Hong Kong's new Sky100 observation deck: good for a long HKG transit connection

Business travellers with a few hours in Hong Kong between flights have a new option for something to do when getting out of HKG airport.

Atop the International Commerce Centre in West Kowloon -- also home to the new Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong hotel -- sits the Sky100 observation deck, Hong Kong's newest way to part with some cash in exchange for a view of the city.

The tower is just 21 minutes away from the airport on the MTR's Airport Express train, right by the Kowloon Airport Express station.

Sky100 opened on Sunday 17 April, and its name reflects its position on the 100th floor of the ICC building. It's apparently the only 360-degree observation deck in Hong Kong, and also contains exhibits on Hong Kong history and culture.

It costs HK$150 (around A$18) to get in on the door, with a HK$25 discount for booking online. It's probably best to pick up a ticket on the door, though, because if Hong Kong is foggy then you won't see an awful lot from the observation deck.

There's also an option to drop a cool HK$500 -- A$61 -- on a VIP Fast Pass, which means no queueing and a visit escorted by one of the Sky100 "ambassador" staff members. 

Of course, for that kind of money you could relax with several drinks at The Lounge & Bar in the Ritz-Carlton, which is actually higher than Sky100 on the 102nd floor and has suitably panoramic views.

Check out our other suggestions for interesting things to do during a stopover in Hong Kong -- assuming that you're not just content to spend some time in Cathay Pacific's newly reopened The Wing lounge at the airport, of course.

John Walton

Aviation journalist and travel columnist John took his first long-haul flight when he was eight weeks old and hasn't looked back since. Well, except when facing rearwards in business class.