Go onto any forum and you’ll find mixed reviews of Singapore being better than Hong Kong or vice versa. But it really depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation.
Hong Kong is more dynamic, offering a wider range of experiences for all travelers. Singapore, in contrast, offers pleasant surroundings and more culinary variety. It’s a close match between Hong Kong and Singapore. But altogether, which city has the edge?
Singapore
From its food and cultural hotspots to the ever-popular Marina Bay Sands, Singapore is a must-visit.
Cultural diversity stands out in Singapore. It’s evident in its cuisine, but even more so in its vibrant neighborhoods. Chinatown, Kampong Glam, Little India, and Joo Chiat are havens showcasing art, history, and culture.
Around Singapore, there’s plenty to do, starting with Orchard Road followed by a quiet evening at Gardens by the Bay. For families, Singapore Zoo is a beloved treat for the little ones.
As for the adults? Nightlife isn’t hard to come by at all in Singapore. In fact, many of its bars rank among the World’s Best 50 Bars list every year.
But if your main purpose is to relax, Haw Par Villa and the Supertree Grove are places you don’t want to miss.
Hailed as the Garden City of Asia, Singapore ranks high on the list of Asia’s premiere destinations. Whether you’re visiting solo, as a couple, with friends, or alongside family, Singapore is worth a trip.
What Makes Singapore Unique?
A Culinary Treat for All
If you love food, you’ll love Singapore. Sprawling with modern eateries, Michelin-star restaurants, and hawker centers, it’s a foodie’s paradise indeed.
For the foodie’s ultimate bucket list of budget eats, hawker centers are the best place to dine at. Hawker centers are open-air food courts serving delectable cuisines designed to fit within anyone’s budget.
In other words, if you want great bang for your buck without sacrificing taste and quality, go to a hawker center.
Now there are dozens of hawker centers around Singapore worth trying. But a few of the best you shouldn’t miss include:
- Tiong Bahru Market
- Newton Food Centre
- Maxwell Food Centre
- Old Airport Road Food Center
- Kim San Leng Food Center Bishan
Want Conde Nast Traveler recommendations? Visit Chinatown Complex Food Centre and East Coast Lagoon Food Village.
Moving past budget eats, Singapore is also home to Michelin-star restaurants, don’t forget. Yarana, Oumi, Rubato, Odette, and The Feather Blade are all noteworthy picks.
Plus, there are countless modern eateries that won’t break your wallet. Tanuki Raw is perfect if you’re looking for a sashimi fix. Not to mention, their price tags are under 20.31 SGD (USD 15 at 1.35 SGD a dollar).
There’s also Two Men Bagel House if you’re craving a decadent breakfast fix. Looking for Korean cuisine? Kim Dae Mun Korean Food serves excellent Korean dishes with an average price of 13.54 SGD (USD 10).
You can easily find Italian, Chinese, Malay, Indian, and even vegan cuisines in Singapore. Altogether, there’s no shortage of delicious cuisines to be found here.
And while Singapore prides itself in culinary diversity, the city’s local cuisine still takes the number one spot. There’s something about Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and chili crab you just can’t beat.
Beautiful Green Spaces
Bearing the nickname Garden City, Singapore is also a great place to visit for nature seekers. Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Botanic Gardens are the most popular.
Gardens by the Bay features three waterfront gardens, full of rare flowers. However, the main highlight of visiting Gardens by the Bay is the Supertree Grove. This is in fact what made it so popular, to begin with.
The Supertree Grove is a giant metal vertical garden enveloped by thousands of fauna and flora. Around the Grove are also 12 Supertrees, which become colorful displays of light at night.
Standing in just as impressive stature as Gardens by the Bay is the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Also, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this pocket of peace is 150 years old.
Not only is it the perfect green space to spend a day in solitude, but it’s also home to the National Orchid Garden. Imagine a green wonderland home to a breathtaking swan lake surrounded by heaps of trees and flowers. Sounds like the best nature escape for you? Sure, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is undoubtedly a pocket of peace.
