Hong Kong Faves: Villages and Markets!!

When I found some cheap tickets to Hong Kong, I hopped on them without a moment’s hesitation. Well, I hesitated long enough to check my remaining vacation days, but you get the point.

And although I was only there for 4 days, I really loved the vibe of the city. There’s just so much to see and do, whether you’re in the Tsim Sha Tsui (TST) area, on Hong Kong Island, or take a day trip to one of the neighboring islands.

In addition to the delicious food and gorgeous skyline, here are some of my favorites from my long weekend in Hong Kong:

Lantau Island

Lantau Island is the largest of the Hong Kong Islands and is the home to many popular attractions. I took the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car from the train station to Ngong Ping Village in order to get some great views of the area. Although the cable car was a little expensive at 130 HKD one-way, the view was definitely worth it, and it was much quicker than taking a bus to the village.

In Ngong Ping Village, we saw the Tian Tan Buddha (a.k.a. the Big Buddha), the Po Lin Monastary, and the Wisdom Path. If you go to see the Buddha, prepare yourself for the 268 steps to the top!

 

Heyyy Buddha!!

 

 

 

Wisdom Path

Then, my friend and I hopped on a bus and headed to Tai O Fishing Village, which is home to the Tanka people. We took a boat ride around the stilted houses that this village is well-known for and then looked through the Tai O Market. This market primarily sells seafood, and I had the chance to try some new foods here as well!

Stilted houses in Tai O village

 

 

Definitely not a fan of cuttlefish….and I’m fully aware that the little boy is judging me for it LOL

Aberdeen Fishing Village

This little village is about a 30 minute bus ride from Hong Kong Station. It’s full of different kinds of boats where some fishermen and their families still actually live and work.

As soon as my friend and I hit the strip, a little old lady came up to us and offered to take us around the village on her Sampan boat. Although there are stops along the strip to catch an “official” tour boat, these ladies are on their hustle and you can end up getting a longer ride around the village for cheaper.

Markets

I love strolling through street markets, even though I’m not a huge shopper. There’s something about the energy of the market, and the ability to get some things for a steal. Bargaining is key or you’ll be spending a lot more than you should. I love the idea of saving money, so this is right up my alley!

During my time in HK, I went to the Ladies Market and the Temple Street Night Market. Both of these markets are around the TST area, and are great places to buy everything from purses to jewelry to sex toys. Yes, I’m serious.

*If I had more time, I would have also visited Stanley Market on HK Island, since I’ve heard great things about it.*

Stall after stall filled with all kinds of goods!

 

Macau

Ok, I know that Macau isn’t technically in Hong Kong, but it is just a short ferry ride away so it counts.

I ended up liking Macau a lot more than I thought I would. I’d planned to go for a half day, and ended up spending the entire day there exploring. Despite the rain, I loved exploring the adorable streets and buildings!!

I headed to Old Taipa Village, and took some time exploring the area. Such an adorable place!!

Then I headed back to Macau Island to see the Ruins of St. Paul’s and the Monte Fort (Mount Fortress).  Unfortunately, it began to get a little late so I couldn’t see as many things as I would like. There’s always next time!

 

Ruins of St. Paul’s

 

These were just a few of my favorite places in/around Hong Kong. Of course, I did the Peak Tram to Victoria’s Peak, but it was so foggy that I couldn’t see anything!! Who knows, maybe if I saw the amazing view I would have been inclined to add it to my list!

Have you ever been to Hong Kong? What are some of your Hong Kong favorites?