One of the four pieces that constitutes modern Hong Kong, Kowloon sits on its peninsula just opposite teeming Hong Kong island like a contemplative uncle, smug in the knowledge that all the serious businesslike stuff lies across the harbour. Most people equate Kowloon, whose name translates as the ‘nine dragons’ in reference to the nine mountains behind it, as one giant shopping monstrosity. This may be true, but there is a lot more on offer if you’re willing to explore beyond the merchant meccas of Tsim Sha Tsui and Nathan Road.

Your children may be too young to indulge in the mind-boggling array of shopping complexes that make up much of Kowloon’s persona, but this small peninsula does offer a few attractions which should interest the kids. One of the most advanced planetariums can be found in the Hong Kong Space Museum and the Museum of Science has over 500 exhibits, many of which are hands-on. Rounding things off are a couple of excellent parks where the kids can run around and burn off some energy.

Tin Hau’s Birthday: Fishermen decorate their boats with ribbons and paper offerings in the hope of good weather and a plentiful catch at Joss House Bay, while Yuen Long is the site for parades and lion dances.

Many people have the impression that Kowloon is little more than the world’s largest shopping centre, but in fact there is a lot more to this city than simply opening the purse strings. It’s true that Kowloon’s traditional markets are wonderful hubs of local activity, as are the handful of Chinese temples which anchor each part of town. Kowloon Park provides a green haven from the urban bustle, while Hong Kong Cultural Centre is Kowloon’s latest effort at diversifying itself culturally through two innovative museums. The Walled City Park offers a look at the origins of Kowloon and the waterfront Promenade has a picture-perfect view of Victoria Harbour and the majestic skyline of Hong Kong island. Of course you’ll go shopping, but there are plenty of other choices to fill in the gaps between spending sprees.

The enormous Hong Kong International Airport, located just to the north of Lantau island, handles all flights in and out of Kowloon. Its size is considered by some to be a negative factor, in that passengers must make long treks to get to their gate without the help of baggage carts. However, this modern airport has the full range of other facilities for visitors. Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong’s principal carrier, is known for its excellent service and runs regular flights to cities all over the world. Around 40 carriers from around the world also have frequent flights to Kowloon.

Banks: 09:00-14:30, Monday to Friday; 09:00-12:30 Saturdays
Post Offices: 08:00-18:00, Monday to Friday; 08:00-14:00 Saturdays
Department Stores and Shops: 09:30-19:00, daily
Museums: 10:00-16:00, daily; 10:00-20:00, Saturdays
Business Offices: 09:00-17:00, Monday to Friday; 09:00-13:00, Saturdays