Ok - I am going to post the list here because otherwise I will be spending many days sending stuff to people. The list below was last updated in 2002 - the last time the Kidz Konnection was published. I have amended it to reflect some of the more obvious closings such as stuff that used to be at Kai Tak. The things to do are for all ages - not just for little ones or big ones. Any errors are mine alone and you need to check the details before heading out and don't abuse me if something is now closed! The formatting has now been lost due to the nature of asiaxpat forums.
Things to do in Hong Kong with Kids......
This is a summary of possibilities that are available in HK. This list is not complete, and if you have some more places or ideas that you would like to share, please add to the list via this forum. The following are very popular places on weekends and public holidays, so if you do not like crowds try not to visit at these times, or if you have to - get up early and beat the rush.
You have been warned!!!
Theme Parks:-
Ocean Park:- Ocean Park Rd, Aberdeen, contact number 25520291, www.oceanpark.com.hk open every day of the year from 10am-6pm. McDonalds is in the Park, at the Headland and at the main gate,(closes at 6pm) also other kiosks operate throughout the park. There is a ETC machine at the gate. Car parking is available and public transport from Admiralty and Central. The park offers a kiddies world with tame rides,(the Lowland Gardens) the Headland rides, where children need to be over 4 foot high to go on most of the rides, and adventure land a bit more daring but available to most children. The Pandas are a new attraction, and the enclosure is very nice, they also have great sea life exhibits, sharks,seals, and reef atoll being the highlights for most kids. There is alot of walking to get from one ride/exhibit to the next, and alot of stairs, however they do have wheelchair and stroller access to most places. To get up to the headland you need to catch a cable car, a bulky stroller is a little inconvenient, but can be done. In the Chinese area (accessed from the main park via long ride from the headland on escalators) there is live shows of ancient Chinese acrobatics, martial arts and Chinese crafts and collectables. There is also a lovely bird Paradise with a bird show. A word of warning - do not try to see the whole park in one day, everyone will go home tired and very cranky. - 4-5hours is usually plenty per day. The idea is to get an annual pass and go back when you can.
HK Disneyland - http://www.disney.com.hk/en/index_flash.html
Not really a park, but the HK Cultural Centre at TST offers a free carnival with street performers once a month - the 2nd Saturday of the month from 2:30 -5:30. Also in the auditorium there are free concerts from 4:30pm every Saturday, and on every Thursday from 6-7pm.
Swimming Pools - All public swimming pools open around 6am, close at 12noon, open again at 1:30pm, close at 6pm, open at 7pm ands close at 10:30pm. To find the pool closest to you visit the following site http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/LEISURE/LM/beach1/Lptest/pool_3.html
Kowloon Side
Hammer Hill Road Public Swimming pool - This is a great pool for littlies as the water depth in the main pools is only 12-18inches deep. This pool is open all year round with an indoor area which is closed off to the elements in winter, and allows sun free swimming in the summer. The two main pools offer slides, obstacle courses, a large indoor pirate ship with water cannons and fountains. There is also a deeper but not very long pool for taller people to cool off in. This is well worth a visit! Public transport:- catch a MTR to Choi Hung, exit out of the B exit and walk down the hill and follow Lung Cheung Rd until you reach the gates. Parking is available at the Choi Hung estate, a short walk from the pool, or metered parking is available at the back entrance to the pool on Ping Ting, On Ting and Wing Ting Sts, Hammer Hill. Has a kiosk in the area.
Ma On Shan Public Swimming Pool- On Chun St, Ma On Shan. This is a large pool complex with something for everyone, an Olympic size pool for laps, two teaching pools with wheelchair access, a couple of relaxing pools for just lolling about in, a number of smaller pools for kids with mini slides and cannons and fountains and some larger water slides for older kids. For the large water slides, they do enforce a rule that children need to be over 1.2 metres high as the landing pool is 1.1metres high, however if your children can swim and are quite strong, you can apply to the supervisor on quiet days to allow them on - it is completely up to his discretion so don’t be disappointed if he doesn’t allow your children on. It has a kiosk in the grounds.
Sai Kung Public Swimming Pool - this pool has slides, and smaller pool with ‘fun’ water activities like fountains and canons and small slides.
Tseung Kwan O Swimming Pool - slides,fountains, cannons lots of fun with an aviation theme, opened in 2001. pay parking nearby.
Kowloon Park Swimming Pool - offers both indoor and outdoor pools, with the outdoor pools having a fountains and fun stuff for kids. Opening Hours : 6:30 am - 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm (All the year round except June to August) 6:30 am - 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm (June to August)
A warning - there are many places where you cannot see the whole pool and some parts are very deep - so make sure your kids stay with you where possible.
The Shing Mun Valley Swimming Complex 21 Shing Mun Road, Tsuen Wan, Tel. No. : (852) 2416 0522 in Tsuen Wan was open for public use on 5 December 1998. Built at a cost of $432 million, this complex is the first facility of its kind to be heated by solar energy. 1 Indoor Main pool/, Diving pool 1 Training pool 1 Teaching pool 1 Leisure pool
Tuen Mun Swimming Pool Hoi Wong Road, Tuen Mun Tel. No. : (852) 2458 8022
Recreation Parks
HK Island
Hong Kong Park:- open daily 7am - 11pm between Kennedy Rd, Cotton Tree Drive & the Supreme court on Queeensway. 10 hectares, accessed by a series of escalators from Pacific Place or walking from Central MTR or Star Ferry. The closest parking station is in Pacific Place. The park has a walk through aviary with over 600 birds inside, a tai chi garden, a children's playground, and the museum of tea ware. It also has a huge conservatory where you can experience a hot dry climate, and a hot humid climate and compare the types of plants grown inside. Free entry to the park. Many stairs
Victoria Park Hing Fat St, Causeway Bay.Contact number is 2570 6186 Fax No.: 2882 4151 open daily 24hrs http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/LEISURE/LM/parks/vp1/index.html The park is next to Causeway Bay MTR, or there are number of parking stations close by, and metered parking near the tennis courts. Comprising an area of 17 hectares, there is 4 children's playgrounds, bird aviary, gardens, walking track, a small biking track, and a small pond for sailing remote control boats. It has a number of sporting facilities. Swimming Pool, 13 tennis courts and 1 centre court, 6 mini-soccer pitches, 4 squash courts, 4 outdoor basketball courts, 2 bowling greens (12 rinks), 1 handball court ,Model Boat Pool, Centre Lawn.
