Choose from 356 Fun Things to Do in China
ShowingFilter 281-300 of 356 listings.
Tin Hau Temple
There are over 70 temples in Hong Kong dedicated to Tin Hua, the goddess of the sea. The oldest at Joss House Bay was built in 1266 and is considered the most sacred while the one in Causeway Bay is known for it's architecture. If you're only visiting one though, the temple in Yau Ma Tei is probably the most popular and accessible.
Yau Ma Tei was originally built on the harbor before land reclamation drove the shoreline far away. Now it sits in the heart of the popular Temple Street Night Market. It's known just as much for it's beauty, history and Wall of Nine Dragons as it is for being the social heart of the neighborhood. In front of the temple you'll find a row of willing fortune tellers, inside Chinese chess players congregate in the square.
Oddly, this temple is one of the most popular filming locations for Hong Kong gangster movies.
Yau Ma Tei was originally built on the harbor before land reclamation drove the shoreline far away. Now it sits in the heart of the popular Temple Street Night Market. It's known just as much for it's beauty, history and Wall of Nine Dragons as it is for being the social heart of the neighborhood. In front of the temple you'll find a row of willing fortune tellers, inside Chinese chess players congregate in the square.
Oddly, this temple is one of the most popular filming locations for Hong Kong gangster movies.
Address: China
Hours: Open 8am - 5pm Daily
From $ 37
Two International Finance Centre (IFC)
The 88-story Two International Finance Centre (IFC), completed in 2003, is the second-tallest building in Hong Kong and the tallest on Hong Kong Island. Towering above the island skyline and standing apart from other skyscrapers, this Hong Kong Island landmark attracts visitors for its sweeping views and proximity to world-class shopping.
The Basics
Rising a dizzying 1,362 feet (415 meters), Two IFC is part of the larger IFC complex, along with One IFC, IFC Mall, and the Four Seasons Hotel. The skyscraper comprises mostly office space and is occupied primarily by businesses and financial institutions.
In addition to an exhibition area, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) on the 55th floor has an observation deck with stunning panoramic views over Central and across Victoria Harbour. IFC Mall, attached to Two IFC, has more than 200 retail, dining, and entertainment options. Its public roof garden is a lovely spot to grab a drink or a bite to eat and take in the surrounding views. Most people visit Two IFC independently, but it’s also possible to take part in a guided walking tour that includes the tower.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views from the HKMA observation deck.
- There is no entrance fee for the HKMA observation deck, but only a limited number of visitors are admitted per day.
- Observation desk visitors will need to show ID on the ground floor and may have to undergo security checks before entering.
How to Get There
Two IFC is located at 8 Finance Street, in the Central District of Hong Kong Island. To get there by public transit, take the MTR to Hong Kong Station, which is just below the IFC complex, or to Central Station, a short walk away. Two IFC is easily accessible from the airport by taking the Airport Express to Hong Kong Station. Visitors in Kowloon can take the Star Ferry over to Central Ferry Piers.
When to Get There
Most visitors to Two IFC come for the sweeping views from the HKMA observation deck. Note that the deck is only open Monday through Saturday, with limited hours on Saturday. Try to time your visit for a clear day for better views. During severe weather, the observation deck may be closed.
Two IFC Movie Scenes
Even before you visit Hong Kong Island, Two IFC may already be familiar to you. While still under construction, it appeared in the 2003 movie Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life. Post construction, it featured in the 2008 film The Dark Knight, most notably with Batman jumping from Two IFC to One IFC.
Address: 8 Finance Street, Hong Kong, China
From $ 57
Tianmen Mountain
Numbered among the most beautiful mountains on the planet, Tianmen Mountain in Hunan Province is for many the highlight of a visit to Zhangjiajie. The mountain summits at 4,983 feet (1,519 meters), with plenty of spectacular sights to see on the way up, including near vertical cliffs, a winding walkway appropriately named the 99 Bends and a rock arch called Heaven’s Gate.
Most visitors reach the mountain by riding the world’s longest aerial tramway — a 4-mile (7-kilometer) journey that takes about 30 minutes. Once on the mountain, visitors can choose to test their courage on a cliff-hanging walkway or a pair of glass skywalks. A two-person chairlift ferries visitors to the summit of Tianmen Mountain. A tourist bus winds along the 99 Bends to a natural cave in the mountain face.
