5 Free Things to Do in Hong Kong
Even though Hong Kong is one of the most expensive cities in the world, there is plenty you can do for free.
From impressive temples to hikes with fantastic views, Hong Kong has it all.
Here are five amazing things you can do in Hong Kong completely free of charge. Keep reading.
5: Temples
Hong Kong is home to many amazing temples. Visit Wong Tai Sin Temple, located in Kowloon, which is primarily a Taoist temple, but also features Buddhist and Confucian worshiping halls. Part of the Wong Tai Sin Temple includes a wonderful Good Wish Garden, which is a miniature replica of the Summer Palace in Beijing.
There are many other impressive temples to discover, for example, Man Mo Temple, Chi Lin Nunnery, Po Lin Monastery, etc.
Here are some more temples: Man Mo Temple Sheung Wan, Chi Lin Nunnery, Po Lin Monastery, Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple, Pak TaiTemple, Yuen Yuen Institute, etc.
4: Symphony of Lights
The symphony of lights is a light and sound show covering over 40 buildings on both sides of Victoria Harbor. The show takes place every day at 8 PM and lasts around 10 minutes. Guinness World Records recognized it as the world's Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show.
For the best views of the show, you can go to the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, Golden BauhiniaSquare, or a bar or a restaurant such as The One, Ozone, or Felix.
Hong Kong also offers other similar shows like the ICC Light and Music Show and Hong Kong Pulse 3D Light Show, which is displayed on the wall of the Hong Kong Cultural Center in the summer and winter months.
3: Hong Kong Park
Hong Kong Park is a public park and an oasis in the middle of Hong Kong Central District right under Victoria Peak. It provides a relaxing environment with its Tai Chi garden, artificial waterfall, and even features an amazing aviary. It is hard to believe you are in a big city when you are in the park. Of course, the park, including the aviary, is entirely free of charge.
You can also visit Victoria Peak, a hill above Hong Kong park using Hong Kong public transportation, so instead of taking the more expensive Peak Tram, you can reach this amazing attraction with breathtaking views by bus.
There are many other great free parks in Hong Kong, for example, Kowloon Park, Victoria Park, Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens, etc.
2: Tian Tan Buddha
Tian Tan Buddha (aka Big Buddha) is a 111 feet tall statue located on the Hong Kong island Lantau. Although the place looks like it has been there for centuries, it was only constructed in 1993. Usually, Buddha statues face south, but this one faces north, supposedly to look over the Chinese people.
There is no entrance fee to the park, and if you don’t want to spend around $25 to ride the impressive cable car, you can reach the statue by public bus.
If you’re up for an authentic experience, don’t miss the nearby fishing village Tai O, where you will find a very different Hong Kong from high rises and city life. Tai O is also reachable by public bus.
1: Hiking and trails
And since Hong Kong is not just high rises and concrete, you can take one of the several breathtaking hikes like Dragons back, Maclehose trail, Lantau trail, High Junk Peak Hike. You will discover a completely new perspective of this amazing blend of modern city and nature.
Other trails: The Hong Kong "Pyramid Hill" Hike, Lantau Trail (Sunset Peak, Lantau Peak), Tai Mo Shan - Maclehose Trail (different stages), Tai Long Wan, Lung Fu Shan Morning Trail, Tai Kam Chung, Lion Rock Peak, High Junk Peak.
Do you have a favorite free thing to do in Hong Kong or have you been to one of the places we described in this video? Share it in the comments below.
