The Legislative Council Building

Being one of the finest neo-classical architecture in Hong Kong, the building was built as the Supreme Court between 1903 - 1912. The building consists of arcades and loggias of granite and columns topped by a blindfolded female holding a scale in one hand and a sword in the other that is a traditional depiction of justice. Now, it is home of Legislative Council of Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is the haven of freedom. The freedom of speech, expression, religion and though can be enjoyed. Sittings are held here every Wednesday when Legislative Council is in session and are open to the public by reservation.

Man Mo Temple

Man Mo Temple is the oldest house of worship in the island. God "Man" and God "Mo", notable for the god of literature and the god of war respectively, share the temple. Visitors will be confronted by the dense pall of smoke from the incense coils hanging from the ceiling and the burning joss sticks. The gold-plated sedan chair are used for carring the gods' statues around the neighbourhood at religious ceremonies.

Locals offer chickens, fruit or incense sticks to the gods. Some have their fortunes told using bamboo sticks (call "chim").

Location : Junction of Hollywood Road and Lader Street

Free Admission

min walk from Sheung Wan MTR station

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is one of the top tourist sights in Hong Kong. The main attraction is the boatlife and waterborne neighbourhood of sampans moored in the harbour.

The famous floating seafood restaurants are parking here. Free boat rides out to the restaurants.

Stanley

Stanley

Stanley is a small village town on southeastern part of Hong kong Island with beautiful beaches. The seashore bars and pubs on waterfront along Stanley Main Street where visitors can enjoy a variety of different foods and drinks, and the Stanley Market which sells Chinese arts and crafts and clothings attract most tourist.

Murray House

Murray House, originally built in 1844 in Central for British military, was moved to Stanley Main Street in 1998, and it is one of the landmarks in Stanley. It houses several restaurants and the Hong Kong Maritime Museum.

Stanley Plaza

Adjacent to Murray House, opened in 2001, it includes a shopping arcade and a community theatre.

Stanley Prison

Stanley Prison, established in 1937, is one of the five maximum security prisons in Hong Kong. It is currently the oldest institution still in service and houses the top offenders. There is a Correctional Services Museum at the entrance to the prison. Stanley Prison is located at the end of Tung Tau Wan Road.

Stanley's beaches

Stanley is famous for its two beaches: Stanley Main Beach, located on the eastern side of the peninsular, and St. Stephen's Beach, located on the western side of the peninsular. Stanley Main Beach, the larger of the two beaches, which is also popular with windsurfers, hosts the Stanley Dragon Boat Championships to celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival.

How to get there: Stanley

Citybus No. 6, 6A, 6Xfrom the bus termainal in Exchange Square, Central.

Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre

Build on reclaimed land, the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)is one of the defining landmarks in Hong Kong, with its distinctive curved roof and vast expanse of glass walls creating a dramatic vista. The complex includes two of the most prestigious hotels of the island - the New World Harbour View and the Grand Hyatt - plus exhibition halls and theatres.

7-min walk from Wan Chai MTR Station

Star Ferry

Star Ferry

The famous green-and-white Star Ferries have been running across Victoria Harbour between Kowloon peninsula and Hong Kong Island since 1888 and is one of Hong Kong's icon. Although there are other ways to cross the harbour, the Star Ferry continues to provide an inexpensive and popular way of crossing the harbour.

This humble but legendary Star Ferry service between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon from piers in Central and Wan Chai on the Island and Tsim Sha Tsui and Hung Hom in Kowloon. However, the route runs between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui is popular with tourists and locals that is normally meant by the name "Star Ferry" in common parlance. The journey is one of the must visit tourist attraction in Hong Kong.

The views of the cityscape on both sides of the harbour are excellent. Although journey time on the Star Ferry is less than fiveteen minutes, the ride offers a memorable and scenic ferry journey across one of the most-photographed harbours in the world for just HK$1.7 for the lower deck and HK$2.2 for the upper deck.

How to get there: Star Ferry

Go to TsimShaTsui or TsimShaTsui MTR station. Then walk to the Harbour front.

Go to Central or Central MTR station. Then walk to the Harbour front.

Hollywood Road (Antiques Street)

Hollywood Road was built in 1844 by the British army. The road is famous for its many curios and antiques shops. You can find items as small and delicate as a perfume bottle to large antique Chinese furniture. The shops can help you arrange shipping of large items back home.

Western Market

The Western Market (1906), an Edwardian-style building originally called the Harbour Office, was used as a freash produce market for 82 yrs. Two years later, this red-brick building was declared a historical monument, renovated and re-opened in 1991 as a shopping mall.

Chinese handicrafts, memorabilia and gift items are sold on the ground floor. On the 2nd floor, fabric merchants sell Chinese silk and clothes.

