• Distance : 0.78
• Attraction : Entertainment and Dining

Man Wa Lane, also known as Man Mo Temple Street, is a small and charming street located in the Sheung Wan district of Hong Kong. It is named after the nearby Man Mo Temple, a historic Taoist temple dedicated to the gods of literature (Man) and martial arts (Mo). Man Wa Lane is renowned for its traditional Chinese medicine shops, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in Chinese herbal remedies and alternative medicine.

The street is lined with various Chinese medicine shops and herbal dispensaries, offering a wide range of medicinal products, dried herbs, roots, and other ingredients used in traditional Chinese medicine. These shops have been serving the local community for decades, and some have been passed down through generations.

Walking along Man Wa Lane, you'll encounter shelves filled with neatly labeled jars, drawers filled with dried plants and herbs, and the distinct aroma of various medicinal ingredients. Many shops also offer consultations with experienced Chinese medicine practitioners who can provide advice and prescribe herbal remedies tailored to individual needs. 

Let’s get to know some of these specialty herbs.

Dong Quai is a root commonly referred to as the "female ginseng" and is highly regarded in traditional Chinese medicine for its benefits to women's health.

Astragalus is an herb known for its immune-boosting properties. It is often used to support the body's defenses, promote healthy Qi (vital energy) flow, and strengthen the spleen and lungs.

Reishi mushroom is revered in Chinese medicine for its immune-modulating and adaptogenic properties. It is believed to promote longevity, support heart health, enhance mental clarity, and strengthen the body's defenses against various illnesses. Reishi mushroom is commonly consumed in the form of tea, extracts, or as an ingredient in herbal formulations. 

Beyond Chinese medicine shops, Man Wa Lane also hosts a few other specialty stores, including those selling incense, antique Chinese artifacts, and traditional handicrafts. It's an excellent place to explore and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Hong Kong.

Visiting Man Wa Lane allows you to delve into Hong Kong's traditional healing practices and appreciate the connection between ancient beliefs and modern-day medicine.

Ok, let's make our way to Cat Street, the next destination on our tour.

• Distance : 0.42
• Attraction : Shopping and Dining

Cat Street, also known as Upper Lascar Row, is a vibrant and historic street located in the Sheung Wan district of Hong Kong. The street runs between Hollywood Road and Queens Road Central, and it is renowned for its antique market and intriguing curiosities.

Despite its name, Cat Street has no association with cats. The origin of the name is unclear, but it is believed to have come from the Cantonese term "Cat," which means "misfortune" or "bargain." The street earned this name due to the availability of inexpensive second-hand goods and antiques that were sold there.

Cat Street has a long history and dates back to the mid-19th century. It was a popular spot for trading second-hand goods and items salvaged from shipwrecks, attracting collectors, bargain hunters, and tourists. Over time, the street evolved into an antique market where one can find a diverse range of treasures, including antique furniture, porcelain, jewelry, vintage posters, and curios from various periods and cultures.

Exploring Cat Street is like stepping into a treasure trove of history. The narrow and winding lanes are lined with shops and stalls filled with fascinating artifacts, each with its own story. Collectors and antique enthusiasts visit the street to browse through the unique and sometimes rare items on offer. 

Let's explore some of these rare artifacts that are unique to Hong Kong.

The Jadeite Cabbage is an iconic and highly prized artifact displayed at the Hong Kong Museum of Art. Carved from a single piece of jadeite, it depicts a cabbage head with a small locust and a grasshopper camouflaged within the leaves. This delicate and intricately detailed sculpture is a symbol of fertility and wealth in Chinese culture.

The Hong Kong Maritime Museum houses a collection of artifacts recovered from the Chiuchow Shipwreck, which dates back to the late Ming Dynasty (late 16th century). The collection includes ceramics, gold, silver, and other precious items, providing insights into maritime trade and cultural exchange during that period. We will be talking about another famous shipwreck later, towards the end of our tour.

In addition to antiques, Cat Street has also become a hub for art galleries, boutique shops, and trendy cafes. It has transformed into a creative and eclectic neighborhood where traditional and contemporary cultures blend seamlessly.

• Distance : 0.05
• Attraction : Shopping, Murals

Up next is a trip to Hollywood. No not, California, but the road we’re on does take its name from the same one in Los Angeles. 

