Kowloon

The buzzing hub of Hong Kong, Kowloon is packed with life and energy but also boasts charming, peaceful and picturesque spots in which to unwind.

A peninsula on the mainland north of Hong Kong situated on the Chinese mainland, Kowloon is a district with so much to offer visitors. You’ll find traditional Asian gardens and religious spots tucked away behind the impressive shopping precincts and glittering attractions, giving Kowloon a truly eclectic personality.

One of the main shopping precincts in Hong Kong is Tsim Sha Tsui, also known as, simply, TST. Here you can walk down Nathan Road, one of Hong Kong’s prime addresses and the central artery that runs through Kowloon. Lined on both sides with department stores, boutiques, jewellers’ shops, electronics and home ware stores, the street is a renowned shopping paradise. Many shops stay open until late, illuminating the entire district with the heady glow of brightly lit shop fronts and neon advertising signs. Check out some of the side streets off the main road and you may be rewarded with a great bargain.

Head to Harbor City for all of this and more, on a huge scale. One of Hong Kong’s largest shopping malls, it houses four separate zones with hundreds of shops, cinemas, and an abundance restaurants. It’s so easy to lose yourself for an entire day here.

Not far from TST, you’ll find the waterfront promenade, from which you should walk along the Avenue of Stars. Like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, this is a much-loved attraction honouring Hong Kong’s cinema stars. Every evening, crowds gather here to enjoy the free music and light show known as the Symphony of Lights.

But Kowloon is not all shopping malls and teeming promenades. There are some exquisite peaceful spots a world away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of Hong Kong. Particularly impressive is the Chi Lin Nunnery Buddhist complex with its lotus ponds and peaceful courtyards. Next door, step into the Nan Ling Garden to admire the pretty surroundings of this lush green location.

To get to Kowloon, take the Star Ferry from Hong Kong’s central business district across to Tsim Sha Tsui. Alternatively, hop on board the metro taking the line running beneath the harbour.