Practical Info
The temperature at the top of the mountain might be significantly cooler than at the bottom, so be sure to dress in layers.
Address: Zhangjiajie, Southern China, China
Hours: Daily 8am-4pm
Admission: 258 yuan
From $ 113
Tung Chung
Shopping is also big business in Tung Chung, with the Citygate Outlets mall offering more than 80 international brand names at year-round discounts. The mall also features a number of restaurants, a spa, a cinema, and the largest outdoor kinetic fountain in Asia.
Tung Chung sits within 30 minutes of two large parks: Lantau North Country Park and Lantau South Country Park, which offer varied hiking trails, along with opportunities for swimming, fishing, and camping. The Tung Chung Fort, once the headquarters for the Right Battalion of Dapeng in the 19th century, can also be found within Lantau North Country Park.
Practical Info
From the airport, the S1 bus service leads directly to Tung Chung in approximately 15 minutes. The Tung Chung MRT line connects the area with the rest of Hong Kong.
Address: Tung Chung, Hong Kong, Lantau Island, China
From $ 65
Wan Chai District
Located between Victoria Peak and Victoria Harbor, Wan Chai earned its reputation as a red light district during the Vietnam War (and by featuring in the 1960 film, The World of Suzie Wong). Today the neighborhood has shed much of its seedy reputation, although the area around Lockhart and Johnson Road is still going strong with girlie bars and clubs.
The nightlife in all other parts of Wan Chai is much more down to earth, with a buzzing selection of British pubs, karaoke bars, and dozens of international restaurants. The area even caters for the more upmarket crowd with some fine dining options located along Star Street.
Wan Chai’s rich heritage means there’s plenty to do by day too, with an array of historical sites in the area, most of which feature on the Wan Chai Heritage Trail. Highlights include the century-old Hung Shing Temple and the Old Wan Chai Post Office on Queen’s Road East, which is one of the few remaining examples of colonial architecture of its type.
Practical Info
Wan Chai is well connected by public transport. If travelling by MTR, simply take the Island Line and alight at the Wan Chai stop. Visitors can also take the tram to Wan Chai, which is a scenic way to arrive in the neighborhood, as is hopping on the Star Ferry.
Address: Wan Chai District, Hong Kong, China
From $ 74
Tianjin Eye
When the Tianjin Eye was completed in 2008, it officially became the first and only observation wheel in the world to be built over a bridge. The 394-foot (120-meter) tall wheel straddles the Hai River above the Yongle Bridge, offering stellar views (on clear days or nights) of this city of some 7.5 million people.
The wheel features 48 passenger pods, each with an eight person capacity. One rotation around the wheel takes about 30 minutes. The best time to ride is at night, when the wheel is illuminated in colorful neon lights, visible from around Tianjin.
Practical Info
For the best photo op of the wheel lit up, opt for a boat ride on the Hai River at night.
Address: Yongle Bridge, Tianjin, China
Hours: Open Tues-Sun 9:30am-9:30pm; Mon 5pm-9:30pm
Admission: 70 RMB
From $ 105
Victoria Peak (Tai Ping Shan)
Overlooking the Central district on Hong Kong Island, Victoria Peak (Tai Ping Shan) is one of the best vantage points for stupendous views of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong’s skyscrapers. Rising 1,810 feet (552 meters), the mountain is topped with a 360-degree Sky Terrace viewing platform and the Peak Tower complex of shops and restaurants. There’s also a network of nature trails through lush tropical forest.
The Basics
With its unbeatable views, Victoria Peak is one of Hong Kong’s most popular tourist attractions and a stop on nearly every city tour, with stops at other sites like the Aberdeen Fishing Village and Stanley Market. There are even quick “layover” tours departing from Hong Kong International Airport, giving you the opportunity to snap some photos from the top of the peak before heading out of Hong Kong.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Victoria Peak is a must-see for first-time visitors to Hong Kong.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces, especially if you plan to use the nature trails.
- Ride the Peak Tram to the top, or visit as part of a guided tour of Hong Kong.
- Admission lines can take well over an hour on weekend afternoons and public holidays, so it’s best to book ahead.
How to Get There
The quickest and most iconic way to reach Victoria Peak is aboard the Peak Tram, which departs every 10 minutes or so from the lower terminus near Central Station. Alternately, visitors can ride Bus 15 all the way to the top. It’s also a stop on hop-on hop-off bus tours.
