‘I’m bored, Mum.’ It’s a common refrain in the school holidays, so next time you are wracking your brains for ideas on how to keep the little people occupied consider checking out some of Hong Kong’s excellent museums or cultural sites.
Must-See Museums and Galleries
Hong Kong Heritage Museum
Providing a glimpse into Hong Kong’s transition from sleepy fishing village to the multicultural hub it is today, the Heritage Museum is frequently ranked as one of the city’s best. 1 Man Lam Road, Sha Tin | heritagemuseum.gov.hk
Flagstaff House Museum of Teaware
This one may not be everybody’s cup of tea (!) but it does house an impressive collection of Asian teaware, as well as offering the chance to have afternoon tea inside HK’s oldest surviving colonial building. 10 Cotton Tree Drive, Central | lcsd.gov.hk
Hong Kong Museum of Art
Housing one of the largest collections of Chinese art and antiquities in the world, the museum has a section dedicated to Hong Kong art, and a calligraphy collection. 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. hk.art.museum
Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence
Set in a restored 19th-century British fort, complete with cannons and views over the Lei Yue Mun channel, this museum is a reminder of the city’s military history and its role in the Second World War. Take the short hike near the museum and scan the seas for pirates. 175 Tung Hei Road, Shau Kei Wan | hk.coastaldefence.museum
Hong Kong Science Museum
A favourite of the city’s kids and a popular spot on weekends and holidays, the Science Museum boasts nearly 500 exhibits, with lots of interactive displays, and some outstanding visiting exhibitions. 2 Science Museum Road, Tsim Sha Tsui | hk.science.museum
Places of Worship
Every district of Hong Kong has a church, temple or shrine of some kind. Here are some of the more noteworthy and historical places of worship which can make an interesting visit for the kids.
Chi Lin Nunnery and Nam Lian Garden
The Chi Lin Nunnery is a cluster of Buddhist temple structures built in the Tang Dynasty’s architectural style. The adjoining Nam Lian Garden offers a peaceful sanctuary in bustling Kowloon as well as a superb vegetarian restaurant. discoverhongkong.com
Man Mo Temple Sheung Wan
This Taoist complex houses three temples: Man Mo Temple, Lit Shing Kung and Kung Sor, which were built between 1847 and 1862. It’s an exquisite example of traditional Chinese architecture and craftsmanship. lcsd.gov.hk
Po Lin Monastery and Big Buddha
Home to the world’s largest seated Tian Tan Buddha statue, the monastery was built in 1906 and is an important focal point for the Buddhist community. Make it a memorable day trip by taking the cable car from Tung Chung. plm.org.hk
This article first appeared in the 2016/17 edition of Expat Living‘s City Guide. Subscribe now so you don’t miss a copy!
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