The Pearl of Orient: Hong Kong

I remember learning in geography on Penang being the ‘Pearl of Orient’. That aside, another famous “Pearl of Orient’ in Asia I want to talk about today is none other than HONG KONG.

Situated on the Southeastern coastline of China, Hong Kong is a vibrant city that has grown so great that it has now brand itself as ‘Asia’s World City’. What (used-to-be) British Dependent Territory of Hong Kong consists of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, New Territories and more than 200 outlying islands off the coast of Hong Kong.

3 main Hong Kong districts: Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, New Territories

But there are 3 main areas in Hong Kong which attracts the throngs of visitors and tourists to the Pearl of Orient in all seasons, namely Hong Kong Island (also known as Victoria), Kowloon, and New Territories.

1. Hong Kong Island
You will find familiar names such as Central, Western, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, Aberdeen, and South Coast in Hong Kong Island. Head over to Central if you want to feel the vibe of government headquarters, financial hub, central transportation hub, and exclusive shopping. Or walk around Western market where you can see the most typical Chinatown of all. Wan Chai is more an artsy district where colourful nightlife and arts centres is offered to its people. Try out at some of the excellent ethnic restaurants there too! If you want to seek a more nature’s cultural experience, Aberdeen is an old fishing port that offers you scenic delights. You can also hang out for a relaxing afternoon at the beaches of Repulse Bay, Deep Water Bay, or the fishing village of Stanley.

Have a cup of tea at Wan Chai

Old boats at Aberdeen

2. Kowloon
The name ‘Kowloon’ translate to nine dragons. The most famous area of Kowloon is Tsim Sha Tsui. Catch some Hong Kong celebrities at this neon light districts where major shopping (Nathan Road), dining and entertainment areas congregate together to give you the full blast of modern city life rhythm. Another two areas name you should remember is Yau Ma Tai and Mong Kok. You will be fascinated at the many specialty shops and open markets with names such as Ladies Market, Jade Market, Yuen Po Bird Market, Flower Market, Goldfish Market. It’s pretty straight forward when it comes to naming places here and I’m sure it’s not hard to find the places where you want to visit.

Tsim Sha Tsui Street

6 floors for you to shop until you drop!

3. New Territories
Though New Territories cover a large land area, it serves more of a rural retreat to the residents. You’ll be charmed by the traditional villages, walking trails, parks, and temples. It’s not all that backward at New Territories as many chic New Towns are slowly emerging in various areas. You can walk the Lung Yeuk Tau Heritage Trail to find out about the stories behind the neighbourhood, make some wishes at Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees and Tin Hau Temple, and be delighted while you explore the streets of Sai Kung.

City Parks

Sai Kung Walking Trail

But most of all, in Hong Kong, no matter where you go, be it Hong Kong Island, Kowloon or New Territories, it is another food heaven that will be sure to make your stomach happy. But I’ll let you explore, and you come back and let me know what’s the best to eat and where to try them! Let’s go Hong Kong!