Exploring Hong Kong Airport: Things To Do And See

what to do at hongkong airport

Consistently ranked as one of the best airports in the world, Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) offers a wide range of amenities and entertainment options to keep travellers entertained during layovers. From dining and shopping to unique experiences and convenient services, there's something for everyone at HKG. The airport is quite spread out, with Terminal 1 hosting various airlines and Terminal 2 catering primarily to budget airlines. In the following paragraphs, we will explore the diverse array of attractions and facilities that have made HKG renowned among travellers worldwide.

Characteristics Values
Airport ranking Consistently ranked as one of the best airports in the world
Terminals Terminal 1 is home to many airlines, while Terminal 2 caters mainly to budget airlines
Entertainment TV Areas in T1, play areas for children, HKIA Arts and Culture Festival, Journey of Discovery Zones
Food Michelin-starred Central restaurant Duddell's, Chee Kei, Tsui Wah, Gordon Ramsay Plane Food To Go, and more
Shopping Chinese and international fashion boutiques, convenience stores, bookshops, Duty-Free areas, high-end brands
Relaxation Airport lounges, complimentary shower facilities, massages, spa treatments, Sky Garden
Transportation MTR Airport Express train, taxis, buses
Nearby attractions Victoria Harbour, Clock Tower, Avenue of Stars, Victoria Peak, Disneyland, Ocean Park

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Enjoy the food: dim sum, BBQ meats, crispy milk tea, and more

Hong Kong is a foodie's paradise, and you can experience some of that inside the airport itself. The airport's food court is your last chance to taste classic Cantonese dishes before leaving the city.

For some delicious dim sum, head to Duddell's, a Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant located in the level 7 food court of Terminal 1. You can also try Ho Hung Kee, a Cantonese restaurant that uses traditional cooking techniques to prepare its food. Besides noodles, they also serve a variety of dim sum and congee.

If you're craving barbecued meats, Duddell's has got you covered with its extensive menu of freshly made dishes. You can also try Tai Hing, which serves up roasted BBQ pork and Cantonese roasted pork belly.

For a unique Hong Kong-style milk tea, Tsui Wah is the place to go. Located on the 8th level of the departures area, you can try their famous crispy bun with sweet condensed milk, paired with their milk tea. You can also try the Hong Kong Breakfast Toastie, which includes an HK-style breakfast dish with macaroni, cheese, and béchamel, all between crispy thick-cut toast. If you're looking for something a little more indulgent, the Milk Tea Crème Brûlée at Beef & Liberty is a great option.

There are plenty of other options to choose from, including wonton noodles, ramen, curry rice, and even international cuisine like burgers and British dishes. So, whether you're looking for a quick bite or a full-service restaurant, Hong Kong International Airport has something to satisfy your cravings.

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Go shopping at Chinese and international fashion boutiques

Hong Kong International Airport is a shopper's paradise, with a wide range of Chinese and international fashion boutiques to choose from. If you're looking for luxury fashion, Terminal 1 is the place to be, with more than twenty renowned international high-fashion brands located in an area known as the SkyMart. Here, you'll find boutiques such as Chanel, Christian Dior, Gucci, Prada, Valentino, and Versace, as well as high-end jewellery and watch stores like Bvlgari. Terminal 2, on the other hand, offers a different shopping experience with its own mall, the SkyPlaza, which includes a variety of unique local boutiques and fewer high-end options.

For those seeking functional yet stylish British design, there is a Burberry boutique store. Shoe lovers can find their dream pair at Jimmy Choo, located near Gate 20, with options ranging from high heels to sandals. Gates 20 and 40 also offer a range of popular brands, including Calvin Klein, Emporio Armani, and Kate Spade New York. If you're looking for top-quality leather goods, head to Balenciaga, and for those who want to shop for the whole family, Zara offers a range of kids' clothing, men's and women's fashion, and home accessories.

In addition to the luxury fashion boutiques, Hong Kong International Airport also has a variety of standard airport shops. These include convenience stores, bookshops, and Duty-Free areas where you can purchase cosmetics, accessories, souvenirs, and spirits. The airport also offers an online shop with a selection of these items, providing personal assistance and exclusive deals and promotions. However, for luxury clothing and accessories, an in-person visit to the boutiques is necessary.

If you're looking for a quick bite or a full-service dining experience, the airport has a range of options, including Cantonese cuisine, dim sum, barbecued meats, and international choices. And if you want to unwind with a drink, Intervals bar on the Sky Bridge offers artisanal cocktails and spectacular views of the airport. So, whether you're a fashion enthusiast or just looking for a convenient shopping experience, Hong Kong International Airport has something for everyone.

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Relax in an airport lounge with food, drinks, and showers

Hong Kong International Airport is consistently ranked as one of the best in the world, largely due to its in-airport amenities and entertainment. If you're looking to relax in an airport lounge with food, drinks, and showers, you have several options.

Cathay Pacific Lounge – The Pier

The Pier features a food hall dining area, a teahouse with seasonal and artisanal tea, 14 shower suites, and a relaxation zone with Sanctuary by Pure Yoga, a space to meditate, relax, stretch, or follow a TV-guided yoga class.

Cathay Pacific Lounge – The Deck

The Deck has eight shower rooms and a buffet dining area with a range of international options, including dim sum, char siu barbecued pork, and braised lamb with tomato, chard, and herbs.

