Hong Kong
Region
🌍 Asia
Population
👥 7
Currency
💱 Hong Kong dollar
Languages
🗣️ Chinese, English
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Hong Kong, a vibrant global metropolis, offers a unique blend of East meets West, where towering skyscrapers meet lush green mountains and serene beaches. Best known for its iconic skyline, bustling markets, and world-class cuisine, this Special Administrative Region of China promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Visitors should expect a fast-paced environment, efficient public transportation, and a constant buzz of activity. From the energetic streets of Kowloon to the tranquil islands, Hong Kong presents diverse landscapes and cultural encounters. A first-time visitor will be captivated by the sheer energy and the seamless integration of tradition and modernity. Prepare to be amazed by the culinary delights and the breathtaking panoramic views.
Official NameSource: REST Countries
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China
Continent
Asia
DemonymSource: REST Countries
Hong Konger
Independence
This territory does not have an official independence day.
Top-Level Domain
.hk
Calling CodeSource: REST Countries
+852
Time ZoneSource: REST Countries
UTC+08:00
Capital CitySource: REST Countries
City of Victoria
ISO Alpha-2
HK
ISO Alpha-3
HKG
UN Code
344
Geographic Coordinates
22.267,114.188
Area (km²)Source: REST Countries
1,104#188 of 249
PopulationSource: REST Countries
7,498,100#105 of 247
Population Density (per km²)
7,177.24
Highest Point (m)
958 meters (Tai Mo Shan).
Lowest Point (m)
0 meters (South China Sea).
Land Use
Primarily urban with significant areas of natural vegetation and agricultural land.
Irrigated Land
Small areas of irrigated land exist for agriculture.
Coastline Length
Approximately 733 kilometers.
Climate
Subtropical monsoon, with hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters.
Natural Resources
Limited, including mineral deposits and fishing.
Bordering CountriesSource: REST Countries
China
Major Rivers
This territory has no major rivers.
Major Lakes
This territory has no major lakes.
Government Type
Special Administrative Region of China.
Administrative Divisions
18 districts.
Legal System
Based on English common law, with modifications.
Chief of State
The President of the People's Republic of China.
Head of Government
The Chief Executive of Hong Kong.
Cabinet
Executive Council appointed by the Chief Executive.
Elections
Chief Executive is selected by an Election Committee; Legislative Council elections occur.
Judicial Branch
Court of Final Appeal, High Court, and other courts.
Legislative Branch
Unicameral Legislative Council.
Major Political Parties
Political parties exist, but the political landscape is complex and subject to change.
CurrencySource: REST Countries
Hong Kong dollar
GDP, Nominal (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
427.31#39 of 211
GDP, PPP (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP, PPP (current international $) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
603.08#50 of 201
GDP per Capita (US$)Source: World Bank: GDP per capita (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
56,983.07#27 of 211
GDP - Agriculture (%)Source: World Bank: Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added (% of GDP) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
0.04
GDP - Industry (%)Source: World Bank: Industry (including construction), value added (% of GDP) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
6.17
GDP - Services (%)Source: World Bank: Services, value added (% of GDP) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
91.45
Inflation Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Inflation, consumer prices (annual %) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
1.44#142 of 191
Labor Force (people)Source: World Bank: Labor force, total (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
3,790,314
Unemployment Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Unemployment, total (% of total labor force) (modeled ILO estimate) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
2.8#154 of 185
Public Debt (% of GDP)
Approximately 45% of GDP.
Budget
Hong Kong's budget is managed by its Financial Secretary.
Exports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Exports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
853.59#12 of 192
Imports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Imports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
841.32#10 of 192
Foreign Reserves
Among the highest in the world.
Currency Exchange
Exchange rates for the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) can be found at major financial websites.
GDP by Sector
Primarily services (over 90%), with smaller contributions from industry and agriculture.
Major Industries
Financial services, trading, tourism, and manufacturing.
Major Export Partners
Mainland China, United States, Japan, and India.
Major Import Partners
Mainland China, United States, Japan, and Taiwan.
Society
Literacy Rate (%)
Approximately 95%.