Hollywood Road is a famous street in Hong Kong, known for its rich history, vibrant art scene, and unique blend of traditional and contemporary culture. It is located in the Central and Sheung Wan districts of Hong Kong Island. While it is not an exact equivalent to Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, it shares the same name.

As one of the first paved roads in Hong Kong, Hollywood Road was completed in 1844 during the start of British colonial rule. The waterfront was then much closer to the area than it is today, making Hollywood Road a prime trading area for sailors and smugglers.

Pottinger Street that intersects with Hollywood Road is the starting point of the famous “stone slab street,” a pedestrian avenue paved with roughly-hewn granite blocks. The road’s design allows pedestrians to use the road without slipping, while effectively sluicing rainwater to the sides.

A further walk up the stairs will take you to a an eye-catching mural; a depiction of Hong Kong martial artist Bruce Lee.

Many murals on Hollywood Road are privately commissioned, intended as free publicity for nearby businesses. Madera Hollywood Hotel leans heavily into the street’s U.S. namesake with Pop Art-style depictions of American showbiz royalty, including Audrey Hepburn and Frank Sinatra.

Hollywood Road is renowned for its art galleries, antique shops, trendy boutiques, and diverse range of restaurants and cafes. It is a hub for art lovers and collectors, offering a wide variety of artworks, including contemporary art, Chinese antiques, and tribal artifacts. 

From the very beginning, Hollywood Road has been a focal point for antique trading in Hong Kong. Antique dealers took advantage of Hollywood Road’s relative (pre-reclamation) proximity to the docks to buy and sell antiques from China – both legitimately-bought and others less so.

• Distance : 0.51
• Attraction : Historic Temple

Man Mo Temple is a historic Taoist temple located in the Sheung Wan district of Hong Kong. It is one of the city's oldest and most well-known temples, with a history dating back to the mid-19th century. The temple is dedicated to two deities worshiped in Taoism: Man Cheong (God of Literature) and Mo Tai (God of Martial Arts).

Historically, Man Mo Temple played a significant role in Hong Kong's cultural and educational development. During the Qing Dynasty, it served as a center for scholarly activities and was a place where students and scholars came to pray for success in their academic pursuits. It was also a venue for important ceremonies, such as the annual examinations for civil service positions.

The temple's architecture reflects traditional Chinese design principles. Its entrance is adorned with colorful wood carvings, and the interior features elaborate incense coils hanging from the ceiling, creating a mystical atmosphere. The main hall houses statues of Man Cheong and Mo Tai, flanked by other deities and mythical creatures.

Taoism, the religious tradition associated with Man Mo Temple, is one of the major indigenous religions of China. It is based on the teachings of Laozi (also known as Lao Tzu), an ancient Chinese philosopher. Taoism emphasizes harmony with nature, the pursuit of inner balance, and the cultivation of "Tao," often translated as "The Way." How would you describe your Tao? No need to think that deeply right now, you’re exploring. But here’s a bit more info.

Taoism incorporates various practices and beliefs, including the veneration of deities, philosophical teachings, and techniques for cultivating health and longevity. It places a strong emphasis on the concept of Yin and Yang, the interplay of opposing forces that create balance in the universe.

In the context of Man Mo Temple, the worship of Man Cheong and Mo Tai represents the complementary forces of intellect (literature) and physical prowess (martial arts). Visitors often come to the temple to seek blessings for academic success, artistic achievements, and general well-being.

Today, Man Mo Temple continues to be an important cultural and religious landmark in Hong Kong. It attracts locals and tourists alike, who come to experience the spiritual ambiance, witness traditional rituals, and pay homage to the gods of literature and martial arts.

• Distance : 0.11
• Attraction : Museum

The Dr. Sun Yat-sen Museum is a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, a pivotal figure in the history of modern China. It provides a valuable opportunity for visitors to explore the history of China's transition from imperial rule to a republic. The Museum is located in the Mid-levels area of Hong Kong Island. More on the escalators later in the tour.

The museum is dedicated to preserving the memory and history of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, who played a crucial role in overthrowing the Qing Dynasty and founding the Republic of China in 1912. He is often referred to as the "Father of Modern China."

The museum is housed in a historical building known as Kom Tong Hall, which is a fine example of colonial-era architecture in Hong Kong. The building itself is part of the museum's historical charm.

Kom Tong Hall, where the museum is situated, was originally the residence of a prominent Chinese family, the Shiu family, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was later purchased by the government and renovated to become the Dr. Sun Yat-sen Museum.

