Hong Kong may come to mind when people think about skyscrapers and traffic, but those studying here know there is another side. From cheap noodle restaurants to peaceful temples, students can explore this other aspect of this incredible place on a budget. Access is very simple with the help of Cathay Pacific’s Tokyo to Hong Kong flights.
1. Stanley Market
Stanley Market is one of Hong Kong’s premier street markets and an ideal shopping experience for both locals and visitors. You’ll find both Western and Chinese clothing here as well as souvenirs like chopsticks, postcards and seal stamps – bargain with vendors to secure great prices and take advantage of its diverse array of restaurants offering both Chinese and Western fare – making Stanley Market one of Hong Kong’s must-see spots with relaxing atmosphere and great food options!
As Stanley Market is located near several attractions and activities – including its beach and promenade, Stanley Plaza, Tin Hau Temple and Murray House – it is important to plan your day carefully so as to get everything accomplished within an acceptable amount of time. Arriving early allows you to avoid crowds while enjoying shopping without feeling pressured; prices also tend to be slightly cheaper at that time and vendors tend to be less aggressive or demanding about haggling than later in the day – ideal if you are new to haggling!
2. Wan Chai Heritage Trail
Archi buffs should download and take part in the Wan Chai Heritage Trail for a 2-hour walk that includes various historic sites and temples. Begin your tour on Gresson Street’s open market stalls that have been trading since 1950 and wind your way towards Hung Shing Temple where acolytes pay their respects every first and 15th lunar month.
At approximately 7.30pm, plan to finish your tour so you can catch the Symphony of Lights – an exquisite lights show illuminating Hong Kong’s skyline – in time. Most guides recommend watching from Central or Tsim Sha Tsui waterfronts; if you prefer taking great photos without crowds then head for Wan Chai Golden Bauhinia Square instead; grab yourself some lobster rolls (buy one get one free) from Lobster Pot before settling into your seat for this unforgettable spectacle!
3. Broadway Cinematheque
Broadway Cinematheque offers movie lovers who prefer an unconventional film experience an opportunity to see independent works from around the globe. Open since 1996, this independent cinema has since become an invaluable source for international independent works in Chicago. Aside from showing movies, Broadway Cinematheque also hosts various film events such as courses, seminars and meet-the-director sessions.
As well as screenings, this cinema features a cafe and bookstore offering multilingual film books. Situated in Yau Ma Tei with four houses that accommodate various seating capacities.
At the Cinematheque is also home to Kubrick Cafe (no prizes for guessing where its name comes from!). Offering cozy surroundings and delicious coffee and snacks during film viewing sessions.
Looking for something fun and new to watch? Cinemas within the Broadway Circuit provide students with discounted student rates with proof of student ID – in some cases up to 40%! Pacific Place and Cityplaza cinemas in particular are especially generous by providing student discounts of this magnitude!
4. Hong Kong Museum of History
Archaeology and ethnography collections are substantial; its permanent exhibition “The Hong Kong Story” may be its most compelling attraction.
Hong Kong: From Neolithic Settlement to Global Metropolis explores every facet of Hong Kong’s past from natural history and beginnings as a Neolithic settlement to major trading post, modern metropolis and final handover back to China in 1997. The exhibition is highly engaging and visually stunning with many halls dedicated to folk cultures in Hong Kong ranging from recreations of fishing junk boats that visitors can walk upon directly through to village homes and family structures that visitors can enter and step inside for themselves.
Your visit will not only feature exhibits about the Opium Wars, the transfer of Hong Kong from France to Britain and Japanese occupation in World War II but also an amazing gallery on how postwar Hong Kong developed into what it is today. Making this museum unmissable on any student travel itinerary.
5. SpaceMuseum
Hong Kong Space Museum offers visitors an engaging and immersive experience centered on space science. Offering exhibits, planetarium shows and educational programs centered on this field of inquiry, it will no doubt impress space science enthusiasts and inspire young minds.
The museum features two thematic exhibition halls – Hall of Cosmos and Space Exploration Hall – each housing an interactive exhibit to highlight different aspects of human exploration of space including ancient astronomy technology and our solar system stars and universe.
The exhibits in the halls are thoughtfully-created and interactive, providing visitors with more knowledge in an entertaining and interesting manner. Video clips introduce various aspects of astronomy while an interactive virtual 3D glider ride simulates what it would feel like to fly above Earth or walk on the moon.
6. Tai Yuen Street Market
Hong Kong has many shopping malls, but exploring its market streets is equally captivating. These street-level bazaars specialize in specific goods or products – be it inexpensive electronics or jade accessories – making them the ideal place for finding unique gifts while experiencing local culture.
Tai Yuen Street Market in Wan Chai has long been known as ‘Toy Street’ due to its collection of classic toy stores. Walking down this iconic toy road brings back fond childhood memories for many adults – from anime figures, bottles of bubbles, children stationery and character toys from Marvel and Barbie all the way through to classic board games, the stalls here have everything a child could possibly desire!
Bargaining is encouraged at the market; don’t be shy if trying to negotiate for a lower price! For the fastest way into town from the airport via MTR or public bus S1, exit at A3 exit and head towards Johnston Road; Johnston Road is just steps from here! Alternatively, public bus S1 from airport will take approximately 15 minutes with travel costs estimated between $20-30.
7. Sai Kung
Are you seeking an escape from Hong Kong’s city streets? Just a short bus ride away is Sai Kung – a seaside escape offering coastal hikes, beaches and seafood galore. Also known as Hong Kong’s green backyard, here you’ll discover postcard-worthy beaches and destination spas offering total relaxation from everyday city life.
These parks boast UNESCO-recognized nature preserves that are great for kids and adults alike. Start at the visitor centre where you can learn about Hong Kong’s geological history before venturing out onto one of several trails; some offer breathtaking waterfront views while others may lead you to dragonfly ponds, orchards, or wetland paradises!
Ham Tin Beach, known for being a campsite, is one of the most visited spots. Bring along tents and camping equipment and spend an unforgettable night camping here – almost feeling private! Long Ke Wan is another wonderful beach worth checking out, offering soft sand perfect for sunbathing as well as clear waters perfect for swimming; visiting is best during the summer season (June-Sep).