Occurring on the day of the second new moon after Winter Solstice Festival (which usually falls around the end of January and early February), Chinese New Year is a time to bid adieu to the old and welcome new beginnings, just like the new year at the beginning of January in other cultures. Here’s everything you need to know about Hong Kong’s Chinese New Year celebrations.

What is Chinese New Year?

Chinese New Year marks the beginning of a new year in the lunar calendar. In 2024, Chinese New Year lands on February 10. Being the biggest and most renowned holiday in Asian cultures, celebrations actually span 15 days, with symbolic activities on each day.

Chinese cultures follow the lunar calendar, which tracks the moon’s movement, while Western cultures follow the Gregorian calendar, a solar calendar. The number of days in a lunar year is a bit shorter, generally from 353 to 355 days, while the solar calendar accounts for 365 days, the revolution of the Earth around the sun. With the lunar calendar, every three years, there is a leap month to keep everything in sync.

In the Chinese zodiac, each year is represented by an animal. So, how do you know what year of what animal it is? The calendar has a 60-year cycle, which is split into five smaller 12-year periods. Each year in the smaller 12-year cycle represents one of the 12 animals, and once the 12-year period has ended, a new cycle begins. The year 2024 marks the Year of the Dragon, the only mythical creature and the most powerful sign in the Chinese zodiac. The Year of the Dragon is considered particularly special, symbolizing health, strength, and good fortune.

What are the origins of CNY?

Chinese New Year is the most important Chinese holiday that was first noted in the Shang Dynasty (1600–1046 BC). It began as a celebration to welcome spring and was later on recognized as a public holiday in 1914. But, the height of the Cultural Revolution in the 1960s put a halt to the festivities. The public holiday was later reinstated and remains one of the most significant festival periods.

Historically speaking, Chinese workers who ventured out from their rural communities for work would travel back home, no matter how far, to reflect on the time that has passed and ring in a new year filled with positivity and fortune together with family.  The cultural significance of Chinese New Year is deeply rooted in reuniting families and honouring gods and ancestors.

How to celebrate during the 15 days of CNY?

Compared to Western culture, Chinese New Year celebration spans for 15 days. In 2024, the festivities for Lunar New Year will occur from February 10 to 24.

In the days leading up to the new year, people clean their homes to sweep out the end of the year’s accrued dust, which represents bad luck. Shopping for clothes also take place, where even the most frugal indulge in buying new clothing for the brand new year. People visit Lunar New Year fairs around the city to purchase fresh flowers, tangerine plants, and snacks like ginger candy, peanut candy, baked seeds, and candied strawberries.

On Lunar New Year’s Eve, families reunite to dine over dinner and hang up spring couplets outside their doors to ward off evil and bring in prosperity.

On New Year’s Day, the first of the 15 days of festivity, family members wake up and wish each other the traditional greeting, gong hey fat choi (恭喜發財), meaning “Best wishes for a prosperous new year!”

During the first day of Chinese New Year, it is a custom to visit and pay respect to the eldest member of the family. If you have a guest, you should welcome them with eight sweet treats or fruits on a round platter. This symbolizes togetherness and luck. As a courtesy, guests give oranges or tangerines to their hosts as they bring prosperity and fortune to their household. This visitation with family and friends occurs throughout the 15 days, during which you wish each other luck for the upcoming year.

Red envelopes that contain money are also given at that time. Called hong bao in Mandarin (紅包) or lai see in Cantonese (利是 or 利事), they will be given while bestowing spoken blessings upon each other. Firecrackers are also set off (the louder, the better) and sacrificial offerings made to ancestors.

On the second day, people offer sacrifices to the God of Wealth, Caishen (財神), burning a picture of the deity while wishing for a prosperous year. Many will also pray for their ancestors and other gods. The second day of the new year is also referred to as the birthday of a dog. So, if you love animals, you should feed pets and stray animals too.

In Hong Kong, it is also customary to have a fireworks display over Victoria Harbour on the second day of the Lunar New Year. This year, we can look forward to a grand return of the fireworks show after a hiatus of five years.

A dish that is associated with the second New Year’s Day is wontons; if you love them, you can eat as much as you can during this day! Some say it will bring you good fortune because it resembles the shape of a gold ingot.

During the third and fourth days, families usually visit their deceased loved ones. But, house-visiting and going outdoors for too long are not advisable on these days because some believe that evil spirits roam around.

On the fifth day, people pay respect to the God of Wealth again. He may visit the home to bring his blessings, so people make sure to be there to welcome him with incense and food offerings.

On the sixth day, people go to the temples to worship their chosen deities and visit friends and relatives.

The seventh day of the new year is the day of Renri (人日), which can be considered the birthday of all mankind, the day human beings were created. To honour the deity who created humans, the mother goddess Nüwa (女媧), you should eat only raw fish or yusheng (鱼生), a salad with raw or soy fish and shredded vegetables.

On the eighth day, people have another family gathering and give thanks to the Jade Emperor. The emperor’s birthday falls on the ninth day of the new year, when there is even more festivity. From the 10th to 12th days, the celebration is continued with friends and family.

On the 13th day, people go on a diet to flush out the copious amounts of food from previous days of feasting. If you ate all the wontons on the first day, this is the perfect time to start eating healthier in preparation for the rest of the year.

On the 14th day, people start planning the Lantern Festival to be celebrated the next day.

Drawing a close to the festivities, on the 15th day, lanterns are hung throughout the city to light the path for gods and ancestors to return home to the afterlife. The bright paper lanterns, usually red, also symbolize a bright future ahead. People gather on the streets to watch lion dance parades and play with colourful lanterns hung on sticks. Sometimes, riddles will be written on slips attached to the lanterns.

As with every festival, involvement of food is paramount. Round, glutinous sweet rice dumplings, a.k.a. tang yuan (湯圓), are eaten as they symbolize wholeness and completeness, concluding the lunar new year festivities.

What to eat during CNY?

During Chinese New Year, certain foods symbolize good fortune and prosperity, based on the pronunciation of their names as well as appearance.

If you want longevity, you should eat noodles. Fish is symbolic of bringing a surplus of luck. Dumplings are also a staple since their shape resembles an ingot of precious metal, representing wealth; the more eaten, the more wealth is accrued. Glutinous rice cakes called nian gao (年糕), literally meaning year cake are devoured in both sweet and savoury forms to ensure a higher position in life. Other food that will bring you luck are spring rolls, fish, and rice balls.

Poon choi (盆菜) is another dish eaten specifically in Hong Kong during Chinese New Year, which is layers of seafood, meat, and vegetables cooked in and eaten from a basin. The dish originated from a story about a king going into a village to visit the townspeople; the poor village folk gathered all the best food in their homes and presented it to their king in a large basin.

While visiting the homes of relatives and friends, be sure to spot a platter full of dates, nuts, dried longans and lotus seeds served. Tangerine tree plants are also a common sighting as they represent overall abundance and fullness.

What to gift during CNY?

As for the gifts, the lucky red envelope is the most popular. This is a monetary gift, usually given to younger people and relatives. However, packets containing small amounts are also given out to people seen on a regular basis, such as security guards in your building or shopkeepers. As far as non-monetary gifts, since round fruits are lucky, they are generally given as gifts. Drinks and tea are standard, also.

CNY superstitions

An important Chinese festivity doesn’t come without superstitions and there are certain things to avoid during Chinese New Year. For example, it’s advised not to take the trash out in the first two days because it’s believed to sweep away all the good luck left from the litter of the firecrackers and fallen red decorations. The number four should be avoided as it sounds like the word death in Chinese. Sharp kitchenware like knives should be used as little as possible since they symbolize the cutting off of wealth. Hair shouldn’t be washed because it symbolizes washing away one’s fortune. Dishes shouldn’t be broken as it’s considered bad luck. You should decorate your house abundantly with red because it scares demons away.

