12 Surprising Facts About Hong Kong from My Two Visits
During my first visit to Hong Kong earlier this year, the city exceeded all expectations and revealed numerous surprises. Returning last month confirmed these observations, including the mind-blowing fact at #8. Here are 12 intriguing aspects of Hong Kong based on my firsthand experiences:
1. A Vibrant, Bustling Metropolis
Arriving from Stockholm, which felt unusually quiet, Hong Kong's crowds were overwhelming. Streets in Kowloon were perpetually packed, the MTR as crowded as London's Tube during rush hour, and many areas rivaled Times Square's intensity. It took several days to adjust to this dynamic energy.
2. Remarkably Hilly Terrain
Hong Kong's hilly landscape caught me off guard. While Kowloon is relatively flat, Hong Kong Island features steep inclines. This explains the Central–Mid-Levels Escalator, the world's longest covered outdoor escalator at 800 meters (2,600 feet) long with a 135-meter (443-foot) vertical rise, serving over 55,000 people daily. It descends in the morning for commuters from higher residences to Central's financial district and ascends afterward.
3. Bamboo Scaffolding Everywhere
Despite its modernity, Hong Kong relies on bamboo scaffolding for construction—a surprisingly robust material. This stood out as one of the most unexpected features amid the city's skyscrapers.
4. A Hip and Trendy Scene
Hong Kong boasts vibrant neighborhoods like Poho (Po Hing Fong in Sheung Wan), teeming with boutiques, indie coffee shops, stylish eateries, and street art. It's a hub for young professionals and entrepreneurs launching artisanal ventures.
5. Highly International Atmosphere
The city's diversity impressed me, with Westerners, various Asians, and Indians mingling freely. In the financial district, suited professionals from around the world were commonplace.
6. Persistent Smog Challenges
Unlike clear skyline photos from Victoria Peak, both visits revealed smoggy conditions. Air pollution has intensified over the past two decades, contributing to rising respiratory issues.
7. Abundant Green Spaces
Amid urban density, Hong Kong offers extensive greenery. Parks, trails like Bowen Road, and hikes to Victoria Peak showcase remnants of its original jungle, providing easy escapes for nature lovers.
8. Virtually No Bicycles
Unlike Beijing's bike culture or even Bangkok's traffic, bicycles were absent during both visits. Spotting one in Wan Chai was a rare thrill. (Note: They exist but are scarce in central areas.)
9. A Coffee Lover's Paradise
Contrary to China's tea reputation, Hong Kong excels in specialty coffee with roasters and cafes abound. I'll share my top spots in a future post.
10. Surprisingly Expensive
Hong Kong outprices even New York and Sweden for coffee ($6+ for a flat white), pizzas ($17+), and drinks ($9+). Yet public transport remains affordable: trams at $0.30, MTR $0.64–$1.55.
11. Diverse Culinary Landscape
The food scene mirrors its international vibe: French bakeries, American brunch, Pizza Express, Motorino's pizza, Italian pasta, and more—ideal for varied tastes.
12. Lightning-Fast Wi-Fi
Free, unrestricted, high-speed internet—even for streaming—draws mainland visitors, available in public spaces, restaurants, and cafes.
Have you visited Hong Kong? What surprised you most? Share your experiences or facts below!