Sheung Wan MTR Exit B, turn right, walk about three minutes.

Lan Kwai Fong & SoHo

Lan Kwai Fong is an L-shaped, stoned lane just a stone's throw from the Central. Alone the lane are western-style restaurants, nightclubs, delicatessens and bars.

Saunter along Hollywood Road and you'll reach Hong Kong's "SoHo", the area South of Hollywood Road. The neighbourhood offers a wide range of upmarket eateries and watering holes congregated mainly on Staunton, Shelley and Elgin streets. Here, you'll enjoy international fare from France, Malaysia, Mexico, Nepal and Portugal.

The Central-Mid-Levels Escalator, the longest covered outdoor escalator system in the world, provides easy access to and from downtown, as well as fascinating insights into the diverse street life.

Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak, also known by the locals as the Peak, is one of the must visit tourist spots when you get to Hong Kong. It is an excellent spot for viewing the center of Hongkong. Victoria Peak is the highest hill on the Hong Kong Island, with an altitude of 552m, is located in the western half of the island. With some seven million visitors every year, it is the famous tourist attraction in Hong Kong.

The summit of Victoria Peak is occupied by telecommunication facilities. However, the surrounding area comprises a mixture of publicly accessible parkland, shopping complexes and high value residential area, and it is this area that is normally meant by the name The Peak. Visitors has resulting in the building of two major leisure and shopping centres, the Peak Tower and the Peak Galleria.

It is where you can see the north side of Hong Kong Island, but also Victour Harbour, Kowloon and hills of New Territories beyond. The night view of Hong Kong is breathtaking. Just a reminder, the best time to go to the Victoria Peak is later afternoon on a clear day. Stay there to see the scenery change from daytime, sunset, to night.

The Peak Tram

To reach The Peak, you can take a ride on the Peak Tram from the Peak Tram Central terminal on Garden Road up to the Victoria Peak. It is an exciting ride straight up the hill that has been run since 1888! There is a bus No. 15C, usually is an open-top double deck, that can take you to the terminal from the Star Ferry pier in Central on Hong Kong Island.

The Penninsula Hongkong

Salisbury Road, Kowloon

In the very heart of Kowloon's shopping, business and entertainment district, close to the underground railway system, the historic Star Ferry and the Kowloon-Canton Railway.

Hotel Information
Check-in time: 12.00 / Check-out time: 12:00
Property Style: Business
Number of room(s): 300
Category:
Date opened:
Last renovated:
Local currency: HKD
Contact name:

Hotel Facilities
Safe Deposit Boxes, Front Desk
Concierge Desk
Full-service Business Center

Room Facilities
Non Smoking Rooms available
Alarm clock
Refrigerator
Electricity 220 V
Newspaper delivered to room
Coffee maker/tea service
Air conditioning
International Direct Dialling (IDD) Telephone
Satellite Television
Cable Television
Radio
Movies/Videos
Movies/videos, pay-per-view
Video Player
High-speed Internet Access
Safe
Minibar
Shoe cleaning facilities
Iron and ironing board available
Hair Dryer

Hotel Concourse Hong Kong

22 Lai Chi Kok Road, Mongkok, Kowloon
Hong Kong

Hotel Information
Check-in time: 12.00 / Check-out time: 12:00
Property Style: Holiday Hotel
Number of room(s):
Category:
Date opened:
Last renovated:
Local currency: HKD
Contact name:

Hotel Facilities
Safe Deposit Boxes, Front Desk
Concierge Desk
Full-service Business Center

Room Facilities
Non Smoking Rooms available
Alarm clock
Refrigerator
Electricity 220 V
Newspaper delivered to room
Coffee maker/tea service
Air conditioning
International Direct Dialling (IDD) Telephone
Satellite Television
Cable Television
Radio
Movies/Videos
Movies/videos, pay-per-view
Video Player
High-speed Internet Access
Safe
Minibar
Shoe cleaning facilities
Iron and ironing board available
Hair Dryer

Century Harbour Hotel

508 Queen's Road West, Western District, Hon
Hong Kong

Hotel Information
Check-in time: 12.00 / Check-out time: 12:00
Property Style: Holiday Hotel
Number of room(s):
Category:
Date opened:
Last renovated:
Local currency: HKD
Contact name:

Hotel Facilities
Safe Deposit Boxes, Front Desk
Concierge Desk
Full-service Business Center

Room Facilities
Non Smoking Rooms available
Alarm clock
Refrigerator
Electricity 220 V
Newspaper delivered to room
Coffee maker/tea service
Air conditioning
International Direct Dialling (IDD) Telephone
Satellite Television
Cable Television
Radio
Movies/Videos
Movies/videos, pay-per-view
Video Player
High-speed Internet Access
Safe
Minibar
Shoe cleaning facilities
Iron and ironing board available
Hair Dryer