Lunar New Year in other Asian cultures

Chinese New Year is observed in other Asian countries that also follow the lunar calendar. During Tết in Vietnam, people perform ancestral rituals and pay off as much debt as possible to start on a clean slate. For Seollal in South Korea, people celebrates for up to three days by paying respect to ancestors. During Khmer Lunar New Year or Choul Chnam Thmey (meaning “Enter the New Year”) in Cambodia, which is celebrated in April, people exchange gifts, visit temples, and play traditional games over three days. Despite the differences in traditions throughout the world, the one common thread among all these countries is reuniting and enjoying food with loved ones.

FAQ about Lunar New Year

Other traditional Chinese festivals: Lunar New Year — Lunar New Year Fair — Birthday of Che Kung — Chinese Lantern Festival — Kwun Yum Treasury Opening Festival — Ching Ming Festival — Tin Hau Festival — Cheung Chau Bun Festival — Buddha’s Birthday — Birthday of Tam Kung — Dragon Boat Festival — Birthday of Kwan Tai — Qixi Festival — Hung Shing Festival — Hungry Ghost Festival — Mid-Autumn Festival — Monkey King Festival — Birthday of Confucius — Chung Yeung Festival — Winter Solstice Festival.

Header image credits: The HK HUB

Bumble

Bumble empowers women to make the first move. This women-dominated platform promotes gender equality and safety, requiring female members to initiate conversation within 24 hours of a match, after which the connection expires. This approach is a safeguard against harassment and unwanted attention. Bumble isn’t just for dating; it offers BFF and Work modes for platonic and professional networking. It’s ideal for those who prefer quality connections, whether for dating or networking. The site tends to attract users looking for serious relationships rather than casual hookups.

Best for: Meaningful relationships initiated by women
Pros: Empowers women to initiate contact, reduces unwanted messages, versatile, user-friendly
Cons: 24-hour time limit to start a conversation may be restrictive
Cost: Free; premium upgrades starting at HK$118/month
Available on the App Store and Google Play

Coffee Meets Bagel

Coffee Meets Bagel (CMB) is a dating app tailored for those seeking meaningful connections. With its “women-first” approach, female users choose from men who have already expressed interest. This unique model ensures deeper engagement and reduces unwanted matches. However, the app’s chat rooms are not permanent; conversations and matches disappear after seven days, encouraging users to take swift action in establishing a connection. CMB is ideal for people who prefer quality over quantity in their dating journey, focusing on shared interests and preferences to create potential matches.

Best for: “Women-first” approach
Pros: Prioritizes meaningful connections, women-centric approach, focuses on shared interests
Cons: Limited time frame for conversations, might have fewer options due to curated matches
Cost: Free; premium membership starting at HK$273/month
Available on the App Store and Google Play

Feeld

Feeld is a dating app for the adventurous and open-minded, offering a platform for those interested in exploring polyamory, kinks, threesomes, and other alternative sexual experiences. With options for over 20 genders and sexual identities, it’s a welcoming space for singles and couples looking to dive into their fantasies without judgment. Feeld stands out for its commitment to ethical non-monogamy, casual encounters, and more, providing a safe and inclusive environment for exploration. It’s ideal for anyone looking to expand their sexual horizons in a respectful, open community.

Best for: Open-minded singles and couples seeking to explore non-traditional relationship dynamics
Pros: Inclusive of various sexualities and gender identities, safe space for exploring kinks and fantasies
Cons: May not appeal to those looking for traditional, monogamous relationships
Cost: Free; Majestic Membership starting at HK$118/month
Available on App Store and Google Play

Goodnight

Goodnight stands out with its unique voice chat feature. Rather than the usual text-based communication, Goodnight encourages real-time phone conversations. After matching, users can call each other and chat for seven minutes, focusing on building an emotional connection before seeing each other’s photos. The site also includes a forum feature for discussing interesting topics with other users. Designed primarily for college students and young adults, Goodnight offers a refreshing approach to online dating, where conversations happen from 10 pm to 4 am – perfect for those late-night chats.

Best for: College students and young adults looking for emotional connections
Pros: Unique voice chat feature, forum for discussion, encourages deeper connections before seeing photos
Cons: Limited chat hours (10 pm to 4 am), may not appeal to those preferring traditional text messaging
Cost: Free; premium membership starting from HK$188/month
Available on App Store and Google Play

Grindr

Grindr, established in 2009 in Los Angeles, is a groundbreaking dating app tailored for gay, bi, trans, and queer people. Renowned as the world’s most popular free LGBTQIA+ dating app, it’s the go-to platform for queer men to connect for hookups, friendships, or even more. Setting up a profile is straightforward: upload your best photo, answer some questions, and select a ‘tribe’ that best describes your type. Grindr lives up to its reputation of fostering connections within the queer community, making it ideal for those seeking everything from casual meetups to deeper relationships.

Best for: Gay, bi, trans, and queer men and LGBTQIA+ community
Pros: Large user base, straightforward to use, caters specifically to queer men
Cons: Primarily focused on hookups, may not be ideal for those seeking long-term relationships
Cost: Free; Grindr Xtra Lite starting at HK$88/month
Available on App Store and Google Play

Happn

Happn is a unique dating app that connects you with people you’ve crossed paths with in real life. It’s like playing out your own ‘missed connections’ story, but with a digital twist. As you go about your day, Happn uses location-based tracking to show you profiles of other members you’ve passed by. If both parties like each other’s profiles, it’s a match! The site is perfect for those who want to connect with that intriguing stranger they spotted on the street or in a café.

Best for: Connecting with someone you’ve encountered in your daily life
Pros: Innovative way to meet people, reduces risk of being catfished, real-time encounters
Cons: Location-based, might not be ideal for those valuing privacy
Cost: Free; monthly subscription starting from HK$118/month
Available on App Store and Google Play

Her

A premier dating app tailored for the queer women community. It’s an inclusive space welcoming lesbian, bi, queer, non-binary, trans, and gender non-conforming individuals. The app operates on mutual interests – simply like someone’s picture, and if they reciprocate, a conversation can start. More than just a dating platform, Her also keeps you informed with LGBTQIA+ news and articles, making it a holistic space for both connections and community awareness.

Best for: LGBTQIA+ community
Pros: Inclusive and safe space, easy to use, good for exploring identities
Cons: Limited to a specific demographic, conversation dependent on mutual likes
Cost: Free; Her Premium starting from HK$118/month
Available on App Store and Google Play

Heymandi

Heymandi (HMD) is a text-based dating app, well-known among the local dating community for its emphasis on anonymity and one-on-one chat rooms. Developed locally, it allows users to start conversations based on shared interests without the need for profile pictures. Each user chats with only one person at a time, creating a focused and intimate chatting experience. However, the lack of pictures and personal information can lead to mismatches in expectations, and the site’s reliance on Cantonese slang might limit its appeal to non-Cantonese speakers. Other than that, Heymandi is a popular choice for those seeking quick, straightforward connections.

Best for: Knowing the person via text first
Pros: Anonymity, focused one-on-one chats, popular in Hong Kong, quick setup
Cons: Potential mismatches, limited to Cantonese speakers, no profile pictures
Cost: Free; Hey Silver starting from HK$98/month
Available on App Store and Google Play

Omi

Omi is a rising star in the Asian dating app scene. Developed in Singapore, it targets a more mature user base, typically over 25 years old, with stable jobs and lifestyles. Its main selling point is its rigorous user verification process, weeding out fake profiles and scammers to maintain a high-quality user community. The app is user-friendly with a swipe mechanism for matching features like MBTI tests and zodiac compatibility. Omi also includes mini-quizzes to deepen connections between matches, adding a twist to the online dating experience.

