Zero Flights, Five Adventures
Hong Kong is in the heart of Asia where you can easily fly to Japan, Singapore, Vietnam, and China. However, that can be a hassle if you’re short on days. So here are some easy Hong Kong Day Trips and Hong Kong Day Trips within Hong Kong. Super fun and unique experience!!
Explore 5 Easy Hong Kong Day Trips
For amazing adventures, consider these top Hong Kong Day Trips that everyone should enjoy!
Macau
If you like Portuguese egg tarts, are curious about architecture that blends Portuguese colonial and traditional Chinese styles, and want to experience that “Las Vegas of China”, come to Macau.
Plus, it’s only a 1 hr and 30 min bus to Macau. Even though it’s so close to Hong Kong, you can feel and see the distinct differences in architecture and activities as visiting The Venetian Macau and Walls of St Paul Church. The Gambling scene is huge here, however, you don’t need to gamble to enjoy the Glamour.
When planning your Hong Kong Day Trips, don’t forget to explore the local cuisine and rich culture.
Shenzhen
Shenzhen is AMAZING. Personally chaotic because I didn’t buy enough data, no one had a VPN, and we couldn’t speak Mandarin (bad planning on our end, learned from our mistakes), BUT, it was the most spontaneous and memorable trip!
The food is delicious and cheap! Random buildings could look nothing special on the outside, but is actually a 7 story arcade, game, haunted house, and activity complex. There are 24/7 spas (the taxi driver said we shouldn’t have booked a hotel and could’ve stayed at a spa that was cheaper and more fun)! You won’t regret it if you plan properly!
9/10 – I had my most memorable experiences here, minus the lack of preparation on our end!
Pro Tip: You can get a 5 day VISA when you walk across the boarder!
Lamma Island
Take the boat to Lamma Island where you can hike across mountains of greenery, take a break at the beach, and try mango mochi.
8/10 – I definitely recommend if you want a quick island getaway! You can bring a volleyball and some games to play with friends!
Pro Tip: Sunscreen
The Big Buddha, Ngong Ping, Lantau Island
Walk 268 steps and you’ll see the 34 m tall bronze Buddha looming over you, called Tian Tan Buddha, nicknamed the Big Buddha. This is Hong Kong’s largest outdoor Buddha that gorgeously sits at the peak of Lantau Island where even from afar you see it’s figure. The uplifted right hand indicates compassion to save those in suffering, while the left hand grants happiness to all.
I took the 25-min Ngong Ping cable car ride and the view was better than expected. Some of my exchange friends hiked the Ngong Ping Trail to the top, which is an option if you got the legs for it!
Nearby you can also visit the Wisdom Path, Po Lin Monastery, and Tai O Fishing Village!
7/10 – Personally everything leading up to the Big Buddha felt commercial and filled with people trying to sell you things. However, it’s still a place you need to visit at least once!
Pro Tip: Bring sunscreen and water! Click here for more updated information.
Macau
If you like Portuguese egg tarts, is curious about architecture that blends Portuguese colonial and traditional Chinese styles, and want to experience that “Las Vegas of China”, come to Macau.
Plus, it’s only a 1 hr and 30 min bus to Macau. Even though it’s so close to Hong Kong, you can feel and see the distinct differences in architecture and activities such as visiting The Venetian Macau and Walls of St Paul Church. The Gambling scene is huge here, however, you don’t need to gamble to enjoy the glamour.
My favourite Macau activity: Watching the free “Tree of Prosperity“ show at Wynn resorts Macau!
Shenzhen
Shenzhen is AMAZING. Personally chaotic because I didn’t buy enough data, no one had a VPN, and we couldn’t speak Mandarin (bad planning on our end, learned from our mistakes), BUT, it was the most spontaneous and memorable trip!
The food is delicious and cheap! Random buildings could look nothing special on the outside, but is actually a 7 story arcade, game, haunted house, and activity complex. There are 24/7 spas (the taxi driver said we shouldn’t have booked a hotel and could’ve stayed at a spa that was cheaper and more fun)! You won’t regret it if you plan properly!
9/10 – I had my most memorable experiences here, minus the lack of preparation on our end!
Pro Tip: You can get a 5 day VISA when you walk across the boarder!
Lamma Island
Take the boat to Lamma Island where you can hike across mountains of greenery, take a break at the beach, and try mango mochi.
8/10 – I definitely recommend if you want a quick island getaway! You can bring a volleyball and some games to play with friends!
Pro Tip: Sunscreen
The Big Buddha, Ngong Ping, Lantau Island
Walk 268 steps and you’ll see the 34 m tall bronze Buddha looming over you, called Tian Tan Buddha, nicknamed the Big Buddha. This is Hong Kong’s largest outdoor Buddha that gorgeously sits at the peak of Lantau Island where even from afar you see it’s figure. The uplifted right hand indicates compassion to save those in suffering, while the left hand grants happiness to all.
I took the 25-min Ngong Ping cable car ride and the view was better than expected. Some of my exchange friends hiked the Ngong Ping Trail to the top, which is an option if you got the legs for it!
Nearby you can also visit the Wisdom Path, Po Lin Monastery, and Tai O Fishing Village!
7/10 – Personally everything leading up to the Big Buddha felt commercial and filled with people trying to sell you things. However, it’s still a place you need to visit at least once!
Pro Tip: Bring sunscreen and water! Click here for more updated information.
Tai Mo Shan Hike and Waterfall
If you want a magnificent sight of waterfalls in the heart of Tai Mo Shan and panoramic views at the summit of Hong Kong’s highest peak. This is where you need to be. At an elevation of 957 meters (3140 feet), it’s called the “Big Mist Hill” due to the fog.
For general hiking trails to the summit, check routes here: https://www.discoverhongkong.com/ca/explore/great-outdoor/tai-mo-shan-hike-above-the-clouds.html
For a route that passes by Ng Tung Chai, check out Journey Era: https://www.journeyera.com/tai-mo-shan-hike-hong-kong/
Is it Worth going on a Day Trip?
YES! However, if you’re going to Macau and Shenzhen, make sure to check for VISAs. Many nationalities will not need a VISA for short term tourism, but some may need to apply in advance, or get a VISA-on-Arrival.
Shenzhen is also a popular choice among tourists, making it one of the best Hong Kong Day Trips!
For a serene escape, Lamma Island is a must-visit during your Hong Kong Day Trips.
The Big Buddha and Ngong Ping are iconic stops on your Hong Kong Day Trips itinerary.
Don’t forget to include Tai Mo Shan in your Hong Kong Day Trips for breathtaking views!
In conclusion, all these options are perfect for memorable Hong Kong Day Trips!