2 Best Sights in Hong Kong, China

The most glorious views of Lantau—and beyond—are from atop Lantau Peak, but at 3,064 feet, the mountaintop experience is not for the fainthearted. The ascent up the mountain that locals call Fung Wong Shan requires a strenuous 7½-mile hike west from Mui Wo, or you can begin at the Po Lin Monastery—still a demanding two hours. You can also take Bus 23 to a trail that is closer to the summit, and climb from Stage 3 of the Lantau Trail. The most striking views are at sunrise, particularly between December and February, when the air is dry and the sky is clear.

The name means Big Hat Mountain, and at 3,140 feet this volcanic outcropping in Tai Mo Shan Country Park is Hong Kong's highest point. The "Foggy Mountain" is covered in clouds almost daily, but when the mist—and pollution—clears, the view stretches all the way to Hong Kong Island. To reach the visitor center, take Bus 51 from Tsuen Wan and get off at the Country Park bus stop. Walk 10 minutes up Tai Mo Shan Road.