Best for: Mature individuals over 25 seeking quality matches
Pros: Strict user verification, innovative features like MBTI and zodiac compatibility, user-friendly interface
Cons: Limited functionality in the free plan, user base in Hong Kong still growing
Cost: Free; Omi Premium starting from HK$158/month
Available on App Store and Google Play

OKCupid

OKCupid, renowned as the OG of online dating, stands out for its comprehensive approach to finding genuine connections. With an impressive track record of pairing millions of couples annually, it’s no wonder the app remains a popular choice. OKCupid’s inclusivity is notable, offering 22 gender options and 13 sexual orientations. The site’s detailed questionnaire increases the likelihood of finding a compatible match. While it’s excellent for those seeking serious relationships, it also accommodates those looking for casual dates or even friendships.

Best for: Serious relationships, but also open to those looking for casual connections or friendships
Pros: Inclusive with numerous gender and orientation options, detailed questions for better matches
Cons: Time-consuming questionnaire, may not be ideal for those looking for quick matches
Cost: Free; OkCupid Premium starting from HK$158/month
Available on App Store and Google Play

Paktor

Paktor, meaning ‘date’ in Cantonese, focuses on shared interests over appearances. It offers a distinctive photo rating system, allowing you to rate others’ photos while they can see your ‘like’ and decide whether to connect for a chat. When signing up, you’ll answer questions about various aspects of your life, which Paktor uses to find compatible matches. Interestingly, photos are not initially displayed; you see only basic details like gender and occupation, encouraging connections based on more than just physical attraction. This approach aims to foster deeper, more meaningful connections.

Best for: Relationships based on shared interests rather than physical appearance
Pros: Encourages deeper connections, unique photo rating system, focuses on shared interests
Cons: No initial photo display may not appeal to everyone
Cost: Free; Paktor Gold starting from HK$199/month
Available on App Store and Google Play

Tinder

Known globally and widely used in Hong Kong, Tinder revolutionized dating with its simple yet addictive swiping mechanism. Swipe right if you’re interested, left if you’re not, and if both parties swipe right, it’s a match! The app has a broad demographic, primarily attracting those looking for more casual connections. While it’s possible to find long-term relationships, Tinder is more renowned for quick flings and spontaneous meetups. The ‘Superlike’ feature notifies someone of your heightened interest, potentially increasing your chances of a match. However, be prepared for fast-paced interactions and remember that not everyone may be seeking serious commitment.

Best for: Casual dating, flings, and quick meetups
Pros: Easy-to-use interface, large user base, quick connections, ‘Superlike’ feature
Cons: More suited for casual encounters, may not be ideal for those seeking serious relationships
Cost: Free; Tinder Gold starting at HK$118/month
Available on the App Store and Google Play

Header image credit: Aurelian Lupu’s Images via Canva

Why Is Hong Kong A Unique Place For Visual Artists?

From landmarks to buildings, from lively street markets to traditional temples, Hong Kong is a haven for photographers and videographers. This unique city stands out as a treasure trove of creative inspiration, thanks to its rich blend of modern architecture, historic sites, vibrant street life, and cultural diversity. The city offers countless worthy spots for visual artists to explore and capture their unique perspectives.

The juxtaposition of gleaming skyscrapers against the backdrop of ancient temples, hills, or mountains, creates striking visual contrasts while the bustling street markets, such as Mong Kok’s Ladies’ Market, offer an explosion of colors, faces, and textures for photographers to capture. Hong Kong is a place of contrasts, and the city’s dynamic fusion of East and West cultures provides endless opportunities for artistic exploration.

What Are The Best Spots To Take Photos And Videos In Hong Kong?

Whether you’re drawn to the capturing skyline of Victoria Harbour, the serene ambiance of Wong Tai Sin Temple, or the kinetic energy of Causeway Bay, Hong Kong offers an array of settings to fuel your creative vision. Every corner of this city is a canvas waiting for visual artists to craft their masterpieces.

Hong Kong Skyline and Victoria Peak

Hong Kong’s skyline is nothing short of amazing, and you can admire it from different angles and perspectives. From the Victoria Peak, enjoy breathtaking views of the futuristic skyscrapers along Victoria Harbour, but from Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade near the Avenue of The Stars, you’ll experience a more immersive view at eye level. For visual artists, this contrast offers the opportunity to capture the skyline’s grandeur from afar while also getting up close to highlight intricate architectural details and the vibrant energy of the bustling waterfront.

Skyscrapers in Hong Kong Island

The city’s cool architecture, especially in areas like Central, Admiralty and Causeway Bay, provides a rich visual playground for visual artists, from sleek modern skyscrapers to charming colonial-era buildings. You can take unique snapshots there, highlighting architectural contrasts and capturing the city’s dynamic fusion of old and new.

Monster Building in Quarry Bay

The Monster Building, a striking complex of five interconnected buildings in Quarry Bay offers an irresistible canvas for photographers and videographers. Originally built in the 1960s, it has since become an iconic landmark, known for its dense, urban architecture. With 18 floors and 2,243 units, it’s a unique visual spectacle. Its appearance in films like Transformers: Age of Extinction and Ghost in the Shell showcases its cinematic potential, making it a must-visit destination for creative visual artists.

Choi Hung Estate, a.k.a “The Rainbow Building”

Choi Hung Estate, also known as the “Rainbow Housing,” in Ngau Chi Wan, Kowloon, Hong Kong, is a visual delight for photographers and videographers. Its colorful exteriors and iconic playground offer an excellent backdrop for creative work. However, it’s worth noting that redevelopment plans were announced in November 2023 by the city’s Housing Authority, potentially changing its character. Capture its unique charm while you still can, preserving its vibrant history in your visual storytelling.

Temple Street in Mong Kok

Temple Street’s distinctive charm extends to its popularity as a cinematic backdrop. It vividly represents Hong Kong’s diverse life, from bustling markets to gritty urban scenes. Numerous films, including Queen of Temple Street (廟街皇后) and The Prince of Temple Street (廟街十二少), have captured its essence. For photographers and videographers, Temple Street offers an authentic slice of Hong Kong’s cinematic history and urban culture.

Hiking Trails And Beaches

If you’re looking for a change of pace, Hong Kong also offers plenty of natural landscapes that will amaze video and photo enthusiasts. These locations provide an ideal setting for capturing the calming beauty of the mountains, the sea, and stunning sunsets. While there are hikes on Hong Kong Island, heading to the New Territories and visiting the Outlying Islands will help you discover picturesque backdrops. From unique rock formations to stunning beaches, you can unveil a different facet of Hong Kong’s beauty. Our favorite spots include Lion Rock for hiking, Tung Ping Chau for a remote island experience, and Sai Kung and Tai Long Wan for beautiful beaches.

How to Make Stunning Social Media Videos

Now that you know where to head to get amazing snapshots in Hong Kong, creating stunning social media videos is an art that involves several key practices.

Capture engaging angles and perspectives

In Hong Kong, you have a wealth of captivating subjects. Think outside the box when framing your shots and experiment with unconventional angles, like low-angle shots that accentuate the dramatic heights of skyscrapers or bird’s-eye views that unveil the city’s intricate layout. Diverse angles can vividly enhance the visual appeal of your videos.

Use lighting and video effects

Lighting is paramount, especially in a city known for its stunning cityscape. Harness natural light and strategically placed artificial lighting to elevate your video’s visual quality. Hong Kong’s golden hour, with the city bathed in a warm glow, adds a magical touch to your shots.

Video effects are the creative ingredients that make your videos extraordinary and while YouTube proposes some options to edit your videos, using a more professional YouTube video editor like Capcut is better as such tool proposes more options. They function like the brushstrokes of an artist, adding unique touches to your footage.

