Lace up your shoes because you are going to see the best of Hong Kong on foot.
Hong Kong is one of the best cities to live in and visit, in my opinion. My perspective might be biased because I lived there for 10 years and in 5 different Hong Kong neighbourhoods.
During that time, I made lifelong friends and met my now-husband. The city’s unique charm, from its stunning skyline and blend of Eastern and Western cultures to its delicious local cuisines and beautiful trails, has captivated me in a way that never gets old.
If you are planning your trip as we speak, make sure to check out my blog on everything you need to know before visiting Hong Kong, I included the latest information on transportation, cost, accommodation, restaurants, weather and more!
In this blog, I’ll take you on a tour of the best neighbourhoods you need to visit. The best way to experience them is on foot, so get your comfy shoes ready, and let’s start exploring!
Central: The Heart of Hong Kong
1. Statue Square and the Legislative Council Building
Begin your journey at Statue Square, a historic public square surrounded by some of Hong Kong’s most iconic colonial-era buildings. Take a moment to admire the Legislative Council Building, a beautiful neoclassical structure that once housed the Supreme Court. Its elegant columns and domed roof stand in stark contrast to the modern skyscrapers that dominate the skyline.
2. St. John’s Cathedral
A short walk from Statue Square brings you to St. John’s Cathedral, the oldest surviving Western ecclesiastical building in Hong Kong. This Anglican cathedral, built in the Gothic Revival style, offers a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. The surrounding gardens are perfect for a quiet stroll.
3. The Bank of China Tower and HSBC Building
Continuing your walk, you’ll encounter two of Central’s most famous skyscrapers: the Bank of China Tower and the HSBC Building. Designed by renowned architects I.M. Pei and Norman Foster, respectively, these buildings are not only architectural marvels but also symbols of Hong Kong’s status as a global financial hub. The HSBC Building’s open atrium and escalators are particularly impressive.
4. Central Harbourfront
Stroll along the Central Promenade, a scenic walkway that stretches along the waterfront from all the way to the Western District on one side and to Wanchai on the other side. This promenade is perfect for leisurely walks, jogging, or simply enjoying the views.
You can visit the Hong Kong Observation Wheel for a bird’s-eye view of the city. The 60-meter-tall Ferris wheel offers spectacular vistas of the harbour and skyline.
Adjacent to the promenade is Tamar Park, a green space offering open lawns, art installations, and unobstructed views of Victoria Harbour. It’s a great spot for relaxation and picnicking.
End your harbourfront exploration at the IFC Mall, a luxury shopping center with a variety of dining options. Don’t miss the rooftop garden, which offers panoramic views and a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
5. Lan Kwai Fong
As you move further into Central, you’ll find Lan Kwai Fong, Hong Kong’s premier nightlife district. By day, this area is relatively quiet, but by night, it transforms into a lively hotspot filled with bars, restaurants, and clubs. It’s the perfect place to experience Hong Kong’s vibrant nightlife.
If you want to experience the best of LKF, you need to join this walking tour pub crawl that I recommend all my visitors to join because it is that once in a life time experience you need to have in Hong Kong.
Sheung Wan: A Journey Through Time
Just a short walk west of Central lies Sheung Wan, an area steeped in history and culture. There’s so much you can do in Sheung Wan, make sure you leave at least a day to walk around this area.
1. Man Mo Temple
Begin your Sheung Wan exploration at the Man Mo Temple, one of Hong Kong’s oldest and most revered temples. Dedicated to the gods of literature (Man) and war (Mo), this temple offers a serene and mystical atmosphere. The air is thick with the scent of burning incense coils, and the temple’s intricate wood carvings and statues are truly captivating.
2. Hollywood Road and Antique Street
A few steps from Man Mo Temple is Hollywood Road, famous for its antique shops and art galleries. This street is a treasure trove for collectors and art enthusiasts, with stores selling everything from ancient Chinese ceramics to contemporary artworks. Don’t miss the Cat Street Market, where you can find an array of curios, vintage items, and souvenirs.
3. Graham Street Market
For a taste of local life, head to Graham Street Market, one of Hong Kong’s oldest street markets. Here, you’ll find vendors selling fresh produce, meats, seafood, and an array of dried goods. The market’s lively atmosphere and colorful displays provide a glimpse into daily life in Hong Kong. I recommend joining a street food tour from Central to Sheung Wan to taste some of the most delicious street foods of Asia!
4. Po Hing Fong
Above Hollywood Road, you’ll find this trendy street called Po Hing Fong. Po Hing Fong is a charming enclave known for its hip cafes, boutique shops, and artistic vibe. This quaint area, often referred to as “PoHo,” is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Po Hing Fong is a haven for coffee lovers and foodies. Visit Soul Fresh for artisanal teas and coffees. and delicious cakes including the pandan chiffon cake or Espresso Remedy for a perfectly brewed coffee. Don’t miss Goose’ Chocolate for the most delicious, thoughtful chocolate based dessert and hot chocolate
Explore the unique boutiques in the area, such as Emma Wallace for innovative, modern designs and Nelles Gemmes for crystal collectors can buy all kinds of healing stones and crystals like quartz, amethyst, citrine, pyrite, amazonite, and more, in various shapes and sizes.
Po Hing Fong is also home to several art galleries and creative spaces. Check out Odd One Out for contemporary art prints and stationery, or visit Sin Sin Fine Art for exhibitions showcasing local and international artists.
5. Western Market
End your Sheung Wan tour at the Western Market, a beautifully preserved Edwardian-style building. This historic market, built in 1906, now houses shops selling fabrics, handicrafts, and souvenirs. The building’s red brick facade and ornate interiors make it a striking landmark.
