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Interesting things to know about Hong Kong
15 Interesting Things to Know About Hong Kong (and Cool Facts)
Hong Kong, which means 'Fragrant Harbor,' is a vibrant city where old temples meet tall, brightly lit buildings, and traditional Cantonese opera mixes with the sounds of global finance. It attracts a lot of tourists every year. Beyond the shiny exterior, Hong Kong is a mix of Chinese and Western cultures, full of interesting surprises.
So, read the blog as we reveal some interesting things to know about Hong Kong. These facts about Hong Kong will help you explore the true essence of this vibrant city and make you appreciate it even more.
CONTENTS:
Here’s a list of 15 interesting things to know about Hong Kong.
1. From Fishing Village to Concrete Jungle
6. A City with a Fascinating History
7. Kung Fu Capital with Legendary Roots
10. Ascend with the World's Longest Escalator
12. Shopping Spree with a Twist
13. Pirates to Pandas: A Tale of Transformation
14. Navigating Time with the Star Ferry
15. Harbour Buzz with a Serene Side
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1. From Fishing Village to Concrete Jungle
Would you believe that Hong Kong started as a quiet fishing village in the early 1800s? Fast forward, and it's now the bustling metropolis that’s popular all around the world. Hong Kong beautifully combines its rich history with a modern identity, setting a perfect balance. And this remarkable transformation narrates a captivating story of resilience and growth.
Before you visit this gorgeous city, learn a bit about its history which showcases how a humble village evolved into a global city while preserving traces of its past.
2. Sky-High Marvels
Here's a fun fact about Hong Kong; the city proudly boasts the world record for the most skyscrapers – a whopping 8,000 of them! Even New York has only half of them.
So, whether you're capturing selfies with the iconic Victoria Peak or witnessing the Symphony of Lights at Victoria Harbour, the city's urban growth is a captivating spectacle. The skyline, dotted with such architectural marvels, represents the dynamic energy and progress that define Hong Kong.
3. Hike Your Way to Happiness
You might be surprised to know that amid the sky-high buildings and hustle-bustle of city life, Hong Kong dedicates over 40% of its land to country parks and nature reserves. So, don’t forget to bring your hiking boots to this urban marvel.
You can explore its natural wonders like the Lion Rock or Tai Tam Country Park. Whether you're scaling Victoria Peak for panoramic views or wandering through Dragon's Back trails, Hong Kong offers a quick escape into nature – just minutes away.
4. A City of Two Halves
Hong Kong's unique history as a British colony has left its mark. The city was under British rule for more than 150 years. You can still witness the signs in its buildings. However, amidst the remnants of colonial architecture, what stand proudly are traditional temples and bustling markets.
Exploring Hong Kong is like stepping through a temporal portal and experiencing two worlds simultaneously. This unique blend of influences adds layers to the city's identity, creating a harmonious coexistence of past and present.
5. Island Hopping Fiesta
Hong Kong isn't just one island; it's a collection of over 200! And, you’ll love hopping from one island to another on your trip to the city. Begin your island adventure with Lantau Island, home to the majestic Tian Tan Buddha. Take a scenic cable car ride up Ngong Ping 360 for breathtaking views and explore the peaceful Po Lin Monastery.
Cheung Chau Island, known for its laid-back atmosphere and vibrant seafood markets, is another gem worth discovering. This archipelago of islands offers a diverse range of scenery, from peaceful retreats to bustling markets, adding another facet to Hong Kong's uniqueness.
Fun fact about Hong Kong: Although it’s a city of islands, some of these islands are uninhabited and unreachable.
ALSO READ: Best places to visit in Hong Kong
6. A City with a Fascinating History
From the 1,000-year-old Po Lin Monastery to the colonial-era architecture of Central, Hong Kong's past whispers through its streets. You can explore the vibrant Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Art, housed in a former police station, or wander through the serene Chi Lin Nunnery, a Tang Dynasty-style architectural masterpiece.
Some of these heritage sites are over hundreds of years old, standing as living testimonials to the city's cultural continuity and architectural legacy, inviting you to connect with the past while embracing the present. Isn’t it one of the most interesting things to know about Hong Kong?
7. Kung Fu Capital with Legendary Roots
Looking for more cool facts about Hong Kong? It’s related to a world-famous martial art – Kung Fu. While Hollywood may have taken kung fu to global screens, Hong Kong is its authentic birthplace with a rich history and cultural ties to this martial art.
