The city's charm is worth visiting again and again — Xu Weini recommends three sights you can only find in Hong Kong

Reporter You t
ru / Special Report




▲ Xu Weini, Director of the Hong Kong Tourism Board’s Taiwan Office. (Photo / Reporter Chen Mingren)

A city that is constantly evolving has a charm that is both simple and complex. For Taiwan, Hong Kong is just a short flight away and has seemingly become a must-visit destination for most Taiwanese. Yet, truly delving into the cultural depth and urban lifestyle charm of Hong Kong brings an indescribable sense of familiarity. Xu Weini describes her experience as a traveler riding the iconic Ding Ding tram through Hong Kong: “Sitting on the tram and looking at Hong Kong, you can pass through the alleys of local homes on this landmark vehicle, moving from the everyday life in narrow lanes to the international metropolis — it feels like a dislocation in time and space.”

But the beauty of Hong Kong can’t be fully appreciated just by riding the Ding Ding tram. The second scene Xu Weini shares is her personal must-visit spot: the old shop “Tak Cheong Fishball” in North Point. On a day off, she visited and found herself sitting in a cramped two-person seat when a man simply sat down beside her and started enjoying his meal. “Hong Kong people, due to limited space and their fast-paced lives, will just plop down next to you in a shared seat without even asking.” In such a tiny space, you can witness Hong Kong’s unique “shared-table culture.”


▲%You can experience the merging of cultures in this place. Next, the night view of the quua restaurant. (Photo / Provided by the Hong Kong Tourism Board)


In Xu Weini’s opinion, Hong Kong has a third breathtaking sight. She recommends Aqua Restaurant located at One Peking Road in Tsim Sha Tsui, which offers a stunning view of Hong Kong’s nightlife. “The city’s night scenery in Hong Kong is incredibly beautiful — it’s an essential experience not to be missed.” Additionally, if visitors choose to take a night cruise on the “Aqua Luna” boat or ride the Ding Ding tram at night, they can feel a completely different nocturnal atmosphere compared to Taiwan.

Taiwan sees over 2 million visitors to Hong Kong each year, making it Hong Kong’s second-largest overseas tourism market. About 60% of those visitors come from the young and middle-class demographics, which are the main target groups. Among Hong Kong visitors, 41% of those staying overnight have visited four or more times. Therefore, how to keep Hong Kong’s tourism offerings fresh and provide new experiences for visitors throughout different seasons is a key focus for the Hong Kong Tourism Board.

In the second half of 2014, the main promotional focus was on major events in Hong Kong. October featured Halloween Havoc Month, highlighted by Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park, which were decorated to offer visitors a terrifying Halloween experience. Additionally, the entire month’s Halloween atmosphere could be felt all around Lan Kwai Fong and in various restaurants across Hong Kong. November was the Gourmet & Wine Festival Month, including the Central Gourmet & Wine Festival (Oct 30 – Nov 2), the Grand Awards of Fine Dining, and visits to Michelin-starred restaurants. December marked the start of Hong Kong’s WinterFest, featuring a large Christmas tree in Central, winter sales, and New Year’s Eve fireworks. No matter when you visit, there’s always an exciting celebration to join.


▲ Xu Weini says there are still many hidden treasures and joys in Hong Kong that Taiwanese travelers haven’t discovered yet. (Photo / Reporter Chen Mingren)

Regarding newly launched key experiences and activities in Hong Kong, in mid-October, a new 60-meter-tall Ferris wheel will open in Central Harbourfront. The view of Victoria Harbour from the Ferris wheel is spectacular, whether in the daytime or at night. There will also be a brand-new 3D projection music and light show, held alongside major events such as the Gourmet & Wine Festival, WinterFest, and Chinese New Year celebrations, all taking place in front of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui. Plus, the Hong Kong Cyclothon, taking place from November to December, will offer even more Taiwanese travelers a chance to experience different facets of Hong Kong.

Zhang Manjuan said: “Hong Kong has always been a lover who guides me. Your hometown — you wouldn’t think of it as a lover because your relationship with it can’t change its predestined title. A lover isn’t a fixed relationship, but it can always bring you passion and new discoveries.” Xu Weini added that Hong Kong still holds many hidden treasures and joys that Taiwanese travelers haven’t discovered yet. With the continuous emergence of young creativity and unique shops, taking the time to stroll and explore various parts of Hong Kong will surely lead to delightful travel surprises hidden in its alleys.