Victoria Peak The highest point on Hong Kong Island, catch the peak tram up, or a mini bus, or drive, parking is available at the Peak Galleria Shopping centre. This has MacDonlads in it plus many other restaurants, plus a 3D cinema. Also there is the Peak Tower (Tram terminal) http://www.peninsula.com/highlights/peak/peak.html - modern with lots to do on hot or rainy weather - Ripleys ‘Believe it or not Odditorium’ Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, a 3D ride and the Peak Explorer motion cinema and various other stores inside with Movenpiche Marche which has a great view and a kids play area. There are also a 4km walk around the peak itself with a lovely park with swings and things for the littlies - good for all ages but children need to be closely supervised as the drop is quite significant! There is also the Peak Playground in Mt Austin Rd, head towards the Peak Cafe, and go up the steep road beside it for about 5 minutes - one of the best parks in HK for kids, nice gardens and clean.
Zoological and Botanical Gardens:- open daily 6am - 10pm A small zoo situated between Robinson Rd,Upper Albert, and Garden Rds. It has a aviary of exotic birds and a mammal collection including Monkeys and orangutans and lovely gardens. Closest parking station is in Coda Plaza on Cottontree Drive - accessed off MacDonell Rd and can be accessed by foot or taxi from central MTR or the Star Ferry. Free entry to the Park. Stroller/wheelchair friendly
Kowloon
Fei Ngo Shan (or Kowloon Peak) Lookout - accessed by car, or an expensive taxi ride, or a long walk. Fei Ngo Shan Rd,off Old Clearwater Bay Rd, Keep driving up and up, this is the highest peak in Kowloon and on a clear day you can literally see forever - worth the effort.
Kowloon Park, 22 Austin Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon. http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/LEISURE/LM/parks/kp/index.html
Enquiries : Telephone No. : 2724 3344 Fax No.: 2724 4197 Open daily 6am - midnight. Access is from Austin Rd, and Nathan Rd - close to the TST MTR station. Parking station is on Austin Rd. Kowloon Park measures about 13.6 ha in size and was open to public use in 1989. It is the most popular major park in Kowloon, where many territory-wide functions are held regularly.This is a lovely big park with an aviary with a great variety of birds, and also a bird lake. It has a childrens playground and a maze. It also has a large public swimming pool with both indoor and outdoor pools, (See pools) and a sports facility. Entry is free to the park, an admission fee applies to the pools and sport facilities
Kowloon City and Walled City Park. Between Tung Tau Tsuen Rd, Tung Tsing Rd, Carpenter Rd, and Junction Rd. These are great gardens- with a cycling track for small bikes, lots of different playgrounds, lovely walks and room to move. The walled city park is on the site of the old Kowloon walled city and has a historic monument to the city with pictures and descriptions, also actual relics of the original gates. The gardens are lovely to walk around, being very Chinese in influence with a Chinese zodiac garden carved out of marble, fountains and waterfalls and lots of Koi Carp. A lot quieter now with the airport having moved. Parking is available on the street, or in Kowloon City Plaza, just nearby in Carpenter Rd. Public transport - Mini buses or taxi from the closest MTR which is Lok Fu. Another big park close by is Kowloon Tsai Park. In fact there are many parks in this area - check out your street directory and have a walk around Kowloon City. There is also good shopping along Lion Rock Rd for childrens wear.
New Territories
Beas River Country Club (Hong Kong Jockey Club) Sheung Shui, NT. Normally open to club members only but during Show Jumping dates non-member spectators are welcome. A great chance for kids and parents to spend the day in the country side and see lots of horses and ponies jump in competition. Food stalls are set up on a cash basis. Plenty of parking during open house show dates. Public transport- Sheung Shui KCR station and taxi from there. You can call the HK Jockey Club Stables office 29661790 for the show season schedule.
Kadoorie Farm & Garden Lam Kam Rd, Tai Po, NT. Contact 2488 1317 open daily 9:30-4pm, no entry is permitted at 12:30-1pm, or after 3pm, however if you are in the park you can stay there! It is closed Lunar New Year & other Chinese festival public Holidays. Free entry but you need to call and tell the office you are coming and how many in your party. It has a number of farm animals such as pigs, ducks and geese and has a large orchard and vegetable garden, a butterfly garden, a children's playground, an amphibian house and an aviary. There are a number of picnic areas, and if you have a car you are permitted to drive your car on the roads in the grounds. By public transport you may need to ask the Public relations officers - who speak both great Cantonese and English. Take a picnic lunch and enjoy the peace and tranquility of a lovely park dedicated to nature.
Lion’s Park Hirams Highway, Sai Kung. This is an educational park sponsored by the Lions Club of HK - so it does not have Lions! It has chickens, ducks, an insectariam, playground, picnic areas, information about country parks, a bit of history of Hong Kong, it is a nice place to visit for a short excursion, free entry and parking, public buses go right past. Closed on Tuesdays.
Monkey Mountain - Old Tai Po Rd, Kam Shan Country Park, nr Shatin. See monkeys in the wild - do not take food as they will attack to get at it and may bite the hand that feeds it, (there is also a $10,000 fine if you are caught) and keep your car windows up while you are out looking. Parking is off the street near the Shing Mun Reservoir, public transport from Shatin KCR to go along Old Tai Po Rd. Sometimes the monkeys are a bit elusive and may require a little bit of searching.
Penfold Park:- In the centre of Sha Tin Race Course, free parking available on weekdays. Public transport from Sha Tin KCR station. The park is closed on Monday's or Tuesday if the Monday preceding was a public holiday. It is also closed on Racedays and closes at 4pm on race evenings, it normally closes at 6pm in winter and 8pm in summer. (There are no race days on in summer). This is a lovely park with lots of bird life, and a children's playground, and large pond, a maze, a Chinese garden. It has a small kiosk there and plenty of space for a picnic and running on grass- a favourite place for wedding pictures to be taken. Entry is free. Sha Tin Jockey Club owns the park, and would have the information on race day events. (2966 6520)
Siu Lek Yuen Playground Siu Lek Tuen Rd, Shatin. (nr the Shatin floating restaurant) This smallish park has a bike track for young riders, with a couple of nice playgrounds as well. Parking is available at the City One Plaza, Shatin off Po Shing Rd. Public transport would be from Shatin KCR station to go towards Sai Kung along Tai Chung Kiu Rd.
