A Hong Kong Travel Guide for -Ber Month Tourists
There’s nothing quite like Hong Kong in the Ber months. The cool weather, the rush of endless activities and events, the hustle and bustle of the city after dark. It’s the perfect escape from Manila’s hectic Ber month traffic and close enough for a quick weekend respite. By now, you know all the HK basics: Disneyland, Victoria Peak, Victoria Harbor. So this time around, here are seven underrated spots and activities for Ber month travelers.
Also read:
The Very Best of Hong Kong: A Six-Day Travel Guide to HK in 2023
Cheung Chau Island, Hong Kong: A Quaint, Cozy Escape from the City Life
1| Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance
From September 28 to 30, don’t miss out on this historic dance on the streets of the Tai Hang district. Every year, 300 performers gather to create a 67-meter-long dragon that will wind down through Hong Kong before ending at Wun Sha Street and Tung Lo Wan Road. The dance originated during a plague outbreak in the 19th century when residents of a small Hakka village created a dragon adorned with incense sticks to save the village. For three nights during the Mid-Autumn Festival, the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance is an inspiring sight that’s considered a national Intangible Culture Heritage of Hong Kong.
2| Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival
One of the most anticipated regional events of the year, the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival will mark its return after a five-year hiatus. Located at Central Harbourfront, the festival will take place from October 26 to 29. The four-day event will gather wineries and breweries from around the world, while local culinary masters will serve up creations and signature drinks and dishes. Travelers can even take part in Tasting Theatre, a cooking workshop with the world’s best. The festival will kickstart Taste Around Town, a month-long celebration throughout November that will highlight over 300 exceptional Hong Kong food establishments through discounts, limited-time menus, and more.
3| Cyclothon
Cyclists unite. On October 22, 5,000 cyclists from around the world will participate in Hong Kong’s largest international cycling event. Cyclists will race past Hong Kong’s city skyline and stunning natural landscapes while cycling through three tunnels and three bridges. The non-competitive categories include the 50km Ride, 30 km Ride, and Family Fun Ride, but if you’re in the mood for competition, try the UCI Class 1.1 Road Race.
4| Hong Kong Streetathon
Prefer to stay on your own two feet? The Hong Kong Streetathon on December 17 serves as the perfect avenue for the outdoorsy type who loves the cool winter weather. Around 20,000 runners will participate in this winter outdoor running event—and you can too. The cool weather certainly beats Manila’s heat. You can still register for the run here.
5| Cycling from Tuen Mun to Sha Tin
On the topic of outdoor adventures, one journey you shouldn’t miss out on in Hong Kong is the 55-kilometer track that connects Tuen Min to Sea Tin. Cyclists can take the journey to explore Hong Kong’s rich cultural history while seeing some centuries-old temples and monuments along the way. After all, the train and bus systems aren’t the only way to get around Hong Kong, which also happens to be one of the most outdoorsy cities in the region.
6| Water Sports at Sai Kung Country Park’s Three Fathoms Cove (Kei Ling Ha Hoi)
If water sports is more your vibe, check out the Sai Kung Country Park’s Three Fathoms Cove (Kei Ling Ha Hoi) located in the Sai Kung Peninsula. Travelers can enjoy Hong Kong’s coastline by visiting the charming seafront villages and marveling at the breathtaking views. You can even step onto a stand-up paddle board and engage in other water sports that you wouldn’t have immediately thought were available in Hong Kong.
7| Rock Climbing at Tung Lung Chau
For something a little more challenging, travelers can also try out rock climbing at Tung Lung Chau. Located at the east entrance of Victoria Harbour, the subtropical island of Tung Lung Chau is a popular spot for adventurous rock climbers in the area. Rock climbing in the “wild” beats rock climbing in a facility by a mile.