Birth Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Birth rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
4.9
Death Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Death rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
7
Net Migration Rate
Around 0 per 1,000 population.
Median Age
Approximately 46 years.
Urban Population (%)Source: World Bank: Urban population (% of total population) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
100#1 of 214
Urbanization Rate
Hong Kong is already entirely urbanized.
Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: Life expectancy at birth, total (years) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
85.4#3 of 214
HIV/AIDS Prevalence
Low prevalence.
Health Expenditures (% of GDP)
Significant public and private healthcare spending.
Ethnic Groups
Primarily Chinese, with small populations of Filipinos, Indonesians, and other ethnicities.
Religions
Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity, and other religions.
LanguagesSource: REST Countries
Chinese, English
Education
Education System
Education in Hong Kong follows a three-tier system: kindergarten, primary, and secondary education. It is largely based on the British system.
School Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: School life expectancy, primary to tertiary, both sexes (years) (2019)Checked September 29, 2026
17.2
Government Education Spending
Government expenditure on education is significant, supporting both public and subsidized schools.
Primary Education Access
—
Secondary Education Access
—
Higher Education Access
—
Major Universities
University of Hong Kong, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.
Culture
Cultural Overview
A blend of Eastern and Western cultures, with Cantonese traditions and influences from British colonial history.
National HolidaysSource: Nager.Date
- 元旦新年 (2026-01-01)
- 農曆年初一 (2026-02-17)
- 農曆年初二 (2026-02-18)
- 農曆年初三 (2026-02-19)
- 耶穌受難節 (2026-04-03)
- 耶穌受難節翌日 (2026-04-04)
- 清明節 (2026-04-06)
- 復活節星期一 (2026-04-07)
- 勞動節 (2026-05-01)
- 佛誕 (2026-05-25)
- 端午節 (2026-06-19)
- 香港特別行政區成立紀念日 (2026-07-01)
Popular Music
Cantopop, a form of pop music sung primarily in Cantonese.
Traditional Food
Dim sum, roast goose, egg tarts, and various Cantonese dishes.
Sports
Horse racing, football (soccer), and various water sports.
Major Festivals
Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, Dragon Boat Festival.
Famous People
Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Chow Yun-Fat, Leslie Cheung, and many others in entertainment and business.
Cultural Heritage Sites
Numerous historical buildings and sites reflecting its colonial past and Chinese heritage.
UNESCO Sites
Various sites recognized by UNESCO for their cultural significance.
Annual Tourist Visits
around 60 million/year
Tourism Overview
Hong Kong caters to a wide range of travelers, from luxury shoppers and food enthusiasts to adventure seekers and cultural explorers. Typical trip styles range from short city breaks focused on urban exploration and dining to longer stays incorporating island hopping and hiking in the New Territories. The main regions are Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the Outlying Islands, each offering distinct experiences. Highlights include the dazzling skyline, diverse culinary scene, and efficient public transport. This destination is perfect for those who enjoy vibrant city life, excellent food, and a blend of modern and traditional influences. Travelers looking for a dynamic urban adventure with a touch of natural beauty will find Hong Kong immensely rewarding.
Top Tourist Attractions
Victoria Peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Star Ferry provides a classic and scenic harbor crossing experience.
Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) on Lantau Island is a majestic statue.
Temple Street Night Market is famous for its bustling atmosphere and local snacks.
Man Mo Temple is a historic and atmospheric place of worship.
Symphony of Lights is a spectacular nightly light and sound show over Victoria Harbour.
Hong Kong Disneyland offers family-friendly entertainment.
Ngong Ping 360 provides a scenic cable car ride to the Big Buddha.
Ladies' Market is a popular spot for bargain hunting and souvenirs.
Dim Sum restaurants offer a quintessential Hong Kong culinary experience.
Chungking Mansions presents a unique cultural melting pot and budget accommodation.
Star Ferry provides a classic and scenic harbor crossing experience.
Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) on Lantau Island is a majestic statue.
Temple Street Night Market is famous for its bustling atmosphere and local snacks.
Man Mo Temple is a historic and atmospheric place of worship.