Sha Tin Central Park - between Lion Rock Tunnel Rd and the Sandmartin Bridge, Sha Tin, NT This park has two playgrounds - one with a eastern theme with a Chinese Fort and junk, and a western one with a European Fort. It has a tropical garden and a winter garden.
Tuen Mun Town Park - Along the Tuen Mun River, Tuen Mun, NT This park has a roller skating rink, and a childrens playground, and pavilions. It is very large and quite picturesque with a man made lake in the middle with lots of water fowl living there
Tseung Kwan o Park - Wan Lung St, (Junk Bay) As you come through the Tseung Kwan O tunnel from Kowloon the park is on the left, under the overpass. This park is great! so many different playgrounds and things to explore, it is open all the time, parking is available on the street (not quite sure of the legalities) or in the shopping centre nearby. Public transport - mini buses from Lam Tim MTR (closest) or Choi Hung MTR. There are huge recreation developments taking place around this area, so it may be worth an explore!
Waterfront Park at Tai Po - Dai Fat St, Parking available. This a huge park, again with a pond with ducks, walking trails on the banks of the Upper tolo harbour, there is an extensive cycling track from here, which goes along the water front to Shatin, up to the Plover Cove Country Park
Smaller Parks in the City:-
Hong Kong
Hollywood Road Park, Sheung Wan - off Hollywood Rd, HK small oasis in the middle of many buildings with a small pond in the centre and a children's playground.
King George V Memorial Park:- Hospital Rd, Sai Yin Pun, HK
Chater Gardens: -a busy park to get out of the rush for a while, winding paths, and seats to relax in.
Harcourt Gardens - Off Harcourt Rd, (parking underneath) Trees and grass and somewhere to sit
Park Opposite the Grand Hyatt Entrance, above the Convention Plaza Carpark off Harbour Rd Wanchai. Very pretty with a pond, statues and a great view of the harbour. If you go over the walkway bridge there is a childrens playground on the way to the Fleet arcade in Lung King St. The MacDonalds with the best view in the world is in the fleet arcade, you can also buy American magazines and other goodies there at American prices - but keep it a secret!) Toilets are available in the Grand Hyatt - very nice too!
Quarry Bay Park - Tai Koo Shing, a huge park with alot of playground equipment on the foreshores of the harbour, parking available around the area and City Plaza.
Kowloon
Signal Hill Garden, Minden Row TST (nr Mariners Club)
Wing On Plaza Garden, Chatham Rd South TST (Next to Wing On plaza)
The Urban Council Centenary Garden, Chatham Rd South (nr Mody Square)
Museums:-Most government run museums are free on Wednesdays alist of the websites with hyperlinks can be found at http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/tindexe.html these websites are very comprehensive with quite neat interface. There is also a website which lists disabled access and facilities to the museums http://www.socialnet.org.hk/aguide/museum.html
Hong Kong Island
HK Museum of Medical Sciences http://www.hkta.org/sightseeing/museums/mm_1.html 2 Caine Lane, Mid-Levels, Hong Kong Island 2549 5123 Opened in early 1996, this unique institution charts the
historical development of medical sciences in Hong Kong and is one of the first museums in the world to compare traditional Chinese and Western approaches to medicine. The museum is housed in the former Old Pathological Institute, a declared historical monument. Entry Fee - $10adults, $5 children, closed Mondays. hours 10-5pm
Police Museum, http://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/heritage/museums/productionViewer.jsp?otps_id=cmt_museum&page_id=9203 27 Coombe Rd, Magazine Gap, Hong Kong, 2849 7019 open Sun 9am- 5pm, Tues 2-5pm, closed Mondays and all public holidays. Bus 15 from Exchange Square. Has a counterfeiting machine on display, historic uniforms, a head of a Sheung Shiu Tiger shot in 1915 by a police officer. There is a lovely little park just nearby with a great view of Aberdeen, and large children’s playground. Free entry.
Hong Kong Racing Museum http://www.hkta.org/sightseeing/museums/mm_2.html 2/F, Happy Valley Stand, Happy Valley Racecourse, Happy Valley, Hong Kong Island. 2966 8065 Opened in October 1996, this museum's eight galleries and showcase cinema tell the success story of horse racing in Hong Kong, beginning in the 1840s and continuing up to today. Discover famous trainers and jockeys, what makes a champion horse or how the Sha Tin Racecourse was built on reclaimed land. Open Tue - Sun and public holidays 10am - 5pm; however, on racedays at the Happy Valley track, the museum will be open 10am - 12:30pm (but call first to confirm). closed Mon and some public holidays From Exchange Square Bus Terminus in Central, take Bus No. 75, 90 or 97, and alight at The Hong Kong Jockey Club's headquarters on Wong Nai Chung Road. Or take the MTR to Causeway Bay Station (exit at Times Square) and walk to the museum. Free Entry
Kowloon
Hong Kong Science Museum http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Science/e_index.htm 2 Science Museum Rd TST East Kowloon 2732 3232 open Tue - Fri 1pm - 9pm; Sat, Sun and public holidays 10am - 9pm. Closed on Mondays, First three days of Lunar New Year, Christmas Day, New Years Day. Free on Wednesdays. Learning was never so much fun! Five thousand interesting exhibits, 60 percent of which are "hands-on", offer an insight into a wide range of science-related objects. The exhibition covers various areas of science and technology, including robotics, transportation, virtual reality, and more. 4 floors packed with exhibits. HK$25 adult, HK$12.50 child/senior aged 60 or over.
Hong Kong Space Museum http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Space/eindex.html Mon- Fri 1pm-9pm closed Tuesdays. 10 Salisbury Rd, TST. 2734 2722 Lots of information about space and also has the omnimax screen for film adventures.
New Territories
Hong Kong Railway Museum http://www.heritagemuseum.gov.hk/english/branch_sel_hkr.htm 13 Shung Tak Street, Tai Po Market, Tai Po, New Territories. Tai Po 2653 3455 open Mon, Wed - Sun and public holidays 9am - 5pm. Closed Tuesdays, and Christmas Day, Boxing day, New Years Day & First three days of Lunar New Year. Public transport, KCR to Tai Po Market, then short taxi ride to walk, or Tai Po Market mini bus. This is a small, picturesque museum located in the old Tai Po Market railway station, first opened in 1913 and now an historical monument. Its exhibition of Hong Kong's rail history includes photographs, old coaches,samples of track and a full-size model of an electric's train compartment. Free entry
Heritage Museums http://www.hkta.org/heritage/colonial_3.html
Hong Kong Island
Hong Kong Film Archive http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/CulturalService/HKFA/english/eindex.html 50 Lei King Road, Sai Wan Ho, Hong Kong Enquiries: 2739 2139 Resource Centre: 2119 7360 Fax: 2311 5229 E-mail: hkfa@lcsd.gov.hk Preserving the history of Hong Kongs film runs exhibitions and seminars on HK films and on going screenings. Has a large Resource Centre where the public can research anything about films in Hong Kong.