When to Get There
Victoria Peak is best visited first thing in the morning on a weekday to avoid long queues at the tram and crowds on the observation platforms. The busiest times at the peak tend to be weekend afternoons during summer and on public holidays. The peak also gets busy in the evenings with visitors seeking a panoramic view of the Symphony of Lights multimedia show around Victoria Harbour.
Getting the Best View from the Top
Situated at the top of the peak, Sky Terrace 428 is the highest 360-degree observation deck in Hong Kong. Budget-minded travelers who’d rather not pay the entrance fee have some other options as well: The Peak Galleria has its own observation deck on Level 3, which is only slightly lower in elevation and free of charge, while the deck at the Lion’s Pavilion at The Peak is another free option.
Address: Peak Road, Hong Kong, China
Hours: Daily
Admission: Free
From $ 30
TramOramic
Get an overview of some of Hong Kong’s best sights on a 1-hour sightseeing tour aboard an open-top 1920s-style tram, which includes an onboard guide, prerecorded commentary, and a mini museum. Gain insight into Hong Kong life and history as you pass by bustling streets, modern skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and top attractions.
The Basics
TramOramic operates in two directions: choose to start at Western Market and head east to Causeway Bay, or vice versa. Either way, this tour takes you through Central, a dynamic business hub and home to many famous skyscrapers such as I.M. Pei’s Bank of China Tower; Wan Chai, a popular shopping, nightlife, and entertainment district; and Happy Valley, home to the Happy Valley Racecourse. Get oriented on this 1-hour tour, then explore the city at your leisure using the included 2-day unlimited hop-on hop-off pass on Hong Kong Tramways; choose among six routes and various thematic journeys between Shau Kei Wan and Kennedy Town.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A TramOramic tour is a great way for first-time visitors to Hong Kong to see some highlights and get the lay of the land.
- The best seats are at the front of the upper deck.
- Prerecorded commentary is available in Mandarin, Cantonese, English, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, French, and Russian.
- Free disposable headsets and rain jackets are provided as necessary.
- Free Wi-Fi is available on board.
How to Get There
You can board the TramOramic at either the Western Market terminus or the Causeway Bay terminus. To get to the Western Market terminus, take the MTR to Sheung Wan (Exit B), and walk along Des Voeux Road Central. To get to the Causeway Bay terminus, take the MTR to Causeway Bay (Exit E) and walk along Yee Woo Street.
When to Get There
TramOramic tours run year-round. Trams depart Western Market at 10:30am, 2:30pm, and 6:30pm, and Causeway Bay at 11:40am, 3:45pm, and 5:55 pm. Arrive early to get the best seats. The upper deck is open-air, which may not be ideal when it rains, although rain jackets are provided as needed.
Key Sights Along the TramOramic Tour
Some of the sights and landmarks that you see during a TramOramic Tour include the Macau Ferry Terminal, Man Wa Lane, Statue Square, the Legislative Council building, the Supreme Court, HSBC Main Building, Bank of China Tower, Pacific Place, Lippo Centre, Happy Valley Racecourse, Happy Valley cemeteries, and Times Square.
Address: China
From $ 12
Victoria Harbour
Dividing Hong Kong Island from Kowloon, Victoria Harbour has long been the lifeblood of the city. It is from these waters—often teeming with a motley mix of traditional and modern vessels—that the city’s twin skylines are best viewed. The harbor is historically responsible for the city that surrounds it as well; its deep and sheltered waters situated strategically on the South China Sea have directly contributed to Hong Kong’s rise as a major world trading center.
The Basics
It sounds cliche, but you really haven’t seen Hong Kong until you’ve seen Victoria Harbour. Cutting right through the heart of the city, the harbor plays host to some of the city’s most iconic experiences: Ride the double-decker Star Ferry from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island, watch the twin Hong Kong skylines light up during the nightly Symphony of Lights, take in the sights and sounds of the waterway aboard a leisurely dinner cruise, feast on seafood at Jumbo Floating Restaurant (the world’s largest), or simply stroll along the waterfront promenade, stopping for a photo op on the Avenue of Stars. For the best view of the harbor from above, head up to Victoria Peak.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The harbor is a must-see for every first-time visitor.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you’re planning to explore the harbor front on foot.
- Get out on the water with a sightseeing harbour cruise, dinner cruise, or nighttime Symphony of Lights cruise.
