40 Things to Do in Hong Kong
While Hong Kong dazzles with its futuristic skyline, vibrant markets, and world-class dining, exploring this dynamic metropolis doesn’t necessarily mean emptying your wallet. Countless fantastic free things to do in Hong Kong reveal its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural tapestry, and unique urban energy without costing a Hong Kong dollar. Experiencing the city’s iconic views and hidden gems is easily achievable for budget-conscious travelers.
This guide illuminates 40 specific activities, sights, and experiences you can enjoy in Hong Kong completely free of charge. From breathtaking harbour vistas and serene green spaces to traditional temples and lively street markets, prepare to discover the accessible and exciting side of this incredible city. Let’s explore the wealth of free adventures Hong Kong has to offer.
Breathtaking Views and Iconic Landmarks
Victoria Peak Garden Stroll: Escape the crowds near the summit tram station by visiting the tranquil Victoria Peak Garden. Enjoy its lush lawns, Victorian-style gazebos, and pleasant pathways, all completely free to access.
Lugard Road Lookout Walk: Take an easy, paved walk along Lugard Road near the Peak Tower. This mostly flat path offers stunning panoramic views of Victoria Harbour and the city skyline unfolding before you.
Avenue of Stars: Stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront promenade, admiring plaques honouring Hong Kong film stars and enjoying unbeatable views across the harbour to the Hong Kong Island skyline.
Watch the Symphony of Lights: Witness the spectacular free nightly multimedia show involving lights and lasers projected from key buildings on both sides of Victoria Harbour. Find a prime viewing spot along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront for the best experience.
Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade: Walk along the waterfront promenade stretching from the Star Ferry Pier towards Hung Hom. Enjoy constant picture-perfect views of the Hong Kong Island skyline day or night.
Central and Western District Promenade: Enjoy harbour views from the Hong Kong Island side by walking sections of this waterfront promenade. It offers different perspectives, including views towards Kowloon and the cruise terminal.
Ride the Mid-Levels Escalators: Take a free ride up (or walk down) the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system. Observe the bustling streets and scenes of the Mid-Levels and SoHo neighbourhoods as you ascend.
Serene Parks and Green Oases
Hong Kong Park: Explore this urban oasis nestled amongst skyscrapers in Central. Discover its aviary, greenhouse, fountains, and peaceful walking paths, offering a welcome escape from the city buzz.
Kowloon Park: Wander through this large park in Tsim Sha Tsui featuring gardens, aviaries, a flamingo pond, and art installations. It provides a green retreat right in the heart of bustling Kowloon.
Nan Lian Garden: Step into tranquility at this classical Chinese garden designed in the Tang Dynasty style in Diamond Hill. Stroll the meticulously landscaped grounds with timber structures, water features, and rocks; entry is free.
Chi Lin Nunnery: Adjacent to Nan Lian Garden, admire the beautiful wooden Tang Dynasty architecture of this large Buddhist temple complex. Exploring the serene courtyards and viewing the buildings from outside is free.
Tamar Park: Relax in this modern waterfront park next to the Central Government Complex in Admiralty. Enjoy the spacious lawns, sculptures, and excellent harbour views.
Victoria Park: Explore Hong Kong Island’s largest public park in Causeway Bay. Enjoy its jogging paths, sports facilities (watching is free), gardens, and lively atmosphere, especially on weekends.
Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens: Discover primates, reptiles, and a wide variety of birds, alongside beautiful gardens, in this historic Mid-Levels park. Admission is always free.
Cultural Immersion Temples and Heritage
Man Mo Temple: Visit one of Hong Kong’s oldest and most famous temples on Hollywood Road. Step inside to see the giant hanging incense coils and soak up the atmospheric traditional setting.
Wong Tai Sin Temple: Explore the vibrant grounds of this large, popular temple complex known for fortune-telling. Admiring the colourful architecture and observing devotees is free and culturally fascinating (fortune telling costs money).
St John’s Cathedral: Visit the oldest Anglican church in the Far East, located in Central. Admire the Gothic Revival architecture and step inside for quiet reflection outside service times.