Flagstaff House Museum of Teaware http://www.heritagemuseum.gov.hk/eng_main.htm Hong Kong Park,10 Cotton Tree Drive, Hong Kong (in HK Park) 2869 0690, Completed in 1846, Flagstaff House was originally the home of the Commander-in-Chief of the British forces, and today is Hong Kong's oldest surviving colonial building. This white-washed gem has been declared an historical monument. The core collection of the museum, teaware donated by a local collector, the late Dr. K.S. Lo, includes many pieces of Chinese origin. The Dr. K.S.Lo Gallery houses a collection of rare ceramics and Chinese seals. Open Mon, Tue, Thu - Sun, 10am - 5pm Closed Wed and some public holidays Free admission. Take MTR to Admiralty Station. (Pacific Place Exit and follow signs to "Hong Kong Park/Island Shangri-La Hotel". Park is opposite upper mall entrance.)
Law Uk Folk Museum http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/History/e-law/body.html 14 Kut Shing St Chai Wan Hong Kong 2896 7006, Open Tue - Sat, 10am - 1pm and 2pm - 6pm; Sun and public holidays 1pm - 6pm. Closed Mondays. Free admission. Law Uk (meaning the house of the Law family) is the only original village house left intact in Chai Wan. Built about 200 years ago, it is a typical medium-size village Hakka house. Restored in 1989, the house is now a folk museum. in the form of a furnished period house. On display are rural furniture and farm implements. Take MTR to Chai Wan Station, (take Exit B, and follow signs; about 10 minutes walk).
Old Pathological Institute 10 Caine Lane, Sheung Wan Constructed in 1905, this red-brick building was plastered internally, except where it is lined with tiles. It has been converted into the Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences, open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm; Sunday and public holidays, 1pm to 5pm. Closed Monday. Directions Take bus no. 26 from Des Voeux Road Central (in front of HSBC main building). Get off at the Man Mo Temple, walk up Ladder Street, turn right onto Caine Lane where you'll see the museum.
Western Market 323 Des Voeux Road Central, Sheung Wan Completed in 1906, the market has walls of red brick on a granite base, a large, handsome granite arch over its main entrance, and four corner towers highlighted in 'bandaged' brickwork. In 1991, the market was stylishly refurbished and is now home to small handicraft shops, cloth merchants, a Chinese restaurant and a cafe. Directions MTR to Sheung Wan station and walk 5-10 minutes along Des Voeux Road Central until you come to the Western Market on your left. Or ride the tram towards Kennedy Town and get off at the market opposite the Shun Tak Centre.
HK Museum of Coastal Defense http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/History/e-hkmocd/body.html email hkmcd@lcsd.gov.hk 175 Tung Hei Road, Shau Kei Wan, Hong Kong (852) 2569 1500 Fax.(852) 2569 1637 The Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence is the first of its kind to feature the history of Hong Kong's coastal defences. Occupying the hundred-years-old Lei Yue Mun Fort in Shau Kei Wan, the museum has an area of some 34,200 square metres. At a total cost of HK$300 million, the museum is a joint venture of the Provisional Urban Council and the Architectural Services Department. The museum is to conserve historical structures and relics, and, by means of exhibitions and educational activities, to promote public interest in and understanding of the history of Hong Kong's coastal defences. $10 entry for adults, $5 for kids.
University Museum and Art Gallery http://www.hku.hk/hkumag/ The University of Hong Kong University of Hong Kong, 94 Bonham Road, Hong Kong Island. 2975 5600 Located amid the stately Edwardian architecture of the campus, this museum is one of the oldest in Hong Kong. Its prized possession is bronze Nestorian crosses dating back to the Yuan Dynasty, the largest collection of their kind in the world. Also on display are bronzes, ceramics and furniture from the Warring States Period, the Tang Dynasty and the Qing Dynasty. Mon - Sat 9:30am - 6pm. Sun : 1:30pm - 5:30pm Public holidays & March 16 (the University's Foundation Day) Take Bus No. 3B from Central (Edinburgh Place, outside City Hall) or No. 23 from North Point Ferry; get off at Bonham Road opposite St. Paul's College
Hong Kong Visual Arts Centre http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Arts/english/introduction/introduction3.htm Hong Kong Visual Arts Centre aims at supporting local art creation. The centre was converted from a historical building at the former Victoria Barracks. It was modernized to provide practical space and facilities for artists specializing in the fields of sculpture, printmaking and pottery works. It manages 9 working studios, 1 exhibition hall, 1 lecture theatre and 2 seminar rooms open for hire by the public.
Kowloon
Chi Lin Nunnery Diamond Hill. http://www.wongpaklam.com/project/1998chilin01.htm (website gives more information about the uniqueness of the buildings) Magnificently renovated in traditional Tang era architecture, the Chi Lin Nunnery is considered a must-see. No nails were used in this multi-million dollar renovation, only wooden doweling and brackets. The 3.2-hectare site, comprising various Buddhist halls, is a living museum of the Tang Dynasty (AD618-907). The museum is only a 15-minute walk from the Diamond Hill MTR station. exit C, follow the signs to Chi Lin. Open Daily except Wednesday 9am-3:30pm. Free admission.