Cathay Pacific Lounge – The Bridge

The Bridge has nine shower rooms and a bar.

Qantas Lounge

The Qantas lounge offers hot showers, food, and beverages.

Plaza Premium First

Plaza Premium First is a pay-for-access lounge that can be accessed with a credit card with Priority Pass, or by paying a fee. The fee for three hours of access starts at HK$880 ($112). The lounge features shower rooms, hair blow-dry rooms, and a resting area.

The Centurion Lounge

The Centurion Lounge is open to eligible American Express card members and offers premium food and beverages inspired by Hong Kong's local culture.

United Club

United Club is temporarily closed until further notice.

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Take a short trip into Hong Kong via the MTR Airport Express train

If you're looking to take a short trip into Hong Kong from the airport, the MTR Airport Express train is a great option. It is one of the world's leading airport rail systems, offering swift and seamless links between Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) and the city's vibrant central business hub. The 35.3-kilometre journey between the airport and the city takes as little as 24 minutes, making it an efficient and convenient choice for travellers.

The Airport Express operates regularly, with trains running every 10-12 minutes before the COVID-19 pandemic. As of 30 July 2024, the service has returned to its pre-pandemic frequency and timetable. The trains are well-equipped for travellers, featuring luggage racks next to each door and in-seat loudspeakers for news, advertisements, and announcements. LCD televisions are also available in front of each seat.

Passengers flying with specific airlines, such as Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Airlines, Qantas, or Singapore Airlines, can take advantage of the in-town check-in service at Hong Kong Station or Kowloon Station. This allows travellers to check their bags and receive their boarding passes before exploring the city without carrying their luggage. The Airport Express also has a special baggage container car, and your checked baggage is scanned using a mechanised automatic explosive detection system for added security.

The Airport Express is the only rail link to the airport, making it a convenient choice for travellers. It runs parallel to the Tung Chung line, a rapid transit line, and terminates at the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre. The journey from Hong Kong Station to the airport is a quick 24 minutes, and the train is indicated in teal on the MTR map.

If you're looking to explore Hong Kong during a layover, the MTR Airport Express train is a great option. You can easily store your luggage at either terminal and be downtown in about 30 minutes. Once you're in the city, you can visit popular attractions such as Victoria Harbour, the Clock Tower, and the Avenue of Stars. The super-cheap Star Ferry also provides a 10-minute ride with perfect photo opportunities.

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Explore the airport's art and culture, including multimedia showcases

Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is consistently ranked as one of the best in the world, thanks to its amenities and entertainment. The airport also boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with exhibitions and performances by local artists.

HKIA's Arts and Culture Festival, organised in collaboration with the city's art institutions, famous and upcoming local artists, and government arts bodies, is a great way to experience the city's creative energy and craft traditions. The festival, which usually runs from July to October, features curated exhibitions, performances, and installations by renowned and emerging artists. It also offers visitors a chance to create their own postcards and animations, blending tradition with innovation.

Throughout the airport, you can discover various multimedia showcases as part of the Journey of Discovery zones. These therapeutic and Instagrammable displays include a large digital screen by the Crystal Elevator, showcasing striking digital art pieces that capture the multifaceted spirit of Hong Kong. You'll be treated to aerial views of the city, sights of the harbour, and playful illustrations by local artists.

If you're looking for some fresh air, head to the Sky Garden on Level 7 East Hall, Departures. This open-air terrace features plant boxes and metallic silhouette art pieces, including bauhinia, goldfish, birds, butterflies, and leaves, adding a creative touch to your airport experience.

Frequently asked questions

Hong Kong International Airport has a variety of 24-hour shops and dining outlets. The airport is also quite extensive and spread out, with Terminal 1 being home to many airlines and Terminal 2 mainly catering to budget airlines. If you have kids with you, there are several kid-friendly areas in T1, including colourful TV areas with cartoons and children's shows, as well as play areas.

There are plenty of options to choose from at the Hong Kong International Airport, including international cuisine. For a Michelin-starred experience, try Duddell's, located on the Level 7 food court of Terminal 1. Chee Kei on Level 6 serves authentic wonton noodles, congee, fried rice, and bowls of wontons with noodles. Tsui Wah, located on the Level 8 departures area, offers the famous crispy bun with sweet condensed milk and Hong Kong-style milk tea, as well as other signatures like beef brisket curry and Swiss sauce chicken wings.

You can check out the HKIA Arts and Culture Festival, which showcases curated exhibitions and performances by local artists throughout the airport. There are also therapeutic and Instagrammable multimedia showcases in the Journey of Discovery zones. If you're looking for some fresh air, head to the Sky Garden on Level 7 East Hall, Departures. This open-air terrace features plant boxes and metallic silhouette art pieces.

Yes, there are several airport lounges that allow access to any traveller, regardless of airline or flight class. You can gain entry by pre-booking online, using a lounge membership program, or paying at the door. The airline's first-class lounge, The Pier, at Gate 63, offers a contemporary dining room and bar, as well as comfortable daybeds and massage services.

If you have a layover of 6 hours or more, you can store your luggage and head into downtown Hong Kong. The MTR Airport Express train will get you there in about 24 minutes. Once downtown, you can stroll along Victoria Harbour, ride the Star Ferry, or explore the city's famous shops and eateries.

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