Weekend in Hong Kong

A 1.5km waterfront walkway from the Star Ferry Pier to Hung Hom, with unobstructed views across Victoria Harbour to Central's skyline.

Tip: Arrive by 7.30pm for the Symphony of Lights show, then walk to the clock tower for a quieter view of the harbour light show.

A 1847 temple on Hollywood Road dedicated to the civil god Man Cheong and martial god Mo Tai. Inside are giant incense coils hanging from the ceiling.

Tip: Go early before coach tours arrive (10am-11am peak). The incense coils last about two weeks, so check how fresh yours is—old ones drop ash.

Comprehensive permanent exhibition on Hong Kong from prehistoric times to the handover, with life-sized street replicas and a sampan display.

Tip: Free on Wednesdays (regular entry is small fee but worth it). Allow 2 hours. The neighbouring Science Museum has hands-on exhibits for kids.

A peaceful hilltop garden with panoramic views of Victoria Harbour and Kowloon. Reached by a steep 15-minute walk from the Peak Tram terminus (tram costs money, walk is free).

Tip: Walk up Lugard Road from the tram station for harbour views with far fewer crowds. The garden itself is quieter than the viewing platform.

A Tang-dynasty-style public garden in Diamond Hill, designed with rockeries, lotus ponds and wooden pavilions. Maintained to a high standard.

Tip: Combine with the Chi Lin Nunnery next door (also free). Visit late afternoon for soft light on the pagoda-mountain backdrop.

The world's largest seated outdoor bronze Buddha statue, standing 34 metres tall atop Ngong Ping plateau on Lantau Island. Officially known as the Tian Tan Buddha and built in 1993, it is surrounded b

Tip: Take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car (book ahead on weekends) or the No. 23 bus from Tung Chung MTR. Arrive before 11:00 or after 15:00 to avoid the worst queues. The statue glows in the late-afternoon sun — worth timing your return for.