10 Things to do in Hong Kong and Tsim Sha Tsui

Back in the 19^th century there was a fishing village by the mouth of the Pearl River Delta, where the harbor was deep and the water green. The world called this British colony the “Pearl of the Orient”, but residents named it Hong Kong, which means the “fragrant harbor” Its geographical position made Hong Kong an attractive gateway between the East and West, and it soon blossomed into a Centre for international trade.

In its unique history is a very special place I the Kowloon peninsula called Tsim Sha Tsui (TSM), meaning “Sandy Mouth Point” In the 1930s, people poured into Tsim Sha Tsui via its busy harbor and railways, and with them came diligent residents and prosperous opportunities for every sector of society. Their hard work quickly turn Hong Kong into one of busiest cities in Asia, and the world.

Here is a short list what to do in Hong Kong and particularly in Tsim Sha Tsui

1) Science Museum Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East If you think a visit to a museum means staring into glass cabinets for endless hours, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Over 70 per cent of the Hong Kong Science Museum’s 500 exhibits are hands-on, meaning you can literally play around with a broad spectrum of cool topics, including robotics, virtual reality and transportation. Be sure to check out the 22-metre-high twin-tower Energy Machine which, when activated, triggers a series of displays to produce spectacular audio-visual effects demonstrating various forms of energy.

The Hong Kong Museum of History has proved it’s possible to squeeze 400 million years of history into one 7,000 square metre space. A list-topper for history buffs, the museum has made enormous efforts in studying, collecting, processing and exhibiting countless objects which are related to the archaeology, history, ethnography and natural histories of Hong Kong and South China. Thematic exhibitions are also regularly held at different times.

 

2) The Hong Kong Maritime Museum showcases Hong Kong’s maritime heritage in its past, present and future and places the city’s seafaring story in local, regional and international contexts. In addition to documenting the past in terms of how China, Asia and the West have developed boats, ships, maritime exploration, trade and naval warfare, the museum also covers the present by explaining global trends and the importance of shipping to Hong Kong`s economy.

Visitors of all ages and nationalities can find something that interests them, discover interesting facts and enjoy the interactive displays. Each of the galleries has been set up with the help and generous support of individuals and corporations in the maritime industry, who believe in the importance of the preservation of Hong Kong`s maritime history.

3)The Peak: If there is only one thing you can do in Hong Kong, go to The Peak. If you have many things to do here, still go to The Peak. The highest point on Hong Kong Island, this has been the city’s most exclusive neighborhood since colonial times — back then it was the cooler air that attracted the rich and famous; in the post air-conditioning era, the views of one of the world’s most spectacular cityscapes keep them coming.  That view is also what makes The Peak one of the most popular attractions in Hong Kong.

Vantage Points: The anvil-shaped The Peak Tower has a large viewing platform called Sky Terrace 428, in addition to dining and retail outlets. Nearby, The Peak Galleria has a free-entry observation deck, as well as shopping and dining options. More Head to Lugard Road Lookout and Lions Point View Pavilion for more stunning views. For leisurely unfolding vistas, take the 3.5-kilometre Peak Circle Walk.

The Peak Tram: Riding the Peak Tram is a visual experience in its own right — Hong Kong Island’s skyscrapers slide past your window at what appear to be impossible angles as you make the ascent to The Peak on the city’s historic, funicular railway. Located at Lower Terminus, The Peak Tram Historical Gallery is a way of paying tribute to The Peak Tram, its heritage and the history of Hong Kong. Since 1888, The Peak Tram has served Hong Kong, quietly witnessing 120 years of the city’s changes. The gallery brings back many memories for local visitors and gives overseas visitors a glimpse of how the Pearl of the Orient has come to shine.

