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Traveling to Hong Kong is an exciting experience. However, it’s also something that can be quite overwhelming for the American traveler who hasn’t been to Asia before. After all, there is a big difference between the culture that you live in and the one that you are about to immerse yourself in. You might not even know where to start. Even trying to decide which landmarks and attractions to see can seem like a hard choice to make. You know that you’re supposed to see the Eiffle Tower in Paris and the canals in Venice but what are you supposed to see as a traveler who is visiting Hong Kong for the first time?

Just like anywhere else in the world, there are some major attractions in Hong Kong that you will not want to miss if you get the opportunity to visit the area. Here are some of the sightseeing stops that you’re going to want to make sure to put on your itinerary:

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Victoria Harbour - This is a harbor area of Hong Kong which is a major tourist attraction for a number of reasons. The primary reason is that it is known as a spot where you can see a really great view of the Hong Kong skyline. You may not realize it but Hong Kong is home to the most skyscrapers in any one city in the world. This creates a skyline that is dramatic and interesting and one which is certainly worth capturing in your pictures during the trip that you take there. There are many places to see this skyline, of course, but the Victoria Harbour ranks as the number one spot. Victoria Tower is the best place to get a good view. However the view isn’t all that you’re going to experience while you are here. Victoria Harbour is also home to some other sightseeing opportunities including a laser light show on the water, performances (such as symphonies) at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre and the promenade which has an Avenue of Stars similar to the Hollywood Walk of Fame her in the United States.

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International Finance Center - If you want to see some of those famous skyscrapers up close, this is the area that you’re going to want to make sure to check out. There are several tall buildings in this area which make the lists of tallest structures in the world. Try to get over here at night in order to see the buildings all lit up.

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Hong Kong Island - Another of the most famous stops in the area which is home to multiple sights that you’ll want to see is Hong Kong Island. Literally an island off of Hong Kong, it is a historic fishing village that many travelers enjoy seeing just for the history of the area. People interested in more modern adventures also head here because it’s home to a water theme park. If you happen to be taking the kids to Hong Kong with you and you want to balance out the history of Hong Kong with some more modern fun, this is a great place to spend a few hours of your time.

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Hong Kong Disneyland - Of course, if you really want to spend some time at a Hong Kong theme park, the one to see is Disneyland.

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Markets - If you really want to get a sense of what modern life is like in Hong Kong today, a great place to do that is at the variety of street markets that are held throughout the city. These markets have been around for a long time so they have some history associated with them as well but they provide a great opportunity for interacting with the locals who live in the area now. There are numerous different types of markets ranging from The Jade Market (where you can get jade jewelry) to the Temple Street Night Market which is lit up by lanterns to the food markets that you visit during the day.

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Kowloon Park - A nice place to go and relax during the day while still experiencing the sights of Hong Kong is this public park. Features of the park include an aviary pond, a rose garden, a tree-lined walk, and an indoor sports center. The park is also home to The Hong Kong Museum of History where you can go to get a great brief education on all that you are seeing around you in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Heritage Museum. People who enjoy learning about the area that they are in by visiting the museums there will find that this is the must-stop spot for them to consider enjoying. The exhibits here are highly interactive and provide insight into the art, history and culture of Hong Kong.

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Giant Buddha - It’s difficult to travel anywhere in China and not seek out (or happen upon) one of the giant Buddha statues that are so prevalent there. This one is a great sight to see because of the size of it as well as its history. You can learn the basics about this religion and its role in China by reading the information provided to you at this sightseeing location.

Tai O Fishing Village - Perhaps none of this sounds like what you’ve expected to see during your trip to Hong Kong. If that’s the case, then you might be more interested in sights such as the stilt houses that are built on the water at this small fishing village. You’ll get to see the old-style architecture and the fishing village way of life that you might be anticipating as part of your trip to the area. There are multiple sights to see within the fishing village; the most popular of these are the temples that are located throughout the area. They provide insight into the culture and religion of the people living here and also provide a great opportunity for viewing the art and architecture of the region.

Tai Mo Shan - This is a mountain in Hong Kong that you might consider as part of your trip if you are a fan of hiking and nature. In fact, this is the tallest mountain in Hong Kong so there are some difficult trails here which are best for the experienced hiker. For visitors who are seeking to see more of the natural side of Hong Kong (as opposed to the urban areas and the theme parks that make up much of a sightseeing itinerary for the city), this is a great place to stop. There are beautiful waterfalls and a nature reserve where you can really relax and soak in the beauty here.

A trip to somewhere as exotic as Hong Kong can seem a little bit daunting when you’re first starting to plan it. However, it’s almost the same as planning a trip to anywhere else that you might like to go. There are major attractions which you’ll want to make sure to see. There will also be sights and moments of wonder that you stumble upon while you’re traveling around. Do some basic planning so that you don’t miss the major sights and then simply take the time to enjoy the trip. It’s likely to be memorable no matter what you end up doing!

Tags: Asia | China | Hong Kong