Panda Hotel Hong Kong

3 Tsuen Wah Street, Tsuen Wan Kowloon, Hong Kong

Hotel Information
Check-in time: 12.00 / Check-out time: 12:00
Property Style: Holiday Hotel
Number of room(s): 1026
Category:
Date opened:
Last renovated:
Local currency: HKD
Contact name:

Hotel Facilities
Safe Deposit Boxes, Front Desk
Concierge Desk
Full-service Business Center

Room Facilities
Non Smoking Rooms available
Alarm clock
Refrigerator
Electricity 220 V
Newspaper delivered to room
Coffee maker/tea service
Air conditioning
International Direct Dialling (IDD) Telephone
Satellite Television
Cable Television
Radio
Movies/Videos
Movies/videos, pay-per-view
Video Player
High-speed Internet Access
Safe
Minibar
Shoe cleaning facilities
Iron and ironing board available
Hair Dryer

Hong Kong Festivals

Festivals add events more color and exuberance to Hong Kong's lively streets. Quite simply, being in Hong Kong during a major Chinese festival is the experience of a lifetime. Festivals occur throughout the year, so you may be lucky enough to see one during your visit. In addition, there are many special events throughout the year. Here are some of the highlights.

Birthday of Tin Hau (April 16)
On the birthday of Tin Hau, the Goddess of the Sea, fishermen decorate their boats and gather at her temples to pray for good catches during the coming year. Beyond the traditional rites at the temple, parades with colorful floats and lion dances take place. There is an organized tour to see the celebrations and visit a century old Tin Hau Temple.

Cheung Chau Bun Festival (April/May)
Celebrated on the 8th day of the fourth lunar month every year, the Bun Festival is one of Hong Kong's most colorful festivals and an important event for all Cheung Chau Island resident. It is Pak Tai, a Taoist deity known as King of the Underworld, to whom boat people, fishermen and island residents pray for protection against evil spirits.

Lion DanceGiant Bun Towers, each measures 16 meters tall, covered with layers of pink-and-white lotus paste buns, will be greeted outside the Pak Tai Temple in honor of the deity. A parade of dragon dances, lion dances, unicorn dances and acrobats will wind through the grand stand and the narrow streets on the island.

The stars of the parade are youngsters who dress in costumes with heavy make-up and are tied to an intricate system of rods and wires and float above the heads of the crowd. To experience the island life and the Bun Festival celebrations, a special tour is designed to enable visitors to visit the two most popular outlying islands of Lamma Island and Cheung Chau Island.

Dragon Boat Festival in Hong KongDragon Boat Festival (June 25)
One of Hong Kong's most exciting festivals, the Dragon Boat Festival commemorates the death of a Chinese hero Qu Yuan, who drowned himself in protest against a corrupt government in the 3rd century B.C. Legend says that in their attempt to rescue him, townspeople beat drums and threw dumplings into the sea to keep the fish away from Qu Yuan's body.

Today, to symbolize the rescue attempts, people eat dumplings, swim in the river and teams race elaborately decorated dragon boats to the beat of pounding drums and the roar of the crowds. Check out the venues of the dragon boat races held along the coastal areas of Hong Kong.

Hungry Ghost Festival (September 2)
It is said that ghosts roam the world every year for a lunar month. Local festivals feature elaborate parades with food offerings and small roadside fires, where believers burn paper money to appease the restless spirits.

Mid-Autumn Festival (October 1)
The Mid-Autumn Festival celebrates the harvest moon and is a special time for children and families, who take colorful lanterns to parks, beaches and hilltops to gaze at the moon. The Fire Dragon dance is an important celebration.

Hong Kong Chinese New YearChinese New Year (February 12)
The celebrations of the Chinese New Year offer a fascinating look into traditional Chinese culture. From a spectacular parade to traditional flower markets, the Chinese New Year celebration is one you'll never forget.

Spring Lantern Festival (February 26)
Held on the 15th day of the lunar new year, this festival marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations. colorful lanterns in traditional designs decorate market stalls, homes, restaurants and temples.

Best of Hong Kong

With its exhilarating fusion of cultures, its engaging people and unparalleled natural beauty, Hong Kong is like no other place in the world. Adventure to remote islands with intriguing, century-old Chinese traditions.

Explore spectacular museums, galleries and historical monuments. Find divine inspiration in a traditional Buddhist temple. Experience the contagious energy of the city, mingle with the people in a colorful local market or a boisterous Chinese festival.

