Have you ever been somewhere that pleasantly surprised you? For me, that was Hong Kong. It wasn’t on my bucket list of places to visit, but a layover let us spend a night there and we absolutely fell in love. Layovers are perfect for uncovering hidden gems we might not have otherwise visited. Here I recount our whirlwind visit through Hong Kong and some of the things we did along the way including the Ngong Ping 360 cable car ride.
Ngong Ping 360
The highlight of our trip was a breathtaking ride on the Ngong Ping 360. This is a cable car you can take to the top of a mountain village and visit the ‘Big Buddha’. I booked last minute tickets on the Klook app, which was fast and easy. We opted for the crystal car which has a glass bottom. I highly suggest doing that over the standard car as you soar over the ocean, and lush mountains. We were awestruck by the unexpected natural beauty of Hong Kong.
Big Buddha
Once you get to the mountain village on Lantau island you can hike to the Big Buddha also known as the Tian Tan Buddha. You ascend 268 steps, which is a feat in itself. Leaving us breathless in more ways than one. Yet, every step was rewarded with sweeping vistas and a profound sense of tranquility. Standing in the presence of the colossal Big Buddha, crafted over 12 years with 250 tonnes of bronze, was an awe-inspiring moment. It sure is one Big Buddha.
Lively Markets
Hong Kong is famous for its vibrant street markets, where you can find everything from fresh produce and seafood to electronics and clothing. Mong Kok’s Ladies’ Market and Temple Street Night Market are popular spots for bargain hunting and experiencing local culture.
World-Class Shopping
For the fashion-forward traveler, Hong Kong is a paradise for shopping. From luxury boutiques and designer labels to bustling street markets and quirky indie stores, Hong Kong offers a diverse shopping experience.
Accommodation
Situated in the heart of Tung Chung, a vibrant district on Lantau Island, Four Points by Sheraton Hong Kong offers a serene retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. The rooms and the hotel were impeccably clean, spacious and had a nice view of the harbour. Guests can choose from a variety of room options, including deluxe rooms with city or mountain views, as well as executive suites for added luxury and convenience. They also offer a complimentary shuttle to and from the airport which we used and found very convenient since we had an early flight the next day. The area was nice at night to walk around and go for dinner. It is easily accessible by public transit.
Disneyland Hong Kong
Although we didn’t have time to make it here due to a flight delay, who doesn’t enjoy a visit to Disneyland? Hong Kong Disneyland is easily accessible from the city center via public transportation, including the MTR (Mass Transit Railway) and dedicated Disneyland Resort Line. Whether you’re a die-hard Disney fan or simply seeking a magical escape during your layover in Hong Kong (like we were, sad face), a visit to Hong Kong Disneyland promises unforgettable moments and cherished memories that will last a lifetime. If you can’t tell I am still sad about our missed opportunity here.
Though our journey may be ending, our love affair with Hong Kong is just beginning. This brief encounter has ignited a passion for exploration and a desire to delve deeper into the wonders of this captivating city. We hope to return, visit Disney and spend more time exploring this bustling metropolis!
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Happy adventures!
