Hong Kong is surrounded by 236 small islands which are together known as the Outlying Islands. Many of these islands are sparsely inhabited and reaching them can be a little bit inconvenient. However, there are several islands worthwhile to visit and explore even if you just have limited time in Hong Kong (e.g. when taking a stop-over).
Lantau Island
Lantau Island is the largest island in Hong Kong. For many visitors Lantau Island will be there first stop in Hong Kong since it is home of Chek Lap Kok (Hong Kong’s International Airport). Many top attractions are located on Lantau Island including Hong Kong Disneyland, Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, Big Buddha, Ngong Ping Village, Po Lin Monastery, Wisdom Path and Tai O fishing village (Hong Kong’s counterpart to famous Venice).
Attractions on Lantau Island
In case you are more interested in shopping, you should not miss the opportunity to stop by at Citygate Outlets (Hong Kong’s first and biggest Outlet Shopping Mall). Lantau Island is also a great place to discover Hong Kong’s nature and flora. There are several great hiking trail and if you are lucky you are even able to spot some of the Pink Dolphins (Chinese White Dolphins) along the coastlines of Lantau Island.
Lamma Island
Lamma Island is another popular weekend destination for many Hong Kong locals. Being the third largest island it offers great outdoor opportunities ranging from hiking to swimming. Make sure to start early in the day to discover this beautiful gem and don’t leave Lamma Island without having some great seafood.
Attractions on Lamma Island
Cheung Chau
Cheung Chau is lesser known and usually doesn’t stand on the top of any sightseeing to-do list, but once a year Cheung Chau attracts thousands of visitors to celebrate the famous Bun Festival. In case you should be in Hong Kong around this special festival you definitely should have a look and not miss this great opportunity to be part of Hong Kong’s culture.
Bun Festival Celebration on Cheung Chau
Other Popular Districts in Hong Kong
Causeway Bay
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Outlying Islands
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Wan Chai
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Central
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Mongkok and Nearby Area
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Tsim Sha Tsui
More Attractions on Outlying Island
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Ngong Ping Piazza – A link to the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery
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Po Lin Monastery – The Largest Buddhist Temple in Hong Kong
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Guide to Ngong Ping Village (what to see, how to get there, insider tips, discounts)
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Wisdom Path – A Hidden Gem with Buddhist Verses of the Heart Sutra
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Guide to Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) – World’s 2nd largest sitting bronze buddha statue
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Ultimate Guide of Tai O Fishing Village on Lantau Island – Venice of Hong Kong
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Ngong Ping Cable Car on Lantau Island – fastest way to the Big Buddha
Insider guide to Lantau Island and Ngong Ping – itinerary arrangements, sightseeing highlights, how to get there, travel tips
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Tai O Dragon Boat Water Parade and Races – Hong Kong Heritage
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2023 Cheung Chau Bun Festival Celebrations – Hong Kong heritage – float parade, bun snatching, Cantonese opera and more
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Noah’s Ark
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Hong Kong Disneyland
