A holiday in Hong Kong is evidently far from cheap; according to research, the Asian metropolis has been ranked as the world’s most expensive city for expats and also the most expensive Asian city for business travels.
But that doesn’t mean you should rule out a trip to Pearl of the Orient from your bucket list as some attractions and activities are completely free.
Here are 10 Free Things To Do In Hong Kong. Perfect for travellers on a budget!
#1 VISIT THE MUSEUMS
Most museums in Hong Kong offer complimentary general admissions on Wednesdays so do make it a point to visit these attractions on hump day. Dr. Sun Yat-sen Museum, Hong Kong Museum of History and Hong Kong Space Museum are highly recommended.
#2 ENJOY THE VIEWS FROM THE PEAK GALLERIA
The Peak Galleria’s Observation Deck is exceptionally popular for it offers an enchanting glimpse of Hong Kong’s picturesque skyline. Be blown away by the sheer number of skyscrapers surrounded by rolling hills and glistening waters.
Read: 5 Things To Do At The Peak.
118 Peak Road, The Peak, Hong Kong Island
Tel: +852 2849 4113
Nearest MTR Station: Hong Kong
#3 EXPLORE HONG KONG PARK
Spanning across eight hectares is Hong Kong Park, a public recreational area that is interestingly surrounded by lush greenery and tall infrastructures. A leisure stroll around this park will lead you to the Edward Youde Aviary, Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware and Forsgate Conservatory.
Admission to all these places in Hong Kong Park are free of charge.
Located in the outskirts, Dragon’s Back boasts breathtaking views of Hong Kong’s magnificent skyscrapers, coastal shores and its surrounding mountainous region. It was ranked by TIME Magazine in 2004 as Asia’s Best Urban Hiking Trail.
The beginner-friendly hike makes an excellent alternative for those who wish to admire Hong Kong’s scenery without the crowds.
#5 PARTY AT LAN KWAI FONG
This one is for the ladies. Lan Kwai Fong is a legendary nightlife district that has truly lived up to its hype. However, a big night out could be a wallet-damaging experience as drinks in Hong Kong are incredibly pricey.
But thanks to Ladies Night which happens every Thursday, ladies don’t have to pay for cover charges to nightclubs. In addition to that, most of the clubs offer free drinks too.
#6 PRAY AT MAN MO TEMPLE
Constructed in 1847, Man Mo Temple is a popular tourist attraction and a place of worship. It pays tribute to both the God of Literature and God of War. This historic building – which happens to be Hong Kong’s oldest temple – is a Declared Monument. It is very common for parents to take their children to Man Mo Temple to pray for good academic results.
124-126 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Island
Tel: +852 2540 0350
Nearest MRT Station: Sheung Wan
#7 TAKE AN OOTD AT SAIWAN SWIMMING SHED
You would have seen this on Instagram several times by now. If you are still wondering what and where it is, it is Sai Wan Swimming Shed in Kennedy Town. Despite being a swimming shed, Sai Wan Swimming Shed is actually very much a popular photography spot. There is even a queue to have your photos taken at the now-iconic “bridge”!
Read our guide on Kennedy Town – Where To Eat And What To See.
#8 VISIT TEN THOUSAND BUDDHAS MONASTERY
The premises of Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery comprise five temples, four pavilions and one pagoda. The Buddhist temple is located in Sha Tin, New Territories and one would have to conquer 430 uphill steps for approximately 20 minutes before arriving at the religious site.
Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 852 2691 1067
Daily: 9am – 5pm
Nearest MTR Station: Sha Tin
#9 WATCH THE SYMPHONY OF LIGHTS
A spectacular 13-minute long laser light show takes place every night at 8pm and the glitzy performance showcases Hong Kong’s cityscape at its very best. This brilliant multimedia show is recognised by the Guinness World Records as the ‘World’s Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show’, where more than 40 buildings from both sides of the harbour are involved.
Avenue Of Stars is currently closed till the end of 2018, but you can still catch the Symphony of Lights from Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai.
#10 WINDOW SHOP AT MONGKOK’S STREETS
We aren’t expecting you to purchase pets or lug plants home, but it is nevertheless an unmissable experience to take a walk down Mongkok’s Flower Market and Goldfish Market. The former sells a splendid variety of flora while the latter is home to commercial aquariums and pet shops. Should neither of these interests you, then head over to Ladies Market.
It interesting to window shop through Ladies Market’s chaotic crowd. The “luxury goods” sold here are ridiculously cheap only because they are counterfeit. Police raids do happen – though not often – and it is incredible how the makeshift stalls could disassemble instantaneously.
Read: 29 Reasons To Love Hong Kong