These effects help set the mood and establish deep emotional connections with your audience:

• Colour grading is your video superpower, allowing you to control and enhance the colours in your footage. In Hong Kong’s bustling streets, you can make colours pop, intensifying the energy of neon signs and markets. For tranquil beach scenes, you can create a soothing ambiance by adjusting colours to cooler tones.
• Slow motion and time-lapse are storytelling tools that add drama and showcase the passage of time. In Hong Kong, slow motion emphasises the dynamic movements of vibrant streets, letting viewers savor every detail. Time-lapse captures the city’s day-to-night transformation, revealing its ever-changing character.
• Blur and focus effects guide your viewers’ attention precisely where you want it. It’s like a spotlight, highlighting essential elements. For instance, you can sharpen the iconic Hong Kong skyline while blurring the surroundings, making it the focal point of your video.

Incorporating dynamic camera movements

Embrace the bustling by incorporating dynamic camera movements. Use pans, tilts, tracking shots, and zooms to convey the dynamic energy of the city. These techniques create a sense of motion and keep viewers immersed in the vibrant culture and lively atmosphere of Hong Kong.

Enhancing Videos With Effects and Filters

Use the power of effects and filters to enhance your content is the next step after you’ve mastered the technique of taking fascinating film in Hong Kong, and here again, CapCut creative suite is a must-have. With the use of sophisticated tools like video effects and filters, you can produce visually attractive and fascinating material by enhancing the visual appeal of your videos.

Filters are like a set of special lenses for your camera, each offering a unique perspective on your video and most tools will have – at least – these types of filters:

• Urban: This filter gives Hong Kong a modern, sleek look, ideal for highlighting its contemporary side and making the iconic skyline stand out.
• Vintage: The vintage film filter adds a classic touch, perfect for portraying Hong Kong’s historical aspects, evoking nostalgia and enhancing traditional elements.
• Nature Enhancers: These filters intensify the lush greens and blues, making Hong Kong’s natural beauty, from hiking trails to serene beaches, even more vibrant and captivating.
• Low Light Enhancement: When night falls, this filter brings Hong Kong’s nightlife to life by enhancing low-light scenes, adding an extra layer of excitement to your video.

In a world where captivating content reigns supreme, let Hong Kong be your muse and our techniques be your guiding star. Take advantage of the distinctive character of the city, let your creativity run wild, and create edits that will captivate your audience. Capture the spirit of Hong Kong, tell gripping tales, and use effects and filters to create visually appealing video content.

Header Image Credit: Leung Cho Pan via Canva

International Commerce Centre

Located in the West Kowloon district, the International Commerce Centre (ICC) is the tallest building in Hong Kong and the 13th tallest building in the world, standing at 484 meters. This impressive skyscraper offers a variety of facilities, including a shopping mall, a hotel, and office spaces for leading international firms like S&P Global. Visitors can take an elevator to the sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck on the 100th floor to enjoy breathtaking views of the city, or the 118th floor to visit the Ritz-Carlton’s bar Ozone, the highest bar in the world.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Kowloon Station and follow the signs to the ICC directly above the station.

Bank of China Tower

Designed by the world-renowned architect I.M. Pei, the Bank of China Tower is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Hong Kong. Standing at 367 meters in the heart of Central financial district, this sleek and angular tower housing the headquarters of the Bank of China offers visitors the chance to tour its public areas. It was the tallest building in the city from 1989 to 1992, and is now the fourth tallest building.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Central Station, leave from Exit J2, and walk about 7 minutes to the Bank of China Tower.

The Center

Standing at 346 meters tall, The Center is another impressive addition to Hong Kong’s skyline. This 73-storey skyscraper, located in the bustling district of Central, is home to various businesses. It’s among the tallest steel structures on Earth. One of the building’s main features is its neon light show, which illuminates the façade of the tower and can be seen from various parts of the city.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Sheung Wan Station, leave from Exit E1, and walk approximately five minutes to The Center.

Two International Finance Centre

The Two International Finance Centre (IFC) is an iconic building in Hong Kong’s financial district. Completed in 2003, the IFC consists of two towers, one of which stands at 415 meters tall, making it the second-tallest building in the city. The Hong Kong skyscraper is home to a shopping mall, a cinema, restaurants, and some of the most sought-after office space in the city. Visitors can take an elevator to the unofficial viewing spot, Hong Kong Monetary Authority Information Centre on the 55th floor, to enjoy stunning views of the harbour.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Hong Kong Station and follow the signs to the IFC above.

Central Plaza

Central Plaza is a distinctive skyscraper in Hong Kong located in the Wan Chai district. Completed in 1992, this 78-storey building stands at 374 meters tall and is notable for being the third tallest building in Hong Kong. Central Plaza is home to various businesses and the highest church in the world, and visitors can take a high-speed elevator to the 46th-floor Sky Lobby for 360-degree panoramic views of the city.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Wan Chai Station, leave from Exit A1, and walk five minutes to Central Plaza.

The Hopewell Centre

The Hopewell Centre, located in the bustling district of Wan Chai, was completed in 1980 and stands at 216 meters tall. Although it is not as tall as some of the other buildings on this list, the Hopewell Centre is notable for its cylindrical shape, which is especially striking when viewed from inside. Visitors can take an elevator to the 62nd floor, where Hong Kong’s highest revolving restaurant is, which offers stunning views of Victoria Harbour and the buildings below.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Wan Chai Station, leave from Exit A3, and walk about four minutes to The Hopewell Centre.

Jardine House

Jardine House, formerly known as Connaught Centre, is a 52-storey skyscraper located in the heart of Hong Kong’s financial district. Completed in 1972, the building stands at 178 meters tall and was once the tallest building in Asia. Jardine House is notable for its distinctive circular windows and for featuring in numerous films, including the iconic chase scene in the movie “The World of Suzie Wong.”

How to get there: Take the MTR to Central Station, leave from Exit A, and walk four minutes to Jardine House.

Nina Tower

Nina Tower is a stunning twin tower complex in Hong Kong located in the Tsuen Wan district completed in 2006. The tallest of the two, Nina Tower I, is an 80-storey building standing at 319 meters tall. It is notable for its unique shape and sleek design. The building is home to a shopping mall and the luxury Nina Hotel.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Tsuen Wan Station and follow signs to Nina Tower via a covered walkway about five minutes away.

One Island East

One Island East is a 70-storey skyscraper located in the Quarry Bay district of Hong Kong. Completed in 2008, it stands at 308 meters tall and is notable for attracting large firms like Swire Properties and the Securities and Futures Commission to its commercial space. A notable Grade A office tower, One Island East is a striking modern development among the many older buildings of the area, housing cafés, restaurants, and various businesses.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Quarry Bay Station, leave from Exit B, and walk to One Island East about six minutes away.

Cheung Kong Center

The Cheung Kong Centre is a 63-storey skyscraper located in the Central district of Hong Kong. Completed in 1999, this building stands at 283 meters tall and is notable for being the headquarters of major conglomerate, Cheung Kong Holdings, as well as having a private residence for Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-shing on the uppermost floor.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Central Station, leave from Exit J1, and walk about four minutes to the Cheung Kong Centre.

Victoria Dockside

Victoria Dockside is a mixed-use development located in the Tsim Sha Tsui district of Hong Kong. This impressive project includes three skyscrapers: the K11 Atelier, the Rosewood Hong Kong hotel, and the Victoria Dockside tower. Completed in 2019, the Victoria Dockside tower stands at 490 meters tall and is the fourth tallest skyscraper in Hong Kong. Besides housing a five-star hotel, the building complex is home to luxury apartments and office space, as well as a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.

How to get there: Take the MTR to East Tsim Sha Tsui Station, leave from Exit E, and walk through the pedestrian tunnel to Victoria Dockside one minute away.

