The destination itself boasts modern infrastructure, ease of transportation and a low crime rate, so the practicalities of safety, comfort, cleanliness and, above all, peace of mind, are already covered. When it comes to attractions and entertainment, you'll find endless opportunities for exploration, excitement and amazement.
When you envisage Hong Kong, you might imagine skyscraper-studded urban centres, bustling night markets and enchanting Buddhist temples - not exactly the traditional recipe for family holidays at first glance. However, delve a little deeper and you'll discover this magical metropolis has plenty to offer multi-generational families.
Hong Kong Disneyland
We challenge any child not to squeal in excitement at the thought of visiting Disneyland, a fantasy world of kids' favourite film characters, musical entertainment and thrilling rides and attractions. Hong Kong Disneyland is one of the smaller Disney parks, with nods to its destination, including repetition of the Chinese lucky number 8, Disney dim sum (yes, they make bitesize characters out of this classic dish!) and park orientation given in Cantonese and Mandarin as well as English. Seven whimsical lands await, including the iconic Main Street USA with character parades, and the new Toy Story land where you can take on the 27-metre tall U-shaped coaster, RC Racer.
Victoria Peak
An emblem of Hong Kong's history as the first funicular in Asia, the Peak Tram ascends the 552metre-tall mountain that towers over the cityscape, Victoria Peak. Since the tram first opened in the late 1800s, it has become one of the most visited and photographed attractions in the city, with spectacular sweeping views of the iconic skyline, green mountains and bobbing harbour boats from its summit. Families love this unique experience, but we do recommend you buy your tram tickets in advance to avoid the sometimes busy crowds.
Ocean Park Hong Kong
From the cool snowscape-themed rollercoaster with penguin friends, to the colourful bird shows and mesmerising aquatic life, Ocean Park Hong Kong is an animal amusement park for all the family. Rides, show-stopping performances and open-air restaurants are dotted around the park for you to explore. A unique experience, Night-time in the Ocean's Depths gives your family the chance to spend the night inside the Grand Aquarium, complete with a delicious dinner at the marine-themed Neptune's Restaurant, tickets to the 260-degree water screen show Symbio! and a night spent sleeping under the tanks of over 5000 fish.
A Symphony of Lights
Save your HK dollars and take a seat for this nightly multimedia show, as over 40 buildings across both sides of the harbour join together for a light spectacle of lasers, coloured beams, music and narration. Following the themes of Awakening, Energy, Heritage, Partnership and Celebration, this kaleidoscopic marvel begins at 20:00 each evening and is narrated in English on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Vantage points include the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, or select a boat tour on the harbour for an extra special experience.
Repulse Bay
Hiding behind the humbling presence of skyscrapers and modern architectural feats, one of Hong Kong's popular beaches on the southern coast offer clean, clear waters, soft sand and a free playground for kids. Forgive the name of Repulse Bay, and you'll find relaxing beach days filled with building sandcastles, playing volleyball and rustling up hot dogs on one of the BBQ grills.
Big Buddha
A fantastic way to introduce and educate kids' on Buddhism, the Big Buddha on Lantau island is a giant statue constructed of over 200 bronze pieces and inscribed with holy scriptures describing how Buddhism spread in China. A 25-minute cable car ride gives incredible panoramic views of the mountains, sea, and Ngong Ping Village. Indulge your appetite with Chinese vegetarian food from the stalls dotted around the outside of the Po Lin Monastery and Big Buddha or simply soak up the sense of serenity.
Where to stay?
As the oldest hotel in Hong Kong, The Peninsula boasts a bygone elegance and a wealth of experience when it comes to welcoming a range of guests with different expectations of their time here. Families particularly love The Peninsula Academy, specially created to enhance your understanding and appreciation of Hong Kong's history, culture and lifestyle. Embark on bespoke programmes including lantern making, modelled on a signature Peninsula pageboy hat, and pastry baking classes in The Peninsula kitchen.
If you're seeking a modern, sleek city centre hotel that's not necessarily marketed at families, but does cater for them in an exceptional way, The Upper House fits the bill; Lobby staff are happy to hear your kids' tales, ice cream sandwiches may be served alongside afternoon tea in the garden courtyard, and milk & cookies aren't rare to find when you retreat to your room after a long day exploring fascinating Hong Kong.