- Plan to visit the harbor both during the day and at night.
How to Get There
Victoria Harbour is easily accessed from just about anywhere in Hong Kong. The Star Ferry Pier is the point of departure for trips across the harbor, and the most popular portion of the harbor—the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade—is within walking distance of East Tsim Sha Tsui MTR station.
When to Get There
Victoria Harbour bustles with activity day and night, and it’s best to experience it at both times to truly put your finger on its pulse. Don’t leave Hong Kong without witnessing the world’s largest permanent light and sound show, the Symphony of Lights, staged nightly on the harbor.
Points of Interest on the Victory Harbour Waterfront
Even if you keep your feet on dry land, there’s plenty to do along the waterfront of Hong Kong harbor. Strike a pose next to the Bruce Lee statue, shop at Harbour City mall (Hong Kong’s biggest), pop into the Hong Kong Museum of Art or Hong Kong Space Museum, or take a stroll through Victoria Park.
Address: Star Ferry Pier, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, China
Admission: Ferry ticket prices vary
From $ 21
Tianya Haijiao
‘Tianya Haijiao’ translates to ‘edges of the heaven, corners of the sea,’ and when you’re sitting on the sun-warmed sand of this vast beach fronting the South China Sea, the name makes sense.
According to local legend, a young couple from two rival clans ran away and ended up at the beach. Believing it was the end of the earth, they swore their love for each other, jumped into the sea, and were transformed into two stones. Two large boulders poking out from the sand represent the star-crossed lovers’ eternal love, and newlyweds often come here during their honeymoons.
While Tianya Haijiao isn’t really the end of the earth, it is considered the southernmost point of China. On clear days, the sea seems to stretch on forever, with small islets visible in the distance.
Practical Info
To get to Tianya Haijiao, catch a bus from Sanya’s West Station to either Nanshan or Tianya.
Address: Tianya Town, Southern China, China
Hours: 8am-6pm
Admission: 95 RMB
From $ 38
Tiananmen Square (Tiananmen Guangchang)
Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public plaza, has always been a symbol of Mao’s epic Communist project—and resistance to it. Despite its bleak history, the site of the 1989 massacre is today a bustling place, often teeming with tourists and local kids flying kites.
The Basics
One of the most famous landmarks in all of China, Tiananmen Square and its 125-foot-high (39-meter-high) granite Monument to the People’s Heroes features on just about every Beijing tour. Visitors from around the globe come to have their picture taken in front of the photo of Chairman Mao mounted on the monumental Gate of Heavenly Peace (Tiananmen). For those pressed for time, it’s possible to visit the Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square in a single day.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tiananmen Square is a must-see for history buffs, people watchers, and first-time visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk; the square and neighboring Forbidden City are huge.
- Don’t forget to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the square provides little shade.
- Visitors are required to pass through a security checkpoint before entering the square.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to Tiananmen Square is to take the Beijing subway Line 1 to either Tiananmen East or Tiananmen West, or Line 2 to Qianmen. Several public buses also stop at the square.
When to Get There
The national flagpole sits within Tiananmen Square, and the flag-raising ceremony that takes place at sunrise each morning is well worth seeing. Expect big crowds and long lines at the Forbidden City and Mao’s Mausoleum during peak tourist season in summer and on Chinese public holidays.
Attractions in Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square sits at the heart of Beijing, surrounded by some of the city’s top attractions. The Forbidden City, the Museum of Chinese History, the Museum of the Chinese Revolution, the Great Hall of the People, and the Chairman Mao Mausoleum bound the square, so there’s always a lot of activity.
Address: Beijing, China
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Upper Lascar Row (Cat Street)
Some call it a flea market and some call it a bazaar. What Upper Lascar Row definitely is, is a shopping heaven for all those on the hunt for treasures and antiques. Lascars were Indian seamen who traded between China and the Middle East and found their accommodations in the range of houses who soon became to be known as Lascar Row as well as Cat Street. The area had quite the criminal reputation and it was a common joke that if you had something stolen, you’d likely be able to unearth it in one of the shops on Cat Street. In Cantonese, thieves are often referred to as rats, and the buyers of the stolen goods as cats, which explains the nickname.