HK Museum of History http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/History/index.html email enquiries@lcsd.gov.hk 100 Chatham Road South, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong (next to Hong Kong Science Museum, Tsim Sha Tsui East) Tel. 2724 9042 This Museum has made great efforts in collecting, conserving, processing, studying and displaying cultural objects which are related to archaeology, history, ethnography and natural history of Hong Kong and South China area. Showcases the cultural heritage of 6,000 years of Hong Kong history. open Tue - Sat, 10am - 6pm; Sun and public holidays, 1pm - 6pm, Mondays and first two days of the Lunar New Year. Closed at 5pm on Christmas Eve and Lunar New Year Eve
Hong Kong Museum of Art http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Arts/index.html 10 Salisbury Rd TST Kowloon The Hong Kong Museum of Art collection includes hundreds of oil paintings, drawings and etchings, as well as lithographs of old Hong Kong. Of the seven exhibition galleries, four, with a total exhibition area of 5,800 square metres, display Chinese antiquities, Chinese fine arts, historical pictures and contemporary Hong Kong art. Two special exhibition galleries show collections of works of art drawn from all over the world with the aim of keeping the Hong Kong public up to date with international artistic trends. The seventh gallery drawn from all over the world with the aim of keeping the Hong Kong public up to date with international artistic trends. The seventh gallery displays the famous Xubaizhai collection of Chinese painting and calligraphy donated by Mr Low Chuck-tiew. HK$10 adult, HK$5 child/senior (aged 60 or over). Free on Wed. open Daily 10am - 6pm except Thursday.
HK Observatory and Marine Police Station Set amidst groves of trees and near several fine churches, these charming colonial buildings can be viewed by special arrangement. Contact: Director, Hong Kong Observatory, 134A Nathan Road, Kowloon; and Marine Police Headquarters, 25 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon.
Lei Cheng Uk Museum http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/History/e-lei/body.html 41 Tonkin St Sham Shui Po 2862863. This ancient tomb was discovered in 1955 when workmen levelled a hill slope to make way for the surrounding Lei Cheng Uk Estate. Around 58 pottery and bronze objects were found inside the tomb. This is a branch of the Hong Kong Museum of History. It is the site where a four chambered Han tomb is preserved. According to the structure, tomb findings, the calligraphy and content of the inscriptions on tomb bricks, it is believed that the tomb was built in the Eastern Han dynasty (25-220AD). The tomb is the earliest preserved architecture in Hong Kong and since 1988 it has been declared a gazette monument to be permanently preserved. The museum is open from 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 6pm daily except Thursday; 1pm to 6pm on Sunday and public holidays. Directions MTR to Cheung Sha Wan station. Walk along Tonkin Street for 10 minutes (follow the signs) By bus, take bus no. 2 from the Star Ferry in Tsim Sha Tsui, and get off at Tonkin Street. Closed Thursdays open 10am -6pm Sun & public hols 1-6pm.
New Territories
Sam Tung Uk Museum, http://www.heritagemuseum.gov.hk/english/branch_sel_stu.htm email: stum@lcsd.gov.hk Kwu Uk Lane, Tseun Wan. 2411 2001 open daily 9am- 4pm Free entry. MTR to Tsuen Wan follow signs to museum. The Sam Tung Uk Museum is a 200-year-old walled village that was declared a historical monument in 1981 and restored. Occupying an area of 2,000 square meters, this is a fantastic place to visit for young and old, although, do not to go on a hot day as it can get very stuffy. There is a pleasant park next to it.
Art Museum, Chinese University of Hong Kong http://www.cuhk.edu.hk/ics/amm/amm_en.htm 2609 7416 at Sha Tin, New Territories The Museum's West-wing Galleries house permanent collection, which includes Chinese painting, calligraphy, ceramics and other decorative arts, in addition to research collections of bronze seals, jade flowers and Cantonese painting and calligraphy. Five to six special exhibitions on various subjects are featured annually in the East-wing Galleries. Open Mon - Sat 10am - 4:45pm, Sun 12:30pm - 5:30pm.Closed Public holidays. free admission Take KCR to the University station. Take the school shuttle bus at the exit of the station. The bus operates every 20 - 30 minutes and is free during weekdays except Sundays; Bus fare is HK$5. Alight after five minutes near the University Administration Building.
The Tsui Museum of Art Now located in the Hong Kong Heritage Museum in Shatin The first privately-owned collection in Hong Kong to be opened to the public. It is the creation of Hong Kong businessman T T Tsui who began to collect in the 1970s. He is now among the best-known collectors of Chinese art in the world. The scope of the Tsui Museum encompasses bronzes; bamboo, wood and ivory carvings; jade, enamelled ware, glass and furniture. Displays are continually changed, special exhibitions mounted periodically and a series of scholarly catalogues and monographs is also being published. Although it is a connoisseur's collection, the Tsui Museum of Art can be enjoyed equally by the student and casual visitor.
Sheung Yi Folk Museum http://www.heritagemuseum.gov.hk/english/branch_sel_syf.htm Pak Tam Chung nature trail, Sai Kung Country Park 2792 6365. Once a fortified Hakka village which was established in the mid-19th century, this museum houses typical Hakka furnishings. Located inside one of Hong Kong's most scenic country parks. A Hakka village right next to the sea! Lovely bush walks also around the area. Parking at the Country Park entrance with a short walk over a river, Public transport - Get to Sai Kung then catch the 94 to the park entrance. Open Mon, Wed - Sun and public holidays 9am - 4pm. Closed Tuesdays. Take MTR to Choi Hung station, then take maxicab No. 1A to Sai Kung Town. From the town, take bus No. 94 and get off at Pak Tam Chung. You can also reach Sai Kung Town by taking bus No. 92 from MTR Diamond Hill station. Free admission
10,000 Buddhas Monastery, off Tai Po Rd Sha Tin NT. opens 8am- 6:30pm. A temple dedicated to Buddha, there are over 10,000 buddhas which are all slightly different. There are also about 250 stairs to go up to the temple. You can also see the gold covered body of the founding Monk in the temples above - in a sitting position. Public transport get to Shatin KCR leave by the ramp on the left sign posted taxis and pedestrians, there is a map board there, follow the main road then take the first left on to Pai tau St, walk past the village and the newer temple and the car park there, there are small yellow signposts indicating the way from there. Parking is available in the New Town Shopping Centre.