The Cullinan

The Cullinan is a 68-storey skyscraper located in the West Kowloon district of Hong Kong. Completed in 2008, this building stands at 270 meters tall. It was named after the Cullinan Diamond unearthed in South Africa in 1905, the largest gemstone-quality diamond rough ever discovered. The Cullinan I has luxury private apartments and office space.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Kowloon Station and follow signs to The Cullinan I.

The Arch

The Arch is a 62-storey skyscraper also located in the West Kowloon district. Completed in 2005, this building stands at 235 meters tall and is notable for its unique arch shape called a ‘dragon gate’, a principle of feng shui where positive energy is allowed to flow from the mountains to the ocean. The Arch is home to private residences, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants. Visitors can take an elevator to the communal Sky Garden on the 62nd floor.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Kowloon Station, leave from Exit B, and walk three minutes to The Arch.

The Masterpiece

The Masterpiece is a 64-storey skyscraper located in Tsim Sha Tsui. Completed in 2009, this building stands at 261 meters tall. The Masterpiece is home to premium shopping centre K11 Art Mall on the lower floors and basement, the Hyatt Regency hotel, and premium luxury apartments on the floors above.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui Station, leave from Exit N2, and walk to The Masterpiece two minutes away.

One Taikoo Place

One Taikoo Place is a 48-storey skyscraper located in Quarry Bay, on the eastern side of Hong Kong Island. Completed in 2018, this building stands at 268 meters tall and is notable for being among the newest Grade A office buildings in the area. One Taikoo Place is among the latest urban developments which have seen Quarry Bay district become increasingly gentrified.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Quarry Bay Station, leave from Exit B, and walk four minutes to One Taikoo Place.

Header image credits: Leung Cho Pan via Canva

What Is Nan Lian Garden? 

If you want to find a place that is serene and calm, Nan Lian Garden is the ideal place to visit.

Amidst the bustling crowds in Hong Kong, the attraction is a beautiful garden complex. The motif of the entire garden was made according to the style of the Tang Dynasty. A collaboration between Chi Lin Nunnery and the government, the garden is home to flowers, trees, ponds, geologically fascinating rocks and gorgeous wooden structures like bridges occupying over three hectares of land.

The Pavilion of Absolute Perfection (Golden Pavilion) and Zi Wu Bridge 

The Pavilion of Absolute Perfection or Golden Pavilion is located in the middle of a lotus-shaped pond, symbolizing absolute perfection and fulfillment in all of life’s aspects. The Pavilion is connected by two bridges, Zi and Wu, meaning North and South.

The Zi and Wu bridges are considered twins, dividing the Lotus Pond on the north and the south. They were inspired by the Tang Dynasty style as well, which is why the color of the bridges is bright red. These two bridges bring even more depth to the serene ambiance offered by the Golden Pavilion. 

Xiang Hai Xuan 

The Xiang Hai Xuan, or The Hall of Fragrance, is found in the south part of the Nan Lian Garden. This area of the garden is considered as an exhibition hall. It usually has special exhibitions, special musical performances, or even seminars.

Blue Pond and Pavilion Bridge 

Water being one of the main themes of the garden, it is also home to many ponds. The Blue Pond is one of the two ponds found in the garden. It is another beautiful sight, featuring red, gold, and pearl koi and rock formations. You can take many good pictures, having the Pavilion Bridge as your background.

The view of the Blue Pond is so calming it will make you feel relaxed, seemingly washing off all the worry away from the world. The Pavilion Bridge, on the other hand, is located towards the east end of the Blue Pond. You can walk into the bridge for cover or shade while you enjoy the view of the surrounding garden.

Silver Strand

Once you cross the Pavilion Bridge, you will reach the Silver Strand waterfall. It is found streaming along the side of Long Men Lou, a structure that houses a vegetarian restaurant called Chi Lin Vegetarian. The view from inside the restaurant is relaxing, seeing the garden from within the sheet of flowing water. You will find yourself enjoying the view around the garden while listening to the calming sound of running water. 

Song Cha Xie (Pine Tea House)

Adjacent to the Pavilion Bridge, you can also find Song Cha Xie, an exquisite looking teahouse overlooking Blue Pond. It can also be referred to as the Pine Tea House. This teahouse has wooden corridors and intimate looking nooks, which are just perfect for enjoying some Chinese tea and light dim sum dishes. If you do want to drink tea, you will have to order and pay, but it is still a beautiful area where you can enjoy the view of the garden. 

Rockery 

After looking at the beautiful trees and beautiful ponds and waterfalls in Nan Lian Garden, you can also find a variety of interesting rock formations as well. There is a rockery exhibition inside the garden, where you can find fascinating rocks and read about where they came from inside a zen-looking room. This can be found near the Light of Enlightenment statue, near Chi Lin Nunnery. 

What is Chi Lin Nunnery? 

Just adjacent to Nan Lian Garden, connected by a bridge over the freeway, you will see Chi Lin Nunnery.

The Nunnery houses several halls, courtyards, and lotus ponds, all beautiful and still inspired by the Tang Dynasty architecture and design. Chi Lin Nunnery is a Buddhist temple complex that was built as a retreat for Buddhist nuns, and it is home to many deity statues such as Guanyin and many others.

The Nunnery gives off a peaceful vibe, being full of bonsai trees. 

The Mountain Gate 

The Mountain Gate serves as the entrance to the Nunnery, as it is commonly used in Chinese Buddhist temples. The gate signifies that you’ve entered the mountains and have left all worldly distractions behind you. 

The First Courtyard or Lotus Pond Garden 

Walking inside the gate, there are ponds off to the sides of the main courtyard. In this area, you can see plentiful lotus plants dotting the tranquil water. It gives off a Japanese zen garden vibe, being surrounded by bonsai and many rock formations. 

The Hall of Heavenly Kings

This part of the Nunnery can also be referred to as The Hall of Heavenly or Celestial Kings. It is home to statues of deities that represent the four directions of the compass. In the Buddhist religion, these sacred figures serve as protection against evil and should be placed near the entrance of temples.

Nan Lian Garden, 60 Fung Tak Road, Diamond Hill, Wong Tai Sin

Chi Lin Nunnery, 5 Chi Lin Dr, Sheung Yuen Leng

Featured image credits: AdamHillTravel via Pixabay

The French festival is one of the largest and most celebrated cultural events in Asia, which boasts over 150 programmes of diverse visual arts performances, opera, classical and contemporary music, dance, theatre, and cinematical experiences, and of course, gastronomy, through the special event, French GourMay.

A deep dive into art and culture

French May is city-wide, and the vibrant performances take place in a plethora of venues. The stage locations are as diverse as the performances, which can be either free or paid. The journey allows an exploration of the various distinctive districts of Hong Kong and unusual venues, open-air public spaces or historic cultural centres, are utilised to showcase events with a touch of French “savoir-faire”.

The regionally iconic festival has historically attracted over one million visitors each year and is a must-attend event for art amateurs, music connoisseurs, and movie lovers. It is an intrinsic part of Hong Kong’s rich and diverse culture, and attendees can enjoy unique performances like the musical “Il Jouait Du Piano Debout”, a tribute to the notorious French composer Michel Berger, at the Hong Kong City Hall, or visiting the exhibition on contemporary Chinese surrealism to discover merging women artists, in Aberdeen. Free street-art exhibitions, opera and theatre, movies, and classical music performances will also happen during the French May.

The festival allows budding creatives to explore their talents. There is a wide range of enlightening classes, artist talks, guided tours, exciting workshops, and fascinating masterclasses that embrace all of the communities across the city, including those that are underprivileged and very young.

