While there’s tons to do in the city, you are missing out if you don’t experience one or more day trips from Hong Kong. Getting outside of the city limits is a great way to better experience the culture and beauty of the area. Here are six great day trips just outside of Hong Kong.
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Hong Kong Disneyland
If you know me, then you know I will always recommend a Disney park if there is one in the vicinity. And there is in Hong Kong! Hong Kong Disneyland is located on Lantau Island and is the smallest of all the Disney parks. It is most similar to Disneyland in Anaheim, California. But it has some unique differences.
The park was designed using feng shui principles. This ensures that visitors feel a positive energy balance and experience good fortune. Originally this park had a copy of the California Disneyland castle, but it been reimagined to represent multiple princesses. The park also has many unique experiences. Most beloved is Mystic Manner, the best version of the classic Haunted Mansion in any Disney park in the world. There’s also a nice mix of Marvel and Frozen rides that don’t exist elsewhere.
And as I’ve mentioned when recommending other Disney parks during your foreign travels, It’s extremely interesting to experience a different culture in a familiar setting. You see how locals may dress differently. They may also interact with characters in unexpected ways. They may value different things than a typical American. But what’s best about experiencing a different culture through a familiar lens is the feeling that we are all humans with similar hopes and dreams.
Logistics
You can get to Hong Kong Disneyland via taxi, bus, or Mass Transit Railway (MTR) train. No matter which option you choose, the journey will take about 30 minutes.
Lantau Island
Even if you don’t decide to visit Hong Kong Disneyland, you should still take a day trip to Lantau Island. There’s a great mix of activities to do there.
Start with a ride on the Ngong Ping 360 cable car. You will spend 25 minutes seeing panoramic views of the mountains and ocean. Then climb the 268 steps to the Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha). This giant bronze Buddha symbolizes harmony. Nearby, explore Po Lin Monastery where you will see Buddhist monks and locals worshipping.
For lunch, visit Tai O, a traditional fishing village. You will see stilt houses built over water as you wander the narrow lanes. Spend some time browsing the shops and trying local snacks. You can also take a boat ride out to see pink dolphins. The spend the rest of the day at Cheung Sha Beach
Logistics
This is one of the easiest day trips from Hong Kong. Take the MTR Tung Chung LIne to Chung Station and walk about 5 minutes to the Ngong Ping cable car terminal. The cable car will take you to Ngong Ping Village where you can see the Big Buddha and monastery. Then take bus #21 from Ngong Ping Village to Tai O. then take bus #1 to Cheung Sha beach. Return to Tung Chung Station on bus #11 or #23, then take the MRT back to Hong Kong.
Macau
If you enjoy gambling and nightlife, you may want to spend a few days in Macau. But even if you don’t, a day trip to Macau is worth doing. Known as the Las Vegas of Asia, Macau originally was a colony of Portugal and blends Cantonese and Portuguese culture.
Your first order of business is to see the UNESCO recognized historical area. Visit the ruins of St. Paul’s Church, and spend some time at A-Ma Temple. For lunch, go to Senado Square and try some local food at a cafe and browse through the shops.
Later, head to the Cotai Strip to see the amazingly themed casinos. You will definitely want to see The Venetian Macao with it’s indoor canals and gondolas. And The Parisian Macao has its very own Eiffel Tower and observation deck. If you want a great view of the entire area, visit Macau Tower’s observation deck. Or if you are really adventurous, you can bungee jump off it!
Logistics
Take an hour-long high speed ferry to get to Macau from Hong Kong. Remember to bring your passport because you are passing between two different customs territories. Once you are there, it’s easy to get around using free hotel and casino buses. There’s also the Macau Light Rail (MLRT) and public buses. Taxis are also available, but often are cash only. Be aware that Macau has a different currency than Hong Kong, but Hong Kong dollars are readily accepted at a 1:1 rate.
Ocean Park
Yes, I know – I’m recommending another theme park! But if you are traveling with kids or teens, having some fun days at a theme park helps break up all the history and culture you are soaking up on other days. Ocean Park is a unique theme park that is a theme park, zoo, and aquarium all in one with incredible views.
There are plenty of rides people of all ages will enjoy, from heart-pumping thrills to gentle family friendly attractions. The Grand Aquarium features a massive underwater viewing dome. Animal exhibits include giant pandas, sea lions, seals, penguins, dolphins, meerkats, alligators, and more. And get great views from above on a scenic cable car.
Logistics
This might be the simplest of our day trips from Hong Kong to accomplish! Take the MRT South Island Line to Ocean Park Station, which is directly at the park entrance.
Sai Kung
Sai Kung is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Known as Hong Kong’s “Back Garden.” this area is a popular weekend escape for locals. It is known for its scenery, seafood, and laid-back atmosphere.
Start with a walk on the waterfront Promenade and Seafood Street of Sai Kung Town. Then take a boat to Sharp Island to enjoy a few hours of swimming and relaxing on the beach. If beach time isn’t really your thing, visit Hong Kong Global Geopark to see volcanic rock formations. No matter how you spend your time, make sure to eat plenty of seafood.
Logistics
Take the MTR to Choi Hung Station. From the station, take Exit C2 and then get on the green minibus #1A to Sai Kung Town. The complete journey will take just over an hour. Or you can take a taxi in about 45 minutes. To return to Hong Kong, just reverse these directions.
Cheung Chau Island
Cheung Chau Island is another great place to visit for a laid-back beachy vibe. Start with a visit to Pak Tai Temple dedicated to a Taoist sea god. Then explore the village with a walk on the promenade. Browse through shops and make a lunch out of street food that is readily available.
Later, take a scenic walk on the Mini Great Wall Trail and enjoy the view. You can also visit Cheung Po Tsai Cave. Then it’s time for some swimming and relaxing on the beach. Choose from Tun Wan Beach or Kwun Yam Beach. Before you depart the area, definitely have a seafood dinner back in town.
Logistics
You can only get to Cheung Chau Island via ferry. There’s a fast ferry that takes about 25 minutes, and a slow ferry that is about an hour. Take the fast ferry in the morning to get there quickly, and enjoy sunset views on the slow ferry on your way back.
Which of these day trips from Hong Kong are on your itinerary?
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