HK Heritage Museum http://www.heritagemuseum.gov.hk/ 1 Man Lam Rd, Shatin. Close to Shatin Centre. 2180 8188 - A huge 28,500m2 building with 12 exhibition galleries with educational facilities and programs to help preserve Hong Kongs Heritage. The museum also aims to highlight Hong Kong's arts identity. The museum includes the T.T.Tsui Gallery of Chinese Arts, the Chao Shao-an Gallery displaying Professor Chao Shao-an's works along side other contemporary masters, and the Hong Kong Community Art Gallery, which displays work by non-professional artists such as students, the handicapped and senior citizens. All of these venues are enjoyable places to spend the day. Tuesdays to Sundays (except Fridays) & Public Holidays : 10am - 6pm Fridays : 10am - 9pm
Active Pursuits:-
HK Leisure and Cultural Services department have information on Beaches and Pools, major parks zoos and gardens, slow to download as it has alot of graphics. I have included some of the information contained in the pages. http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/index-top.html
Beaches:- http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/LEISURE/LM/beach1/Lptest/beaches.html for beaches on the island
There are alot of beaches in HK, over 40 run by the urban council, plus many more secret/remote ones. Most of the urban council beaches have changing rooms with showers and each have their own special attractions, not many of them have any real waves and are generally good for kids. During the summer season there are many life guards on duty - but do not trust them to help any one unless they are almost dead (from personal experience), they are almost always asleep anyway. - Don’t let your kids go out to the platforms unless they are VERY confident swimmers or an adult goes with them The main problem with most of the beaches is the rubbish that is washed up or left on the beach by other users and on weekends they can get VERY crowded - best to go early if you are going on the weekend and leave at lunch. Don’t disregard going to the beach in Winter time - sand play and ball games are great with no one else around! Here are just a few of the favourites...
Repulse Bay, the most famous HK beach has the Temple close by the water which is great for photos, (facing the beach walk to your left side - you cannot miss it!) A big drawback is that is is very popular with tourist groups, and on weekends it is very busy and can get quite dirty with floating rubbish coming in. It has a nice walkway which goes out into the water and can be quite pleasant at dusk, and in winter!
Stanley Beach - close to Stanley markets - another nice beach , with windsurfing available
St Stephens Beach - a 20 minute walk along Stanley Village Rd toward Stanley prison.
Deepwater Bay Beach - is popular for water skiing, meter parking is available right next to the beach if you get there early, lots of trees for shade within easy walk to the water.
Shek O Beach - take bus #9 from Shau Kei Wan or drive there - free parking but gets very busy on weekends. very pretty area.
Big Wave Bay, one of the few beaches in HK that gets waves when the wind is right- take bus #9 from Shau kei Wan then you need to walk about 200metres to the beach. There is also free parking but again gets very busy on weekends.
New Territories:-
Clearwater Bay, one of the cleaner beaches in HK, with a lovely outlook. Bus 91 from Choi Hung will get you right there, lots of stairs to get down to the beach. Lots of free parking right next to the stairs.
Silver Strand - smaller than Clearwater Bay with still many stairs to get down, metered parking is next to Asia Supermarket , Silverstrand.
Trio Beach Sai Kung;- Get to Hebe Haven public jetty, catch a Kaido to Trio beach or get down to the Hong Kong Marina, and have a lovely walk through the bush- lovely quiet , away from every one kind of beach.
Beach Resort Beach ;- walk along the esplanade from Sai Kung to the beach resort, have some lunch or a quiet drink while the kids frolic on the sand - no life guards, you can hire canoes and kayaks here. Parking is also available in the resort.
Butterfly Beach Tuen Muen, this is a pretty beach, with a great view of the new airport with the planes moving in & out, the water can get very dirty from the passing water traffic, but it is a very pretty spot. Free car parking is available if you are early!
Outer Islands:
Cheung Sha Beach Lantau, this is really pretty, and can get some waves too! Get to Silvermine Bay,then catch one of the buses going to the Po Lin monastery, or Tai O, and get off when you see the beach.
Discovery Bay Beach, this too is a pretty beach with a childrens playground on the beach and is quite large. There is an open air courtyard with a shopping centre nearby for food and other necessities.
Hung Shing Yeh Beach, Lamma Island - a clean beach away from it all!
Tung Wan Beach, Cheung Chau Island, this is popular with windsurfers so it has a lot of things to keep the attention of little ones. - this is along to your right from the main beach on Cheng Chau - a much nicer beach than the main one. It has public toilets and changing sheds, the main beach doesn’t (a private change room who charge $10 per shower works on the main beach)
Camping - is allowed in the country parks only in designated areas. You can pick up the country park series of maps from the government printers and they will show you what where the camping grounds are.
Cycling - Tai Wai Bike Park near the Tai Wai KCR station, Next to the Happy Dragon Recreation Park- You can hire bikes here , to ride around a big square or venture onto the bike track which goes as far as Tai Po along the Tolo Highway. Or start at Tai Po and take your own bikes and ride to Shatin.- take the Tai Po industrial Area turn off and there is free parking around a little park. There are also bike rental facilities on Cheung Chau Island, Lamma and Lantau - an excursion for most as well!.
Golf courses and driving ranges There are a number of golf driving ranges in HK. A good website which lists them all is the Hong Kong Pro Golf Website http://hkprogolf.com They offer lots of information about golf in Hong Kong including lessons for kids. Their page http://hkprogolf.com/driving_ranges.htm with linked place map of Hong Kong outlining price and facilities of each range. There is one public golf course in Hong Kong, off Sai Kung. The green fees are from $200 for nine holes.This site also has link to golf courses in HK with a linked map http://hkprogolf.com/golf_courses.htm .
The following information is from the Government pages.
http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/LEISURE/LM/golf/index.html
Tuen Mun Golf Centre is situated at Lung Mun Road, Tuen Mun. Bookings are available only on-the-spot at the centre on the day you want to play. Six-hour training courses are available at the Centre. Enquiries/booking office Phone No. (852) 2466 2600
Wo Yip Hop Road Sportsground situated at Wo Yip Hop Road, Kwai Chung (near North Kwai Chung Tang Siu Kin Indoor Recreation Centre). Opening hours Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays 6.00 pm to 10.00 pm Mondays, Wednesday, Fridays and Saturdays closed. The Sportsground provides a driving range with 21 bays. Bookings can be made 15 days in advance. Training courses are available at the Sportsground. Enquiries/ booking office Phone No. (852) 2429 8196
Tai Po Shuen Wan Temporary Golf Driving Range is situated at Ting Kok Road, Shuen Wan Landfill. Opening hours 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily The Driving Range provides the following facilities for users: 145 driving bays; a Pro Shop; car parking spaces; and changing rooms. Bookings are available only on-the-spot at the Driving Range up to 3 days in advance. Enquiries/ booking office Phone No. (852) 2660 9222
Holiday Camps
http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/LEISURE/LM/camp/index.html
There are three holiday camps managed by the Department in the New Territories area.To make advance bookings fill in an application form and mail it three months in advance tothe relevant centres. The centres will then arrange drawing of lots if the camp places are oversubscribed. Successful applicants will be notified in writing and arrangements will be made for them to pay the required fees. For the unallocated camp places, telephone booking will be accepted two months before the camp date. Application forms are available from the three holiday camps and District Offices of the Department. You can call the camps and they will fax you the application forms.To call the numbers office hours are from 9am - 4:30pm. M-F . Costs are very reasonable. Kids get a discount. These are great places for cub, scout, family outings, school P&T outings, birthday parties - where ever you want to do some fun stuff with a big group of people.