For a unique cultural experience, head to the Yuen Po Street Bird Garden, the favorite gathering place for Hong Kong's songbird owners. for sweet scents and exotic, fortune-bringing flowers and plants, stop by Hong Kong's colorful Flower Market.

Bring home a beautiful memory of Hong Kong from the Jade Market. Located in Yau Ma Tei, the Jade Market features 450 stalls selling all types, shapes, sizes and prices; open daily from 10am - 3:30pm. No matter what you choose, Hong Kong is an experience you will never forget. Here are a few of the insider recommendations.

HONG KONG ISLAND

Hong Kong
Take a classic Hong Kong trip on the historic Peak Tram to the top of Victoria Peak. The steepest funicular tramway on the planet, the Peak Tram will thrill you with its dazzling 1300-foot climb into the sky.

After an exhilarating near-vertical, eight-minute ride on the 112-year-old tram, you'll feast your eyes on the breathtaking panorama of the vibrant harbor, serene mountains and spectacular architecture by icons such as I.M. Pei and Norman Foster.

High above the city, on the "back of the Dragon," Victoria Peak offers visitors a multitude of entertainment, dining and shopping options and is the perfect place to embark on one of several nature trails.

STAR FERRY
View Hong Kong's magnificent skyline from the harbor aboard the Star Ferry. The Star Ferry, over a century old, remains the most spectacular ferry rides in the world. The ferry between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui takes only eight minutes, and offers picturesque memories that will last a lifetime. Don't forget to pick up a Star Ferry and Tram Pass.

A four-day Visitor Souvenir Ticket can be obtained at the upper deck entrance of the Star Ferry Pier, and is valid for unlimited travel on Hong Kong Tramways and Star Ferry's franchised services for four consecutive days.

Hong Kong Aberdeen 
Home to the fishing community, take a sampan ride to see the fishing boat and daily activities aboard the famous Jumbo Floating Restaurant.

TAI CHI IN THE PARK
Take one of our free Tai Chi lessons and experience the graceful, meditative martial art that locals practice daily. A gentle form of exercise, Tai Chi, also known as "shadow boxing," can be practiced by people of all ages.

Kowloon: Every Tuesday and Wednesday (from November to March), 8:00-9:00 a.m. on the Waterfront Promenade, Tsim Sha Tsui East (outside the Hong Kong Cultural Center, Piazza C).

Hong Kong Island: Every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday except January 26, 2001 (until end of March 2001), 8:15-9:15 a.m. in the Garden Plaza, Hong Kong Park.

REPULSE BAY
One of Hong Kong's most popular tour destinations, Repulse Bay is beautiful, ever-evolving, sandy beach with two tall statues of the Goddess of Mercy (Kwun Yum) and the Goddess of Heaven (Tin Hau).

STANLEY MARKET
Stanley Market is an extravaganza of stalls and shops interspersed with some of Hong Kong's newest and most innovative restaurants. The stock changes constantly - depending on what the factories are churning out at the time. By the bay, there is a row of restaurants in laid-back ambience.

TIN HAU TEMPLE
Tin Hau, the Goddess of the Sea, holds a special place in Hong Kong's heart, thanks to the territory's maritime history. This ancient, imposing temple once stood alongside a foreshore causeway linking the coastal areas. It is now well inland, adjacent to Victoria Park.

KOWLOON

CHI LIN NUNNERY Only recently opened, the 35,880 square foot Chi Lin Nunnery in Kowloon is a fascinating blend of simplicity and grandeur. A Buddhist retreat, it was constructed along Tang dynasty lines, and successfully bridges nearly 1,500 years of construction methods, such as using wooden pegs, rather than nails, throughout its seven linked halls and temples.

The nunnery gardens are a beautiful example of classical Chinese design, creating the illusion of infinite space within a limited area, and offering visitors a serene environment.

TEMPLE STREET NIGHT MARKET
Find bargains galore in this lively open-air bazaar.It opens at 2 p.m. and is busiest from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Merchants specialize in inexpensive men's clothing, novelty items, luggage and watches, and other merchandise. Fortunetellers, palm readers and, sometimes, Chinese opera singers, make the market a fascinating street theatre.

NEW TERRITORIES
Venture out to the New Territories to see unspoiled land dotted with ancient villages and fishing harbors, duck farms and fish ponds, all characterized by a sense of harmony with nature. Scenic coastlines and hills have been preserved within a territory-wide network of national parks Giant Bronze Buddha in Hong Kong

ENCHANTED WISHING TREE
Make your wishes come true. In Lam Tusen, near Tai Po, is the Enchanted Wishing Tree. Laden with wishes written on bright red paper, it appears to be covered in crimson flowers. Scribble your dreams onto red slips of paper tied onto an orange with string, then toss them in the air. Tradition holds that if your paper charm catches on the tree, your wish will be granted.

