a spot on a Hong Kong itinerary both for the shopping and the surrounding neighborhood. Both private and group tours offer half- and full-day outings here; head to the market with the intent to bargain, and then relax afterwards with a tasty lunch at one of the many restaurants in the area.

Things to Know Before You Go

The market is a must-see for shoppers.
Stanley Market is an excellent introduction to Hong Kong markets before tackling the Ladies Market or Temple Street night market.
Haggling is accepted but not expected, and prices are generally fair.
Many of the vendors speak English.

How to Get There

Stanley is on the south coast of Hong Kong Island. Double-decker buses leave from the Exchange Square bus terminal in Central on the island. It’s a scenic 40-minute trip, so grab a seat upstairs at the front for the best views.

When to Get There

The best time to visit the market is on a weekday morning, before the sun starts to blaze and the crowds arrive. Expect weekends to be extremely busy with both locals and tourists perusing the wares.

Things to Do in Stanley

While Stanley Market has long been the main draw to the village, there’s plenty more to do while you’re in the area. Catch some sun on Stanley Beach, tour the Murray House (a British military building dating back to 1844), see Stanley Plaza and Tin Hua Temple, visit the Hong Kong Maritime Museum, or grab a bite to eat along the waterfront promenade.

Main Street, Hong Kong, China

Open daily, 9am - 6pm approximately

Free

From $ 30

Small Qingdao Island

Located to the south of Zhanqiao Pier, Small Qingdao Island is actually a small peninsula connected to mainland Qingdao by a seawall. Shaped like an ancient Chinese musical instrument known as a qin, the island draws visitors and locals to its natural scenery. Walking paths hug the shores and wind through the interior of the island, past black pines and a variety of flowering plants.

The main attraction on the island is a white marble lighthouse, built by German residents in 1900, that rises 51 feet (16 meters) above the shore. The island is also home to a few small cafes, as well as a smattering of statues and pavilions.

Practical Info

Small Qingdao Island is an excellent place to get away from the crowds and cool off thanks to some sea breezes. You can see the entirety of the park in an hour, but leave yourself time to linger longer.

26 Qinyu Road, Qingdao, Shandong, China

Daily 7:30am-7:30pm

15 Yuan

From $ 180

Soho District

Hong Kong’s trendy Soho District is known for its contrasting architecture and vibrant nightlife, blending natural features, traditional Chinese culture, and colonial design. Popular with locals and internationals alike, the entertainment district offers bars, restaurants, and clubs with a range of cuisine and amusements.

The Basics

Soho’s streets are best explored on foot, with many walking tours passing through the area on a citywide itinerary. Opt for a private tour for a more personalized experience, or take advantage of hop-on hop-off services that stop nearby to discover the district’s many boutiques, cafés, and eateries at your own pace. Those with an interest in Soho’s contemporary-art scene should consider a gallery- or street-art-focused tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

Be prepared for a lot of uphill walking and stairs, with a total elevation change of over 440 feet (135 meters) from Hollywood Road.
The well-trodden streets can be slippery, especially in wet weather, so shoes with grip are useful.
Little of Soho is wheelchair-friendly, but it’s worth calling ahead to check with specific attractions, as many will do their best to arrange access.

How to Get There

Located in Central, Soho derives its name from the moniker South of Hollywood Road. From MTR Central Station, walk along Queen’s Road Central, then board the Mid-Levels Escalator to Shelley, Staunton, or Elgin Street; it’s about a 15-minute walk. Alternatively, bus 22 stops on Shelley Street, though it takes a little longer.

When to Get There

By day, Soho’s many boutiques, stalls, cafés, and galleries are the district’s main draw, ideal for culture vultures and city photographers. By night, the district’s bars, restaurants, and clubs come to life, and visitors looking to experience authentic Hong Kong nightlife can take their pick from the wealth of entertainment on offer.

Hong Kong’s LGBTQ Scene

Soho is home to a range of inclusive LGBTQ spaces, with plenty of opportunities to catch a late-night drag show, stop by a friendly bar for relaxed drinks, or hit the floor and dance the night away in safe, supportive space in the city center.

Soho District, Hong Kong, China

From $ 20

Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck

Located on the 100th floor of the International Commerce Centre (ICC), Hong Kong’s tallest building, Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck is the city's highest observation deck at 1,289 feet (393 meters) above sea level. It’s also the only indoor observation deck in Hong Kong offering 360-degree views of Hong Kong and Victoria Harbour.

The Basics

Hong Kong’s fastest double-decker high-speed elevators take just 60 seconds to travel 100 floors. In addition to stunning panoramic views, Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck also features a Sky-High Tech Zone, which allows visitors to discover Hong Kong in a virtual and immersive way through virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies. Visitors can also sate their appetite at Café 100 by The Ritz-Carlton, on the west side of the deck.

Tickets can be purchased individually. Upgrades—covering dining, wine, and photos—are available. If you plan on visiting a few other city attractions, consider a multi-attraction pass covering Hong Kong and Macau’s top sites. Admission to the observation deck is also included as part of a hop-on hop-off bus tour or you can visit as part of a private excursion.

Things to Know Before You Go

Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture stunning Hong Kong vistas.
Photos for personal use are allowed. Wedding, graduation, photos in costume, and commercial photos require prior permission.
Visitors may have to undergo a security check before entering.
Food and drinks (other than water) are not permitted.
The observation deck is fully accessible.

How to Get There

Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck is inside ICC in West Kowloon. Take the MTR to Kowloon Station (Exits C1 or D1). Enter via the Metal Zone on the second floor of Elements shopping center.

When to Get There

Visit just before sunset and stay for the nighttime views, when the skylines of both Hong Kong Island and Kowloon are lit up. Catch “A Symphony of Lights” at 8pm, a multimedia audio and light show involving buildings on both sides of Victoria Harbour. Check the weather before visiting, as it can affect the views. However, if inclement weather affects your view of the Hong Kong Island side, come back another day for free.

Best Views in Hong Kong

Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck features some of the best views of Hong Kong. Other notable spots offering great panoramic views include the Hong Kong Observation Wheel, Victoria Peak, the Bank of China Observation Deck, and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority Observation Deck. A number of bars and restaurants, including Ozone, Aqua Spirit, and Sevva, also have good views.

1 Austin Rd W, Hong Kong, China

Varies

From $ 14