Once a fishing village, this modern city sustains a traditional way of life through its historic sites, its boat-dwelling residents and its floating restaurants.
Aberdeen is a city of contrasts. The majority of its 60,000 residents live in high-rise apartment buildings, just like you might see in nearby Hong Kong or Kowloon. Yet almost a third of the city’s inhabitants live down on the waters of Aberdeen’s protected harbour, making their homes in floating junks according to centuries-old tradition. A little slower-paced than its bustling neighbours, and rich in its own local identity, Aberdeen is an unforgettable destination.
The waters between Aberdeen and the island of Ap Lei Chau are sheltered from the effects of typhoons, and there you will find a densely packed cluster of boats. Brand new luxury yachts float alongside over 2,000 junks and sampans, which are home to nearly 20,000 resident boat people. Stroll along the shore and take in this remarkable way of living, or choose a reliable pilot and boat to take you on a tour of the harbour. There are licensed operators at Aberdeen Centre waterfront promenade.
No stay in Aberdeen is complete without a visit to one of the city’s iconic floating restaurants. A short boat ride will take you to the Jumbo Kingdom, a huge dining complex that offers seating for over 2,000 people. This grand piece of architecture was built in 1976 in the style of a Chinese imperial palace. Once inside, choose between the tea garden and the high-end Chinese restaurant, making sure to keep an eye out for fresh local seafood specialties such as squid, crab, abalone and steamed garoupa.
Aberdeen has a raft of other activities for its visitors to enjoy, from the historic Tin Hua Temple to the nearby Hong Kong Golf Club. Stop by Horizon Plaza on Ap Lei Chau to shop for antique Chinese furniture, which you can have shipped to your home. Take a daytrip to Ocean Park, where you can enjoy animal shows and thrill rides, visit a large aquarium or take in the views over the South China Sea.
Aberdeen can be reached by either taxi or bus. The ride along the island’s southern side is particularly scenic.