OUTLYING ISLANDS
GIANT BRONZE BUDDHA
Be sure to visit Po Lin Monastery's outdoor, 202-ton Giant Buddha. At 26 meters high, it is the world's largest, seated, outdoor, bronze of Buddha. Perched atop a magnificent flight of steps, it is visible from as far away as Macau on a clear day.

Hong Kong Sightseeing

Man Mo Temple
This is the oldest temple in Hong Kong.
At the junction of Ladder St. and Hollywood Rd.

Tiger Balm Gardens
Grottoes and pavilions filled with statues and models.
Open 9am to 4pm daily.
Take the No 11 bus from Central

Victoria Peak
Sightseers should take the opportunity to go to the top of the peak at night to see the lights of Hong Kong from above.
Take the Peak Tram from Garden Rd. up behind the Hilton Hotel.

Zoological and Botanical Gardens
Rich collection of hundreds of species of animal and plant life. Robinson Rd. overlooking Hong Kong Central.

PARKS

Kowloon Park
This complex houses a park and an aviary as well as a garden with ponds, streams and a lake.
Located off of Nathan Road.

Pok Fu Lam Country Park
Popular for its panoramic vies, walking paths and picnic spots.
Located at the top of the Peak Tram at Victoria Peak.

Victoria Park
In addition to the beautiful scenery, the park offers numerous recreational activities. Located just beyond the highway overpass at the end of Gloucester Road.

MUSEUMS

Planetarium and Space Museum
Numerous exhibits of space, including a theater that runs shows about space travel.
Open from 10:30am on Sundays; from 2pm Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday; and from 1pm Saturday. Closing time is at 9: 30pm. Adjacent to the Star Ferry Pier, Kowloon side.

Hong Kong Museum of History
Exhibits covering Hong Kong's history, from prehistoric times to modern-day Hong Kong.
Open Monday through Thursday and Saturday 10am to 6pm, Sunday and holidays 1pm to 6pm.
Haiphong Rd., Kowloon

Museum of Arts in Hong KongHong Kong
Museum of Art
Five floors of artwork designed by local and foreign artists.
Closed Thursdays.
City Hall, Hong Kong Island, Northside.

Fung Ping Shan Museum
A huge collection of Chinese antiques, along with colorful paintings and fine handicrafts.
Closed Sundays.
Hong Kong University
Hong Kong Island, Northside

Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware
Interesting displays, all relating to the serving of tea.
Within Hong Kong Park
Hong Kong Island, Northside

TOURS & CHARTERS
There are countless tours in Hong Kong that will take you just about anywhere. Booking is possible through the HKTA (Hong Kong Tourist Association), travel agencies, large hotels or from the tour companies themselves.

For HK$10, the HKTA Official Guidebook (updated monthly) is a good information source. Many hotels offer this book free of charge with their logo on the cover.

Overseas offices:
548 Fifth Ave., Suite 590
New York, NY 10036

333 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 2400
Chicago, IL 60601

361 Post St., Suite 404
San Francisco, CA 94108

10940 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1220
Los Angeles, CA 90024

SHOPPING
Shopping in Hong KongShopping is typically better on the Kowloon Peninsula, but there are still a number of places worth shopping at on the Island.

Landmark Building
Peddler St. and Des Voeux Rd.
Central

Hollywood Road and Cat Street in Central have flea markets where you can find interesting bargains and antiques.

Ladder Street is filled with stalls offering crafts, fabrics, flowers, electronics and practically everything imaginable.

China Products Company, Causeway Bay
19-31 Yee Wo St.

New World Shopping Centre, Kowloon
Located next to the New World Hotel.
This center contains boutiques, restaurants, tailors and other specialty shops in addition to the Tokyo Department Store.

Ocean Terminal-Ocean Centre
Hong Kong Hotel-Harbour City, Kowloon
Located next to the Star Ferry terminal.
This complex is easily one of the world's largest, with hundreds of shops, stores and restaurants. A moving sidewalk takes shoppers to Ocean Terminal and Ocean Centre, which connect with the Hong Kong Shopping Arcade.

China Products Company
Causeway Bay
Some of the best buys in Hong Kong can be found in these Chinese-product stores, which are open every day of the week.
19-31 Yee Wo St.,
488 Hennessy Rd.,

Wing On
Large department store with Western goods.
173 Des Voeux Rd. Central


Sincere
Western department store with fixed prices.
83 Argyle St. Kowloon

Lane Crawford
Prestigious yet expensive department store.
70 Queen's Rd. Central

Nathan Road, Kowloon
This street runs north and is packed with shops of every description imaginable. A multitude of streets containing a large variety of merchandise run off of Nathan Road.