Symphony of Lights is a spectacular nightly light and sound show over Victoria Harbour.
Hong Kong Disneyland offers family-friendly entertainment.
Ngong Ping 360 provides a scenic cable car ride to the Big Buddha.
Ladies' Market is a popular spot for bargain hunting and souvenirs.
Dim Sum restaurants offer a quintessential Hong Kong culinary experience.
Chungking Mansions presents a unique cultural melting pot and budget accommodation.
Famous Cities
The primary tourist hub is Hong Kong Island, renowned for its glamorous shopping districts like Central and Causeway Bay, alongside the historic trams and stunning Victoria Harbour. Across the harbor, Kowloon offers a more gritty and vibrant experience, famous for its bustling night markets, particularly Temple Street, and the colorful street art scene. The New Territories, often overlooked, provide access to hiking trails and more rural landscapes, including charming walled villages. For those seeking an escape, the Outlying Islands, such as Lantau and Cheung Chau, offer tranquil beaches, traditional fishing villages, and Buddhist monasteries, providing a stark contrast to the urban intensity.
National Parks
Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark showcases unique volcanic rock formations.
Sai Kung East Country Park offers stunning coastal scenery and hiking trails.
Tai Mo Shan Country Park is home to Hong Kong's highest peak.
Shek O Country Park provides beautiful beaches and scenic walks.
Lam Tsuen Country Park features ancient banyan trees and hiking routes.
Pui O Beach is a popular spot for water sports and camping.
Dragon's Back is a renowned scenic hiking trail.
Pigeon's Nest Hill, part of the Geopark, has interesting geological features.
Sai Kung East Country Park offers stunning coastal scenery and hiking trails.
Tai Mo Shan Country Park is home to Hong Kong's highest peak.
Shek O Country Park provides beautiful beaches and scenic walks.
Lam Tsuen Country Park features ancient banyan trees and hiking routes.
Pui O Beach is a popular spot for water sports and camping.
Dragon's Back is a renowned scenic hiking trail.
Pigeon's Nest Hill, part of the Geopark, has interesting geological features.
Protected Areas
—
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hong Kong is generally during the autumn months, from September to November, when the weather is pleasant and dry with comfortable temperatures, ideal for city exploration and outdoor activities. Spring (March to May) is also a good option, offering mild weather but with a higher chance of humidity and occasional rain. Winter (December to February) is cool and dry, perfect for enjoying the festive atmosphere and shopping. Summer (June to August) is hot and humid with frequent rain and typhoons, making it less ideal for outdoor pursuits but still suitable for indoor attractions and dining.
Tourist Visa Info
For most short-term tourist visits, citizens of many countries do not require a visa to enter Hong Kong. These visa-free periods typically range from 7 to 180 days depending on the nationality. It is crucial to confirm the specific duration allowed for your passport before traveling. If your stay exceeds the visa-free period or you plan to undertake activities other than tourism, you will likely need to apply for a visa. Always ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Visa Requirements Overview
Many nationalities can enter Hong Kong visa-free for short stays, typically up to 90 days, for tourism purposes. This includes citizens of many Western countries and some Asian nations. However, visa requirements vary significantly based on your nationality and the intended length of stay. It is essential to check the official immigration department website for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding specific entry requirements for your passport. Some visitors may need to apply for a visa in advance of their travel.
Travel Advisory
Hong Kong is a safe and welcoming destination for tourists. As with any major international city, it's advisable to exercise usual precautions regarding personal belongings in crowded areas. Be aware of potential traffic when crossing roads, especially in busy urban districts. While generally stable, it's always good practice to stay informed about any local events or advisories that might affect travel plans. The local culture is generally polite and orderly, making for a smooth travel experience.
Healthcare
Healthcare Quality
Hong Kong's healthcare system is considered to be of high quality.
Medical Cost
Medical costs are relatively high.
Number of Hospitals
Hong Kong has a well-developed network of hospitals.
Universal Healthcare
Hong Kong has a healthcare system that includes both public and private providers, with substantial government subsidies for public services.
Medical Services Overview
Comprehensive public and private healthcare services are available.
