Travelling from Hong Kong

By Ellen Smith, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

Mainland China
Indonesia
Taiwan
Japan

Mainland China

If you are staying in Hong Kong it definitely worth taking a weekend or slightly longer to visit mainland China. It very easy, you can fly from Hong Kong International Airport or take a train from Hong Kong station. Be sure to check visa requirements before you visit: its possible to get a a 5 day visa for Shenzhen only on entrance, however if you’re planning on going further or visiting multiple times its worth applying online for a multiple entry visa. For British citizens, the forms are available for download online, once completed they must be taken to the Chinese Immigration Office in Hong Kong, along with cash to purchase the visa (please note they only accept cash even if this is not mentioned online). Within a week, you can pick up your passport and then its easy to visit the mainland! In Shenzhen there is lots of options for shopping and it tends to be very cheap. There is also lots of spa options there for around £30-40 for a massage and day access to the facilities, this usually includes food and beverages as well, so is great value for money if you’re looking to relax.

Indonesia

While in Hong Kong its very easy to take weekend getaways or travel during breaks, and one I would recommend is Indonesia. We only stayed in Bali however its very easy to get around with very cheap taxi services. Downloading the Grab App is essential, it can be used for transport and food delivery and will be much cheaper than Uber or others (I paid around £0.10 for a 15 minute motorbike taxi ride). There is LOTS to do in and around Bali, these were my highlights:

Lempuyang Temple (where you will find the famous stone gates – ‘Gates of Heaven’)
Tirta Tirta Water Palace
Tukad Cepung Waterfall
Day trip to Nusa Penida Island (this is where you will find the best beaches)
Rice Terrace, Tegallalang
Monkey Forest, Ubud

Taiwan

I spent a week in Taipei over new years and I would absolutely recommend if you want to travel during the Christmas break. Firstly, travelling to and staying in Taipei is much cheaper than some other trips, making it perfect for new years. It is still busy and bustling and such an exciting place to celebrate, without the crazy cost you would incur if you spend new years in Tokyo or London for example. Furthermore, there is LOTS to do (and to eat) in Taipei, with efficient public transport opening up lots of day trips while you are there.

Longshan Temple (I would recommend going at night when it is lit up)
Taipei 101
Juifen
Shifen
Ningxia night markets (foodie central!)
Chiang Kai-Shek memorial hall

Although all of these are worth seeing, a day trip covering Juifen and Shifen would absolutely be my best recommendation, allowing you to see Shifen waterfall, release lanterns with your wishes, shoot fireworks off a bridge, try lots of food markets, and walk through streets lit by lanterns.

Japan

My favourite mini-trip I have done so far would have to be Tokyo. I heard amazing things about the city before going and I wasn’t let down. A little pricier than other places but definitely worth the money, Tokyo is incredibly busy and bustling with lots to do. Everything is so clean and efficient, and everyone is so friendly and willing to help. It is full of unique attraction and experiences, here are the must sees:

Teamlab planets (an interactive art exhibition focusing on the different senses)
Sensoji Temple (lots of market stalls selling food and souvenirs here)
Tennōji Temple
Tokyo Tower (visit in the evening to watch the sun set over Mt Fuji on clear nights)
Shibuya crossing
Mt Fuji day trip (Lake Kawaguchiko is often seen here as well)
Golden Gai (network of hundreds of tiny taverns, great place to meet people as it attracts lots of travellers in the evening)