However, if you wanted to add some cardio, head to MacRitchie Reservoir Park. Here, you can go on a nature hike and spot tons of wildlife along the trail. These include flying lemurs and long-tailed macaques.
For families and all travelers, Punggol Waterway has it all. The entire area is divided into four areas:
- Nature Cove
- Green Gallery
- Heritage Zone
- Recreation Zone
You can rent a bicycle and tour the park while the little ones spend their time at the water playground. Around Punggol Waterway, there are also a lot of spots for bird-watching and opportunities to snap awe-inspiring photos. But most of all, Punggol Waterway is an absolute paradise for solitude and serenity seekers.
All in all, Singapore scores high when it comes to scenic places to unwind. For more places to visit and spend a day in solitude or relax, don’t miss these spots:
- Mount Faber
- Jurong Lake Gardens
- Seletar Reservoir Park
- Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
Marina Bay Sands
A trip to Singapore wouldn’t be complete without visiting the iconic Marina Bay Sands. Easily recognizable even from miles away, it’s a good place to hit during the day and after dark.
Up for sunset viewing? Perhaps a chill bar to unwind while enjoying the skyline view? Or how about both? The Sands SkyPark Observation Deck precisely offers that. You get a bird’s-eye view of the entire city and of course, the entire Marina Bay.
Whether you’re at Sands SkyPark for the drinks, the view, or simply to relax, it’s the perfect spot for any occasion.
In Marina Bay Sands, you can also visit the ArtScience Museum. Here, you’ll find an endless collection of futuristic art. Not to mention, it makes for a peaceful spot away from bustling crowds.
Don’t miss the Singapore Flyer either, an observation wheel with breathtaking marina views. Here, you’ll also find plenty of alfresco dining experiences for all to enjoy.
What else is there to do in Marina Bay Sands?
At night, you can stroll the Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade or simply relax at any of the bed loungers here and take in the views. As a matter of fact, the Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade is a popular spot for runners and yogis. There’s also the Helix Pedestrian Bridge, which offers a similar experience as the Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade.
Now if you’d rather spend your night partying, head to Ce La Vie Bar, located on the 57th floor of Marina Bay Sands. Alternatively, you can shop till you drop at the Shoppes. This posh mall sells everything luxury and high-end retail.
A few brands worth mentioning include Gucci, Dior, Tiffany & Co., Piaget, Bulgari, and Bottega Veneta. All in all, there are several activities you can do in just a day at the Marina Bay Sands. Shopping, nightlife, entertainment, dining, and relaxing, take your pick.
Orchard Road
Like Marina Bay Sands, Orchard Road is a hub for shopping, dining, entertainment, and drinking. However, the shopping opportunities here don’t end in just high-end retail offerings. You’ll find more budget to mid-priced deals and steals here, along with local shopping boutiques.
A few great shopping stores include the following:
- Sephora
- Off-White
- Love Bonito
- Bynd Artisan
- TANGS at Tang Plaza
Shopping aside, one of the best activities you can do in Orchard Road is to explore its food scene. There are rooftop lounges, trendy cafes, fancy eateries, and classic restaurant chains like Shake Shack.
For cafes, be sure to check out Greyhound Café, Café&Meal MUJI, and The Coffee Academics. If you’re craving authentic Singaporean cuisine, dine at Chatterbox. Their most popular dish? Hainanese chicken rice.
There’s also Salt Grill & Sky Bar, an indoor rooftop lounge that boasts incredible Australian cuisine. If you’re feeling steak and yakitori barbecue, Mezza9 is a fantastic choice.
Finally, there’s also Hai Di Lao and Halcyon & Crane, offering delectable cuisine and aesthetic vibes.
What about the nightlife on Orchard Road? There aren’t many bars here, but all serve outstanding drinks. So even if your options are limited, any bar you walk into will not leave you feeling disappointed.
On that note, these are the best bars to visit on Orchard Road:
- Manhattan
- Horse’s Mouth
- 5 Emerald Hill
Hong Kong
In a nutshell, Hong Kong is a city full of vibrant energy. From its street markets and bazaars to towering skyscrapers and lush parklands, Hong Kong is worth your dime and attention.
