Hong Kong is a photogenic city with epic views. There isn’t one best view in Hong Kong, there are many. Not only that, there are many different ways to enjoy the views. Whether you choose to view the city from ground level, from mountain tops, from flash bars, from hiking trails, from the sky or while relaxing poolside you won’t be disappointed. Take your pick. Here are a few of the best views in Hong Kong that are accessible to the casual visitor.
Famous Hong Kong view of the Skyline
From the Promenade
The picture postcard view of the Hong Kong skyline is best seen from Kowloon looking towards the Island. You can enjoy it for free as you walk along the promenade that stretches between Whampoa and Tsim Tsa Shui.
From the Star Ferry
Alternatively, hop aboard an historic and iconic green and white Star Ferry and catch a breeze as you cross the harbour. The best views are on the Tsim Tsa Shui to Central crossing.
Hong Kong view from The Peak
If you’ve never been to Hong Kong before, a visit to the Peak is a must do. Away from the crowds we know a couple of excellent spots to enjoy the panoramic view down over the forest of skyscrapers on Hong Kong Island. It then sweeps across the harbour over to Kowloon. The only thing we can’t guarantee is the weather. Both during the day and at sunset when the sun goes down and the buildings below light up. Sometimes the view is swallowed by cloud and mist. So long as there isn’t too much mist this can give a very different and atmospheric view of the city.
Whether you chose to reach The Peak on foot, by bus (be sure to sit on the top deck) or by tram there is plenty to see on the way there and the way back as Hong Kong unfolds beneath you.
Man made views
Some of Hong Kong’s best views can be enjoyed from man-made structures, such as tall buildings, elevators and swimming pools.
Tall Buildings
Sky100 on the 100th floor of Kowloons’ ICC building is an observation deck inside Hong Kong’s tallest building. You can find ticketing information here.
Over in Central IFC offers both a popular Rooftop Garden and an unofficial (and free) observation deck. Officially its
Swimming Pools
There are plenty of rooftop pools dotted about Hong Kong which provide stunning city views. There are too many to list, so here’s a small sample.
Both the Kerry Hotel and the Harbour Grand on Kowloon side offer rooftop pools with fabulous views towards Hong Kong Island. As an added bonus, the Kerry also has a rooftop bar (Red Sugar), which also boasts fantastic views, the Harbour Grand Pool has a glass side. Hotel Icon, the Intercontinental and W are other options.
On Hong Kong Island, the pool at the Grand Hyatt, Wan Chai has opposite views across to Kowloon.
Even if you’re not staying at these hotels, some offer day passes to use the pool and spa facilities, check with them direct to see whether they offer this service and for current pricing.
Lifts
Well, one lift really. If you’re a fan of Charlie and the Chocolate factory and always wanted to ride in a glass elevator, then here’s your chance. The Hopewell Centre in Wan Chai has a glass lift that is open to the public. If heights make you feel wobbly, you might want to stand back as the lift whizzes up to the 56th floor providing a thrill and great views to boot. There’s a revolving restaurant at the top if you want to continue to enjoy the view. There’s also a roof top pool, but it’s private and was built for feng shui puposes, rather than as a pool-with-a-view.
From the Sky
For a Bird’s eye view of the Hong Kong, you need to take to the sky.
By Cable Car
Lantau is Hong Kong’s largest island. Take the 25 minute cable car from up to Ngong Ping to see the Big Buddha. If you’re feeling brave and extravagant, shell out the extra for a crystal cabin, which has a clear glass bottom. En route you will see the airport, the bridge to Macau. Beyond that there are lush hillsides with waterfalls and overgrown tombs. As you climb higher you will see Tian Tan, the Big Buddha presiding over his mountaintop perch.
By Helicopter
Take a helicopter tour. This gives you a whole different point of view and is great option if you’re celebrating a special occasion.
Take a Hike for some of the Hong Kong’s Best Views
Many visitors to Hong Kong are surprised to discover that beyond the famous high-rises they can find pristine mountains, islands and secret harbours. Hiking is a popular pastime and the best way to access this less known side of Hong Kong. If you fancy something more challenging that walking up the Peak, why not try one of the many hikes on offer. Stunning views are guaranteed.
Maclehose Trail
The Maclehose Trail is a 100 kilometre romp through Hong Kong’s New Territories. You obviously don’t need to complete the entire trail as there are 10 sections with various difficulty ratings encompassing thick jungle, sparkling waterfalls and quiet beaches. Although it’s possible that you could encounter wildlife such as wild boar, monkeys or snakes, you don’t need to worry about coming face to face with a wild tiger. We like Stage 5 which includes Lion Rock. Parts of it are quite challenging and you may well encounter wild monkeys along the way. From Lion Rock you will enjoy marvelous views over Kowloon back towards Hong Kong Island.
Hong Kong Trail
Dragon’s Back is the last and most famous segment of the Hong Kong Trail. This is a good one for novice hikers and offers beautiful scenic views of
How Can Hong Kong Greeters Help?
How do you want to view Hong Kong? What do you want to see and do? Contact us for more information on our private walking or car tours. We are family friendly and can tailor you itinerary to accommodate your needs.