3 Cool Under-the-Radar Sights of Hong Kong

[Sandra & John Scott]

Visitors to Hong Kong Island know about the iconic Victoria Peak and other tourist favorites, but here are three fun things to do when staying at downtown's 550-room Ibis Ibis Hong Kong Central and Sheung Wan Hotel.

1. Take the tram for a step back in time and explore the bustling north corridor of Hong Kong Island aboard one of the city's affordable, fun, historic trams. These double-decker streetcars have been traveling through Hong Kong's busiest thoroughfares since 1904. The tram stop is right outside the hotel. For a unique experience take the tram to stop 50W.  Under the flyover is the Petty Person Beating site.  Is there someone who annoys you? For 50 HK the lady will eliminate the problem by beating a symbolic paper with a shoe, accompanied with incense burning and incantations.  A one-of-a-kind experience. On the way back take the Western Market Tram to its last stop and visit the market in the colorful Edwardian building. A good place to buy postcards.

2. Man Mo temple is located uphill from the hotel on Hollywood Road. Suggest taking a cab and walking back. The colorful Man Mo Temple was built around 1847 by wealthy Chinese merchants for the worship of Man Cheong (God of Literature) and Mo Tai (God of Martial Arts). Take note of the beautiful double doors; the large drums and bells; and the huge coils of burning incense hanging from the ceiling. On the walk back to the Ibis window shop at the many antique shops.  The way also passes many dried fish stores.

3. Queen Street Quiet Garden is one of those easy to miss city treasures.  Just a few steps from the hotel is a garden with a play area, benches in shaded area, and an herb garden – all neatly labeled. A large wall display explains what each of the herbs are used for. 

 

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