Icons like Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan polished their craft in Hong Kong. For years, the city's vibrant martial arts heritage continues to thrive. You can immerse yourself in this living legacy through training schools and cultural events, experiencing the true heart of cinematic kung fu.
8. A City That Never Sleeps
Hong Kong pulsates with life around the clock, earning its reputation as a city that never sleeps. Whether you're immersed in the vibrant nightlife of Lan Kwai Fong or craving a late-night dim sum fix at one of the city's 24-hour restaurants, there's never a dull moment. The dynamic energy and steady buzz mean that there's always something interesting to see or do, no matter what time of day or night.
9. Culinary Wonderland
It’s no secret that Hong Kong is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a culinary journey from Michelin-starred dining to lively street vendors. Get ready for dim sum, delightful bite-sized savoury treats, and savour a bowl of steaming wonton noodles. Indulge your sweet tooth with the iconic Hong Kong egg waffles – a treat that goes beyond sustenance, providing a cultural experience!
Fun Fact about Hong Kong: Dim Sum, that’s famous all across the world, originated from Hong Kong.
ALSO READ: Free things to do in Hong Kong
10. Ascend with the World's Longest Escalator
Hong Kong boasts the prestigious title of hosting the world's longest outdoor covered escalator – the Central Mid-Level Escalator. Beyond being a mere transportation marvel, it transforms into a must-do experience offering breathtaking city views. Challenge yourself to ride its extensive length without getting dizzy, and you'll earn bonus points for conquering this thrilling adventure!
Want to learn more cool facts about Hong Kong? The city also has the world's longest road and rail suspension bridge, the Tsing Ma Bridge.
11. A Land of Billionaires
Here’s one of the most fascinating things to know about Hong Kong. The city has a lot of billionaires! In 2016, it was the fourth highest city in the world for billionaires, with more than 64 people having more than US$1 billion each. Hong Kong is even where Li Ka-shing, the richest man in Asia according to Forbes in 2015, lives.
12. Shopping Spree with a Twist
Hong Kong offers something for everyone, from high-end designer boutiques to offbeat street markets like Temple Street. But there's a twist: bargaining is an art form here! Put your bargaining abilities to the test, and don't be afraid to have some fun while doing so. Remember that the finest souvenirs are often the stories you discover along the road.
13. Pirates to Pandas: A Tale of Transformation
Hong Kong's history is as varied as it gets. Earlier the city used to be known for being a pirates’ refuge. From being a legendary pirate haven to being a modern paradise, Hong Kong has undergone a remarkable change. Today, gigantic pandas, not pirate ships, capture the limelight. Go to Ocean Park to see these adorable creatures up close and contribute to conservation efforts. It's a wonderful narrative of transformation, from pirates to cuddly conservation heroes.
14. Navigating Time with the Star Ferry
Here's another one of the most interesting historical facts about Hong Kong: The Star Ferry has been crossing Hong Kong's waters since 1880. It's more than just a way to get around; it's become a beloved symbol of the city's deep history. Hop for a journey that not only spans the harbour but also symbolises the passage of time, connecting you with the essence of Hong Kong's history.
Fun fact about Hong Kong: The city is recognised for having the world's largest fleet of ferries, which transport goods and people `to Macau and other Chinese cities.
15. Harbour Buzz with a Serene Side
Star Ferry isn’t the only fascinating feature of Hong Kong’s Harbour. The city also prides itself on having one of the world's busiest ports – the Port of Hong Kong on the South China Sea – which serves as a hub for trade and travel.
Amidst the maritime bustle, find tranquillity along the waterfront promenades. Here, where ships from all corners of the globe come together, you can embrace the vibrant energy of the city or retreat to serene spaces for a moment of relaxation.
Book Your Hong Kong Tour Package Today!
As we explore the interesting things to know about Hong Kong, one thing is clear – this city is a mix of tradition, modernity, and surprises. Here, every street, skyscraper, and landmark has its own story, and by discovering Hong Kong, you're stepping into a living tale.
Whether you love exploring, enjoy learning about different cultures, or want to experience the excitement of a busy city, Hong Kong is the perfect holiday destination that wants you to be a part of its story. Get your Hong Kong tour package now and start a journey where every moment is an adventure and every experience is a new chapter.