A British colony until being returned to China in 1997, Hong Kong today reflects its East-meets-West history. Throughout Hong Kong Island, you’ll find examples of how Chinese and western cultures have interwoven their influences over the island. A few standout examples? Tourists can choose from white-tablecloth dinners at five-star restaurants or street-side chow from a traditional hawker stall. During the day, you can shop ’til you drop at one of the large, western-style malls or haggle with vendors at a local street market. And when it comes to attractions, you have Disneyworld and one of the world’s largest Buddha statues at your fingertips.
Whether you opt for a look at the modern city, historic Hong Kong or a bit of both, you won’t want to miss a chance to see the Hong Kong skyline from Victoria Peak or Victoria Harbor. In the evening, the skyline lights up to music and fanfare during the nightly Symphony of Lights, a 10-minute light show that’s not to be missed.
For a deeper look at this city of contrasts, check out the photo tour below.
(Main image: Zachary Baumgartner)
