21 photos that may tempt you to visit Hong Kong

Last updated: November 1, 2026

Hong Kong in my eyes can do no wrong. Feisty, independent and self reliant, it is a city with a large heart, pride and a lot of soul. Despite being treated as the step child by China for many years, the vibrant Asian city had not only thrived, but has flourished like a green bay tree which has grown strong by weathering all storms. HK has indeed gone through a lot as a city and its history is riddled with foreign invasions, colonial subversion, diseases and pain. Hong Kong however had fought them all and the city is a true survivor because of its proud residents. They create the soul of the city and give it the unique strong character, which makes it seem like a pinnacle of strength in midst of global turmoil. Thus, it is no wonder that many expats call it home and the mega financial capital is one glitzy, glittering number. Strangely, success and glory had not gone into HK’s head and the city has an equally proud traditional side, which often makes it seem like a very cinematic paradox. Thanks to generations of immigrant Chinese mainlanders, HK has an unique village within a city character and some of its fresh produce markets seem straight out of provincial Oriental town. The only difference is that well heeled expat residents rub shoulders there with the city’s hard working traditional Chinese elderly people and nearly everybody has a smart phone/device addiction. This is yet another quirk of HK and I can never get over the sight of streams of zombified HK residents glued to their devices at nearly everywhere I go. But as I had said before, HK can never do anything wrong and in my eyes it is one of the most exciting places in the world. In this photo series, I am going to show off my favourite moments of Hong Kong and recollect “the fragrant harbour” city, as I had experienced. Good, bad and bizarre, Hong Kong is here to stay.

RESPONSIBLE TRAVELING-BECAUSE I CARE

Where to Take the Best Hong Kong Photos

• Victoria Peak / Lugard Road – the classic skyline, best at blue hour.
• Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade – harbour and Hong Kong Island skyline.
• Star Ferry – iconic green-and-white ferries crossing the harbour.
• Monster Building, Quarry Bay – dense residential blocks (be respectful of residents).
• Mong Kok – neon signs, Ladies’ Market and Goldfish Market.
• Wan Chai & Sheung Wan – trams, old shophouses and dried seafood streets.
• Tian Tan Buddha, Lantau – Ngong Ping 360 cable car views.

Quick 2-Day Photo Itinerary

• Day 1: Central & Sheung Wan streets → tram ride to Wan Chai → Victoria Peak for sunset.
• Day 2: Lantau and Big Buddha → Mong Kok markets → TST Promenade for the Symphony of Lights.

Related reads: Wan Chai guide

FAQs

Where is the best place to photograph the Hong Kong skyline?
Victoria Peak (especially the free Lugard Road walk) and the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade across the harbour.

What time is the Symphony of Lights?
The Symphony of Lights runs every night at 8 pm and lasts about 10 minutes; watch from the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront.

Can you photograph the Monster Building in Hong Kong?
Yes, it is a popular spot in Quarry Bay, but it is a residential complex – keep noise down and avoid blocking residents.

What is the best month to visit Hong Kong for photos?
October to December usually brings clear skies, low humidity and good visibility.