In May, let’s eat French delights

French cuisine is one of the very few UNESCO-listed culinary cultures in the world and the festival celebrates its unique food, wine, and Champagne treasures throughout the festival, through the event named French GourMay. The food offerings will afford visitors a gourmet adventure across the crusty baguette, cheese landscapes and allow them to explore the vibrant and tasty history of French cuisine.

To taste French gastronomy is to savour “l’art-de-vivre à la Française”, this citywide will allow foodies to explore the diversity of the various regions of a country that is dotted with ancient vineyards, fields of lavender, sunflowers, and olive groves, with more than 100 partners, from restaurants, groceries, importers and workshops. The whole programme can be browsed at https://www.frenchgourmay.com/french-gourmay.

Alexandre Giorgini, Consul General of France, wonders if there is any sense of life without art and culture. French May has the safety and health of their artists and visitors at the core of their concerns. They understand the complexities that the pandemic brings but have also seen new artists offering exciting new performances and initiatives. Due to the pandemic and the uncertainty that it brings, French May has a transparent booking service and an empathetic commitment of care.

He says, “let’s all be surrealists and imagine a new world full of art and fantasy!”.

For more information, visit https://www.frenchmay.com.

Even the most loyal Hong Konger craves a summer getaway. It’s unfortunate, then, that this year’s events mean that instead of booking a trip abroad most of us will be staying put. So, where can we go to escape the feeling of the crowded metropolis and enjoy a much needed home-cation?

For Culture Seekers 

10,000 Buddhas Monastery

If you’re normally a holiday culture vulture, this fascinating place will tick all of the boxes. Impossible to simply stumble across, this monastery is concealed down a narrow path and up a steep set of stairs in Sha Tin. Here you will find an abundance (not quite 10,000) of golden buddha statues. They’re all completely unique and will leave you pondering their quirky design for a long time after you leave.

Nan Lian Gardens

These gardens and accompanying monastery are the place to go if you’re looking for relaxation and culture. Within these walls, life’s pace seems to slow and it never feels too crowded. There’s shops, restaurants and photo opportunities aplenty. Placed somewhat oddly in the midst of high rises and overpasses, you can also appreciate the juxtaposition of serene nature against a city backdrop. This kind of unique beauty is one that Hong Kong does so well.

For Beach Lovers 

Tai Long Wan – Sai Kung

For the ultimate holiday experience, look no further than Sai Kung. This district in the North East of Hong Kong is well known for its stunning beaches, scenery and nature. The area of Tai Long Wan in particular is famed for several picturesque beaches. They may take a little more effort to get to than most coastal spots in Hong Kong, but this adds to their secluded charm. All can be reached by taxi or bus, followed by a short walk/hike. A must-see if you’re craving a beach day!

Read our guide to things to do in Sai Kung here.

Chun Hom Kok Beach – Hong Kong Island

If you’re a Hong Kong Island dweller and you wish to stay more local, perhaps Chun Hom Kok beach is the one for you. It may be in the vicinity of Stanley and Repulse, but unlike them it is a quiet, secluded hangout. It has modest facilities for guests including BBQ pits, in case you fancy a cooking session. Chun Hom Kok is easily accessible by bus from Central, or it is within walking distance from Stanley.

For Chilled Holiday Makers 

Stanley

Sometimes, a perfect day on holiday consists of pottering around whilst doing some shopping, eating and drinking. All of the important things! Luckily for us, down in Stanley that’s exactly what is on offer. Located on the South side of Hong Kong Island, this little town has holiday vibes aplenty. There is stunning seaside views, plenty of alfresco dining options and quaint market stalls. Here, every day feels like Sunday.

Lamma Island

A short 20-minute ferry ride from Central Pier, Lamma Island is a great choice of day-out. The absence of cars and high-rise buildings offers a stark contrast to city life. The island has a community feel and folk are friendly and laid-back. Here, you can head to the beach, check out the plethora of tiny independent shops or simply relax in a bar and watch the sunset.

Read our guide to hiking Lamma’s family trail here.

For Active Folk 

Cycling in Tai Po/ Tai Mei Tuk

Active yet relaxing, cycling is the perfect vacation activity! A great spot for this is up in Tai Po, a residential area in the New Territories. Here, there are plenty of bike rental shops close to the MTR station. Bikes are a very reasonable price to rent for a day. Once you’ve got your bearings, head to the nearby Tai Po Waterfront Park which is a pretty coastal spot with plenty to explore. If you fancy venturing further, the nearby area of Tai Mei Tuk is great for enjoying beautiful views, both on the journey and when you arrive. Tai Mei Tuk is also home to plenty of cute eateries for when you’re peckish around lunchtime.

Lantau Trail

If you’re into hiking, then you may have already done some of the Lantau Trail. Popular sections include 1, 2 and 3 which are also known as Sunset Peak and Lantau Peak. Although these trails offer stunning views and a good challenge, they do become very crowded. As an alternative, the latter 9 sections of the Lantau Trail offer similarly stunning scenery and are great if you prefer a peaceful hike. Section 4, for example, begins at the Big Buddha. You’ll barely see any other hikers by the time you reach Tai O at the end of stage 6. The trail has 12 stages altogether for those who wish to conquer the whole thing!

Read our guide to hiking Sunset Peak here.

Read our guide to Cheung Sha beach here.

Want more?

Hong Kong Bucket List

Family Day’s Out

Off the Beaten Track Things to Do in Hong Kong

Kindergarten Teacher, tea-obsessive and serial bruncher, Emily moved from the UK to Hong Kong 3 years ago. When she’s not working, you can find her planning holidays and hunting for books to read while travelling! She’s passionate about body image, wellness and ex-pat life – check out her other writing at emilymoulds.com  

The Park will operate six days a week, except Tuesdays during the first one and half months of service resumption (13 June-31 July) with fantastic special offers for Hong Kong residents. Because capacity will be limited in order to maintain social distancing, you must pre-book your tickets!

Special Promotional Offers for Hong Kong Residents

Exclusive reopening offers await Hong Kong residents from 13 June to 31 July. Children aged 11 or below will enjoy free admission which comes with a “Buy HK$50 Get HK$50 Free” coupon for skill games, while adults will enjoy a 30% discount on admission at a price of HK$350, and receive the equivalent of a full rebate in the form of cash vouchers valued at HK$350 for spending at the Park’s designated food kiosks, restaurants and souvenir shops. Senior citizens aged 65 or above will receive a 30% discount on designated items and priority access to the Cable Car in addition to complimentary admission.

Local residents who missed out on their complimentary birthday admission offer during the Park’s temporary closure can enjoy free admission from 13 June to 12 July upon presentation of their Hong Kong identity card or birth certificate at the Park’s ticketing office in person. For SmartFun Annual Pass holders, membership validity will be automatically extended and an additional one-month membership will be awarded to compensate for Park closures on Tuesdays in June and July.

Ocean Park has also joined hands with Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel to launch the Home Kong Amazing Moment Room Package, which offers visitors one-stop enjoyments including one-night deluxe room accommodation at the Hotel, breakfast buffet and Ocean Park admission tickets for two adults and one child, as well as dining vouchers valued at HK$1,000 for use at the Hotel or designated restaurants at the Park.

Strengthened Hygiene Measures and Online Reservation for Entry

The Park will implement various anti-epidemic measures upon reopening. These include additional cleaning and disinfection at rides, attractions and facilities; body temperature screenings and face mask-wearing policy (except when eating) for all visitors and staff members; and a reduction of Park-wide capacity to 25% in the first two weeks of reopening, which will then be gradually increased to 50%, while capacities of individual rides and facilities will be reduced by half. Other measures designed to provide a safe social distance between visitors will also be implemented.

