Different Tastes of Hong Kong

If you’ve already snapped photos of Victoria Peak and wandered through Mong Kok’s bustling markets, this tour offers a refreshing look at Hong Kong’s lesser-known, historically rich neighborhoods. For just about $105, you’ll spend around six hours journeying through parts of the city that most travelers overlook. Guided by knowledgeable locals like Michael, you’ll move seamlessly from iconic ferry rides to authentic fishing villages, experiencing the city’s everyday life and heritage.

What we especially love about this tour is how it combines transportation modes—from the Star Ferry to the Mid-Levels escalator, and even a sampan boat ride—each offering a different viewpoint of the city. Second, the inclusion of a local restaurant lunch allows for a taste of Hong Kong’s authentic cuisine in a relaxed setting. The ability to explore public housing and traditional fishing villages provides a more balanced, real-life snapshot of Hong Kong, beyond the glittering skyline.

A possible consideration for travelers is that the tour involves a moderate amount of walking and some outdoor exposure, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Also, since it’s a small group experience (maximum 15 people), it’s best suited for those who enjoy more intimate, guided explorations rather than large bus tours.

This tour is perfect if you want to see a different side of Hong Kong, particularly if you’ve already ticked off the main sights. It suits curious travelers eager to understand the local culture, history, and everyday life of Hong Kongers—especially those who appreciate authentic experiences and small-group atmospheres.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Offers a genuine look at Hong Kong’s lesser-known neighborhoods.
• Multiple Transport Modes: Ferry, tram, and sampan rides enrich the tour experience.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Michael provide insightful and engaging commentary.
• Cultural Context: Visits to public housing and fishing villages reveal local lifestyles.
• All-Inclusive Value: Lunch and all transportation tickets are included.
• Small Group: With a maximum of 15 travelers, enjoy a more personalized experience.

Exploring Hong Kong’s Hidden Sides: A Complete Review

Setting the Scene: What’s Included and Why It Matters

This 6-hour tour balances sightseeing, culture, and local flavor. Starting in Kowloon, it moves through some of Hong Kong’s most intriguing and historically significant neighborhoods. All transportation—including ferry, tram, sampan, and coach—is included, which simplifies logistics and allows you to focus on the sights and stories.

The price of approximately $105 is reasonable considering the variety of experiences packed into a single day. Plus, the tour guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, which makes the experience more engaging and easier to understand, especially for those unfamiliar with local history or Cantonese.

Itinerary Breakdown: What Makes Each Stop Special

Meeting in Kowloon and the Star Ferry Ride

Your day kicks off around 9:15 am at The Kowloon Hotel, a convenient starting point in Tsim Sha Tsui. From there, it’s a quick walk to the Star Ferry pier—an iconic, must-do Hong Kong experience ranked as one of the world’s top city boat trips by National Geographic. The ferry crossing offers fantastic views of Victoria Harbour’s skyline, and you’ll get a sense of how locals commute daily across the water.

As one reviewer noted, “The ferry is an important part of the commuter system,” and it’s a chance for you to see the city from a different vantage point—water-level views of skyscrapers and mountains in the distance. The ride typically takes about 20 minutes and is included in your ticket.

Central-Mid-Levels Escalator and Pottinger Street

Next, you’ll board the world’s longest outdoor escalator system, stretching over 800 meters. This escalator isn’t just a practical transport link; it’s a living slice of Hong Kong’s urban fabric, winding through neighborhoods full of shops, cafes, and markets. It’s often used by locals to navigate busy streets, and we loved how it offers a snapshot of daily life. One reviewer highlighted that “the escalator links bustling streets and markets, giving a real sense of local life.”

Disembarking at Pottinger Street, or Stone Slabs Street, feels like stepping back in time. This stepped street, lined with small shops and eateries, was named after Henry Pottinger, the first governor of Hong Kong. It’s a perfect spot to soak up the historic charm of mid-19th-century Hong Kong. The quaint shops and local eateries make it more than just a photo op; they’re part of the living city.

Hong Kong Tram Ride (Ding Ding) and Neighborhoods

The famous double-decker ‘ding ding’ trams have been running since the early 1900s. They’re a favorite way to see the city’s bustling streets and diverse neighborhoods like Happy Valley and Wan Chai. The tram ride typically lasts around 20 minutes and is included in your tour.

One traveler shared, “The tram is an affordable and leisure way to get around, and it’s a nostalgic experience that connects you with the city’s past”. The trams are a symbol of Hong Kong’s affordable, accessible transportation, and riding one adds a layer of authenticity to your visit.