The museum features a range of exhibits and collections related to Dr. Sun Yat-sen's life, his revolutionary activities, and his contributions to the modernization of China. The displays include photographs, documents, artifacts, and multimedia presentations that provide insights into his political career and his efforts to bring about change in China.

Next up is Soho. Yes, I know we’re not in New York City. Just bare with me, I’ll explain.

• Distance : 0.45
• Attraction : Shopping and Dining

Here we are in Soho, a vibrant and trendy neighborhood located in the Central district of Hong Kong. The name "Soho" is derived from its location, which is south of Hollywood Road. It has become one of the most popular areas in the city for dining, entertainment, and nightlife, attracting both locals and expatriates.

In New York City, Soho refers to “South of Houston Street.” So it seems naming a location Soho in any city can be done, assuming the street above begins with the letters H and O.

Here in Hong Kong, Soho is known for its unique blend of Western and Asian influences, creating a diverse and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The neighborhood is characterized by its narrow, winding streets, colonial-era architecture, and a mix of old and new buildings. It has a charming and bohemian vibe, with art galleries, boutique shops, antique stores, and stylish cafes lining the streets.

One of the main draws of Soho is its vibrant culinary scene. The neighborhood is home to a wide range of restaurants, offering cuisine from around the world. You can find everything from traditional Hong Kong dim sum to Italian trattorias, Mexican taquerias, and trendy fusion eateries. Soho is particularly famous for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars, pubs, and clubs that cater to different tastes and preferences.

A well-known restaurant in Soho is Little Bao. This trendy eatery combines traditional Asian flavors with a modern twist. It gained popularity for its signature baos, which are steamed buns filled with delicious ingredients like braised pork belly, fried chicken, and tofu.

When it comes to clubs and nightlife, one popular spot in Soho is Ce La Vi. Located on the top floor of the California Tower, Ce La Vi offers stunning panoramic views of the Hong Kong skyline.

In addition to its dining and art offerings, Soho is conveniently located near many popular attractions in Hong Kong. It is within walking distance of the Mid-Levels Escalators, the world's longest outdoor covered escalator system, which connects the Central district with the residential areas uphill. 

The Mid-Levels Escalators provide a convenient means of traversing the hilly terrain between the Mid-Levels and Central districts. They help residents and visitors navigate the steep slopes more easily and save time and effort compared to climbing the stairs or walking up the hills.

• Distance : 0.04
• Attraction : Historic Building

We are coming upon Tai Kwun, a heritage and arts complex here in Hong Kong. It is a significant cultural and historical landmark that has been beautifully restored and transformed into a vibrant center for art, culture, and heritage.

Tai Kwun, which means "big station" in Cantonese, was originally the Central Police Station Compound, built in the mid-19th century during Hong Kong's colonial period. It served as a police station, magistracy, and prison.

In recent years, Tai Kwun underwent a massive restoration and revitalization project that preserved its historic architecture while converting the compound into a multifunctional cultural and arts complex. The restoration project aimed to blend the old and the new, creating spaces for art exhibitions, performances, dining, and historical education.

Tai Kwun now features a range of facilities and attractions, including art galleries, theaters, heritage interpretation, retail shops, and dining options. The complex houses the JC Contemporary art gallery, which hosts exhibitions of contemporary art and design from around the world. Visitors can explore the prison cells and courtyards, where they can learn about the history of law enforcement and incarceration in Hong Kong.

Tai Kwun's architecture is a blend of colonial and Chinese architectural elements, creating a unique and visually striking environment.
The compound includes historic buildings like the Barrack Block, Central Magistracy, and the Former Police Married Quarters (PMQ). 

PMQ retains its original Bauhaus-style architecture, characterized by clean lines and functional design. The building's layout consists of interconnected blocks with open-air corridors and staircases. PMQ was originally constructed in 1951 as living quarters for married junior police officers and their families. It served this purpose until it was decommissioned in 2000. PMQ now houses studios, workshops, galleries, and shops for local artists, designers, and creative entrepreneurs.

The Central Magistracy was built in 1913 during Hong Kong's colonial period. It was designed by the architectural firm of Denison, Ram and Gibbs in a neoclassical style.

It served as a courthouse, housing various judicial functions, including magistrates' courts, a police station, and holding cells for prisoners awaiting trial.

