Has House of the Dragon left you wanting to seek out thrill and adventures, and travel to distant lands? Inspired by the sequel to the popular Game of Thrones series, Hong Kong Tourism has a travel itinerary that will have you experience the magic and free spirit of the fiery creatures.
Make the most of the Year of the Dragon, and feel like you’re soaring through the skies on the back of a dragon or feeling the fiery heat as you explore natural beauty, mystical festivals, delicious food, and more on a perfect southwest Asian adventure. Take a break from Westeros and head to a place where the mythical dragon is woven into the very fabric of a glimmering metropolis. With towering skyscrapers, bustling markets, and a vibrant culture that brilliantly merges the ancient and the ultramodern, just like the multilayered world of House of the Dragon, Hong Kong is a feast for the senses. And the best part? It’s brimming with dragon lore and imagery that will make any Targaryen feel right at home.
Along the dragon’s back
The Dragon's Back trail is popular hike for the sea views Hong Kong Tourism
On the southeastern coast of the island, the curving Dragon’s Back mountain — which gets its name from its unique undulating silhouette that looks like the back of a resting dragon — should be on every nature-loving hiker’s Hong Kong itinerary. The popular Dragon’s Back Trail, cutting across Shek O Peak in the Shek O Country Park, offers panoramic views of the city and the South China Sea amid lush greenery. As you walk along the spine of the dragon, you’ll feel like you’re riding the legendary Vhagar himself. The verdant surroundings and open vistas of green meets ocean-blue will make you appreciate why dragons would want to soar high over the landscape. Don’t forget to snap some pics for your Instagram!
Timings: All Day
Entrance Fee: Free
The temple of the draconian healer
The Wong Tai Sin Temple is dedicated to the Taoist deity Wong Tai Sin Hong Kong Tourism
Dive into the heart of Hong Kong’s rich history with a visit to the Wong Tai Sin Temple, dedicated to the Taoist deity Wong Tai Sin. The ‘Great Immortal One’ — as the deity is also known as — is revered for healing and protection, much like the dragons that the deity is often depicted alongside. The temple’s vibrant colours, intricate dragon sculptures, and serene atmosphere lend to a spiritual and mystical experience.
The Nine Dragon Wall Wikimedia Commons
Light some incense, make a wish, and immerse yourself in the enchanting rituals that have been practised for centuries, and don’t miss the Nine Dragon Wall. It is believed that at the temple of Wong Tai Sin, all prayers are answered.
Location: Upper Wong Tai Sin Village, Kowloon
Timings: 7 am - 5.30 pm
Entrance Fee: Free
Battle of the dragons
The Dragon Boat Races are an adrenaline pumping spectacle Hong Kong Tourism
For a truly unique experience, time your visit to coincide with the Dragon Boat Festival. This annual event, which takes place on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month — late May or in June — features thrilling boat races at the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront. Competing teams paddle fiercely in elaborately decorated boats, each resembling a dragon. You can cheer on your favourite dragon boat, or even join a team if you’re up for the challenge. A spectacle of strength and speed, these boat races are a longstanding tradition, and will make you feel like you are in the middle of a fierce Targaryen battle on the high seas.
Location: Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, Kowloon
Timings: 8 am - 7 pm
Entrance Fee: Free
A fiery dance
The Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance is a century-old tradition Hong Kong Tourism
If you’re visiting Hong Kong during the Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month (September-early October), you will surely be mesmerised by the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance. Hundreds of performers carry a massive, vibrant dragon made of straw and incense, through the streets of Causeway Bay in a century-old tradition. The dragon, glowing with burning incense sticks, weaves through the neighbourhood in a dance that is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. The sight of the fire-lit dragon winding its way through the night is nothing short of magical — almost like a scene from House of the Dragon come to life.
Location: Tai Hang, Causeway Bay
Timings: 8 am - 7 pm
Entrance Fee: Free
Feast like a dragon
Hong Kong has a vibrant street food culture Hong Kong Tourism
Dim sum, anyone? All the exploration is sure to work up an appetite — dragon sized. Luckily, Hong Kong’s food scene is legendary. From a vibrant street-food scene with steaming, sizzling, scrumptious dishes, to traditional tea houses that offer an array of bite-sized delights — eating your way through Hong Kong is like having a royal feast in King’s Landing. You can also nibble on some dragon beard! The street-food signature dragon beard candy is a delicate, sugary treat that’s as delightful to watch being made as it is to eat.
Location: All around Hong Kong
Treasure hunting
The Temple Street Night Market is a treasure trove for shoppers Shutterstock, Hong Kong Tourism
Adventures in Hong Kong don’t end with the setting sun. In fact, that is when parts of the city like the iconic Temple Street Night Market come to life. Hong Kong’s night markets are a treasure trove of unique finds, much like the bustling bazaars of Essos. At the Temple Street Night Market — one of the most popular flea markets — you can find a wealth of collectibles, from vintage trinkets to dragon-themed souvenirs. The best part? You can bargain for everything. As you sniff around for souvenirs like a treasure hoarding dragon, the market’s lights, sounds, and tantalising aromas create an atmosphere that’s both exciting and magical — perfect for a Targaryen in disguise.
Location: Near Temple Street Archway (Jordan Road entrance)
Timings: 4pm - 11 pm
Entrance Fee: Free
Fire and light
Victoria Harbou's multimedia show is a must watch Hong Kong Tourism
End your dragonesque travel quest with a visit to Victoria Harbour for the Symphony of Lights. This dazzling multimedia show lights up the cityscape with lasers, LED screens, and searchlights that dance in harmony with music — like the dragons themselves are putting on a show. The nighttime spectacle will leave you and can be the perfect choosing chapter for your Hong Kong adventure.
Location: Best viewing locations are Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront outside the Hong Kong Cultural Centre and the Avenue of Stars, the promenade at Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai, and sightseeing ferries in the Victoria Harbour
Timings: 8 pm daily
Entrance Fee: Free from all the locations except ferry. HKD 230/Rs 2,466 (approx) for Star Ferry’s Harbour Tour; book here
So, pack your bags, unleash your inner Targaryen, and get ready to embark on an epic adventure to the land where dragons reign supreme.
TRAVEL DETAILS
- There are direct and connecting flights to Hong Kong from many major Indian cities
- Indians can travel visa free to Hong Kong for a duration of up to 14 days
- The 2024 Summer Chill Program, from July until September, offers special benefits for overnight visitors to enjoy summer offerings through its ‘Summer Triple Awards,’ city-wide themed decorations, and mega events. On registering, visitors will receive a dining coupon offering a discount of HKD 100 / Rs 1,072 (approx) on spending HKD 200/ Rs 2,145 or above on restaurants and in retail outlets.
- The Summer Chill Program also offers a Buy 1 Get 1 Free discount on MTR Airport Express single journey ticket and MTR tourist day pass — HKD 20/ Rs 215 (approx) for either KMB Tourist Day Pass, HK Tramway \ TramOramic Tour, or Star Ferry Water Tour.
More information on travelling to Hong Kong here and the Summer Chill Program www.discoverhongkong.com/in/what-s-new/events/summer-chill.html