Why Hong Kong should be on your travel bucket list

If international travel is on your bucket list, then Hong Kong should definitely be a priority.

Direct flights from Vancouver and Toronto via Cathay Pacific make the process of getting there super simple, and as the Events Capital of Asia, it doesn't matter what time of year you go, because there's always something fantastic happening.

Dragon boat races

Every June, Hong Kong becomes a global centre for the Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races. This tournament takes place on June 27 and 28 and features teams from around the world – including Team Canada!

Hong Kong helped launch modern international dragon boat racing over 50 years ago in 1976. Back then, the race welcomed just 10 teams to the Shau Kei Wan Typhoon Shelter. There was no winner, as the primary goal of the event was to showcase the sport and celebrate local culture.

Now, five decades later, it's become a worldwide phenomenon. This year's races will welcome over 220 elite teams from 16 countries and regions across two electric days of competition. Tsim Sha Tsui transforms in preparation for the races, and includes tons of dragon boat activations for visitors to enjoy.

Festivals galore

Hong Kong wouldn't be the Events Capital of Asia without dazzling festivals all year round, and Dragon Boats are just the beginning. In the fall, a 67-metre Tai Hang Fire Dragon adorned with more than 12,000 burning incense sticks weaves through Tai Hang, carried by over 300 performers in the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance. 

In November, the city becomes a hub for international food and wine lovers with the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival. And of course, the city transforms amidst Chinese New Year celebrations in January and February.

More of a springtime person? The city becomes a global meeting place for art lovers in March, with art fairs and experiences like Art Basel Hong Kong, Art Central, and other independent shows.

May is when tourists flock to the island of Cheung Chau to witness the signature bun scrambling competition that marks the Cheung Chau Bun Festival. And then just like that, we’re back to June!

Plan your trip to Hong Kong

Along with specialized events and festivals, Hong Kong has over 16,000 restaurants and eateries, gorgeous outlying islands, and plenty of cultural experiences. Simply put, it’s a fantastic location for Canadians to travel, and has earned its reputation as the Events Capital of Asia.

Visit the Discover Hong Kong website to start planning your dream trip today.