Explore Old Town Central: Follow suggested walking routes (maps available online) through the historic streets of Central and Sheung Wan. Discover colonial architecture, traditional shops, temples, and street art.
Visit Tai Kwun Courtyards: Wander the beautifully restored courtyards and outdoor spaces of the former Central Police Station compound. Admire the heritage architecture and check for free outdoor events or displays.
Blue House Cluster (Exterior/Ground Floor): Walk around this revitalized cluster of historic residential buildings in Wan Chai, known for its distinctive blue colour. Explore the ground floor community spaces and admire the preserved Lingnan architecture.
Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware: Explore exhibits on the culture of tea drinking and beautiful Chinese tea ware inside a historic colonial building in Hong Kong Park. Admission is free.
Ping Shan Heritage Trail: Take the MTR out to Tin Shui Wai and follow this trail through traditional villages. See ancestral halls, temples, and study halls offering a glimpse into the New Territories’ history.
Exploring Lively Markets and Neighborhoods
Browse Temple Street Night Market: Experience the lively atmosphere of this famous Kowloon market in the evening. Browse the stalls selling clothes, souvenirs, electronics, and enjoy the vibrant street food scene (browsing is free).
Walk Through Ladies’ Market: Stroll along Tung Choi Street in Mong Kok, browsing the bustling market stalls packed with clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. Enjoy the energetic atmosphere even if just window shopping.
Explore the Flower Market: Wander down Flower Market Road in Prince Edward, enjoying the colourful blooms and fragrant scents from numerous flower and plant shops. It’s a feast for the senses, especially before major festivals.
Visit the Goldfish Market: Stroll along Tung Choi Street North in Mong Kok to see shops displaying thousands of colourful fish in plastic bags. It’s a unique and visually striking local market scene.
Discover Sham Shui Po: Explore the streets of this working-class Kowloon neighborhood. Browse electronic component shops on Apliu Street, fabric stores on Ki Lung Street, and experience an authentic, gritty side of Hong Kong.
Wander Through Mong Kok: Immerse yourself in one of the most densely populated areas on earth. Experience the neon lights, crowded streets, diverse shops, and intense energy of this Kowloon district.
Explore SoHo (South of Hollywood Road): Wander the trendy streets packed with restaurants, bars, and boutiques. Admire the street art and soak up the chic urban atmosphere.
Unique Hong Kong Experiences
Watch Tai Chi in Parks: Wake up early and visit parks like Kowloon Park or Victoria Park. Observe groups of locals practicing the slow, graceful movements of Tai Chi Chuan.
Beach Day at Shek O or Big Wave Bay: Escape the city bustle by taking a bus to these popular beaches on the south side of Hong Kong Island. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and the relaxed coastal vibe.
Hike Dragon’s Back Trail (Partial): Hike sections of this famous, relatively easy trail offering stunning coastal views over Shek O and Big Wave Bay. Accessing the trailheads is free, enjoy the hike as long as you like.
Observe Cemeteries on Hillsides: Notice the vast, densely packed cemeteries covering hillsides in areas like Aberdeen or Happy Valley. It offers a unique perspective on local traditions and space constraints.
Walk Through IFC Mall (Views & Window Shopping): Explore the public areas of this high-end mall in Central. Enjoy air conditioning, window shop luxury brands, and access public terraces for harbour views.
Attend Free Events (Check Listings): Look for schedules from organizations like the Hong Kong Tourism Board or Leisure and Cultural Services Department. Free performances, workshops, or cultural events sometimes occur in public spaces.
Public Libraries Exploration: Visit a large public library like the Central Library in Causeway Bay. Browse books, enjoy the quiet space, and potentially find free exhibitions or talks.
Take Scenic Photos: Capture the dramatic skyline, bustling streets, serene temples, and beautiful nature surrounding Hong Kong. Photography is a great way to document your free adventures.
Happy Valley Racecourse (View from Outside/Nearby Park): On race nights (usually Wednesdays), experience the atmosphere around the Happy Valley Racecourse. While betting and entry cost money, soaking up the buzz from adjacent public areas is free.