To prevent overcrowding and allow for social distancing, all visitors are required to make reservations online with admission tickets for their dates of visit, except children under 3 years old, Hong Kong citizens aged 65 or above who are able to bring along up to two children aged between three and 11 with them. Visitors can book their visits for up to eight persons per group and up to 14 days in advance via the official Ocean Park website (www.oceanpark.com.hk). Upon successful registration, visitors will get instant confirmation with a reservation QR code on-screen, followed by an email copy. Visitors simply need to present the reservation QR code together with their registered tickets or SmartFun Annual Passes for Park admission.

Discover Nature through the Five Senses

Coinciding with Ocean Park’s reopening is the launch of Redd’s 5 Senses Discovery,a free edutainment programme curated to stimulate curiosity and encourage children to discover the wonders of nature through nature play and experimental learning under their parents’ guidance. Visitors will receive a discovery pack for exploring different Discovery Zones located throughout the Park’s Waterfront, with a wide array of recommended activities to help children learn through the five senses of sight, hearing, smell, taste and touch as they interact with the objects, animals, plants and environment en route.

Equally exciting is the brand new Nature Art on Bread Workshop to be introduced in July. A fun baking experience for children that promises to keep both their hands and brains busy, participants will be able to create their own unique bread masterpieces with seasonal vegetables, fruits, herbs and edible flowers – exploring the features, textures, smells and colours of the ingredients and the transformation process while they acquire some baking skills.

New Animal Exhibit – Little Meerkat & Giant Tortoise Adventure

Apart from the adorable animal ambassadors that everyone has been missing, visitors will soon be able to meet new members of the team at the Park’s new African-themed animal exhibit, Little Meerkat & Giant Tortoise Adventure, to be unveiled at the Whiskers Harbour in July. Visitors will get the chance to learn about how meerkats and giant Aldabra tortoises adapt to the environment, as well as how to live in harmony with nature by loving and respecting all living creatures on Earth.

Giant Panda Adventure will be Temporarily Closed

In early April, Ocean Park’s giant pandas, Ying Ying and Le Le, succeeded in natural mating for the first time. To allow husbandry staff to focus on taking great care of the pandas, Giant Panda Adventure will be closed temporarily. The Park’s veterinary team will closely observe Ying Ying’s body condition and behavioural changes. Ying Ying may show signs of pregnancy, including hormonal changes, as early as late June. However, these signs may as well be caused by pseudo-pregnancy. The reopening of Giant Panda Adventure will depend on Ying Ying’s condition and the Park will inform the public of further updates.

The Basics

Start Point:  Mui Wo

End Point:  Pak Kung Au

Distance:  Around 6.5km

Duration:  2.5 – 3 hours (Not including travel time)

What to Take:  All of the hiking essentials: water, snacks, sunblock, octopus card etc. Stock up in Mui Wo before you begin. You will also need a warm jacket or jumper because it can be very cold at the top!

Difficulty:  3.5/5 – The hike felt a little longer but less intense than the likes of The Twins and Lantau Peak. The beginning of the hike consists of many, many stairs, however, and may be tough for inexperienced hikers.

Getting There

From Central, you need to take the ferry to Mui Wo from Pier 6.

Find the timetable here.

Then, take a taxi or a bus to the start point, which is Lantau Country Park.

There is both a bus station and taxi rank as soon as you get off the ferry in Mui Wo. Catching the bus is quick and easy and you can take the 1, 2 or 3M. Alight at the stop named Nam Shan Sam Uk Tsuen. Cross the road and you will see the big sign for the Lantau Trail straight ahead. Use the toilets here if you need to as it will be your last chance for a while.

The Hike

Now you’ve arrived at the hike start-point it’s time to set off. It’s a popular hike which is very well signposted so it’s not easy to get lost.

For the first hour or so it’s all up and is mainly stairs. Unlike its sister hike Lantau Peak, it is mainly shaded at this point so isn’t too stifling in the summertime. Keep going up and after a while the trail will open up and you will see your first great views of Lantau Island.

The second hour of hiking is more open and picturesque, allowing you to enjoy the greenery and panoramic views all around. This section is a little flatter and consists of a mixture of slopes and stairs.

After a while near the very top, you will come across several small and eerie buildings which are dotted along the path. You may speculate about their purpose as you continue to climb to the top. Depending on the day, here it can get very cold and you’ll need to put on another layer.

Just beyond the houses, the path narrows again and you will see the very top which is almost a separate peak entirely. There are two paths to choose, the first is to take the steep path to the top and the other is to miss it out and continue to walk around it instead. On a clear day you may wish to climb this steep section to reach the top but on an overcast day you may find that it’s shrouded in cloud and that it isn’t worth tackling. Either way, be sure to take in the views before continuing on to the descent.

The path to the end takes around an hour. It begins as a slope which turns eventually into stairs. It is steep and requires concentration and careful footing. Eventually you will reach an opening at the bottom where you will find benches and a toilet stop. Congratulations, this is the end of the hike!

Getting Home

Walk down to the road. Here you can either take a bus back to Mui Wo or a bus to Tung Chung where you can take the MTR. Perhaps the easiest way is to go to Tung Chung as you may end up waiting for a while in Mui Wo for a ferry back to Central.

To go to Tung Chung, take the 3M, 23 or 11 bus. To go back towards Mui Wo take the 3M.

Sunset Peak: Complete!

Tick off Hong Kong’s top 10 hikes!

Kindergarten Teacher, tea-obsessive and serial bruncher, Emily moved from the UK to Hong Kong 3 years ago. When she’s not working, you can find her planning holidays and hunting for books to read while travelling! She’s passionate about body image, wellness and ex-pat life – check out her other writing at emilymoulds.com  

Yung Sheu Wan is the main ‘town’ of Lamma, with ferries to Central every 30 minutes at the weekend, there’s a pleasant beach nearby with good facilities and a variety of restaurants choose from. Sok Kwu Wan is a smaller village with some nice seafood restaurants along the waterfront near the ferry (Lamma Rainbow is the best known). We like to start in Sok Kwu Wan and hike to Yung Sheu Wan for a play on the beach and then lunch, but if you prefer you can walk from Yung Shue Wan to Sok Kwu Wan.

Take the ferry from Central to Sok Kwu Wan

The ferry from Central Pier 4 for Sok Kwu Wan takes around 40 minutes, you can also go from Aberdeen to Sok Kwu Wan. 

Central -Sok Kwu Wan Ferry Timetable

Follow the signs for Yung Shue Wan

From the ferry pier turn right to walk through the village, following the signs for Lamma Family Trail and Yung Shue Wan.

Tin Hau Temple

As you exit the village you’ll walk past this Tin Hau temple on your left, and then join the Family Trail.

The ‘Kamikaze Cave’

A little further along the trail you’ll pass the ‘Kamikaze Cave‘, where Japanese forces occupying Hong Kong during WWII concealed speedboats to be deployed on suicide missions against Allied shipping.

Follow the Path to Yung Shue Wan

Keep walking and when you reach a fork in the path keep to the right for Yung Shue Wan. The path to the left leads to Lo Shing Beach.

Now you’ll walk through a village, and the path gradually slopes upwards. Eventually you’ll emerge from the trees to walk along the coastline with fantastic views across to Aberdeen and Repulse Bay. This pretty pavilion is a good spot to take a break and snap some pictures.

When you see the 3 chimneys of Lamma’s coal and gas fired power station,  you’ll know you’re approaching the end of the trail.

Arrive at Hung Shing Yeh beach

After 45 minutes – 1 hour, you’ll arrive at Hung Shing Yeh beach. This beach has a BBQ area, changing rooms, lifeguards (seasonally), small shops for buying snacks and beach gear and a few picnic tables. It also has a pretty unique view of picturesque islands, and a power station!

Directly behind the beach is the Concerto Inn which serves Western and Asian snacks, meals, cocktails and coffees as well as offering overnight accommodation.

