24 hours in Hong Kong

A whole day to explore this city (mainly Hong Kong island) started with a trip to the top of ‘The Peak’ via a funicular. A birdseye view of Hong Kong from Victoria Peak was great, even though the weather wasn’t. I imagine it is better on a clear day, but unfortunately I didn’t have much choice. Funiculars have been the mode of transport up the mountain since the late 19th century – it had been sedans before! Important non-Chinese officials used to have summer residences on the peak in the early 20th century. Properties are still available to buy but they are very expensive – maybe the most expensive in the world. IMG_6955IMG_6965IMG_6970I also found St John’s Cathedral where I could hear an organ playing ‘Eternal Father, Strong to Save’. With that and the metro looking like the London Underground, I was constantly given little reminders of home. Traffic also drives on the left hand side, but it was the right hand side in China. Western toilets were also very welcome. I also walked up and down Des Voeux road where there was a Marks and Spencer’s and a Harvey Nichols amongst others! Hong Kong had recently celebrated its 20 years of independence from Britain. IMG_6906IMG_6944IMG_6977IMG_6979
It took me a while, but I made it to the Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau island. It was only completed in 1993 and is 34 metres high. The cable car gave a nice view of the Buddha and the monastery beside it.  It is a Buddhist pilgrimage area and I saw a lot of people coming to pray, as well as a lot of tourists. IMG_7006IMG_7014
Back to Kowloon and a visit to the Temple St market to pick up some new sunglasses was in order. Saw a lot of Figit Spinners too – some looked quite dangerous! I have to confess that I had to get taught how to use one as I didn’t know what it was, and am not completely sure if it is for me. IMG_6933IMG_6936
Went down to the Victoria Harbour and saw the light show on the buildings – I didn’t think it was anything too special as it’s meant to be the biggest light show in the world. The harbour is pretty at night anyway. Also caught up with some old school chums for some good food to end the day. IMG_6911IMG_6921
Next stop: Bangkok! I am knackered!

2 thoughts on “24 hours in Hong Kong

  1. Wow pictures are fantastic and it brought memories back when Dave and I spent 3 days in HK. I am so pleased you saw the big Buddha she is special. We went to the monastery and lit incense in memory of both of our parents. Bangkok is a total contrast to HK watch out for the scams they will say royal palace is closed and offer tuk tuk to see the 3 Buddahs. Barter for own Tuk tuk it will be. Very cheap approx £2 enjoy the rest and cost the 3 Buddahs. Jet lag has surely caught up with you I hope you have some beach time planned take care
    Jill Xx

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I’m absolutely knackered now. But was glad to make the most of the day in HK. Reminded me of Shanghai – must be the British influence in the architecture. I’ll try and do some things tomorrow if I’m not sleeping too much! 😛x

      Liked by 1 person

Leave a comment