Discover the "hidden gems" from the Hong Kong Tourism Board's list of nominees.

Hong Kong has launched a new campaign, “Summer Chill Hong Kong,” aiming to transform the city into a summer paradise. The “Summer Triple Reward” promotion will offer 500,000 rewards to all overnight guests, including travel/sightseeing, dining, and shopping deals, totaling over HK$100 million. As part of this campaign, the Hong Kong Tourism Board is also introducing a list of six new and unique destinations, categorized by experiences: Nature & Exploration, Culture & Arts, Shopping & Entertainment, and Food & Beverage.

Let's explore the travel destinations suggested in this list:

Nature & ExplorationIn recent years, hiking in Hong Kong has become increasingly popular. Hong Kong boasts 263 islands of varying sizes, along with a system of 535 trails for walking, cycling, and mountain biking. Embark on a journey to discover the breathtaking landscapes and tranquil destinations of Hong Kong, where natural beauty and serenity are ever-present.

• Peng Chau Island: A tranquil, car-free island offering stunning walking trails, traditional temples, and a glimpse into the slower pace of life in Hong Kong – a different side of this bustling island. Peng Chau is now a charming arts district with unique exhibits and vibrant graffiti, regularly updated to provide visitors with fresh experiences.
• Must-do activity: Take photos at the graffiti art area and the stunning beach, which offers breathtaking views of Hong Kong Disneyland.

  

• Cheung Chau Island: Famous for its annual Peace Dumpling Festival, this beautiful island boasts stunning beaches, historical sites, hiking trails, and is a culinary paradise for visitors. Explore Cheung Chau's natural beauty and cultural heritage by renting a bicycle to cycle around the island, visiting the Cheung Po Tsai Caves, or relaxing on Tung Wan Beach. After a long day of exploring, visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and local street food such as giant fish balls and chewy mochi filled with fresh fruit.
• Must-see activity: Explore Cheung Po Tsai Cave, once home to the treasure of the infamous 19th-century pirate of the same name.

Culture - ArtsDiscover rich cultural and artistic heritage, where historical and creative values ​​intersect, creating a journey imbued with timeless traditional identity.

• Tsz Shan Monastery: Nestled amidst the lush green hills of Tai Po, this monastery offers a tranquil space for meditation. It features a striking 76-meter-tall bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara (Guan Yin) built on a 6-meter-high granite pedestal. At the base of the statue is Hong Kong's first museum dedicated to displaying Buddhist artifacts and cultural objects. The monastery also hosts various mindfulness activities such as tea meditation, calligraphy, walking meditation, and water offerings.
• Note: Tsz Shan Monastery is free to visit. Visitors need to book an appointment at the beginning of each month and are advised to dress respectfully when visiting the monastery.

Fun & ShoppingExperience the creative and entrepreneurial spirit of Hong Kong through local handicrafts and vibrant entertainment spaces.

• Mahjong Workshop: Founded by Karen Aruba, granddaughter of a family that once owned one of Hong Kong's largest mahjong factories. Passionate about preserving the craft and cultural heritage of mahjong, she has been organizing mahjong tile coloring classes, directly taught by her father, mahjong artist Ricky Cheung. Participants will learn more about the history and carving techniques of mahjong tiles, and can even take home a tile they designed themselves as a souvenir.
• Location: Studio Karen Aruba, L6-15, No. 30 Pak Tin Road, JCCAC, Shek Kip Mei, Kowloon, Hong Kong
• A must-do activity: Create a personalized Mahjong tile with unique patterns and a metallic finish.

CuisineDiscover Hong Kong's diverse culinary experiences, from hidden cafes to traditional restaurants, all contributing to the city's unique gastronomic landscape.

• Tai Ping Koon: Known as one of the oldest Chinese-run Western restaurants in China and Hong Kong, Tai Ping Koon is renowned for its fusion of Western and Chinese cuisine, offering a nostalgic experience. It's a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to savor traditional Hong Kong cuisine.
• Locations: Multiple branches in the city center, Causeway Bay, Tsim Sha Tsui, and Yau Ma Tei.
• Must-try dishes: roasted pigeon, Swiss-style chicken wings, and baked souffle.
• Kinsman: A hidden gem, this bar offers a classic ambiance and a selection of creative handcrafted cocktails. It's the perfect spot to relax and enjoy traditional Cantonese spirits. The bar also features innovative local snacks and desserts such as squid curry and yin-yang pudding with black sesame and crushed walnuts.
• Location: 27-33 Kimberley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
• A must-try drink: Try the Kowloon Dairy – a unique and creative version inspired by the Hong Kong eggnog cocktail.

This summer is the perfect opportunity to discover the hidden and unique beauty of Hong Kong. Visitors can enjoy deals from over 100 brands, including airlines, attractions, restaurants, retail stores, shopping malls, and travel agencies. In addition, the Hong Kong Tourism Board will be installing new summer-themed decorations at various locations throughout the city, such as piers, airports, train stations, bus terminals, and shopping malls. These decorations are expected to create a cheerful and vibrant atmosphere across the city.

Phuong Mai is a reporter for Travellive Magazine in Hanoi.

Phuong Mai