The Central Magistracy played a crucial role in the administration of justice during the colonial era and is part of Hong Kong's legal history. It was used for various legal proceedings, including criminal trials, and was a symbol of British rule in Hong Kong.

Today, the Central Magistracy has been repurposed as a cultural and heritage facility. It houses the Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts, which includes art galleries, exhibition spaces, performance venues, shops, and dining establishments.
 

• Distance : 0.04
• Attraction : Nightlife District

We’re approaching another area of Hong Kong that is popular for its nightlife, Lan Kwai Fong. The area comes alive after dark with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants offering a wide range of drinks, music, and entertainment. It's a hub for partygoers and a great place to socialize.

In addition to its bars and clubs, Lan Kwai Fong is home to a diverse array of restaurants and eateries. You can find international cuisine, from Japanese sushi to Italian pasta, and enjoy a meal before or after your night out.

Lan Kwai Fong is known for its street parties, especially during holidays and festivals like Halloween and New Year's Eve. The streets are often closed to traffic, and revelers dress up in elaborate costumes, creating a festive and lively atmosphere.

Some bars and venues in Lan Kwai Fong feature live bands or DJs playing a variety of music genres, making it a great place for music enthusiasts. 

Lan Kwai Fong’s transformation into a nightlife and entertainment district began in the 1980s. Prior to that, it was a quiet and relatively obscure area with a few old buildings and street-side stalls. The district's development was spearheaded by local entrepreneurs who saw its potential for nightlife and entertainment.

The name "Lan Kwai Fong" itself refers to a small lane off D'Aguilar Street, which is the heart of the district. Over the years, the area underwent significant redevelopment and modernization, evolving into the bustling nightlife destination it is today.

Checkout the California Tower, a prominent building in the Lan Kwai Fong area, and it houses various restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues including Petticoat Lane Bar and Bloop Shisha Lounge. 

• Distance : 0.73
• Attraction : History of Architecture

Hong Kong is a city known for its diverse and eclectic architectural styles due to its rich history, rapid modernization, and cultural influences. 

Feng Shui principles heavily influence the design of buildings in Hong Kong. Many buildings have features such as open spaces at the front to allow energy flow (qi) and the avoidance of negative elements, like sharp angles and protruding corners.

While less common in modern Hong Kong, you can still find traditional Chinese architectural elements in temples, parks, and historic villages. Examples include the Wong Tai Sin Temple and the Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island.

Hong Kong's public housing estates are known for their utilitarian design, often consisting of high-rise residential towers in uniform blocks. These estates are home to a significant portion of the population and are a distinct part of the urban landscape.

Some older buildings in Hong Kong, particularly in Kowloon and Sham Shui Po, showcase Art Deco architectural features, such as geometric patterns and ornate facades.

Given the limited space in Hong Kong, adaptive reuse of historic buildings has become more common. Old industrial warehouses, factories, and tenement buildings are often converted into trendy restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques while preserving their original facades.

Hong Kong is famous for its towering skyscrapers, many of which are modern glass and steel structures. We will be coming upon some impressive buildings momentarily.

Hong Kong was a British colony until 1997, and you can still find remnants of British colonial architecture in areas like Central and Stanley. Notable examples include the colonial-style government buildings, the Old Supreme Court Building, and St. John's Cathedral.

• Distance : 0.99
• Attraction : Famous Building

By now you’ve tilted your head upwards to the sky to see the impressively tall buildings here on Hong Kong Island. This is not the only part of the city that houses these structures. Across the Bay in West Kowloon is the International Commerce Centre. ICC is Hong Kong's tallest building and the fifth tallest in the world. It stands at 484 meters (1,588 feet) and houses a mix of office space, a hotel, and an observation deck called Sky100 on the 100th floor.

To our left is the Jardine House. It is a few blocks away, but it's worth noting this architectural gem for its iconic circular windows, giving it a distinctive appearance.

Now tilt your head upward as we tell you about the HSBC Tower, or simply the HSBC Building. When it was completed in 1985, it was the most expensive building in the world.

The HSBC Main Building stands out for its distinctive design, which was created by the renowned British architect Sir Norman Foster. It's characterized by its structural steel frame, cross-bracing system, and modular design, all of which contribute to its unique appearance.

While the HSBC Main Building is not the tallest skyscraper in Hong Kong (the International Commerce Centre and Two International Finance Centre are taller), it's still an impressive and recognizable structure. It has 47 stories and stands at a height of 178.8 meters (586 feet).

