Kowloon - The House to Nine Dragons
Located on the north of Hong Kong Island and south of the New Territories, Kowloon is one of the most preferred tourist attractions in the world. It is an urban area comprising of the Kowloon Peninsula and New Kowloon. One of the most densely populated cities in the world, Kowloon houses 2.1 million people in a mere area of 47 square kilometres.
Accommodation Options and Languages Spoken
There are numerous guesthouses situated in Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok. Also, one can opt for budget hotels and if you ready to splurge, there is plethora of high-end accommodation options. Guesthouses have wireless internet service and all the rooms are air conditioned. Cantonese and English are the official languages of Hong Kong.
History
Kowloon is a Cantonese name which translates to Nine Dragons in English. Nine dragons represent eight peaks and the Emperor Bing who counted those peaks. Initially, Kowloon was not a part of Hong Kong and was used by the British Empire for tiger-hunting. Kowloon became the part of Hong Kong after subsequent years, and along with Hong Kong, was transferred to China.
Popular Places
The Kowloon waterfront is a place worth visiting for every tourist, as it offers a splendid view of the Hong Kong Island skyline. After dark, you can witness an impressive spectacle and one can find it as the great opportunities to click some photographs. The symphony of lights, a colourful light show conducted every evening, is a must see for every tourist. Avenue of Stars is also a major tourist attraction similar to Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. Other places to visit are Hong Kong Space Museum, Hong Kong Cultural Space and Hong Kong Museum of Art. Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple is a popular Taoist temple. One can also visit Kowloon Walled City Park.
Getting Around
Star ferry is a must for every traveller visiting Kowloon. It is the cheapest mode to move across the city and offers spectacular glimpses of lights and skyscrapers during night. If you are ready to shell out more, you can hire private vehicles as well. A guide would be of great assistance while moving through the city.
Places of Entertainment
One can visit Yau Ma Tei, Mong Kok and Tsim Sha Tsui for shopping, entertainment and cultural attractions. Yau Ma Tei is famous for Chinese opera performances. Kowloon is famous for its Thai and Chinese restaurants. Hung Hom houses the best restaurants of Hong Kong and is also the home for Hong Kong Coliseum, an ultimate concert arena with a cruise ship shaped shopping mall. Along the Temple Street, various opera performances are held.
Currency
Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) is the official currency of Hong Kong. One can get the current exchange rates via news in the newspapers and on the internet.
Group accommodation in Kowloon | Cheap hostels & budget hotels