The city also boasts a plethora of attractions, catering to families, couples, and solo travelers. Speaking of solo travelers, the city’s nightlife is surely not to be missed. So much so that it’s also home to the number one bar in Asia.
What’s more, families traveling with the little ones can spend an entire day in Hong Kong Disneyland. Even better, you can stay at the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel for a fun-filled trip the whole way.
As one of Asia’s most visited destinations, what also attracts so many to the city are its shopping opportunities.
That’s right, Hong Kong is famed for being a shopper’s paradise. Safe to say, you won’t leave Hong Kong without a few shopping bags.
There is, however, much more to see and do in Hong Kong than just nightlife and shopping. The city also has beaches, parklands, cultural attractions, and a ton of dining options.
The best part of it all? Getting around Hong Kong is easy. Their MRT system is easy to understand, and traveling from one district to another is hardly a problem.
Still not sure if Hong Kong is worth your attention? Here are a couple of reasons why you can’t go wrong with visiting this vibrant city.
What Makes Hong Kong Unique?
Full of Family-Friendly Attractions
Having access to a ton of family adventures is one of the many reasons Hong Kong is worth visiting. Whether you’re traveling with the little ones or older kids, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.
And without a doubt, ranking in first place for family-friendly attractions is Hong Kong Disneyland. Even for teenagers, Disneyland still bags the number one spot. In fact, families can opt to stay in Hong Kong Disneyland when visiting to maximize their experience.
Disneyland aside, another fun-filled family adventure worth visiting is Ocean Park. The amusement park offers tons of roller-coaster rides and it’s also home to an oceanarium and a panda village.
Disneyland and Ocean Park aren’t your only options though.
There’s also the Hong Kong Space Museum where 70% of its collections are interactive designs. Not to mention, a Space Theater which features the first OMINMAX film projector. Imagine a realistic journey through space so real it’s as if you were traveling the galaxies.
Now, what if you plan to visit Hong Kong with older kids? Well, nightlife is always an option which you’ll learn more about later in this guide.
But even if your older kids are tagging along, there’s still plenty to discover together, such as:
- Lantau Island
- Sai Kung Country Park
- Victoria Peak and Victoria Harbour
All three showcase Hong Kong’s impressive natural beauty. And in the event you want a quick cardio session, Victoria Peak offers a scenic hiking trail to the summit. Or, you can head to Sai Kung Country Park which offers more scenic hiking trails and idyllic beaches.
Dining Capital of Asia
Hong Kong has over 15,000 restaurants spread throughout the city. It’s no culinary slouch either when it comes to Michelin-star restaurants.
As a matter of fact, Hong Kong is home to the world’s most affordable Michelin-star meal. The esteemed dim sum emporium, Tim Ho Wan, offers an unforgettable dim sum dining experience.
Then again, you don’t visit Hong Kong solely for its local cuisine. Allow yourself two to three days of exploring local Hong Kong dishes. But after that? It’s worth diving into the international gastronomic landscape this city has to offer.
That includes humble street food stalls that serve some of the most addicting street food you’ll ever get to try.
Must-Try Local Food
So, what dishes are worth sampling? For something more familiar, sample some chicken feet. But if you’re looking for something more unique, you can opt for snake soup or Typhoon-shelter crab.
And for those that truly want a foodie adventure, go grab some stinky tofu. The stench might be overpowering, but it tastes oh-so-amazing.
If you’re looking for sweet, savory, soft, and crispy all at the same time, grab a Hong Kong-style French toast.
There’s also roasted goose, roasted pigeon, beef brisket, and five-layer roast pork. All four are excellent choices you’ll never regret biting into.
Don’t miss out on sweet and sour pork too. In Hong Kong, its umami charts are guaranteed A++.
Restaurants to Visit
In Hong Kong, you’ll find a vast selection of excellent restaurants.
That said, it also depends on what cuisine you’re craving most. Don’t worry though, with over 15,000 restaurants, there’s no shortage of culinary options to choose from.
Some good options, though? Ronin is an excellent choice for seafood lovers and anyone craving Japanese cuisine. Plus, it’s also famous for being a whisky wonderland, featuring 100+ whisky collections, along with wine and sake.
If you still haven’t had enough Chinese, Tin Lung Heen serves one of the best Iberico char siu in the city. Essentially, it’s tender barbecued pork enveloped in osmanthus honey.
Small bites, anyone? Little Bao makes it to the top 30 of Conde Nast Traveler recommendations. This small restaurant only seats 10 but is always packed.
For date nights, special occasions, and Italian gourmet, check out 8-1/2 Otto e Mezzo Bombana. Prefer French cuisine? A more accurate description would be the love child of French techniques and Japanese ingredients.
That’s what you’ll find at Frantzen’s Kitchen, which is by the way, run by a Swedish chef. So technically, you’re getting Swedish, French, and Japanese in one plate.
And of course, who can forget dim sum, right? For the cream of the crop recommendation in the dim sum category, be sure to dine at Maxim’s Palace. Tim Ho Wan is a legend of its own, but Maxim’s Palace definitely deserves a star for its flavors.
Shopper’s Paradise
Daily shopping sprees are a thing in Hong Kong, thanks to its huge bargain and price steals. And just when you think that’s enough to fill your shopaholic cravings, just wait till you see what your options are.
From luxury markets to Mong Kok’s markets, you’re bound to leave the city with several shopping bags. The best part? Several Hong Kong shops don’t come with sales tax.
Even better, the city boasts plenty of factory seconds, including Gucci, NEKI, and Prada stocks. If you know where to look, you can get designer bags for 10% of the price. On average, outlet stores in Hong Kong sell designer collections at 30% to 70% off the original price.
In other words, if you’re planning on buying luxury goods, Hong Kong is one of the best cities to do so. Because minus the sales tax plus the ridiculous discounts, you’re easily getting these at cost. Sometimes even lower.
So, which shopping malls should you go to? For fashion trend designs and designer labels, head to Citygate Outlets, located in Tung Chung.
If you want electronics, visit Golden Computer Centre located in Sham Shui Po. High street fashion? GU has the best collections and is located in Tsim Sha Tsui.
For everyday essentials, Miniso located in Wan Chai offers one of the most affordable selections. Be careful, though: you may not want to leave.
Also in Wan Chai is the Odd One Out, perfect if you’re looking to shop for art, home, and lifestyle products.
Midnight snacks in case you get hungry? 759 store serves a huge collection of Japanese snacks; however, most are sold in bulk. It should be enough to last even after your trip.
But if you simply want to browse or prefer to spend more time shopping, be sure to visit these malls:
- IFC Mall
- Cityplaza
- Landmark
- Fashion Walk
Lee Gardens Shopping Mall is also a great option and features unmissable dining experiences. Times Square Mall, located in Causeway Bay, is perfect if you want a versatile mix. Shopping, dining, cafes, theaters, and several tourist attractions all make up Times Square’s lively vibes.
Finally, there’s Pacific Mall, which is perfect for shopping or browsing. It’s also connected to four Hong Kong hotels:
- The Conrad
- JW Marriott
- Island Shangri-la
- The Upper House
Vibrant After-Dark Scene
Hong Kong’s nightlife scene stands out. From upscale clubs and bars to slow evening cruises, there’s plenty of entertainment after dark.
For party central vibes, Lan Kwai Fong has it all. You’ll find over 90 bars in this area alone, along with countless restaurants that stay open until the wee hours. So after a great night out with friends, go grab some dumplings. Or maybe Mexican, Thai, Japanese, you name it.
Aside from Lan Kwai Fong, there’s a lot of nightlife happening in Wan Chai too. Head to Lockhart Road, which is often referred to as the city’s red-light district.
Not your cup of tea? Knutsford Terrace in Tsim Sha Tsui could be a better spot to enjoy Hong Kong’s nightlife scene. Here, you’ll find a long stretch of bars, clubs, open-air eateries, and live music clubs.
Last but not least, Hong Kong has several nightlife options that don’t involve loud music and crowded streets.
Among all districts, Causeway Bay makes for the perfect choice if it’s a casual or relaxing night out you’re after. The area is full of rooftop bars and pubs ideal for anyone that’s looking to have a drink and unwind.
Which Is Better – Singapore or Hong Kong?
Is Singapore or Hong Kong better for a vacation? It’s a tough call. But in the category of shopping and nightlife, Hong Kong is a much better choice.
Both also offer some of the best gastronomic landscapes in Asia, so you aren’t missing out if you visit either. But perhaps the most concerning question is, which offers better sightseeing?
Singapore has Gardens by the Bay, Universal Studios on Sentosa Island, and Marina Bay Sands. There’s also Orchard Road, which altogether offers plenty for travelers including families.
In contrast, Hong Kong has Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park, Victoria Peak, and Victoria Harbour.
Between the two, Hong Kong scores just one notch higher than Singapore in this department. Not to mention, it has more activities for both kids and older adults.
Singapore, on the other hand, is more catered toward adults. And while it does offer a number of family-friendly attractions, it’s not as exciting as Hong Kong’s.
It’s also worth noting that tourists in Hong Kong can opt for scenic hikes at Victoria Peak as well. There’s also a tram and playground for kids at Victoria Peak.
Overall, Hong Kong is a more exciting destination to visit, offering a ton of things to do and see. Additionally, the shopping and nightlife opportunities are undeniably better and more varied.
Singapore is the better choice if you’re after easygoing experiences. The Marina Bay Sands, Orchard Road, and its many green spaces offer plenty of options to unwind. The food is also excellent, and with a good number of nightlife options, Singapore is still a great place to visit.
FAQ
Singapore vs. Hong Kong Economy
Hong Kong and Singapore have always been neck-to-neck in economic growth. However, the recent trend reveals that Singapore’s economy is growing at a faster and higher rate than Hong Kong’s.
A good measure to indicate economic growth is GDP per capita. And based on the data, the GDP per capita reveals a big difference between the two. Hong Kong’s GDP per capita is USD 49,800 whereas Singapore’s GDP per capita is USD 72,794.
In other words, Singapore’s economy is more prosperous than Hong Kong’s. And even though both cities have similar GDPs, Singapore’s higher GDP per capita reveals a more booming economy.
Is Hong Kong Richer Than Singapore?
In the past, Hong Kong was a lot richer than Singapore. But in recent trends, Singapore has caught up and even outpaced Hong Kong, according to Bloomberg.
While Hong Kong is one of the richest countries in Asia, Singapore holds the number 1 spot in 2023. Having the highest GDP per capita (72,794), Singapore is richer than Hong Kong.
According to Finews Asia, Singapore’s wealth has been growing at a rate of 5.3%. Whereas Hong Kong grows at an average of 4.3%. In the list of richest countries in Asia, Hong Kong ranks 4th.
Hong Kong vs. Singapore GDP
Hong Kong and Singapore have similar GDPs, although Singapore’s is still higher. Hong Kong’s GDP is USD 369.2 billion while Singapore’s GDP is USD 397 billion.
Is Hong Kong Cheaper or More Expensive Than Singapore?
Hong Kong is cheaper than Singapore. On average, Singapore is about 20% more expensive if you include the cost of living.
Although transport prices are slightly lower in Hong Kong, food is more expensive than in Singapore. For instance, an average meal in Hong Kong costs about 50 HKD (6.40 USD at 7.85 HKD a dollar).
Accommodation prices are similar in both Hong Kong and Singapore. With regards to transportation though, Hong Kong offers more options apart from the standard MRT. You can opt for buses, tramways, minibusses, and ferries.
That said, it’s easier to spend more in Hong Kong than in Singapore. Shopping-wise, and even if sales tax is lower for luxury goods, you also have more opportunities overall.
This can lead to higher costs if you’re not careful. Not to mention, because Hong Kong offers more sightseeing and attractions, tourists can also spend more in Hong Kong.
So, taking into account all these factors, you could spend about 10% more in Hong Kong than in Singapore. For cost-conscious travelers, this is something to keep in mind if you decide to visit Hong Kong.
Humidity in Hong Kong vs. Singapore
Hong Kong and Singapore have similar weather and both are characterized as having tropical climates. But throughout the year, Singapore is more humid than Hong Kong.
In Singapore, it’s more or less summer throughout the entire year, accompanied by two monsoon seasons.
The first monsoon season occurs from November to March, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. Singapore’s second monsoon season happens between June and September. During this time, expect occasional rain showers and thunderstorms.
Hong Kong, in contrast, has four seasons. So unlike Singapore, there are months when the weather is more pleasant and cool.
From June to August, Hong Kong can be uncomfortably hot but it’s not as humid as Singapore. From December to February, the weather in Hong Kong is much cooler. July to October in Hong Kong isn’t that hot either but will have occasional thunderstorms and typhoons.
Altogether, Hong Kong’s weather is more pleasant than in Singapore. Thankfully, Singapore has a lot of air-conditioned rooms and places to keep you cool throughout the year.
Hong Kong vs. Singapore Tourism
Hong Kong sees more tourists than Singapore annually. This is mainly because Hong Kong also offers more tourist attractions than Singapore overall.
You could spend a week in Hong Kong and not feel bored. Whereas in Singapore, four days are generally enough.
That said, it also depends on what you’re looking for most in your vacation. For instance, one of the reasons why Hong Kong is so popular is also due to its shopping and nightlife opportunities. This draws in millions of tourists each year solely for its shopping opportunities.
As for nightlife, it should come as no surprise that Hong Kong is also a popular destination for young crowds.
Hong Kong Disneyland vs. Universal Studios Singapore
Hong Kong Disneyland (HKD) is arguably better if you’re traveling with kids as it’s more kid friendly. Not to mention, there are more rides tailored for younger kids overall. Universal Studios Singapore (USS) favors older kids or adults.
That said, online forums reveal that Hong Kong Disneyland is the superior choice. Several will also agree that Hong Kong Disneyland is nicer and has more attractions.
However, when you look at the rankings online, Universal Studios Singapore ranks 1st among all in Asia. In fact, it is crowned the best in Asia. Hong Kong Disneyland, on the other hand, ranks in 2nd place.
Which is truly better depends mostly on who you’re traveling with. There’s no doubt both Hong Kong Disneyland and Universal Studios Singapore are fantastic theme parks. But because Universal Studios Singapore has more roller coasters, it’s not as suitable for kids. One of their most famous roller coasters, Battlestar Galactica, is one of the best rides in USS.
Now if you prefer better water rides and shows, HKD definitely comes out on top. Disneyland shows often come unmatched in the theme park category.
As for dining options, Universal Studios Singapore offers more variety than Hong Kong Disneyland.
Hong Kong Fried Rice vs. Singapore Fried Rice
Hong Kong Fried Rice and Singapore Fried Rice differ in taste, cooking style, and the ingredients used. Between the two, it’s a matter of preference.
Hong Kong fried rice is sweeter, whereas Singapore fried rice is spicier. In terms of rice texture, Hong Kong fried rice uses Jasmine rice while Singapore fried rice uses long-grain rice.
Those are essential to the overall taste because it affects its harmony with the other ingredients. For instance, Hong Kong fried rice includes char siu and diced vegetables like peas, carrots, and onions. Singapore fried rice also uses similar ingredients but also has diced chicken and shrimp, apart from char siu.
Lastly, the cooking method plays a key role in the overall result of each fried rice. Hong Kong fried rice is cooked over high heat, giving it a smoky flavor and crispier texture. Singapore fried rice, in contrast, uses medium heat to prevent the chili paste and ketchup ingredients from burning.
In Hong Kong, one of their most famous fried rice options is Yangzhou fried rice. In Singapore, one of the most popular is their Nasi Goreng fried rice.
Hong Kong Noodles vs. Singapore Noodles
Hong Kong noodles are quite different from Singapore noodles. Specifically, what separates the two is the texture of the noodles used, the meat, the taste, and even the cooking process.
For Hong Kong noodles, thinner and rounder noodles are used. In comparison, Singapore noodles often lean towards vermicelli-style noodles.
Ingredients-wise, Hong Kong cuisine adds pork, beef, shrimp, and vegetables to its noodles. Whereas Singapore only uses chicken or pork sparingly.
It’s also worth noting that Singapore noodles have a distinct, spicy flavor. Hong Kong noodles, on the other hand, are sweeter and more savory. Mainly due to the addition of oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil
Although both Hong Kong and Singapore noodles are stir-fried, their cooking process is different. Soy sauce and oyster sauce are usually added at the beginning of the cooking process. Whereas for Singapore noodles, curry powder is added towards the end.
Both are flavorful, but it all comes to preference. If you prefer a sweeter umami of flavor, go for Hong Kong noodles. But if you enjoy a spicier and curry-like flavor, you’ll enjoy Singapore noodles more.
Are Hong Kong and Singapore Different Countries?
Hong Kong and Singapore are very different countries. Singapore is an independent state located in Southeast Asia. Hong Kong, in contrast, is a special administrative region that belongs to the People’s Republic of China.
In Singapore, it’s also easier to communicate with the locals since their official language is English. In this regard, both countries use different languages to communicate with one another.
In Hong Kong, Cantonese is the official spoken language. While in Singapore, their native language is simplified Chinese. You might also hear Malay or Tamil since there is a larger proportion of non-Chinese in Singapore.
Additionally, both have different climates and geography. Hong Kong’s landscape is mountainous whereas Singapore’s is flat.
Climate-wise, Singapore is more humid and only has one season. Hong Kong has four seasons, making it very different from Singapore.
There are a lot of differences between Singapore and Hong Kong, from culture and infrastructure down to food.
Hong Kong and Singapore Similarities
Despite their significant differences, Hong Kong and Singapore also share several similarities. First, both Hong Kong and Singapore have a strong Western influence. Mainly because both were colonized under British rule.
Hong Kong and Singapore are also significant business hubs in Asia and have prosperous economies. Although their cultures differ, both countries are home to diverse populations too. In that regard, Hong Kong and Singapore are considered multicultural societies.
Finally, both countries have a high standard of living, from their healthcare to education systems.
Is Hong Kong in Singapore?
No, Hong Kong is not in Singapore. Although both are a part of Asia, this does not mean Hong Kong is in Singapore or vice versa.
Using Google Maps as a reference, there is a considerable distance between the two. Specifically, Hong Kong is located in southeastern China. Whereas Singapore is situated in the southern part of the Malay peninsula.
Where Are Singapore and Hong Kong?
Hong Kong is located on the southern coast of China, and about 37 miles (60 km) east of Macau. Singapore is in Southeast Asia and is geographically situated between Indonesia and Malaysia.
Is Hong Kong Near Singapore?
Hong Kong is about 1,500 miles (2,414 km) away from Singapore, making both relatively close to each other. By air travel standards, Hong Kong is near Singapore and you can travel from one country to the other in less than a day.
How Far Is Singapore From Hong Kong?
Singapore is approximately 1,606 miles (2,585 km) from Hong Kong. From Hong Kong to Singapore, the average travel time takes about four hours.
Singapore vs. Hong Kong Size
Singapore, also referred to as a dwarf state, is smaller than Hong Kong in size. Singapore’s total land area is approximately 278 sq. miles (719 sq. km). Hong Kong is slightly bigger than Singapore, with a total land area of 427 sq. miles (1,106 sq. km).
But even though Hong Kong is larger than Singapore, both are considered small countries. And despite Singapore being smaller, it’s more densely populated than Hong Kong. Singapore has a total population of 5.4 million but is smaller than Hong Kong, which has a population of 7.4 million.
How Big Is Hong Kong Compared to Singapore?
Hong Kong is 1.5x bigger compared to Singapore.
Singapore Area vs. Hong Kong
With a total area of 278 sq. miles (719 sq. km), Singapore is approximately 54% smaller in area than Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Mahjong vs. Singapore Mahjong
Mahjong is played differently in both Hong Kong and Singapore. One of the major differences between Singapore and Hong Kong is that Singapore Mahjong is more suitable for beginner players.