What makes the HSBC Main Building particularly noteworthy is its architectural innovation, including the suspension of its floors from the exterior of the building, which maximizes interior space and minimizes the need for internal support columns. This design has earned it praise for its structural efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
 

• Distance : 1.05
• Attraction : Famous Building

Coming up ahead is another iconic building in Hong Kong. The Bank of China Tower is considered a masterpiece of modern architecture and has left a lasting impact on the world of skyscraper design. It remains a symbol of Hong Kong's status as a global financial hub and is a must-see for visitors interested in the city's architecture and history.

Designed by the renowned Chinese-American architect I. M. Pei, the Bank of China Tower is celebrated for its unique and innovative architectural design.

The Bank of China Tower is known for its striking and avant-garde design. It features a distinctive geometric pattern of triangular shapes on its exterior. The building's facade is made of reflective glass and aluminum, which gives it a sleek and modern appearance.

When it was completed in 1990, the Bank of China Tower was the tallest building in Hong Kong, standing at 315 meters (1,033 feet). While it has been surpassed in height by other skyscrapers in the city, it remains an iconic structure.

The building's design is rich in symbolism. The four massive steel columns at each corner of the tower are said to represent bamboo shoots, a symbol of growth and prosperity in Chinese culture. The number of floors, 72, is considered lucky in Chinese culture.

The building's design takes into account Feng Shui principles, such as avoiding negative elements. The sharp angles and asymmetrical design are intended to prevent negative energy from flowing towards nearby buildings.

The Bank of China Tower has an observation deck on the 43rd floor, which provides panoramic views of Victoria Harbour and the surrounding cityscape.

The Bank of China Tower is not only an architectural marvel but also has historical significance. It was the first building outside North America to exceed 1,000 feet in height.

• Distance : 0.06
• Attraction : Garden Park

To our left is Hong Kong Park, a beautifully landscaped urban park located in the heart of Central District. It covers an area of approximately 20 acres and offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

One of the highlights of the park is its Edward Youde Aviary, which is a large walk-in aviary that houses a wide variety of bird species from Asia and other parts of the world. Visitors can observe these birds in a naturalistic setting.

Located in Flagstaff House, which is a historic building within the park, the Teaware Museum houses a collection of teapots and teacups from different Chinese dynasties. It provides insight into the history and culture of Chinese tea. The Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware, also located in Flagstaff House, showcases Chinese tea culture. It features exhibitions related to tea ware and often hosts special tea-related events.

The park features a beautiful lily pond with cascading waterfalls and lush greenery. As the name suggests, the pond is home to a variety of water lilies. These aquatic plants are known for their vibrant and colorful blooms, which add to the pond's visual appeal. The sight of blooming water lilies floating on the surface of the pond is a popular attraction, especially during the flowering season.

The Lily Pond is also home to koi fish, which are known for their colorful and ornamental appearance. Visitors can often see these fish swimming gracefully in the clear waters of the pond.

And finally, be sure to check out Olympic Square, reminiscent of an ancient Greek amphitheater, seats 880 people comfortably and is the site of many concerts, plays, promotional events, sports, and a variety of different kinds of entertainment spectacles.

This brings us towards the end of our tour. However, for those of you who wish to continue on, we recommend taking the Peak Tram up to the top of Victoria Peak. We are approaching the base of the tram and the pick up/drop off. If you choose to continue, the narration will continue and we will discuss and explore more of what Hong Kong has to offer, plus the sights we will be able to see atop Victoria Peak. If you wish to end the tour here, we thank you for your joining us today and hope you enjoy the remainder of your trip!

• Distance : 0.14
• Attraction : Scenic Transport

The Peak Tram is a historic funicular railway in Hong Kong that carries passengers from the city's Central district to the Victoria Peak, one of the most iconic and popular tourist destinations in the region. The tramway provides stunning panoramic views of Hong Kong Island, Victoria Harbour, and the surrounding areas.

The Peak Tram has a long and storied history, dating back to its opening in 1888. It was initially a coal-fired steam tram, making it one of the world's oldest funicular railways. The tramway has undergone multiple renovations and upgrades over the years.

The route begins at the Lower Terminus in Central, near the St. John's Building in front of us. It climbs steeply along a 1.4-kilometer (0.9-mile) track, passing through lush forests and offering fantastic views as it ascends to the Upper Terminus on Victoria Peak.

