On a budget? Here are unforgettable experiences in Hong Kong for free
It's no secret that Hong Kong is a favorite among tourists. This dynamic city is known for its stunning skyline, lively street markets, delectable cuisine, and shopping places.
Recently, the city has gained the reputation of being the second most expensive place globally for high-net-worth individuals to maintain a comfortable standard of living, as reported by the Hong Kong Business.
But, there's no need to worry. There are still plenty of affordable and budget-friendly options for sightseeing in the vibrant city of Hong Kong.
From the Avenue of Stars to the world's longest escalator system, here are some places you should check out in the country that won't break the bank.
Avenue of Stars
A visit to Hong Kong isn't complete without a stop at the Avenue of Stars. This significant cultural and tourist attraction offers a blend of entertainment, history, and spectacular views that celebrate the city's artistic offerings and elemental aesthetics.
Located along the Victoria Harbour waterfront in Tsim Sha Tsui, it features the country's biggest entertainment stars immortalized via handprints and statues. In addition, it offers stunning views of Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong skyline, especially at night when the Symphony of Lights show takes place.
It is easily accessible from various points in Tsim Sha Tsui, including the Tsim Sha Tsui MTR station. The promenade is a popular spot for leisurely walks and photography, attracting yearly tourists.
Witness the Symphony of Lights
The Symphony of Lights is a spectacular multimedia light and sound show that takes place nightly along the Victoria Harbour waterfront.
The show typically starts at 8 p.m. and lasts for about 13 minutes. It occurs every night, weather permitting. We advise that you arrive early as the best viewing spots tend to fill up quickly.
Yuen Po Street Bird Garden
Yuen Po Street Bird Garden, also known as Bird Market, is one of the most popular street markets in Hong Kong, where you can find a variety of feathered friends for sale.
Likewise, this market in Mong Kok offers a glimpse of Hong Kong's traditional bird-keeping practices, a longtime hobby among locals of generations. You can witness these through a wide array of birds, including songbirds and parrots, as well as birdcages, bird feed, and various accessories for bird care and maintenance.
If you feel like you need a break from the bustling streets of the city, you can perfectly do so at the Yuen Po Street Bird Garden, which resembles a traditional Chinese garden with beautiful landscaping, bonsai trees, and pavilions.
Overall, the garden's picturesque setting and the colorful birds make it an excellent place for photography enthusiasts looking to capture unique shots of Hong Kong's cultural heritage.
Yuen Po Street Bird Garden is easily accessible by public transportation, such as the MTR (Mong Kok Station) and various bus routes.
After visiting the street bird garden, how about some flower shopping? Nearby is the Flower Market, where you can explore a vibrant array of flowers, plants, and gardening supplies, which perfectly complements your visit to the bird garden.
Take photos of the unique street art, murals, and graffiti
If you love art and appreciate murals and random graffiti, Central and Hollywood Road is for you!
Hollywood Road is filled with numerous art galleries showcasing contemporary art, traditional Chinese art, and more. It's an excellent place for art enthusiasts and collectors alike to explore.
Likewise, along the area, you can find the former Police Married Quarters (PMQ), which houses local designer shops, artists, and creative enterprises. It offers a mix of shops, studios, and exhibitions.
Within the PMQ, if you want to relive your K-pop fantasy, you can visit the Korean Cultural Center's K-pop Zone on the 6th floor of the building. It houses various lightsticks from your favorite K-pop groups as well as interactive activities for every Hallyu fan.
Experience the world's longest escalator system
The world's longest outdoor covered escalator system is located in Hong Kong. It is known as the Central-Mid-Levels Escalator and Walkway System, often called the Mid-Levels Escalator.
The entire system stretches over 800 meters and consists of a series of escalators and moving walkways, making it the longest outdoor-covered escalator system in the world.
The escalator system was designed to help residents living in the Mid-Levels district commute to and from Central easily. It also serves as a popular tourist attraction, offering convenient access to various shops, restaurants, and residential areas along its route.
Editor's Note: This trip was sponsored by Hong Kong Tourism Board.