Hong Kong is famous for many things, and when it comes to jaw-dropping skylines, we're always up there in the ranks. Well, now it's official: our city's famous shimmering skyline has been crowned the seventh most iconic in the world, according to a recent study done by the team at Slingo.
Their study ranked cities based on their overall skyline appeal by analysing social media posts, the number of skyscrapers, and how closely they match the 'golden ratio', a mathematical formula (approximately 1.618) celebrated as "the secret to aesthetic harmony, found in art, design and even nature". And the results? Hong Kong managed to score a solid 7.27 out of 10 thanks to its impressive collection of towering structures and undeniable appeal to photographers from all around the world.
So what makes us stand out? Let's start with the numbers pulled by Slingo. Hong Kong is home to a staggering 558 buildings taller than 150 metres, 97 of which soar over 200 metres. Landmarks like the International Commerce Centre (ICC), which stands as the tallest building in Hong Kong, and the iconic Bank of China Tower are just a couple of the many vertical estates in this concrete jungle.
Hong Kong's skyline also offers a mesmerising blend of fascinating architecture, lush green mountains, and of course, the Victoria Harbour. Whether you're gazing out from the Avenue of Stars or taking in the bird's eye view from The Peak, it's a scene that's hard to forget – and there are 43,600 Instagram posts to prove it.
Other cities that made it onto the list include New York City, Dubai, and Chicago nabbed the top three spots, respectively, while Asian cities Mumbai, Shanghai, Bangkok, and Singapore also made the list.
The world's most iconic skylines according to Slingo:
1. New York City (9.68 points out of 10)
2. Dubai (9.59 points out of 10)
3. Chicago (9.10 points out of 10)
4. Mumbai (7.84 points out of 10)
5. Shanghai (7.67 points out of 10)
6. Houston (7.59 points out of 10)
7. Hong Kong (7.27 points out of 10)
8. Bangkok (7.18 points out of 10)
9. Singapore (6.86 points out of 10)
10. Melbourne (6.82 points out of 10)
If you’ve never experienced Hong Kong’s skyline in person, it’s time to add it to your travel plans. And if you're an OG Hong Kong resident, perhaps it's time to look up from your phones and rest your eyes on the beauty our skyline (and the rest of the city) has to offer. For the full scoop, check out Slingo's detailed study here.
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