The primary allure of the Peak Tram is the breathtaking view it provides to passengers. As the tram ascends, passengers can witness the impressive skyline of Hong Kong Island, the Victoria Harbour, and even parts of Kowloon on the opposite side of the harbor. The view is particularly spectacular in the evening when the city's lights come to life.

The Upper Terminus of the Peak Tram is located near the Peak Tower, a distinctive building with a unique design. The Peak Tower offers various attractions, shops, restaurants, and viewing platforms for visitors to enjoy. It's an excellent place to take in the vistas and explore some of the tourist offerings on Victoria Peak.

The Peak Tram typically operates daily from early morning until late at night. The frequency of the tram cars varies throughout the day, so it's a good idea to check the schedule in advance if you have a specific time in mind. You can purchase tickets for the Peak Tram at the Lower Terminus or online in advance. There are usually various ticket options available, including round-trip tickets and combination packages that include access to other attractions on the Peak.

• Distance : 0.04
• Attraction : Scenic Lookout

You’re now King or Queen of the mountain! Thanks to those who decided to continue on the Tram and to the top of Victoria Peak!

Also known as "The Peak, you now have a panoramic view of the city, Victoria Harbour, and the surrounding islands, here atop Victoria Peak. If you have traveled up here at nighttime, the view from the Peak is particularly captivating during the evening when the city lights come to life, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. Many visitors specifically go to The Peak in the late afternoon to witness a beautiful sunset over the city, followed by the transformation of Hong Kong into a sparkling metropolis at night.

Where we were dropped off is The Peak Tower complex and the Sky Terrace 428, which offer a 360-degree viewing platform for visitors to enjoy the view from different angles.

The Peak is the starting point for several hiking trails. You can observe hikers setting off on these trails or appreciate the natural beauty of the lush surroundings. Check out any of the site maps around you for appealing lookout spots.

You can see densely populated neighborhoods, residential buildings, and the unique juxtaposition of urban living against a backdrop of hills and water. While the cityscape is the primary attraction, you can also appreciate the lush greenery of Hong Kong Island's mountains and parks.

You'll have a unique perspective of the northern and western parts of Hong Kong Island. Landmarks like Central, Admiralty, and Wan Chai are clearly visible. On a clear day, you can see some of Hong Kong's outlying islands, such as Lantau Island, Lamma Island, and Cheung Chau. 

Across Victoria Harbour, you can see the Kowloon Peninsula, with its own skyline and cultural attractions. The Symphony of Lights show, which illuminates the buildings on the Kowloon side, is a popular evening attraction.

You will also be afforded incredible views of Victoria Harbor with its bustling maritime activity, which is a prominent feature. You can see various types of vessels, including ferries, cargo ships, and traditional junks, navigating the waters.

• Distance : 0.00
• Attraction : Scenic Lookout / Outro

We mentioned earlier in the tour we would discuss what to look for in the Harbour. Buried at the bottom of Victoria Harbour remains the keel, hull and boilers from the RMS Queen Elizabeth. It was purchased at auction in 1970 by local tycoon C.Y. Tung, who wanted to make the vessel into a university for the World Campus Afloat programme, the predecessor to Semester at Sea. Tung renamed the ship Seawise University, a play on his initials. However, the vessel sank two years later, on January 9, 1972, following a fire.
The burnt wreck capsized and was declared a shipping hazard. Around 45,000 tons of scrap were retrieved by Korean divers, leaving around 40-50 per cent of the wreckage on the seabed.

The disaster held the dubious title of the largest passenger shipwreck until the Costa Concordia disaster in 2012.

The shipwreck is also notable for being featured in the 1974 James Bond film, The Man With The Golden Gun. In the movie, the interior of the ship is used as a temporary headquarters for the Super Spy’s operation in Hong Kong. When Bond, played by Roger Moore first arrives, a naval officer welcomes him and informs him this hideout can't be bugged by either the Chinese or American Fleet. Every step on board is slanted. Bond witnesses a damaged Chinese plane which the officer tells him they managed to salvage.

Feel free to explore other parts of the Peak at your leisure. Again, please refer to printed maps of lookout points and trails for areas that might interest you.

Well that about wraps it up. We hope you have enjoyed this tour of Hong Kong. Once again my name is Dave, and it was a pleasure showing you around this Worldly city. Thanks for having UCPlaces be your guide. Have a wonderful remainder of your trip.