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Hong Kong - Part 1

March 28, 2026

Welcome to Hong Kong

After my amazing trip to Macau, it was time to move on to my next destination — Hong Kong. I would have loved to stay longer and explore more of Macau, but my schedule was limited.

From Macau, I booked a TurboJet Ferry ticket through Klook for ₱1,191.60. My ferry was scheduled at 12:00 noon.

The ferry ride from Macau to Hong Kong took a little over an hour. I arrived at the Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal, one of the main gateways between the two cities.

As soon as I exited the terminal, I looked for a 7-Eleven to load my Octopus Card, which is widely used for public transportation in Hong Kong. Luckily, there was one nearby. Since my friend had kindly lent me her Octopus Card, I simply added 100 HKD credit at the store so I could start using it for my trips around the city.

Figuring Out Hong Kong Transportation

Before heading to my accommodation in Tsim Sha Tsui, I quickly searched online for the best way to get there. I walked for about three minutes to Western Market Terminus.

At first, I was confused because I was looking for an underground train entrance. I kept searching for a station, expecting something like a subway entrance. After a few minutes, I realized that what I needed to ride was not a train but a tram.

Hong Kong trams are double-decker streetcars that run along the northern part of Hong Kong Island. They travel on rails along the road and are one of the most affordable and iconic ways to get around the city.

Since it was my first time navigating Hong Kong’s transportation system, I was a bit unsure at first. But I was happy that I eventually figured it out on my own.

I boarded a tram going in my direction and got off at Pedder Street. From there, I went to Central Station Hong Kong MTR and took the Tsuen Wan Line heading to Tsim Sha Tsui.

Once I arrived, my accommodation was only a three-minute walk away. I immediately spotted the building.

Staying at Chungking Mansions

I booked my accommodation through Agoda. Since I was traveling solo, I looked for something budget-friendly but safe and conveniently located. That’s when I found Chungking Mansions.

Chungking Mansions is one of the most famous and unusual buildings in Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong. Located along Nathan Road, it is a large, multi-block complex known for its budget accommodations, small restaurants, currency exchange shops, and diverse international community.

I paid ₱7,138.42 for three nights, which is very affordable compared to most hotels in Hong Kong. The location is excellent since it is right in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui and close to many tourist attractions.

However, about a week before my flight, I started reading negative reviews about the place. Some travelers said there were many vendors downstairs who aggressively tried to sell items. Others mentioned the smell in the lobby area and said the rooms were very small. At first, I honestly considered booking another hotel because I was traveling alone and safety is always my priority. But I decided to see the place for myself before making any changes.

When I arrived, the building was indeed very crowded. There were many people and different food smells mixed together. It was a bit overwhelming, but still manageable.

I looked for the specific block where my accommodation was located. Luckily, a Filipino staff member assisted me and pointed me in the right direction.

When I reached the correct building, I was given my key card and directed to my room.

To be honest, the room was decent for the price. It was small but clean and suitable for a solo traveler. The only thing that made me hesitate was the bathroom, which was extremely compact. I wondered how I would move comfortably while showering.

Overall, though, it turned out to be a good budget choice. As for the people downstairs, they didn’t bother me at all as long as I didn’t engage with them. For a solo traveler on a budget, this place worked just fine.

First Afternoon in Hong Kong

I arrived in my room at around 2:30 PM. I organized my things, changed clothes, and prepared to explore the city for a bit. Compared to Macau, Hong Kong felt colder, so I wore something a little warmer.

My first destination was Nan Lian Garden. This beautiful classical Chinese garden is known for its traditional Tang-dynasty style architecture, wooden temples, koi ponds, and perfectly landscaped greenery. The garden offers a peaceful escape from the busy city.

From the train station near my accommodation, I took the MTR going there. After getting off at the station, I walked for about five minutes.

The wind was quite strong that afternoon, and I immediately spotted the garden entrance.

Nan Lian Garden is free to visit, and there were many people enjoying the peaceful surroundings. I noticed that many visitors were elderly friends walking together and relaxing in the garden.

I walked around the area, took photos, and enjoyed the calm atmosphere before heading back to Tsim Sha Tsui.

Exploring Tsim Sha Tsui

One reason I chose to stay in Tsim Sha Tsui was because many tourist attractions are within walking distance.

My next stop was K11 MUSEA, a luxury shopping mall known for combining art, culture, and retail. The mall features creative installations, modern architecture, and high-end shops, making it feel more like an art gallery than a typical shopping center.

I walked around for a while, looking for something to eat because I was already getting hungry. Since the weather was cold, I craved something warm. I ended up dining at Jiro Ramen, and ramen (90 HKD) was the perfect choice for the chilly evening.

Before leaving the mall, I used the restroom and noticed how cute and playful the design was, almost like it was made for children.

Walk to Victoria Harbour

After leaving the mall, I walked toward Victoria Harbour and the Avenue of Stars.

Along the way, I passed by LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Museum of Art. The structures and displays were fun to see, and the area was lively.

Eventually, I reached the Avenue of Stars, one of Hong Kong’s most famous waterfront promenades. It honors the legends of the Hong Kong film industry and offers spectacular views of the city skyline across Victoria Harbour.

There were many people there, both tourists and locals, enjoying the view. The place is truly popular because the scenery is stunning, especially in the evening.

The wind was strong, but it felt refreshing. I stayed there for a while, appreciating the skyline, relaxing, and of course taking lots of photos.

I waited until it got dark before heading back.

Ending My First Day in Hong Kong

On my way back to my accommodation, I passed by the famous Hong Kong Cultural Centre. I wanted to take a photo with it, but I suddenly felt shy asking someone to take my picture, so I just photographed the building itself.