Today, Upper Lascar Row is no longer the center of lawlessness and the road has evolved into a market for antiques, second hand items and junk. It’s also clearly a tourist destination with lots of kitsch, Mao statues and jade pieces. Provided they do some digging, visitors can find bargains on silk products, jade, handicrafts, brass works, ceramics and random treasures ranging from the Ming Dynasty to the Cultural Revolution. The price of course depends on the age and the rarity of the items, but many of the items are also modern replicas intended to add a nice touch of interior decoration to a home for a cheaper price.
Practical Info
Upper Lascar Row is located in Sheun Wang and you can get there by taking the MTR to the station of the same name. It can be visited any time of day of course, but the shops usually open late in the morning and close around 7pm or later. The exception is Sunday, when the market remains closed.
Address: Sheun Wang, Hong Kong, China
From $ 57
Wangfujing Street
There are two reasons to visit Wangfujing Street in Beijing: shopping and eating. The main portion of this commercial street is home to nearly 300 Chinese brand name stores selling everything from clothes and shoes to tea and herbs. In recent years, international and high end brands have also started appearing at this outdoor shopping venue, and while prices tend to be slightly more expensive than in the US, it’s still a fun place to people watch and window shop.
The neighboring Wangfujing Snack Food Street appeals to intrepid tourists and adventurous local eaters. The hundred some food stalls lining this outdoor food market (only open at night) cook and serve a bizarre range of street foods. You’ll find centipedes, star fish, scorpions and honey bees being served alongside sheep innards, candied fruits and other delicacies from around the country. While the offerings may not all sound appetizing, rest assured they are safe, as each stall must meet strict hygienic requirements.
The neighboring Wangfujing Snack Food Street appeals to intrepid tourists and adventurous local eaters. The hundred some food stalls lining this outdoor food market (only open at night) cook and serve a bizarre range of street foods. You’ll find centipedes, star fish, scorpions and honey bees being served alongside sheep innards, candied fruits and other delicacies from around the country. While the offerings may not all sound appetizing, rest assured they are safe, as each stall must meet strict hygienic requirements.
Address: Wang Fu Jing Da Jie, Dong Cheng Qu, Beijing, China
From $ 16
Three Pagodas of Dali
Located a short walk north of the ancient city of Dali, the iconic Three Pagodas date back to the ninth and tenth centuries. The middle of the three, named the Qianxun Pagoda, was erected in the ninth century during the Tang Dynasty as one of the tallest pagodas ever built in China. The two other pagodas went up about a century later, and their architectural styles are more similar to buildings of the Song Dynasty.
While Dali has endured numerous earthquakes through the centuries, including a severe one in 1925, these three structures were some of the few buildings to survive undamaged (though one now leans slightly). The well-maintained park that houses the pagodas is also dotted with smaller Buddhist temples, statues and several small lakes, all with the Cangshan Mountains as a backdrop.
Practical Info
If the walk up to the pagodas is too much, there’s also a tourist bus that ferries passengers to the top of the hill.
Address: 214 National Road, Dali, Yunnan, China
Hours: 8am-7pm
Admission: 121 RMB
From $ 129
Tiger Hill
Tiger Hill, a large hill-rock also known as Surging Sea Hill, is a must-see when visiting Suzhou, both for its beauty and its history. Traditional architecture, tranquil landscapes, and numerous historical sites dating back more than 2,500 years distinguish the hill as a top destination among the city's UNESCO-listed attractions. Highlights include the Tomb of King He Lu, the Sword-Testing Stone—a rock split cleanly in two pieces, supposedly by a legendary sword—and the famously lopsided Yunyan Pagoda, or 'Leaning Tower of China.' Also not to miss is the garden architecture at Wanjing Villa, where potted landscapes and bonsai shrubs create miniature classical gardens.
Tiger Hill, which gets its name from resembling the shape of a crouching tiger, is relatively small and compact, making it an easy stop on any day or half-day tour of Suzhou. Go with a guide to get the most out of the site's rich history, and consider combining your visit with entry to nearby attractions, like the Humble Administrator's Garden or Master of Nets Garden.
Practical Info
Suzhou is located approximately 62 miles (100 km) west of Shanghai, and the two cities are connected by high-speed train. The garden is open 7:30am to 5:30pm daily. Adult admission is 80 CNY on peak months (April, May, July, August, September, and October), and 60 CNY on quiet months (January, February, March, June, November, and December). Some tours utilize the high-speed train rather than road transport.
