TAI CHI
Start your day with a morning tai chi lesson at the Sculpture Court in front of the Hong Kong Museum of Art. Sometimes referred to as “Shadow Boxing”, the traditional martial arts form enhances the balance of yin and yang, and the graceful movements help in meditation and focus.
1881 HERITAGE AND HULLETT HOUSE
Within the high-end shopping district of Canton Road lies an upscale shopping centre, 1881 Heritage (www.1881heritage.com). Made up of a cluster of buildings constructed between 1881 and 1920, the shopping complex was the largest conservation and revitalisation project completed in Hongkong. The main complex is the Former Marine Police Headquarters. The building was a “declared monument” in 1994, together with the Former Fire Station and the Former Time Ball Tower. Shutterbugs will have a field day with the rich Victorian architecture juxtaposed with the revitalised elements of the shopping arcade.
HONG KONG HERITAGE DISCOVERY CENTRE
Hongkong’s heritage and past defines its cultural identity. At the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre, explore the conservation efforts of Hongkong’s archaeological and built heritage and understand why these sites need to be preserved for future generations.
FORMER KOWLOON BRITISH SCHOOL
Opened in 1902, the Former Kowloon British School is the oldest surviving school building constructed for foreign residents in Hongkong. Local businessman and philanthropist Ho Tung, later known as Sir Robert, donated HK$15,000 (US$1,935) to the government to construct a school in Kowloon. When it opened as a primary school, about 60 students were receiving education. By the mid 1930s, the school expanded, and after a transformation into a secondary school, enrolment hit a high of 300 pupils.
CRUISE ABOARD THE DUK LING
Board the Duk Ling, Hongkong’s last authentic sailing junk, and soak in the scenic Victoria Harbour set against the backdrop of the city skyline. The junk serves as a reminder of its origins dating back 150 years ago, when taipans (foreign businessmen) and opium traders used to sail Hongkong’s waters for trade. It was restored in the 1980s and is now used for private, corporate and commercial charters.
INTERCONTINENTAL
Get off the crowded streets of Hongkong and indulge in some R&R in the lobby of InterContinental hotel. From the lobby, take in the magnificent view of the famous skyline. If hunger pangs hit, there’s an excellent selection of restaurants upstairs, including SPOON by Alain Ducasse, NOBU and the Michelin-starred Yan Toh Heen Chinese restaurant. 18 Salisbury Road, tel 852 2721 1211