Boasting the world’s 35th largest economy, low taxation and a strong import and export presence, Hong Kong is understandably a leading business travel destination. But a business trip to Hong Kong need not be consumed by meetings and conferences. Between enjoying your Hong Kong serviced apartment and attending your business commitments, there are plenty of things to do in Hong Kong to make the most of your stay. Join us as we count down the top eight things to see and do in just one day during your corporate venture to Hong Kong.
8. Visit the Street Markets
Whether you’re seeking freshly cooked street food, an authentic souvenir or something more practical, Hong Kong’s multitude of markets have it all. With night markets and day markets available throughout the city, you’ll never be far away from a lively and unique shopping experience. Temple Street Night Market is open from 4pm to 12am and sells everything from clothes to tea sets and antiques. Like much of mainland China, Hong Kong residents are very fond of seafood and many exotic seafood dishes form part of the staple diet. Head to the Seafood Street Market to take in the sights and smells of Hong Kong’s marine cuisine and sample some of the city’s finest dried seafood offerings.
7. Explore Nan Lian Garden
Hong Kong’s Diamond Hill is a residential district known for being home to both the beautiful Chi Lin Nunnery and a once famous film studio – the very studio, in fact, that launched the career of Bruce Lee. The district is also known for the majestic Nan Lian Garden - a free to visit park in the traditional Tang Dynasty style, meaning every element of the garden has been meticulously planned and positioned according to the Tang style rules. Featuring two water ponds, a Pavilion and a Chinese Timber Architecture gallery, there is plenty to see during a relaxing stroll or quiet rest period in the garden. With a vegetarian restaurant and tea house also in the park, there is every reason to make the most of the garden on a lunch break – certainly one of the more relaxing things to do in Hong Kong.
6. Stroll down Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
No matter how busy you may be on your business trip to Hong Kong, you will surely notice the magnificent surroundings – both natural and manmade. Nowhere is the combination of natural and artificial beauty more apparent than Victoria Harbour, with its vast, gleaming skyscrapers only surpassed by the enveloping picturesque hills and mountains beyond – including the highest peak, Tai Mo Shan. For stunning views of this iconic location, visit the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade at morning or night for unsurpassed photo opportunities. The well maintained walkway is the perfect place to absorb the sheer scale and technological prowess of Hong Kong and its memory will likely stay with you for a lifetime.
5. Go Clubbing in Lan Kwai Fong
The small square of streets that form Lan Kwai Fong is often considered the best area in Hong Kong for clubbing and nightlife. As the main expat district, Lan Kwai Fong always promises a mix of nationalities, bars and themed nights, so it should definitely be at the top of your list of things to do in Hong Kong. The square is also a favourite spot for performers, so you can enjoy the buzzing atmosphere of the streets as you move between venues on your night out.
4. Indulge in Afternoon Tea at The Lobby
The Peninsula Hotel in Hong Kong is the flagship property of The Peninsula Hotels group, and as such it is perhaps their most impressive. First opened in 1928, the hotel is renowned for sophistication and luxury, and even has a fleet of Rolls-Royces in its service. There is no better place to cement a business relationship, or celebrate a successful business trip to Hong Kong in style, than with an afternoon tea in The Peninsula’s ‘The Lobby’. This elegant space features classical columns and decorative, ornate plasterwork that recalls the dizzying splendour of the 1930s. Complete with a live band and impeccable service, a rich afternoon tea at The Lobby has to be one of the very best things to do in Hong Kong.
3. Visit the ‘Venice of Hong Kong’
Tai O is a fishing village located on the western side of Lantau Island. Filled with low-rise buildings stretching out over the water – known as ‘pang uks’, or stilt houses – lush vegetation and rolling hills, the village provides a welcome contrast to the non-stop pace of the city. Much like Venice, Tai O offers the opportunity for tourists to explore its water ways by boat, with various excursions available for hire. As well as taking in the quaint town and its remnant fishing industry, visitors exploring by boat may be lucky enough to see the revered Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin, otherwise known as the Chinese Pink Dolphin.
2. Take a ride on a Ding Ding
When travelling between meetings, appointments or your list of things to do in Hong Kong, do so in style by riding the Ding Ding. This is an informal term for the Hong Kong tram system (so named for its double-ring warning sound) which consists of double-deck trams and stretches across much of the city proper. For something a little more special, try the TramOramicTour – an open top, 1920s traditional style tram providing unique views of the city and all its major landmarks.
1. Climb Victoria Peak
The famous Victoria Peak, or Mount Austin, is a 552 metre hill – the highest point on Hong Kong Island. Whether on-foot or by tram, exploring the various look-out points on this hill is a must during your business trip to Hong Kong. Although the very top of the hill is off-limits, visitors can make their way to Sky Terrace 428 for sensational 360 degree views across Hong Kong’s phenomenal cityscape. The ideal spot for taking photographs that encapsulate the entire city, a trip to ‘The Peak’ is the perfect way to round off a day, or entire trip, to Hong Kong.
Ready to embark on your business trip to Hong Kong? Learn more about your destination in our article on the region's fascinating facts or discover the very best of Hong Kong cuisine before you go. If you haven’t already, decide on the ideal accommodation for your stay by browsing our portfolio of Hong Kong serviced apartments and finalise your travel dates today.