4) The Avenue of Stars is a tribute to the outstanding professionals of the Hong Kong film industry, and features handprints of movie celebrities and a statue of Bruce Lee. The panoramic views of the world-renowned Victoria Harbor and the Hong Kong skyline are also not to be missed. Every night at 8 p.m., stay at the harbor front and admire the multimedia show, A Symphony of Lights, featuring laser beams and colored lights from more than 40 buildings on both sides of the harbor.

5) Ocean Park Hong Kong is a marine-life theme park featuring animals, thrill rides and shows. It is located on the southern side of Hong Kong Island, with an area of more than 915,000 square meters. The two major attractions areas, the Waterfront and the Summit, are connected by the Cable Car and Ocean Express funicular train.

 

In celebration of its 40^th anniversary this year, the park is offering classic Hong Kong street food from the 70s with a modern twist, available throughout the year.

7) Harbour Views: Victoria Harbour is Hong Kong’s raison d’être. The deep waters between Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula are why a collection of fishing villages grew to become an international centre of trade. Today, the harbor is still the city’s throbbing heart  and one of the world’s most awesome urban landscapes.

8) The charming Star Ferry boats have been faithfully carrying passengers from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon and back since 1888. While the two sides of Victoria Harbor are now connected by a world-class infrastructure system of road and rail tunnels, tens of millions of people still climb aboard the humble Star Ferry vessels each year.

Many visitors take the ride for an up-close look at one of the world’s most photographed harbors, while locals have kept their affection for it because, even after a century, it’s still a highly reliable and efficient form of transport. National Geographic rates the Star Ferry crossing as one of 50 ‘places of a lifetime’.

9) Cultural Experience: Wong Tai Sin Temple is a famous temple where all three main religions of China are practiced – Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. Many fortune-tellers can predict the future of visitors here. The Hong Kong Cultural Centre Complex is the site of the old railway station. The complex houses a concert hall, museums, theaters, restaurants and other facilities. Hong Kong Museum of Art Location : 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. To get there : East Tsim Sha Tsui station, Exits L3, J or K, or Tsim Sha Tsui station, Exit E

Hong Kong Space Museum: Location : 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui: To get there : Take a 20-minute walk along the scenic waterfront promenade

10) Shopping: Temple Street Night Market has hundreds of crowded stalls offer inexpensive clothing, electronics and more. The Ladies’ Market offers an inexpensive range of women’s clothing, shoes and accessories. Jade Market at the junction of Kansu and Battery Street is where hawkers sell a wide variety of precious and semi-precious stones for good fortune and souvenirs. Centres: Ocean Centre / Ocean Terminal / Ocean Galleries / Harbour City / Gateway – stretching along Canton Road in Tsim Sha Tsui – are interconnected shopping malls that sell mid-range to designer labels and luxury goods. Nathan Road, one of the most famous shopping streets in the world, is a major tourist attraction in Hong Kong.

Where to Stay: Stay in the lap of luxury at Kowloon Shangri-La and enjoy a host of shopping privileges at the ultimate shopping heaven. In partnership with two mega retail conglomerates in the hotel’s proximity – T Galleria by DFS, Hong Kong, Tsimshatsui East store on Mody Road and Harbour City on Canton Road – the hotel is making shopping more pleasurable for all in-house guests.

From now until 31 December 2017, by presenting a hotel key card or an invitation letter from T Galleria, guests can enjoy 150 shopping and dining offers at Harbour City or a HKD 100 gift voucher from T Galleria. T Galleria is only steps away from the hotel. To travel to Harbour City, guests can use the hotel’s daily complimentary shuttle bus service.

Don’t miss! Experience Cantonese dining at Shang Palace led by Chef Mok Kit Keung , the recipient of two Michelin stars presents an elevated level of wining and dining with a host of brand new upgraded facilities.

Shang Palace serves Cantonese specialities that evoke the grandeur of traditional China. The delicious food, ornate décor and friendly staff make dining here a truly wonderful and memorable experience. Two Michelin stars, Michelin Guide (Hong Kong & Macau), 2009-2017. To learn more about hotel Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong