The Shining Far East: Hong Kong & Taipei Tour

Meeting at Istanbul Airport international departures terminal. Departure to Hong Kong at 17:10 with Turkish Airlines. After a 10-hour flight, arrival at Hong Kong International Airport at 08:20 local time. After meeting with our guide, we start our city tour with a private vehicle. Our first stop is the Mid-Levels Escalator area, known as the world’s longest covered escalator system. Between Central and SoHo districts, discover colonial architecture, art galleries, and the rhythm of local life. Short walking tour in Central to see the Bank of China Tower and enjoy panoramic views of Victoria Harbour. Dinner and overnight stay in Hong Kong.

After breakfast, we head to Victoria Peak, one of Hong Kong’s most famous landmarks. Taking the historic Peak Tram, which has a history of about 130 years, we enjoy panoramic views of both the old and modern sides of the city. From the Peak Tower observation deck, we learn from our guide about Hong Kong’s geography, development, and port economy. Later, we visit PMQ – the former Police Station, now the creative hub of Taiwan’s design scene, with art studios, boutiques, and shops. Free time for exploration and shopping. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Hong Kong. (Optional shopping at Harbour City in Kowloon or Causeway Bay, known for its youthful and trendy vibe.)

After breakfast, we take a ferry to Macau, located on China’s southern coast, a unique region where East meets West throughout history. Despite being in Asia, Macau reflects a strong European influence with its Portuguese colonial architecture, Catholic churches, and Latin-lettered signs. We begin our tour with the A-Ma Temple, dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu, one of the city’s oldest religious sites. Continue to Senado Square and the Ruins of St. Paul, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its pastel-colored buildings and charming streets. Later, visit the Macau Maritime Museum and Mandarin’s House to learn about the city’s maritime and cultural heritage. Return to Hong Kong by ferry in the evening. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast, we begin a day of cultural exploration. Our first stop is the Wong Tai Sin Temple, believed to grant wishes. Here, our guide introduces us to the philosophies of Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism, giving insight into the religious diversity of the Far East. Next, we visit Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden, designed in traditional wooden Buddhist architecture and Zen style, offering peace and harmony. In the afternoon, free time for shopping at Temple Street Night Market and Ladies Market. These colorful markets showcase Chinese craftsmanship and textiles, perfect for unique souvenirs. Dinner and overnight stay in Hong Kong.

After breakfast, we check out from the hotel and bid farewell to Hong Kong. After a 2-hour flight, we arrive in Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, and begin our sightseeing tour. Our first stop is the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, dedicated to Taiwan’s founding leader and a symbol of the nation’s history. We then visit the National Theater & Concert Hall, famous for its red columns and traditional Chinese architectural style, offering a captivating cultural atmosphere. Later, we see Taipei 101, the city’s iconic skyscraper and a marvel of modern engineering, designed to withstand typhoons and earthquakes. Inside the building, the “Tuned Mass Damper” — a 660-ton pendulum — ensures stability. During the city tour, the abundance of scooters catches our attention; Taipei’s wide roads and vibrant scooter culture give the city its unique character. Dinner and overnight stay in Taipei.

After breakfast, we explore the historic streets, architecture, and cultural heritage of Taipei. Our first stop is Longshan Temple, an 18th-century Buddhist temple that reflects traditional Taiwanese culture. Then, we visit Bopiliao Historical Block, where restored streets tell the story of Taiwan’s colonial past. Throughout history, Taiwan was ruled by various foreign powers – by the Dutch and briefly by the Spanish in the 17th century, later by China, and from 1895 to 1945 under Japanese rule. Many Japanese-era buildings can still be seen in modern Taipei. Later, we visit Dihua Street, famous for its spice shops, tea stores, and traditional goods. At Huashan 1914 Creative Park, we explore art galleries and design workshops. Before dinner, we visit the lively Shilin Night Market, one of Taiwan’s largest night markets, offering local delicacies like bubble tea, scallion pancakes, and tropical fruits. Dinner and overnight stay in Taipei.

After breakfast, we set out for a delightful day exploring both the natural beauty and engineering marvels of Taipei. Our first stop is the Taipei Zoo, one of Taiwan’s largest nature parks, famous for its giant pandas, Asian elephants, and exotic bird species. Next, we take the Maokong Gondola for a peaceful ride over the hills, escaping the city’s bustle. The glass-bottom cabins offer a breathtaking view of Taiwan’s lush forests. Upon arrival at the Maokong area, we take a short break to taste Taiwan’s famous oolong tea at local tea gardens. We then continue to the mountain village of Jiufen, about an hour away. This charming town, once a Japanese mining settlement, enchants visitors with its stone-paved streets, traditional teahouses, and lantern-lit shops. The unique atmosphere inspired Studio Ghibli’s “Spirited Away.” Dinner and overnight stay in Taipei.

After breakfast, we check out from the hotel and make our final visits before the flight. Our first stop is Lin An Tai Historical House & Garden, one of the best-preserved examples of traditional Chinese architecture in Taiwan. This 18th-century residence and its gardens beautifully reflect the elegance of Hokkien design. Later, we visit Dihua Street once again for shopping — handmade soaps, Taiwanese teas, porcelain souvenirs, and spices. Guests may also spend free time at modern shopping centers such as Taipei City Mall or Shin Kong Mitsukoshi. Taipei, a modern metropolis that harmonizes city life and nature, is perfect for a morning stroll through its lively streets and local markets. In the evening, transfer to Taipei Taoyuan International Airport for the Turkish Airlines flight to Istanbul at 22:10. Arrival in Istanbul at 05:00 the next morning.