Did You Know? The ancient art of bonsai tree growing, which originated in China, is still very much alive today. Hundreds of specimen of tree and landscape bonsais are displayed at Wanjing Villa, with many of them having won prizes in prestigious bonsai competitions.
Address: 8 Mennei Street, Suzhou, Eastern China, China
Hours: 7:30am–5:30pm daily
Admission: Varies by season
From $ 81
Tianzifang
Tianzifang, in the French Concession, is a hip, artsy area of Shanghai full of art galleries, design studios, stylish boutiques, and unique shops. Many bars, cafés, and restaurants here are housed in traditional Shikumen buildings or converted factory spaces. A place for meandering, it’s popular with expats, tourists, and local youth.
The Basics
Tianzifang is comprised of three main lanes (210, 248, and 274), intersected by numerous small alleyways. It can be easy to get lost here, but for some visitors, that’s part of the fun. You can also get a map at the tourism center at the entrance and plot out your visit in advance. Plenty of cafés and restaurants are around to offer a break and sustenance.
Tianzifang is a popular destination, and a number of sightseeing tours feature a stop here. Tours can be tailored for different interests: art lovers can also stop at M50 and the Propaganda Poster Art Center; shoppers can also stop at Nanjing Road and Old Town Market; and those who want to see Shanghai’s highlights can also stop at the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, and Jade Buddha Temple.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tianzifang is a must-visit for foodies, shoppers, and art lovers.
- It’s possible to find restaurants offering many different types of cuisine in the area.
- Don’t forget to bring your camera, but be aware that certain shops forbid photos, even of their exterior.
- Many residents still live here, often above the stores; please be respectful of their privacy.
- Tianzifang is not wheelchair friendly, as some of the alleyways are very narrow and the ground can be uneven.
How to Get There
Tianzifang is located in the French Concession. By metro, take line 9 to Dapuqiao Station (exit 1). A number of buses also stop nearby, including buses 17, 24, 41, 96, 146, and 786.
When to Get There
Tianzifang is a popular destination and often crowded. Visit earlier in the day, during the week, for smaller crowds. Most stores and restaurants are open until 9pm or 10pm, and some bars stay open even later.
The Origin of Tianzifang
Huang Yongyu, a famous artist, coined the term Tianzifang. It stems from the name of one of China’s earliest artists, but with the last character changed to mean “lane” or “workshop” and thus, a gathering place for art. A stele with “Tianzifang” hangs over the entrance of Lane 210, and a statue of the ancient artist can be found within.
Address: Tianzifang, Shanghai, China
From $ 36
Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
Extending from Kowloon’s colonial Clock Tower to Hung Hom, Hong Kong’s Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade is among the best places in the city to take in the spectacular Hong Kong Island skyline across Victoria Harbour, as well as the nightly Symphony of Lights. Popular attractions including the Avenue of Stars, Hong Kong Space Museum, Hong Kong Museum of Art, and Hong Kong Cultural Centre all lie within easy walking distance of this waterfront boardwalk.
The Basics
No visit to Kowloon would be complete without a stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. Walking tours, hop-on hop-off buses, and Victoria Harbour sightseeing cruises often stop along the promenade, and it’s also a departure point for the Star Ferry, which takes passengers across the harbor to Wan Chai and Central on Hong Kong Island.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade is a must-see for romantics and all first-time visitors.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the promenade offers little shade.
- Show up at least an hour early to get a front-row spot for the Symphony of Lights show.
How to Get There
The Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade is easily accessible by public transportation. Ride the MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui and leave through Exit E, or from Hong Kong Island, ride the ferry across from either Central or Wan Chai.
When to Get There
Plan to visit the promenade both by day and after dark to get the complete picture. Arrive early to scope out the best spots for viewing the nightly Symphony of Lights. The annual Chinese New Year fireworks show and June’s Dragon Boat Festival draw the biggest crowds.
Avenue of Stars
Perhaps the most famous stretch of the promenade is the Avenue of Stars, Hong Kong’s answer to the Walk of Fame in Hollywood. A celebration of the Hong Kong TV and film industry, this stretch of sidewalk features celebrity handprints and statues, including one of favorite son Bruce Lee.
Address: China
From $ 34
Tomb of Emperor Jingdi (Hanyangling)
In addition to the world-famous terra cotta warriors, another excavation site of a famous Chinese emperor can be found in Xian. Emperor Jingdi reigned from 11-141 BC and unlike other emperors, he had a very passive approach to ruling. As a staunch follower of Confucianism, he was a capable leader and tried to improve the lives of his subjects by reducing taxes and avoiding diplomatic conflicts. Accordingly, his reign is considered a golden era for the people and the imperial family and was only once marred by a successfully averted rebellion.
