Top Hong Kong Cultural Attractions and Places of Interest

Apart from the famous Disney Land, soaring skyscrapers, magnificent beaches and luxurious malls, Hong Kong also has ample of cultural gems to uncover, ranging from captivating temples and imposing museums to beautiful Chinese gardens.

Take a look at some of the top cultural attractions of Hong Kong:

Hong Kong Heritage Museum

Those who wish to experience the early history, art and culture of Hong Kong can choose to visit the Hong Kong Heritage Museum in Sha Tin, a peaceful spot with greenery all around. There are several permanent galleries based around the territory’s arts, history and culture where you can explore a variety of ancient artefacts. One of the most fascinating rotating exhibitions in the museum, the Cantonese Opera Hall draws the attention of visitors with its traditional bamboo shed theatre, hands-on activities for the kids, and gaudy costumes and accessories donated by celebrated opera singers.

Yim Tin Tsai Village

If you’re into the abandoned vibe, do not miss to explore Yim Tin Tsai Village, a 15-minute boat ride from Sai Kung. This small offshore island is popular among tourists for amazing hikes, fishing trips and cultural visits. Originally inhabited by many Hakka villagers and also known as “Ghost Island”, you will have a chance to experience here the remnants of Yim Tin Tsai’s Hakka culture. Ching Po School, converted into a heritage centre, and St Joseph’s Chapel, a Grade III historical building, are two major attractions of the island.

Lam Tsuen

Inhabited for over 700 years, Lam Tsuen has two towering banyan trees that are believed to provide good fortune to the visitors. Here a large number of people write their wishes on a piece of paper and tie them with the oranges to throw onto the branches of the trees.  Lam Tsuen witnesses most crowds of the visitors on the Lunar New Year. Besides, you can delight in the unique charm and customs of the surrounding villages.

The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery

A cable car ride away from Tung Chung, the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery are the major attractions of Lantau Island. You can learn about Buddhist culture, architecture and sculptural arts on your visit to the monastery. The Da Xiong Bao Dian (the Great Hall of Treasure), the Maitreya Hall, the Hall of Ti-tsang Bodhisattva, and Sutra-Collection Hall are the famous architectural structures you can discover within the monastery. Opposite the monastery sits a 34 metre high bronze Buddha statue that is certain to capture your attention with its breathtaking backdrop of mountains and the South China Sea.

Wong Tai Sin Temple

A prominent shrine in the territory representing three religions – Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism, Woong Tai Sin Temple is visited by huge crowds of pilgrims from all over the world. The temple is built in traditional Chinese style with a brilliant golden roof, grand red pillars, yellow latticework, blue friezes, and splendid colour carvings. Those who are not much keen in discovering the cultural side of this structure would love to explore its natural setting and beautifully ornamented buildings.