Connecting the Old and the New
The charm of Central and Sheung Wan lies in their ability to seamlessly blend the old with the new. As you walk through these neighborhoods, you’ll see how modern skyscrapers stand side by side with historic temples, and how traditional markets coexist with trendy boutiques. This juxtaposition is a testament to Hong Kong’s dynamic and ever-evolving character.
Wan Chai: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
1. Blue House Cluster
Start in Wan Chai at the Blue House Cluster, a set of historic buildings showcasing Hong Kong’s architectural heritage. The Blue House, Yellow House, and Orange House have been preserved and repurposed into cultural centers and museums.
- Blue House:
Built in the 1920s, the Blue House is a four-story tenement building. Its distinct blue color comes from the leftover paint from a nearby hospital.
The building is a rare example of pre-war balcony-type tenement architecture in Hong Kong. It was originally a hospital and later converted into a martial arts school run by the famous master Wong Fei-hung.
The Blue House has been revitalized to preserve its historical and cultural significance.
- Yellow House:
Situated next to the Blue House, the Yellow House was constructed in the 1920s. It has undergone various transformations over the years, serving different purposes, including residential and commercial uses. Its bright yellow exterior adds to the visual appeal of the cluster.
- Orange House:
The Orange House, built in the 1950s, completes the trio. Like the other houses, it has seen various uses and has been part of the community’s daily life for decades. Its renovation was part of the broader conservation effort to maintain the heritage of the area.
2. Wan Chai Heritage Trail
Follow the Wan Chai Heritage Trail, which takes you through streets filled with historic buildings, temples, and old tenement houses. The trail provides insight into Wan Chai’s transformation over the years. It takes about two hours to walk all the 15 sites, including the Blue House Cluster mentioned above, Wan Chai Market, Nam Koo Terrace, The Pawn, Star Street Precinct, Old Wan Chai Post Office, Open Markets and more.
3. Hong Kong Arts Centre
Visit the Hong Kong Arts Centre, a cultural hub hosting exhibitions, performances, and film screenings. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local art scene.
- Focus on Contemporary Arts: Established in 1977, the HKAC is a champion of contemporary arts in Hong Kong. They host exhibitions, performances, film screenings, and educational programs that showcase both local and international talent.
- Multi-Venue Experience: The HKAC isn’t just a museum; it’s a multi-arts center. There are galleries with rotating exhibitions, a theatre that stages plays and productions, a 3D cinema, and even studios and classrooms.
4. Star Street Precinct
Explore the Star Street Precinct, a trendy area filled with chic cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and some people-watching.
The precinct gets its name from the nearby Star Street, where Hong Kong Electric Company set up the city’s first power plant in the 19th century. Over the years, the area has transformed from a residential neighborhood with historical roots into a chic and fashionable district.
5. Lee Tung Avenue
Lee Tung Avenue in Wan Chai is a must-visit destination in Hong Kong. This charming, tree-lined street is famous for its blend of traditional and modern elements. Strolling down Lee Tung Avenue, you’ll find trendy boutiques, stylish cafes, and fusion restaurants. The atmosphere is perfect for leisurely walks, offering a unique experience that combines historical charm with contemporary flair.
Don’t miss the beautifully restored buildings and the festive decorations that often adorn the avenue, making it a picturesque spot for photos.
6. Golden Bauhinia Square
Golden Bauhinia Square is an open area in Wan Chai, Hong Kong, named after the giant statue of a golden Bauhinia blakeana flower sculpture at its center. You can see the emblematic Golden Bauhinia statue and enjoy the views of Victoria Harbour.
The square holds historical significance as it’s situated outside the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, where the ceremonies for the handover of Hong Kong and the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region were held in July 1997.
7. Wan Chai Market
One of Hong Kong’s best wet markets – is usually frequented by gourmands to shop for the freshest produce – from seafood, meat, and vegetables. For bargain clothing, Spring Garden Lane is your best stop for cheap garments, clothes, and even underwear. Buying toys for the kids? Tai Yuen Street is filled with rows of stores selling toys and party favours.
8. Wan Chai Computer Centre
If you’re after digital retail therapy, Wan Chai Computer Centre has every kind of tech you can imagine – from phones, drones, computers, webcams, and more. And though Wan Chai does not offer many high-end brands like its neighbouring Causeway Bay, you’ll find many boutique shops selling the coolest fashion in Starstreet Precinct’s quaint neighbourhood. Browse curated clothing, lifestyle products, and homewares at Kapok retail shop or drop by at Hong Kong-based brand Lane Eight for eco-friendly footwear.
9. Stroll around HarbourChill
Not digital retail therapy? Then head over to Harbour Chill, a themed harbourfront space located next to the Wan Chai Ferry Pier, and rent a pedal boat at the Water Sports and Recreation Precinct (Phase 2) to enjoy paddling within Victoria Harbour. After the excursion, treat yourself to some pampering and visit Plateau Spa at the Grand Hyatt to try the signature hot stone Plateau Massage or the lymphatic drainage Hong Kong Massage.
Conclusion
Hong Kong’s dynamic character shines through its neighborhoods, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. From the bustling streets of Central and Sheung Wan to the trendy spots in Wan Chai, every corner of this city holds a story waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re marveling at the stunning skyline, exploring historic temples, indulging in local delicacies, or simply strolling through its vibrant markets, Hong Kong never fails to captivate.
So, lace up your comfy shoes and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of experiences this remarkable city has to offer. Your adventure in Hong Kong awaits!