For both Hong Kong and Singapore Mahjong, each game starts with 144 tiles. This includes three suits of circles, bamboo, and characters.
However, the rules for Singapore Mahjong are different than the rules in Hong Kong Mahjong. For instance, Hong Kong Mahjong requires four players and every player must start with 13 tiles. Singapore Mahjong varies slightly, as it only requires three players. In addition, every player starts with 16 tiles instead of 13 tiles.
These variations are the two biggest differences between Hong Kong Mahjong and Singapore Mahjong. Other differences include the points or scoring system. Because the scoring system in Singapore Mahjong is easier to understand, this is why it’s better suited for beginners.
Hong Kong vs. Singapore Population
Hong Kong has a larger population than Singapore, specifically about 2 million more.
Hong Kong to Singapore Time
Hong Kong and Singapore have no time difference. Both are set at UTC +8. So if it’s March 9, 2023, at 2:30 pm in Singapore, the same time is reflected in Hong Kong as well.
Distance Between Hong Kong and Singapore by Air
The distance between Hong Kong and Singapore by air is approximately 1,609.6 miles or 2,590.4 kilometers. An average flight from one country to the other takes about four hours. But according to Google Maps, the approximate travel time is 3 hours and 57 minutes.
Singapore to Hong Kong by Boat
From the Singapore port to the Hong Kong port, the distance is 1,862 nautical miles (3,448.4 kilometers). However, traveling from Singapore to Hong Kong via ferry is not possible. There is no private ferry service that offers the Singapore–Hong Kong route.
The best way to travel from Singapore to Hong Kong by boat is to do a cruise. There are several 12-night or 13-night cruises that include Singapore and Hong Kong as part of the itinerary. Often, this might also include other countries like Tokyo, Bangkok, Taipei, etc.
Try to book cruises with cruise itineraries that have either Hong Kong as the last port.
Singapore to Hong Kong by Train
Although it’s possible to travel from Singapore to Hong Kong by train, it’s a very long journey. Not to mention, you’ll have to take several buses before being able to board a train to Hong Kong.
First, you’ll have to travel from Singapore to Sheung Wan, which takes roughly 15 hours. From there, it’s another 6 hours and 50 minutes to Nanning Langdong. Once there, you’ll have to travel to Hai Phong, which takes 21 hours and 33 minutes to reach.
From Hai Phong, you’ll still have to make two additional trips, which will take you another day. Overall, it should take you roughly 4 days if you travel by train, bus, or any form of land transport.
Hong Kong to Singapore Distance by Train
The distance from Hong Kong to Singapore by train is 2,588.6 miles (4,166 km). Take note that this is assuming a straight line distance from Hong Kong to Singapore.
If you drive, the distance is much farther and harder to navigate through.
Hong Kong MTR vs. Singapore MRT
Hong Kong’s MTR railway system is acknowledged as the best in the world. Compared to Singapore’s MRT railway system, Hong Kong’s MTR is steps ahead in terms of design, efficiency, and punctuality rate.
One of the biggest differences between Hong Kong MTR and Singapore MRT is its maintenance rate. Put simply, Hong Kong’s MTR railway system rarely breaks down in comparison to Singapore’s.
Hong Kong’s MTR experienced a delay of five minutes for every 279,617 miles (450,000 km) traveled in 2014. In 2015, it experienced a delay every 223,693.6 miles (360,000 km). And in 2016, it was at 323,113 miles (520,000 km). In contrast, Singapore’s MRT system saw an average breakdown every 82,642.4 miles (133,000 km) traveled.
Another difference is price. Hong Kong’s railway prices are cheaper than Singapore’s. There’s also wait time, which is a lot shorter in Hong Kong than it is in Singapore. On average, Hong Kong’s MTR runs almost every minute at major stops like Central, Tsim Sha Tsui, Causeway Bay, and Wan Chai.
In fact, Hong Kong’s MTR system is also found in several countries. Some of these include Australia, Sweden, and UK.
