Why Hong Kong’s skyline is the best in the world, despite the flak from Chinese social media – it’s one of the things I miss most about the city
- Hong Kong seems to get criticism for everything from its politics to its economy, but taking potshots at its skyline is a step too far
- London, New York and Shanghai all have perfectly fine cityscapes, but they don’t compare to the stunning harbour views in Hong Kong, which are to be cherished
Hong Kong’s famous skyline was almost always in view when I lived in the city. But even after 28 years, I did not tire of it. Now, back in England, it is one of the features of life in the city I miss.
The unique cityscape, with its forest of skyscrapers, dramatic hills and stunning harbour forms the perfect backdrop to life in Hong Kong. At night, when multicoloured lights reflect on the lapping water, the scene can be truly uplifting.
Not everyone, however, is impressed. A social media post in mainland China recently sparked a little controversy, describing Hong Kong’s urban areas as “old and shabby” and lacking in design sense. Shanghai’s skyline, by contrast, was credited with being “newer, cleaner and more modern”.
Hong Kong has taken much flak in recent times, with critics taking aim at everything, it seems, from the slump in the stock market to political changes. Targeting the skyline is, however, a step too far. Is nothing sacred?
My trips into London offer a chance to view the British capital’s cityscape. This, too, has recently come under fire, with suggestions that it has become a playground for architects with egos as big as their buildings. A columnist in The New York Times described it as “a jarring profusion of odd skyscrapers with funny names”.
But I love the view from London Bridge, taking in the gherkin, the cheese grater, the walkie talkie and the Shard.
Much as I enjoy these iconic London views, they cannot compete with Hong Kong. As for Shanghai. Very nice. But not a patch on Victoria Harbour.
Hong Kong is striving to bring the tourists back after the pandemic. It clearly needs to find new attractions and different ways of appealing to visitors.
But the harbour should not be neglected. For much of my time in Hong Kong, the harbourside was notoriously difficult to access. It was wasted. The situation has now improved, with promenades on both sides.
The skyline continues to secure five-star TripAdvisor reviews, with posts hailing it as “spectacular” and “amazing”. The few bad reviews concern the environmental impact of all those tall buildings lit up like Christmas trees.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. New York, London and Shanghai all have their appeal. But for me, Hong Kong’s cityscape is the best in the world.