Lady MacLehose Holiday Village http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/LEISURE/LM/camp/macle.html
(852) 2792 6430 Sai Kung Peninsula
Sai Kung Outdoor Recreation Centre http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/leisure/LM/camp/saikung.html 2792 3828
Sai Kung Outdoor Recreation Centre is situated in the New Territories. It offers both day camp and overnight camp accommodation with catering service.
Po Leung Kuk Holiday Camps http://www.poleungkuk.org.hk/recreation_c.htm
Two camps - one at Yuen long , the other at Sai Kung. Offers Day, evening and overnight camps with dormitories and family Bungalows 24 hour enquiry line 2686 6133, Booking Office 2277 8111 fax 2882 3391
Horse Riding
Lo Wu Saddle Club - http://come.to/lowu see advertisement in Kidz Konnection - instruction in all aspects of horsemanship from beginners to experienced riders, situated in the New territories. tel. 2673 0066, fax 2668 6752 email: lwsc@netvigator.com
Tuen Mun Public Riding School, Phone 2461 3338 http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/LEISURE/LM/horse/index.html
Ice Skating ;- You need to call to find their opening hours and get there early as they tend to get very busy after school and on the weekends. Skating Schools and Ice hockey are available at all the rinks.
Cityplaza Ice Palace Cityplaza Taikoo Shing, Shau Kei Wan 2885 4697
Riviera Ice Chalet Riviera Plaza, Tsuen Wan 2407 1100
X-Skate Hong Kong Mai On Ind Bldg, Kwai Chung 2308 1000
Sham Shui Po, Kln. Dragon Centre 2307 9264
Glacier Festival Walk 80 Tat Chee Ave, Kowloon Tong 2265 8888
Festival Walk Ice Skating rink.
Jumpin Gym USA :- http://www.jumpingym.com There are over 43 Jumpin Gyms in Hong Kong with more to come. They are usually attached to shopping centres. They are activity centres with climbing frames, games to play, all set in a different theme for each centre. The centres are usually over 10,000sq. feet. They cater for all ages, although under 10’s would get the most out of them - great for a rainy day excursion or for a group excursion. The cost isn’t too high for a few hours of entertainment. Visit the web site to find all the centres listed. HK white pages also list the stores with the phone numbers.
The Rumpus room is a new set up in HK (2006 addition)
Kite flying - there is a designated Kite Flying area at Clearwater Bay Country Park on top of a high hill with a great view - best not to take your very best kite as the winds get high and there is no way of retrieving a wanderlust kite - make your own and have a great time, anything will fly at this spot!
Lawn Bowls
Siu Lek Yuen Road Playground ,Shatin 2634 0141 Two artificial bowling greens are provided at Siu Lek Yuen Road Playground, Sha Tin (near City One Sha Tin). Transport By Kowloon Motor Bus No. 80K, 83K, 85A, 85K, 86K and 86C. Opening hours 7 am to 11 pm daily Block booking, on-the-spot booking and standby booking are available at the booking office of the Centre.
Tai Po Waterfront Park
Two natural turf bowling greens are provided at Tai Po Waterfront Park, Dai Fat Street, Tai Po (near Tai Po Industrial Estate). Close Block booking, on-the-spot booking and standby booking are available at the booking office of the bowling green. Training courses Training courses are provided. Phone no for enquiry on training course is (852) 2654 1405 (office hours only). Enquiries/booking office Phone No. (852) 2667 5489
Paddle Boating:- At the Wong Ngai Chung Rd Reservoir Park, Hong Kong Island, off Stubbs Rd on the road to the HK Parkview.
Paintball/Wargames
Wargame City (L/G Silvercord, 30 Canton Rd, TST 2376 3522)
Paintball Sport (2B11 & 2B11A, B/2 Panda Bazaar, 3 Tsuen Wan St, Tsuen Wan
Windsurfing
The Beach Resort at Sai Kung has two vendors set up 7 days a week. $40 an hour. Also has kayaks.
Recreation Grounds
These include those hard surface soccer pitches - you can actually book these - visit the following page to find one near you with the phone number http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/LEISURE/LM/recground
Sports Grounds - want to play tennis at your local tennis courts but can’t figure out how to do it? visit the following page to find something near you http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/LEISURE/tfacilitye.html
Rock Climbing ;- Each of the following facilities have different rates per hour and some do not supply equipment - so you need to ask questions before you go.
YMCA Salisbury Rd TST (indoor) 2268 7099, Kings Park, Gasgoigne Rd, Yau Ma Tei. (outdoor) Kings Park site 2782 6682 Fax 2782 7876. They conduct training days and you can book the facility for parties. http://www.ymcahk.org.hk
There are also climbing walls at Shek Kip Mei Park Indoor Games Hall, 27847424,
Kai Tak East Indoor Games hall 23269940, Kwun Tong Shun lee Tsuen Leisure centre 29514136. Sam Ka Chuen Indoor recreation centre 23493954, Tuen Mun Recreation and Sports Centre 24662600
Roller Blading/In line Skating :-
The Kings Park Centre at 22 gasgoigne Rd,Yau Me Tei 2782 6682 has a roller blading rink, and can supply all equipment. Rates are from $40 -$50 for a two hour session. You need to call the centre before you go to check on availability and session times for that day. Also have leagues for In line Hockey going on.
You can also book the rink for parties. They also hold fun days every now and then. call for details.
X Skate Hong Kong 16A Mai On Industrial Building, 17-21 Kung Yip st, Kwai Hing 2308 1000, has a set of indoor skating platforms and ramps. need to call before you turn up, and you need to be a member to use equipment but it is pretty cheap.
Skateboarding - the long awaited skateboard park is now open at the Kings Park YMCA, 22 Gasgoigne Rd, Yau Mei Tei, 2782 6682.
Ten Pin Bowling AMF runs a number of centres all over HK.