Kansu Street Jade Market
Yaumatei
Follow Temple Street to Kansu and make a left to reach this market. Jade pieces of all shapes, sizes and values may be purchased here.

SPORTS

Royal Hong Kong Golf ClubRoyal Hong Kong Golf Club, nine-hole golf course at Deep Water Bay .

Squash can be played at several locations including:
Hong Kong Squash Centre
Public courts are available here, a passport is needed for booking.

Harbor Road Indoor Games Hall

Tennis courts are available through private clubs. A limited number of public courts are available, and they must be booked well in advance.
Victoria Park .
Bowen Road .


Sailing is available only to members of yacht clubs, with reciprocal rights to the one in Hong Kong.
Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club

For scuba diving information, contact:
Bunn's Divers Institute
188 Wanchai Rd.
Hong Kong Island


Horse Racing
Races are run from September through May by the Royal Hong Kong Jockey Club at the Happy Valley race course.

Hong Kong Transportation

Airlines
 - British Airways Hong Kong
 - Canadian Airlines Hong Kong
 - Cathay Pacific Hong Kong
 - China Airlines Hong Kong
 - Dragonair Hong Kong
 - Japan Airlines Hong Kong
 - Northwest Hong Kong
 - Qantas Hong Kong
 - Singapore Airlines Hong Kong
 - Thai International Hong Kong.
 - United Hong Kong

Airport Transportation
Taxi booth at Hong Int'lAirportTaxis and Airbus shuttles are available outside the main entrance. Heavy traffic will probably result in a 20-minute trip to the main Kowloon business district and an additional 40 minutes to reach the Central District on Hong Kong Island (rush hour 8am to 9:30am and 4pm to 6:30pm will lengthen the ride 20 to 30 minutes more) . Some hotels provide courtesy cars or vans; check at the counter inside the main entrance. VIP transportation, with prior arrangements, is also offered by certain hotels.

Taxis cost HK$60 plus a HK$20 tunnel fee to Hong Kong Island.

In terms of cost, comfort, speed and efficiency, the Airbus is probably the best way to reach the Hong Kong side of the business district from the airport. Numerous airbuses travel to various locations throughout Hong Kong. Airbus 2A serves nine island-side hotels from Central east to Wanchai; Airbus 3A serves three hotels in Causeway Bay; Airbus A4 serves the Mong Kok train station. Operation hours are from 6:55 am to midnight.

CAR RENTAL
Car rentals are not available at the airport. Rental offices may be found at hotels and offices in Kowloon and on Hong Kong Island. Rentals include professional drivers. Self-driving rentals are not recommended because traffic is very heavy, parking is almost nonexistent and driving is on the left-hand side of the road (with steering wheel, British-style, on the right) .

Avis
Address: 181-185 Gloucester Road
Phone: (0115-852) 28822927

Hours of Operation:
Sun 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Mon 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM; Tue - Fri 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM; Sat 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Address: 71 Mody Road
Phone: (852) 2890 6988

Hours of Operation:
Sun 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Mon 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM; Tue - Fri 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM; Sat 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Hertz
MTR Hong Kong Station-
Shop HOK11, Level L1,, Hong Kong Central
852-25251313

MTR Kowloon Station
Shop KOW58, Kowloon Shop (ICC), West Kowloon
852-29202323

TAXI SERVICE
Taxis are numerous and inexpensive. They are usually red and have a Taxi sign on the roof that lights up when the cab is available. Taxis become scarce between the hours of 4pm and 7pm and when it rains.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Trains
The Mass Transit Railway in Hong KongThe Mass Transit Railway (MTR) operates from Central across the harbor and up the Kowloon Peninsula. This high-speed subway system is a popular means of travel among office commuters and operates between the hours of 6am and 1am.

For information on the Mass Transit Railway, phone . 2881 8888

Common Stored Value Tickets are a good idea for frequent users of the subway system and cost either HK$70 or HK$150. The MTR Tourist Ticket, however, should not be bought as travelers will end up paying more for the ticket than it is worth in fares.

Smoking, eating and drinking are not allowed in the stations and will result in fines from HK$1,000 to HK$2,000.

A single tram line runs from Kennedy Town to Shaukiwan straight through the middle of Central. Trams are quite inexpensive and arrive frequently.

Be sure you get an MTR map, which highlights popular tourist spots near MTR stations.

Buses
Hong Kong BusesBus routes run throughout Hong Kong for a range of different fares. Bus fares are paid upon boarding, so have the exact change ready.

Buses operated by China Motor Bus on Hong Kong Island are blue- and cream-colored double-decker buses.

Buses in the Kowloon region are operated by Kowloon Moter Bus and are red- and cream colored double-decker buses.

