Sightseeing on HK Island
With traditional Chinese character in locations like Dried Seafood Street, historic Colonial buildings such as Western Market and Flatstaff House, or cutting edge modern Architecture like the Bank of China Building and IFC II on the skyline Hong Kong is both a part of China heritage, a world city, and a mix of colonial history.
Visit the Maritime Museum or go to Ocean Park to be reminded of the connection between Hong Kong and the sea. Then go back to 5 star hotel accommodation or quirky local boutique hotels.
The Wanchai District is full of interesting historical and modern things, from the Old Wanchai Post Office building which is now a historic resource centre and is a Chinese/Colonial mixed architecture typical of 1900's Hong Kong, to the Golden Bauhinia monuments beside the Exhibition Centre.
Known locally simply as The Peak the Victoria Peak overlooks Victoria Harbour and the south side of Hong Kong. With the historic Peak Tram cable railway to take you to the observation platform, and the quiet Circular Walk around the peak this can be an all day outing in itself for those who love a view, hiking, or simply shopping in one of the two shopping arcades there. Children will be delighted by Madam Tussauds in the Peak Tower, the gardens and playground at Mount Austin Road and dining in the kid friendly Cafe Deco.
On the south side of the island is Stanley Market, one of the world famed shopping locations for all tourists to visit. Get discounted garments, Chinese arts and crafts, modern t-shirts and caps or traditional calligraphy.
Also on the south of the island is Ocean Park, a theme park unique to Hong Kong. With a massive aquarium, dolphins and seals as well as roller coasters and other rides it is a great day out for all. Don't miss the closing show with animated fountains, fire and music.
In Central Hong Kong those interested in buildings will see some of the most impressive structures in the world including the HSBC Building, International Finance Centre II and the Exhibition and Convention Centre, all juxtaposed to historic buildings such as the Supreme Court and the Court of Final Appeal and St John's Cathedral.
In Admiralty the green Hong Kong Park containing Flagstaff House and Visual Arts Centre, both historic buildings. Visit Flagstaff to see the Teaware Museum, but just as much to see the historic building itself, then wander the park and view the Edward Youde Aviary, Hong Kong's largest, where tree canopy level walkways allow you to walk among the tree tops and view birds in their natural habitat.
Other major attractions
Victoria Park - A green space in Causeway Bay, great for some relaxing time away from the shops particularly for the kids.
Man Mo Temple - One of the oldest temples, good to visit while on the way to Cat Street antique market, once known for stolen goods, but now a great place to buy both genuine and reproduction small Chinese artefacts.
Hong Kong Racing Museum - A little surprise inside the Happy Valley Racecourse, this museum traces the history of racing in the region.
Hong Kong Museum of Costal Defence - Well worth the long trip to reach this converted fort with displays of concerning the defence of Hong Kong from historic to modern times. A large museum with plenty of walking between sections.
Dr Sun Yat-sen Museum - Housed in an interesting historic building this museum celebrates the life of the founder of modern china with a particular emphasis on his time spent in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Maritime Museum - A must see museum located conveniently at the Central Ferry Piers this tells the story of Hong Kong's connection with the sea from historic to modern times, illustrated well with artefacts both modern and ancient plus unbeatable views of the working harbour beyond the large glass windows. With what is outside the window connecting so closely with what is inside the whole of the harbour becomes part of the museum.
Consider one of the Tour Bus routes to see more of the island in a shorter time.