Cultural Stop: Petty Person Beating Ceremony

Depending on timing, you might witness a Petty Person Beating (Da Siu Yan) ceremony. This folk ritual is intended to dispels evil spirits and is rooted in local tradition. While this isn’t a regular fixture, seeing such rituals offers insight into Hong Kong’s deep-rooted customs and beliefs.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

A highlight for many is the included Hong Kong-style meal. Rather than a tourist trap, the restaurant chosen usually offers authentic local dishes, providing a chance to savor dim sum, noodles, or other Cantonese favorites. It’s a relaxed moment to discuss the morning’s sights and soak in the local atmosphere.

Public Housing at Wah Fu Estate

Post-lunch, you’ll visit Wah Fu Estate, Hong Kong’s first public high-rise housing estate designed under the “new town” development. This visit offers an insider’s view of how many residents live, providing context about urban development and social housing in a city famous for its cramped conditions.

One reviewer pointed out that “seeing the housing estate gave us a different perspective,” emphasizing how these complexes are vital parts of the city’s fabric.

Aberdeen Fishing Village by Sampan

The tour’s finale is a trip to Aberdeen Harbour, a traditional fishing enclave. You’ll cruise around in a wallah-wallah sampan—a small, motorized boat—navigating among houseboats and fishing boats. This provides a rare glimpse into the fishermen’s daily lives, balancing traditional livelihoods with modern urban pressures.

The sampan ride was described as “something different” by one reviewer, offering a relaxed, intimate view of Hong Kong’s working waterfront, far from the tourist-heavy areas.

Authentic Experiences and Expert Guides

Throughout the tour, guides like Michael or Ming are praised for their local knowledge and storytelling. As one reviewer noted, “the guide was very informative and very accommodating,” making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Their insights help you understand the history behind each site, like the significance of Henry Pottinger’s influence or the cultural importance of the floating fishing community.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is wise—comfortable shoes are a must, especially since there’s some walking involved. With a small group size (up to 15 people), you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get personalized attention.

Since lunch and all tickets are included, the cost-to-value ratio is quite favorable. It’s particularly good for travelers who want a comprehensive, authentic glimpse of Hong Kong’s history, culture, and everyday life without the hassle of planning multiple tickets or navigating public transport alone.

What Could Be Better?

While this tour excels in providing a balanced look at Hong Kong, some may wish for more emphasis on iconic landmarks like The Peak or Victoria Park. Also, if mobility is an issue, the moderate walking involved might be tiring.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and curious travelers who want to go beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s especially suited for those interested in local living, traditional crafts, and urban development. If you enjoy small-group tours with a knowledgeable guide, this one ticks many boxes.

Final Thoughts on the Different Tastes of Hong Kong Tour

This tour offers a rare chance to see Hong Kong through the eyes of its residents—exploring neighborhoods that tell stories of urban growth, tradition, and community resilience. The combination of transportation modes, cultural stops, and local eateries creates a well-rounded experience that reveals the city’s layered identity.

We appreciated how accessible and engaging the tour was, thanks to guides who genuinely shared insights and stories. It’s a great way for first-time visitors to deepen their understanding of Hong Kong, or for repeat travelers wanting to see a different, more authentic side of the city.

While it might not focus on main landmarks, it compensates with meaningful interactions, beautiful vistas, and cultural context. And for those interested in Hong Kong’s social fabric and everyday life, this tour offers a little of everything—at a fair price.

Final Recommendation

If you’re looking for an experience that connects you with the local stories and traditions of Hong Kong, and you’re comfortable with a bit of walking and outdoor exposure, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for history lovers, culture seekers, and families wanting an immersive half-day adventure.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is transportation included?
Yes, all transportation modes—ferry, tram, sampan, and coach—are included in the tour price.

What’s the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

How much walking is involved?
There’s a moderate amount of walking, especially around neighborhoods and on the escalator, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are meals included?
Yes, a local Hong Kong-style lunch at a restaurant is part of the package.

Can children join this tour?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers can participate, but no specific age restrictions are mentioned.

What if I’m late or want to cancel?
The tour operates rain or shine. Late arrivals will miss out, as no refunds are given for no-shows or cancellations.

Is this a small-group experience?
Yes, the tour has a maximum of 15 travelers, making it more personal and flexible than large bus tours.

What language is the guide’s commentary in?
English-speaking guides provide commentary, and as some reviews mention, guides like Ming can accommodate bilingual needs.

What about weather considerations?
It runs in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly—an umbrella or raincoat might be wise if it’s rainy.

How do I book?
You can book through the provider, Century Holiday, via their official website or a travel platform like Viator.

In the end, “Different Tastes of Hong Kong” offers a compelling way to see the city’s hidden treasures, local stories, and everyday life—a must for those eager to look beyond the usual tourist spots. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture lover, or just curious about what makes Hong Kong such a vibrant mosaic, this tour delivers a memorable, authentic experience at a fair price.