Most bus services stop at 11pm or 12 midnight.

Red and yellow minibuses run irregular routes and cost a little more than normal buses. Prices usually go up during rush hour or in rainy weather. Riders may get on or off these buses almost anywhere.

Maxicabs look like minibuses, but are green and yellow and run regular routes.

Hong Kong Ferry

Ferries
The Star Ferries run regular routes across the harbor for very low fares. The trip takes less than 10 minutes. Ferries operate from 6:30am to 11:30pm. Terminals are located at the end of Tsimshatsui on the Kowloon Peninsula and in the middle of Central on Hong Kong Island. 

An additional ferry service operates between Wanchai and Tsimshatsui, and another boat runs from the Star Ferry pier in Central to Hunghom on the Kowloon side.

Longer ferry trips across the harbor are also available . The Central to Tuen Mun (New Territories) hovercraft takes 30 minutes to travel across the harbor. Ferries also run from Hunghom in Kowloon to North Point on Hong Kong Island.

Schedules of ferries traveling to various islands are available from the HKTA (Hong Kong Tourist Association) . Fares go up on Sundays and holidays, and the ferries are usually heavily packed.

Things to see in Hong Kong

Morning Tea & Tai Chi Tour
Begin your day with an hour of tai chi instruction and learn why millions of people around the world now practice this ancient exercise. Having discovered the benefits of tai chi, the subject now turns to tea, which has long played a significant role in Chinese history and customs. Its immense popularity led to an entire tea culture that governed the creation and manufacture of precious teawares as well as the subtle rituals surrounding its consumption.

Fung Shui Tour
Fung Shui, which means wind and water, is the 3,000 year old art form aimed at creating an environment harmonious to both man and nature. With stops at Lung Cheung Road Lookout, Nine Dragons Wall and Statue Square, this tour shows how the principles of Fung Shui are practiced today.

Heritage & Architecture Walks: Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, & New Territories
Explore Hong Kong's many historic and modern landmarks at your own pace with the help of a practical walking guide and portable audio equipment. There is a selection of three walks, each of which takes about 4 hours. Hong Kong Shopping

Kowloon Nine Dragons Tour
The tour starts with an introduction to the legend of how this peninsula gained the name of "Kowloon." Stops includes driving pass the ruins of the Last Emperor of Sung Dynasty, stopped at the end of the old Kai Tak Airport runway, Chi Lin Nunnery, Kowloon Walled City Park, Loong Cheung Road Lookout Point and the bird market in Mongkok.

The Heritage Tour
Visit the heritage attractions in the New Territories including stops at Man Mo Temple, dedicated to the Gods Man and Mo, Tai Po Market, a traditional Chinese market which sells all kinds of fresh produce, dried herbs and seafood, Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees laden with colorful pieces of paper. The tour's last stop is Tang Chung Ling Ancestral Hall which honors the Tang lineage, and the Lo Wai Walled Village.

ALL ABOUT SHOPPING
If you like to shop, don't miss the exhilarating experience of shopping in Hong Kong. Rated as one of the world's best value-for-money shopping cities for luxury goods, it is truly a shopper's paradise. You can find everything here, from tailor-made clothing and exquisite jewelry, to local market goods.

The world's most exclusive designer labels can be found in huge, gleaming shopping complexes such as Pacific Place, Times Square, Harbour City 700 and Ocean Terminal; in boutiques, or in Hong Kong's factory outlets; which carry both international designer labels and local designers with the latest fashions. World Trade Center Hong Kong

Aside from the bustling malls and boutiques, there are fabulous open air markets, such as the historic Stanley Market, packed with artwork and silk collectibles, or Temple Street Night Market, featuring watches, leatherwear, clothing and souvenirs amidst colorful street performances.

Antiques, ceramics and crafts can be found in and around Hong Kong's famous Hollywood Road. Whether it's high fashion designs or bargain-basement curios you're looking for, Hong Kong is guaranteed to satisfy the most serious shopper.

GOURMET PARADISE
With its passion for fine food and an abundance of diverse restaurants, it is no wonder Hong Kong was named Asia's "Best City" by Travel and Leisure Magazine. Hong Kong chefs continue to make their mark in the culinary world, winning numerous awards at international competitions.

You'll be tantalized by the mouth-watering selection of gastronomic surprises waiting for you. With more than 10,000 restaurants and an eclectic range of flavors from around the world, Hong Kong is guaranteed to delight even the most serious gourmet diner. If you feel that you haven't already got enough on your plate, there's almost always a special event celebrating food.