In the typical hierarchical fashion of ancient China, the Tomb of Emperor Jingdi itself can be found at the very center of the complex, while various smaller burial pits and tombs are scattered around it. Visitors can see the over 40,000 excavated clay figures of animals, warriors and officials – mostly miniature forms of their real-life counterparts – and other artifacts in the various pits in the subterranean Hanyangling Museum by donning blue shoe covers and carefully walking on a glass floor over the ongoing excavation site. While some might consider the life-sized terracotta warriors more impressive, this miniature version allows a closer look at the small sculptures. Although their dress made of cloth and wood has long ago decayed and the figurines are now naked, they, together with various prepared information such as a 3D film offer a detailed insight into the social structure and life at the time of the Han Dynasty.
Practical Info
From the beginning of March to the end of November, the museum is open from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., while during the rest of the year the site closes an hour earlier at 6 p.m. The Tomb of Emperor Jingdi is located about 20 kilometers north of Xian in Zhangjiawan Village. You can get there by taking the bus number 50, 207, 228, 230, 328 or K616 to Xian City Sports Park and then hopping on the Tourist Bus number 4 the rest of the way to the stop Yangling Mausoleum.
Address: Zhanjiawan Village, Xian, China
From $ 18
TurboJet
If you’re planning a trip to Macau during your stay in Hong Kong, chances are you’ll be riding with TurboJet. This fleet of red and white hydrofoil ferries shuttles passengers between Hong Kong and Macau day and night, and the short hour-long journey is the cheapest and most convenient way to get to Macau.
From early morning until midnight, TurboJet boats depart every 15 minutes, but if you find you’ve lost track of time in one of Macau’s huge casinos, you’ll still be able to catch a ferry back to Hong Kong every 30 minutes to an hour all night long. Much like an airplane, each TurboJet is divided into economy and Super Class seating areas. The economy cabins are equipped with air conditioning, luggage storage areas and televisions, though they’re usually playing Mandarin or Cantonese television shows or music videos sans English subtitles.
From early morning until midnight, TurboJet boats depart every 15 minutes, but if you find you’ve lost track of time in one of Macau’s huge casinos, you’ll still be able to catch a ferry back to Hong Kong every 30 minutes to an hour all night long. Much like an airplane, each TurboJet is divided into economy and Super Class seating areas. The economy cabins are equipped with air conditioning, luggage storage areas and televisions, though they’re usually playing Mandarin or Cantonese television shows or music videos sans English subtitles.
Address: China
From $ 43
Tsim Sha Tsui
Hong Kong has a reputation for being a shopper’s paradise, and most of the night markets, shopping centers and electronics stores can be found in Tsim Sha Tsui on the tip of the Hong Kong peninsula. It’s also Hong Kong’s hotel central, with accommodations ranging from the cheap hostels of the notorious Chongqing Mansion to the luxurious InterContinental.
Nathan Road is the main artery of the district, and a walk down the mile-long stretch of shops known as the Golden Mile is a quintessential Hong Kong experience. Stop in for tea at the Peninsula Hotel, sample fiery Indian curries on the first floor of the Chongqing Mansion or head to nearby Knutsford Terrace for cocktails with the locals.
The Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, located along the Victoria Harbour waterfront, is by far the best place to view the skyline of Hong Kong Island, especially at night during the Symphony of Lights show. Many of the city’s best museums, including the Hong Kong Science Museum, Museum of Art, Museum of History and Space Museum are all located in Tsim Sha Tsui.
Nathan Road is the main artery of the district, and a walk down the mile-long stretch of shops known as the Golden Mile is a quintessential Hong Kong experience. Stop in for tea at the Peninsula Hotel, sample fiery Indian curries on the first floor of the Chongqing Mansion or head to nearby Knutsford Terrace for cocktails with the locals.
The Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, located along the Victoria Harbour waterfront, is by far the best place to view the skyline of Hong Kong Island, especially at night during the Symphony of Lights show. Many of the city’s best museums, including the Hong Kong Science Museum, Museum of Art, Museum of History and Space Museum are all located in Tsim Sha Tsui.
Address: China
From $ 21