Learn about Hong Kong a-z
The Avenue of Stars is an iconic part of the Victoria Harbour waterfront in Tsim Sha Tsui. It was modelled after the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a landmark that honours celebrities by having their names in stars on the sidewalk. The Avenue of stars not only features handprints and autographs of important figures in Hong Kong’s cinematic history, but also a bronze statue of actor Bruce Lee and another statue of actress Anita Mui.
This monumental structure is also known as the Tian Tan Buddha and was built over the course of 12 years. Symbolising stability for Hong Kong, prosperity for China, and peace for earth, the Big Buddha is one of the most famous attractions of Lantau. Tourists can walk 268 steps to see the Buddha and enjoy the stunning sights of the South China sea.
Cable Cars allow you to travel up and down a scenic view at a constant speed. Hong Kong's Ocean Park, for example, has a world-famous cable car, providing beautiful views of the waterfront and sky as well as its theme park below. The Ngong Ping Cable car on Lantau Island is also famed for reflecting a 360-degree view between Tung Chung and North Lantau.
Dragon Boat
Dragon Boat races usually occur on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month as part of traditional celebrations for Hong Kong's Dragon Boat Festival. A dragon boat has 22 team members who paddle to move the boat and one team member who drums the boat to keep the rhythm of movement. The top of the boat symbolises the dragon's head and the end of the boat symbolises its tail. Dragon Boat Racing is certainly not without colour, noise and excitement!
Egg Waffle
An all-time favourite loved equally by locals and tourists, egg waffles are a delicious sweet snack sold by nearly every street vendor in Hong Kong. It is called an egg waffle because it is shaped like a bunch of little eggs. The snack has a crispy shell on the outside but is soft and cakey on the inside. A modern twist on these waffles can be seen in flavours such as chocolate, green tea, strawberry and even bubble tea. Egg waffles may also be served with ice cream, various fruits and chocolates.
Ferry
The famous 'Star Ferry' transports passengers to and from Central and Tsim Sha Tsui, as well as between Wan Chai and Tsim Sha Tsui. Hong Kong's ferries are a popular mode of transport for those who wish to see our world-famous skyline or to be transported to different Hong Kong Islands.
Golden Bauhinia
The Golden Bauhinia statue was built to mark the handover of Hong Kong from British rule to China on the 1st of July, 1997, which is after more than 150 years of British rule. Every day at 8am, a flag is raised in the Golden Bauhinia Square as a ceremony to recognise the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
Hiking Trails
Not only is Hong Kong known for its many skyscrapers, but it also boasts some stunning hiking trails. Hiking in Hong Kong is a must for nature lovers who will be sure to enjoy another side of this city through the Lantau Trail, Maclehose Trail, the Wilson Trail, Dragon's Back Trail and many more.
Ice-cream Truck
Ice-cream trucks, also known as 'Mister Softee', are the instantly recognisable blue, red and white vans you see wandering around Hong Kong on a hot, sunny day. Every local Hong Konger has their own childhood memories associated with this mobile ice-cream vendor, and you can often spot them in areas such as Tsim Sha Tsui Harbour or the Sai Kung promenade.
The Hong Kong Jockey Club is one of the oldest organisations in Hong Kong, founded since 1884. It provides horse-racing and betting entertainments such as the famous Mark Six lottery. The club supports the government in donating to charitable projects for social causes including combatting illegal gambling.
Lion Dance is a traditional dance in Chinese culture which occurs during Chinese New Year and other festive occasions. Lions are said to symbolise power and good fortune, bringing luck and prosperity. Dancers imitate the body of a lion with actions such as the shaking of the body and the licking of the fur.
Ocean Park is Hong Kong's largest theme park after Hong Kong Disneyland, and is one of Hong Kong's oldest theme parks as well. It is based on an aquatic theme and has been opened since 1977. Ocean Park not only offers a large variety of thrilling rides, but also educational experiences where you can get close and personal to marines and wildlife.
Don't be fooled by the name...pineapple buns actually do not contain pineapple! This name was given to the bun because of its exterior which resembles the look of a pineapple. It is a staple delicacy of Hong Kong, found in every local bakery around the corner.
The Qipao is a traditional, iconic garment representing Chinese history and has rich cultural roots. During the 16th century, the Qipao was primarily men's clothing and women were not supposed to wear it. It was only during 1911 that Western ideals spread and women would wear the Qipao as part of the women's liberation movement in China. The modern Qipao is a beautiful, form-hugging one piece dress and is still popular today.
Roast goose is often found in the meat section of Cantonese barbecue or butcher stalls. This is no surprise given the juicy tenderness of the meat, paired with a delicious local fruity plum sauce. Roast goose can be ordered at many Chinese restaurants with rice or soup noodles, and is a must-have for travellers new to Hong Kong.
Hong Kong literally translates to ‘Fragrant Harbour’. As a major seaport and international financial hub of Asia, it is not surprising that some 2300 buildings over 100 metres tall have developed in this small patch of land. This makes Hong Kong the no.1 tallest city in not only China and Asia, but the whole world.
Speak of the most iconic symbols of Hong Kong, no one can deny that the tram is one of the most loved remnants of Hong Kong’s history. Known by most as ‘ding-dings’, these vehicles were originally designed with a single-deck in 1901, only including a double-deck in 1912. Fast forward to over a century later, these streetcars continue to exist as an extremely affordable mode of transport for experiencing the city, particularly in the areas of northern Hong Kong Island.
The University of Hong Kong (HKU) is a globally recognised, higher education institution in Hong Kong. Opened since 1912, it attracts a wide array of scholars both locally and internationally, and even has an MTR stop especially for it on the Island line. It is the oldest tertiary institution in the city offering multidisciplinary programs across several faculties.