How to spend a layover in Hong Kong

On my very first trip to Asia, I was visiting Bali but first had a stopover in Hong Kong. This was my first time traveling alone and also to a new continent so needless to say, I was scared shitless. However, I tried not to let that stop me from taking advantage of my layover in Hong Kon.

From the time I landed to the time I took off again I just 18 hours. While that seems like quite a bit of time to explore a new destination, it went by in a blink of an eye. Plus, trying to navigate a public transit system on your own when you don’t speak the language at all took up more time than I would have liked. Not to mention I had to fit sleeping in there somewhere too!

To make it easy on myself I decided to stay at the airport. It wasn’t too difficult to get into the city once I actually figured it out and because the hotel was attached to the airport, it was quite an easy transition when I had to get up early the next day.

Where to Stay

Convenience is the most important thing when staying in a destination for such a short period of time. I was more stressed about making sure I was close to the airport than I was the downtown area so I stayed at the Regal Airport Hotel.

If you are looking to stay closer to the action then I would recommend either Tsim Sha Tsui or choosing Central. Tsim Sha Tsui will give you beautiful views of the harbour but locating yourself in the Central district will have you in the heart of the nightlife.

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How to get around

Staying at the airport meant I had to get the train into the city. It was a pretty minimal cost, about $15 Canadian at the time and was a pretty smooth ride although it was longer than I expected it to be. Make sure to get a seat by the window because you are going to be passing quite a few beautiful areas.

Because I was only seeing the main sights and not venturing too far afield I mostly walked everywhere. There is public transit available but honestly I really had no trouble getting from point A to point B.

The one thing I will say is that I got lost a couple of times. It was rather disorienting being in a place that was so completely foreign and no one I ran into could help me as they didn’t speak English. I’m sure it would have been easier if I was with someone but if you are going alone I would recommend downloading the instructions ahead of time and making sure you have an idea of where to go.

What to see

The Avenue of Stars

Located along the waterfront is one of the most famous spots in Hong Kong. It’s almost like a miniature Hollywood Boulevard only better. The statues stationed along the boardwalk have some beautiful views behind them.

The most famous of the statues of Bruce Lee, is rarely without tourists smiling in front trying to get their own shot with him.

Nan Lian Garden

Located in Diamond Hill, this beautiful garden contains over 3 hectares of greenery. With lots of trees, hills, water features and rocks it’s the perfect spot to sit and chill in between all of the sightseeing.

While I didn’t explore the entire garden I did see a small piece of it and from what I could see, it was immaculate. The buildings located inside of the part were perfectly placed and built-in true Chinese style, like the Chi Lin Nunnery.

Victoria Peak

The highest peak in Hong Kong, Victoria Peak offers unbelievable views of the city. Having seen many photos from the peak since visiting I’m so upset I didn’t get the chance to see it. The views look equally as nice in the daytime and nighttime.

To get to the top of Victoria Peak you can take two methods; funicular railway or bus. I’m definitely partial to the railway, although I haven’t done it so don’t take my word for it. On the peak you’ll find the garden as well as some shopping areas, you know, just in case you get bored of the views …

Tian Tan Buddha

Of all the sites to see in Hong Kong this one is the one I’m most upset about missing. The Tian Tan Buddha, or the Big Buddha, was completed in 1993 and overlooks the Ngong Ping Village.

The Big Buddha gets its original name, Tian Tan from its base which is a model of the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. Surrounding the statue are 6 smaller statues that are making offerings of flowers, incense, lamps, ointment, fruit and music.

It’s free to get to the Tian Tan Buddha but if you want to go inside the statue you will have to pay.

Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade

The Tsim Sha Tsui promenade runs along the Kowloon waterfront. As you walk along the promenade you can’t help but admire the beautiful skyline right in front of you. It’s the perfect spot to people watch, grab a drink or even a quick bite if you want some great views. It also is a site that is good either during the day or at night.

Clock Tower

I’ll admit this structure is incredibly random but definitely something worth seeing. It was originally built in 1915 as part of the Kowloon-Canton Railway terminal. The railway stop has been gone for years but they kept this structure as a reminder of the Age of Steam.

It’s not too far from the Avenue of Stars either so you can do both relatively easily in a short time frame. I also loved the palm trees that lined the clock tower on either side. Made it quite a beautiful spot.

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