There is quite a lot to do in Hong Kong other than shopping. You will be surprised at just how many attractions there are! But three days is just enough time to see the best highlights the city-state has to offer. Read on to discover how you can plan a three-day itinerary to make the most of the time you have left.
Wilfredor, Hong Kong City, CC0 1.0
Day one – morning
While in Hong Kong, a visit to the Tian Tan Buddha Statue is like tradition. Also called the Big Buddha, this impressive statue has a height of 34 metres. The seated image of the Buddha is positioned gracefully on Lantau Island, overlooking the Po Lin Monastery. It is among the largest seated Buddha images in the world, and it has taken 12 years for its construction to be completed. The setting is gorgeous, encircled by lush forests overlooking the ocean. The best means of getting there is via cable car; the ride lasts for 25 minutes and finishes up at Ngong Ping Village. A comfortable walk from the village will take you to the main attraction.
Afternoon
During the afternoon, try the free walking tour, called Free walk HK! You will get to visit all the significant attractions located in central Hong Kong. It is organised by locals and done on a volunteer basis. Relax during the evening near the harbour, and check out the light shows performed there. Also, stop near the Tsim Sha Tsui Clock Tower before ending your day.
Day two – Morning
Start the day early by hiking up to Dragon’s Back to witness a different landscape away from the busy cityscape of Hong Kong. It is Hong Kong's most renowned hiking trail. The path has many scenic views overseeing the ocean.
Start at Section 8, which is the bus stop to Tei Wan. From there, the route is a considerable hike. Following this, it will be an incline, guiding you to Big Wave Bay. Once there, go to ‘Shek O’ by bus or taxi. You can find excellent beaches that are perfect for swimming, and a variety of restaurants with many options, including seafood. Take sufficient water, a change of clothes and a swimming suit!
Afternoon
After lunch, visit Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden. It was made in the 1930s and reconstructed in the 1990s. The buildings in this temple are made from timber. The temple exterior is beautiful, with a meticulously maintained Chinese Garden. A lotus garden pond, bonsai trees and all kinds of Lilly ponds are scattered throughout. You can also visit the Chi Lin Nunnery nearby, a monastery for Buddhist nuns.
Day three – Morning
Spend the morning at Tai O Fishing Village, which is a popular attraction in Hong Kong, although far less congested than the roads and markets in Hong Kong. The residents here are the Tanka people, who made Lantau Island their home. Their houses are constructed on stilts and stay over the tidal water. The people live a more tranquil existence here than on the mainland. Their occupations revolve around fish and seafood, while some villagers make a living from tourism as well. Boat rides and tours are popular things to do here. Also try and visit the local market to sample the local food. As a bonus, you may even catch a sighting of the rare and endangered pink dolphin living in the ocean nearby.
Evening
Leave your last evening to try out all the tasty food options you may have missed in Hong Kong, from pineapple buns to stinky tofu. A spot of shopping and an all-out feast from street food to star-class restaurants are the best ways to end your time in Hong Kong. A Wan Chai hotel the likes of Dorsett Wan Chai Hong Kong will offer you comfortable accommodation during your time in Hong Kong.