Emergency Medical Access
Emergency medical services are readily accessible.
Emergency & Safety
Emergency Number (Police)
999
Emergency Number (Ambulance)
999
Emergency Number (Fire)
999
Crime Rate
—
Safety Index
—
Military Expenditure
—
Emergency Services Overview
Emergency services in Hong Kong are highly efficient and readily available. Tourists can dial a universal emergency number to reach police, ambulance, or fire services. It is advisable to have the relevant numbers saved for quick access. For non-emergency assistance, there are dedicated police stations and information centers. If you encounter a medical emergency, seeking immediate assistance through the emergency number is crucial. The response times are generally very good throughout the territory.
Safety Overview
Hong Kong is considered a very safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas like markets and on public transport, so it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure. Scams are rare but can include overcharging at taxis or markets; always agree on a price beforehand if a meter isn't used. Protests can occasionally occur, particularly in central districts; it's advisable to stay informed about local news and avoid large gatherings. Generally, tourists can feel confident exploring the city day and night, but standard travel precautions should always be observed.
Military Branches
—
Infrastructure
Electricity Access
—
Water Access
—
Sanitation Access
—
Railways
Mass Transit Railway (MTR), a major rapid transit system.
Roadways
Driving in Hong Kong is on the left side of the road. The road infrastructure is generally excellent, with well-maintained highways and urban roads. Many major routes, especially expressways and tunnels, are tolled. While self-driving is possible, it is generally not recommended for first-time visitors due to complex traffic conditions, limited parking in urban areas, and the exceptional efficiency of the public transport system. Rental cars are available, but navigating unfamiliar streets and understanding local driving etiquette can be challenging. For most tourists, relying on public transport is a much more stress-free and convenient option.
Transportation System
Highly developed and efficient, with an extensive public transportation network.
AirportsSource: OurAirports
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
Ports
—
Public Transit
Hong Kong boasts one of the world's most efficient and comprehensive public transportation systems. The MTR (Mass Transit Railway) is the backbone, with extensive subway lines connecting most key areas on Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories. Trams are a charming and affordable way to navigate Hong Kong Island's northern corridor. Buses and minibuses cover areas not reached by the MTR, offering extensive coverage. Octopus cards are the most convenient way to pay for fares across most public transport; they can be purchased and topped up at any MTR station. Tourists will find navigating the system incredibly easy due to clear signage and frequent service.
Technology & Communication
Internet Penetration (%)Source: World Bank: Individuals using the Internet (% of population) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
95.76#25 of 211
Mobile Subscriptions (per 100)
—
Tech Startups
—
Innovation Index
—
ICT Development Index
—
TV Broadcast Stations
—
Radio Broadcast Stations
—
Plug Type & Voltage
Type G, 220V, 50Hz
CO2 Emissions (t per capita)Source: World Bank: Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions excluding LULUCF per capita (t CO2e/capita) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
4.6#58 of 202
Air Quality Index
High levels of air pollution, with frequent exceedances of air quality standards, especially in urban areas.
Water Pollution Level
Moderate to high water pollution levels, mainly due to sewage discharge and industrial effluent, impacting coastal waters.
Renewable Energy Usage
Limited renewable energy usage, primarily solar, with a focus on increasing its share in the energy mix.
Environmental Issues
Air and water pollution, habitat loss, waste management, climate change impacts, and rising sea levels.
Natural Hazards
Typhoons, flooding, landslides.
Waste Management
Significant waste generation, with reliance on landfills and incineration; efforts towards waste reduction and recycling are ongoing.
Environmental Agreements
Party to international environmental agreements, including air pollution, biodiversity, and climate change.
UN Membership
—
Diplomatic Missions
Hong Kong hosts consulates and other diplomatic representations.
International OrganizationsSource: REST Countries
Member of various international organizations, including the World Trade Organization, the Asian Development Bank, and the Financial Action Task Force.
Major Treaties
Hong Kong's international relations are primarily handled by China, but it is a party to treaties related to trade, aviation, and investment.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens can travel visa-free to a large number of countries, reflecting its status as a Special Administrative Region of China.