Some of the most fashionable restaurants can be found in Lan Kwai Fong, and SoHo, the trendy dining area in the Central District. Family-run restaurants can be found in many areas, such as Kowloon City (especially for Asian food), international cuisines in Knutsford Terrace in Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon and Seaside restaurants in Stanley on Hong Kong Island. Lamma Island, Lei YueMun and Sai Kung are renowned for their fresh seafood restaurants. Hong Kong Seafood Restaurants

Every year in the first 14 days of May, the City of Life celebrates a fortnight of culinary events, "Hong Kong Gourmet Delight." The event features themed feasts, district food, fun activities and cooking classes.

Tea Culture "Yum Cha" (drinking tea) is an integral part of Hong Kong's culinary culture. The drink - whether Chinese or English or Hong Kong style - sends forth its unique, delicate fragrances to help shape daily life in Hong Kong.

EVENING ENTERTAINMENT
Hong Kong never sleeps - the pace and diversity that fills the day carries through into the night.

Lan Kwai Fong, right in the heart of Central, is the premier nightlife neighbourhood. Ambient bistros and delis, jazz clubs and bars spill out onto the pedestrian-friendly streets as Hong Kong's affluent professionals meet and mingle.

Wan Chai's reputation precedes it. Yet these days the World of Suzie Wong and the infamous girlie bars have given way to a late-night party place. Early evening stylish bars are surrounded by the throbbing beat of nightclubs that will take you right through until the very next day. Yet sauna signs and mama-sans tempting patrons still offer a glimpse of Wan Chai's former fame.

The impressive and expansive malls, such as Pacific Place in Admiralty and Times Square in Causeway Bay, also offer plenty in the way of entertainment, including hi-tech cinemas and a variety of restaurants and bars.

On Kowloon side, neon-lit Tsim Sha Tsui is lined with hectic shops, bars, cinemas and restaurants. Dip into any of the glitzy hotel nightclubs or sophisticated lobby lounges, whose tinkling pianos and creative cocktails cater to tourists. Or step out into the heat of the night and try the local back-street pubs and discos.

Welcome to Hong Kong

HISTORY & CULTURE

Once called a "barren rock" by the British when claimed as a Crown Colony in 1841, this once humble collection of fishing villages soon thrived as a trading port and gateway to mainland China. On July 1, 1997, the world watched as Hong Kong returned to Chinese sovereignty, beginning a new chapter in history.

Culturally rich, Hong Kong's past has produced a captivating city of contrasts. The unique fascination of Hong Kong is the seamless way in which ancient traditions thrive in an ultra modern city. Hong Kong is a city of contrasts that continues to delight guests year after year.

Hong KongModern, dynamic, forward-looking, yet with a past that goes back six millennia. And what a past it's been - Chinese, British, now Chinese again, punctuated by wars, occupation, and periods of uncertainty, peace and prosperity...and history is still being made here every day! All of this is yours to discover at Hong Kong's designated historical monuments and in museums dedicated to themes both past and future.

Hong Kong has become a world-class city by blending Chinese tradition with Western customs. Fascinating temples and colonial facades often share the same block with futuristic architectural masterpieces. It is the blend of old and new, East and West, that helps give Hong Kong its own unique character.

There has been a renewed fascination with Hong Kong's colonial heritage over the past years. Remnants of a genteel, bygone era include the Noon Day Gun, which still fires at midday as it has since the 1840's and famous buildings such as the beautiful Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware, the oldest Colonial building, containing 3000 year-old Chinese artifacts showcasing Chinese teaware.

Taking afternoon tea, a quintessential British tradition, is popular in most top hotels, though you are as likely to be nibbling on steamed Chinese-style dumplings as you are on scones. Many reminders of Hong Kong's Colonial heritage can be seen at the Museum of History, the Museum of Heritage and on do-it-yourself Heritage and Architectural walks as well as complete Heritage and Culture Tours.

VISA & TRAVEL INFORMATION

U.S. citizens can enter Hong Kong for a period of up to three months without a visa, provided they have a passport that is valid for at least one month after period of intended stay in Hong Kong.

Those who wish to stay longer must apply for a visa before traveling to Hong Kong, preferably at least six weeks in advance. Applications should be made to your nearest Chinese Consulate or at the Visa Office, Embassy of the People's Republic of China, Room 110, 2201 Wisconsin Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20007, Tel (202) 338-6688, Fax (202) 588-9760.

Upon arrival in Hong Kong, visitors must show proof of a return or onward ticket (unless they are in transit to mainland China or Macau). Visitors must also show that they have adequate funds for their stay in Hong Kong (generally, a confirmed hotel reservation, a valid international credit card and/or an appropriate amount of cash will suffice).

Visitors are not allowed to work in any capacity (either paid or unpaid), to establish or join any business, or to enter school as a student. Nor, except in the most unusual circumstances, are visitors allowed to change their status after arrival.