Great Ways To Experience Hong Kong Like A Local

Have you been to Hong Kong before or are you planning your first visit? Whatever your answer to the question, you will probably realise that Hong Kong has a lot to offer for both locals and international visitors. When you come to Hong Kong, you will want to experience the city just like the locals.

But how can you get the most from your trip when you are visiting for the first time? Well, keep reading this post to find out how you can be ‘Experiencing Hong Kong like a local.

1. Cycle In The New Territories

If you are a cycling enthusiast then Hong Kong city will definitely wow you. The New Territories area of Hong Kong is relatively rural and unspoilt, it still has a number of historic buildings and temples that you really need to see whenever you come to the city. Many Hong Kong locals go to the New Territories to experience the diverse nature including wetlands, parks and mountains that are isolated from the metropolitan area. You can rent a bike and join the locals to cycle along some picturesque routes such as Sha Tin, Mei Tuk or Nam Sang Wai.

2. Hike Along The Dragon’s Back Trail

This is one of the favourite activities among Hong Kong locals. The hiking trail is 8.5 km long and it offers some of the best panoramic sea views in the metropolitan area, this is something you should definitely not miss.

The hike takes about 4 hours and is not very busy on weekends so it’s a great trip to take with friends or family to escape the crowds. After the hike, you can even cool off by taking a swim.

3. Enjoy Live Music And Dance At Peel Fresco

Do you love live music? If you do then Hong Kong is the place for you. The city has a diverse culture, wherever you go you’ll come across some great live entertainment. If jazz is your thing, Hong Kong has many great clubs playing some local jazz at its best. So relax, grab your favourite drink and join in the fun (or even the dancing) with the locals.

4. Shop At The IFC

As you would expect from any major city, Hong Kong has a wide selection of shopping opportunities. There are countless shopping malls where you can shop for whatever you need. The good thing with the malls in this city is that many of the shops are quite fairly priced, you can find something to buy whatever your budget.

However, if you do have the money make sure you don’t miss a chance to shop at the IFC (International Finance Centre). It’s considered to be the most striking buildings in the city’s skyline, reaching up 88 floors above the ground. It is the 8th tallest building globally and claims to have one of the best luxury shopping centres in the world.

5. Experience Horse Races At Happy Valley

Happy Valley Racecourse attracts hundreds of Hong Kong locals who come here to place bets and cheer on their favourites. The racecourse is usually open on Wednesday evenings and it’s an event you should definitely try to experience. The general atmosphere is electric but very welcoming to visitors, good fun all round. The surrounding area is full of restaurants, hotels and shopping malls so you can rest assured there is plenty to do for everyone, whatever your taste.

6. Graham Street Market

If you want to shop for some fresh produce while on your trip to Hong Kong, Graham Street Market is the place to go. Being more than 160 years old, the market is said to be one of the oldest standing street markets and is known for its fresh groceries. You will meet many Hong Kong locals doing their daily fresh food shop. Join them and have fun shopping for some of the tastiest and fresh local ingredients. There is always a wide selection of vegetables, fruits, meat, fish etc and all at very affordable prices. 

7. Enjoy Bubble Tea At Mong Kok

You can’t come to Hong Kong without trying the bubble tea at Mong Kok. If you have never been there before, Mong Kok should be on your to-do list. Bubble tea in China is called “Jun Ju Lai Cha” and is an ice milky tea containing tapioca pearls. It comes in various forms so it’s up to you to choose the one that you enjoy. It’s another great place to interact with some Hong Kong locals and have a good chat as you enjoy the tea.

8. Have A Crazy Night At Lan Kwai Fong

Lan Kwai Fon or “LKF” as it’s popularly referred is the best place you can visit for a good night out while in Hong Kong. It’s definitely a place where you can relax and enjoy drinks with all sorts of Hong Kong locals, the parties go on until the early hours. Like many places in Hong Kong, the place is quite affordable, so you have no excuse not to indulge. Make sure it’s on your list for the next time you fly into Hong Kong and fully experience Hong Kong life as the locals do.

9. Try Seafood At Sai Kung

If you love seafood, make sure to visit Sai Kung before you leave Hong Kong. It’s a fishing village where you will see hundreds of fishermen on their boats hard at work. Most of the fish caught is delivered to hotels and restaurants but the rest of the catch is for sold directly to the public from the fisherman themselves. Go to any hotel or restaurant in Sai Kung and try the seafood, we guarantee you will not be disappointed.

In Conclusion

If you’re planning your first trip to Hong Kong, you’ve definitely made the right decision. Hong Kong is a unique place and has something for everyone. We hope the above tips will help you experience Hong Kong like a local and get the most from your visit whether it’s a short city break or a longer stay.