Amoy Garden, Kowloon Bay 2755 3595
Tuen Mun, 24573276
Shatin 2648 2815
Mei Foo 2759 2211
Water Sports http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/LEISURE/LM/watersport/index.html
The St. Stephen's Beach Water Sports Centre is situated in Stanley Peninsula, Southern District, Hong Kong Island. Facing Stanley Bay and opposite Chung Hom Kok Peninsula, the Centre is a perfect place for water sports. The Centre has a wide range of water sports equipment including Sailing Dinghies ,Windsurfing Boards and Kayaks. Apart from organizing training courses and fun days regularly, the Centre also tailor-makes package training courses to suit the requirements of individuals, organizations and groups.
There are three water sports centres managed by the Department in the New Territories. They are
Sai Kung Chong Hing Water Sports Centre (852) 2792 6810
Sai Kung Jockey Club Wong Shek Water Sports Centre (852) 2328 2311
Tai Po Tai Mei Tuk Water Sports Centre (852) 2665 3591
Services and facilities provided at the above water sports centres include canoeing, dinghy sailing and windsurfing courses. Package training courses are also available. Organisations and individual groups are welcome to take part in the activities and join the courses on dates of their own choice. Application forms forms for membership with benefits are available at the three water sports centres and District Offices of the Department.
Inside Pursuits
Internet cafes a few of these have popped up in the last 12 months. In most cases they charge a cover fee for unlimited internet access, some also provide snacks and drinks included in this cover charge. You need to check them out to ensure they where you want your kids to hang out.
One of the more controlled ones is Sniper - http://www.sniper.com.hk at 3/F Fashion Plaza, 1A-1J Tung Choi St, Mongkok. Kowloon. 2375 2828 fax 2783 2783
Other Excursions -
Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok - This street is teeming with critters from goldfish and exotic fish to Reptiles and amphibians nasty and nice - snakes scorpions, lizards, frogs, spiders, tortoises. This is a great place for kids to browse and observe critters you wouldn’t normally see around the place. Busy on weekends.
Yuen Po Street, Mong Kok Bird garden - beautiful birds for sale and show, Take exit B1 from prince Edward Station head to the Mong Kok Stadium, it is right alongside it on embankment road.
Flower markets -Flower Market Rd, Mong Kok , this is the place to buy flowers and plants and so much to choose from - accessible from Prince Edward MTR station.
Streets of Sham Shui Po - if you want to have an interesting day looking at different things HK can offer - have a wander around this suburb - also excellent for craft supplies (very cheap) and fabric.
The Wishing Tree In Lam Tsuen, near Tai Po, is the enchanting Wishing Tree covered in seemingly deep crimson flowers, the tree is laden with wishes written on bright red paper. According to tradition, wish makers scribble their dreams on specially designed red slips of paper tied onto an orange with string, then toss them in the air. If the lucky paper charm catches on the tree, it means the wish will be granted. Take No. 64K bus from the Tai Po Market KCR Station, 10-15 minutes.
Outlying Islands http://www.hkta.org/sightseeing/outlying.html
Visit the Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island, the big Buddha is quite awesome, and a visit to Tai O on Lantau is great too - the village built over the water on stilts - buses leave from Silvermine Bay often. You can even catch a bus over to the Airport and then catch the new to open Skyway transport system.
The Country Parks http://www.info.gov.hk/afd/afdparks/ehome.htm are great places to visit, and there are so many walks and mountains to climb, campsites to check out and campfires to build they cannot all be mentioned here some that are suggested - Pok Fu Lam Country park (on the peak) Tai Tam Country Park, Sai Kung Country park, Lantau Country Park. The Pat Sin Leng Country Park near Tai Po has alot of lovely lakes and waterfalls in it with quite flat hikes for all ages. Many of the places can be accessed off the road that surrounds it. There is the beautiful Brides Pool off Brides Pool road in the Plover Cove Country Park, this is absolutely gorgeous, especially on a weekday and just after rain. Free and accessible parking at the top of the stairs going into the park. For information about the Country parks there is the Country parks authority at 393 Canton Rd, 12th Floor Kowloon phone 2733 2138, or visit your local government mapping office to get hold of the specific maps you need.
Sai Kung is a popular destination on weekends with over 90 restaurants, antique stores, fresh fish swimming in their tanks, kaido’s to take you to a secluded island or just around the little typhoon shelter. Junks just floating on the water. Lovely walks along the promenade, many children’s playgrounds, Public transport available from Choi Hung MTR station or Shatin KCR.
What about China? plan ahead, organise your short stay visas at the Chinese travel bureau grab your passports and some money, get on the City bus that goes right through to the Schenzhen Bay Hotel from Central. Visit the Splendid China Park - absolutely fabulous, and well done, stay overnight & visit the China Folk Village, and also the Wonders of the World - see the world in one day! There is also a huge water world and amusement park close by. There is also a wildlife park in Schenzhen that is apparently worth a visit! Book your hotel in HK as it is supposedly up to 50% cheaper than if you just turn up. Take plenty of cash with you as most places do not take credit cards. Cost to get into the parks ranges is about 100 - 250 yuen for adults and up to 100 yuen for children.
There is a fun go karting track in Schenzhen - across the road from the Century Hotel (about a 5 minute walk from the shopping centre) This is $55 for 10 minutes situated in a multilevel car park - great track!
Macau is also a fun place to go for a day or two. There is a fantastic go karting track there, (minimum age is 8years old) lovely beaches, trails to walk and the fort is just a haven for young boys with all the old cannons. There are plenty of hotels to choose from, and taxi’s are pretty cheap to get around in and the public buses are also pretty good. The shopping is also great for Chinese artifacts. If you catch the Macau Ferry from Kowloon side it is $70 per person, from Hong Kong side it is $140, but the Kowloon side does not run as often - just need to be more organised.
Bibliography
Where the web sites are mentioned in the text, this is where I gleaned the information from and the following books and references have been used in the compilation of this information, they are all excellent resources on ideas on things to do with kids and visitors in HK -
Campbell , Fiona.. Setting Up in HK 3rd Edition FDC Services LTD, HK 1994
Hong Kong Official Guide Map Survey & Mapping Office, Lands Department, HK Government Printer
HK Magazine
Isaacson, S., & Hackett,M., The Book, the Kids Guide to HK, The Guidebook Company, HK 1992.
Lim, P., Discovering Hong Kong’s Cultural Heritage, Oxford University Press, Hong Kong. 1997
98 Hong Kong Guide Book Universal Publications Ltd. Hong Kong 2000
I also want to give credit to my children who force me to explore and find new places to keep them educated and entertained!