Walk to Yung Shue Wan village

It’s a short walk from the beach into the town of Yung Shue Wan, where you’ll find lots of restaurant and cafe options. We ate lunch at the Lamma Grill which serves up typical Western ‘pub’ food such as burgers, pizzas, fish and chips.

The ferry from Yung Shue Wan to Central takes around 30 minutes.

Central – Yung Shue Wan Ferry Timetable

Find more easy hikes in this article!

Kayak Tour

A day kayaking among the remote beaches and protected areas of Hong Kong should do the trick for the adventurous type on your list.  Book a tour with Sea Kayak Hong Kong for a friend, and why not join them for a special outing? There are tours for beginners too, and each one takes you around the natural beauty of Hong Kong that few get a chance to see, like the inner islands of the UNESCO Global Geopark. The Sharp Island – Sai Kung tour is an easy day tour ($750 per person) starting at Shelter Bay (Sai Kung), and takes you to discover HK’s inner islands and beautiful beaches.

Tea and Chocolate Pairing Workshop

It’s likely there’s someone in your life who loves tea or chocolate – how about the person who adores both? Then get them to this Tea and Chocolate Pairing Workshop ($450 per person) offered by Plantation and The Chocolate Club Hong Kong. There are various dates throughout the year, as well as other tea-related workshops, should you want to buy for more than one person on your list. It’s the kind of workshop where one can relax and sample fine tea and chocolate – even bring some home too.

Sampan Dining 

If you know someone who’s a real foodie and has checked out all the top restaurants in the city, mix things up a bit and surprise them with a seafood dinner on a sampan. It’s a truly authentic Hong Kong experience that shouldn’t be missed, as you dine aboard a swaying sampan boat on the water. This food tour from popular local guide Humid with a Chance of Fishballs costs $888 per person and includes a 6-course seafood feast, including the famous Spicy Typhoon Shelter Crab. They do other great food tours too, and any can easily be purchased via an online gift certificate.

Vegetarian Food Tour

As we’re becoming more eco-conscious, that means going vegetarian for a lot of people. For someone who has newly become vegetarian or vegan, or who just likes to eat delicious things, the Vegetarian Food Tour ($575 per person) by Hong Kong Greeters is another ideal food gift. Children are welcome ($275 per child aged 6 to 12 years, free for 5 years and under) and they’ll enjoy munching their way through Kowloon and the New Territories. The tour offers a dose of culture with the food (it’s 100% vegan-friendly too) like dim sum in Wong Tai Sin after visiting the famous temple, and exploring Nan Lian Chinese garden followed by dessert.

Saiyuen Adventure

Once you find out about this place, you’ll want to share it with all your friends. And a great way to do that is with a gift package getaway! Saiyuen is an 11-acre outdoor adventure playground in Cheung Chau with so much to see and do. It’s is a family-friendly place, with lots of activities for kids like art workshops and outdoor adventures that will have them climbing trees. It’s also a fun getaway for couples, with several themed camping options. Spend the day in nature doing a tree top canopy walk, then relax overnight in a Mongolian Ger or a romantic tree cocoon. Choose from various packages (prices vary depending on activity), and really surprise someone.

Dinner with a Private Chef

Meals in a box are handy and all, but they entail actually cooking. Instead, let them sit back in a beautiful setting and indulge in a night of delectable food prepared by a talented chef. Andrea Oschetti’s Cuore Private Kitchen is one of the most popular choices in town, serving a four-course Italian dinner in the comfort of his amazing loft. The large space in Wong Chuck Hang adorned with curios from his many world travels, can entertain a minimum of 15 people at $880 a head (excluding drinks). Or let a private chef come to you and prepare a spectacular meal in your own home. Take a Chef offers dining experience packs (from $1620 for two people), allowing the gift recipient to customise the experience by browsing menus and talking directly with the chef.

Baking Courses

Maybe you’ve had one too many of your friend’s rock-hard cupcakes, or you’d like to do some baking bonding with your little one. ABC Cooking Studio has several enjoyable baking courses for kids and adults alike, whether they’d like to master the art of traditional Japanese sweets, or make their own bread. Courses start at $2,880 for six lessons, or you can opt for a trial lesson ($280) to get a taste. The best part is you’ll be able to take home everything you make! Book online and choose a lesson at three different modern and spacious studios – K11, PMQ and Cityplaza.

Sin City Tour

This sinful tour is the perfect gift for anyone who thinks they know everything about Hong Kong. The brand new Sin City tour by Hong Kong Greeters shines a light on the darker side of our city. You will discover how the unholy trinity of drugs, prostitution and gambling are intrinsically linked to the Hong Kong of both ‘then’ and ‘now’. The tour lasts 3 hours and at HK $895 per person includes your professional guide, an alcoholic tipple in a local bar and admission to Wan Chai club. Temptation awaits.

Helicopter and Hotel Package

This is a great way to say I really like you to that someone special, as when the gift includes a helicopter ride, it’s no ordinary present. The iconic Peninsula Hotel has teamed up with Heliservices for a real treat: “Fly and Dine” and “Fly and Tea” packages. Lucky guests depart from The Peninsula’s rooftop helipad for a thrilling 18-minute private flight over the city, paired with a luxury hotel experience. Choose from lunch or dinner at one of The Peninsula’s top restaurants (from $13,290 for two to a maximum of six people) or high tea ($5,758 for two, $ 8,676 for three, $ 11,516 for four).

Simulator Experience

This one’s a great option for the teen curious about what virtual reality is really all about, or someone you know who has always wanted to experience life in the flight deck. JetOne Motion has thrilling simulation devices including flight and racing simulators, and Oculus Rift VR stations. They’re also easy to gift, through online gift vouchers from a single session ($580) or a day pass ($1,380).

Personal Styling Package 

New job? Big event coming up? There are many reasons why someone may need a personal style catch-up, and thankfully, there’s a service for just that. Something different to give the woman or man in your life, a styling package can help with a style makeover overhaul, even a “wardrobe detox”. My French Elegance helps uncover the best colours, cuts and clothing styles for someone you care about through various sessions (pricing varies). Personalise your present with an online gift card and send them on their way to discovering their fabulous self.

Family Photo Session

Treasure those special moments with a family photo session, whether you want to treat yourself or extend the love to family or friends. Paula Weston is well known in the city for capturing memorable moments in dynamic outdoor HK settings through personalised sessions (from $4,100). Her lively and candid photography, be it on a neon sign-splattered Kowloon street or a tranquil beach, makes for a unique keepsake. She makes gifting easy too, with gift certificates good for all sessions, so you may want to book a couple.

Sausage-Making Masterclass at Feather & Bone

There’s nothing like getting your hands dirty and making something yourself – in this case, it’s sausage! Book a sausage-making masterclass ($980 per person) with Feather & Bone and spend a fun afternoon with friends doing something different. Classes are held at Feather & Bone’s state-of-the-art facility in Mid-Levels, where you’ll learn how to use a sausage grinder and try a signature sausage recipe, or get creative with a variety of seasonings. Free-flow beer and house wine are included, and you’ll walk away with a kilo of sausages. The good times continue afterwards, with a sit-down sausage feast at Feather & Bone’s restaurant terrace across the road.

aqua luna Dim Sum Cruise 

This isn’t one of those tacky tourist cruises with mediocre food and bad music. The 2-hour aqua luna Dim Sum Cruise ($450 per adult or $350 per child) sets off in the iconic red-sailed junk from Central or Tsim Sha Tsui piers to Aberdeen. All the while, you’re sampling delicious dim sum while taking in the sights of the historical fishing port of Aberdeen, sailing past old fishing junks and sampans, not to mention luxurious private yachts. It’s not your average dim sum either – it comes from the chefs at Dim Sum Library – complete with a sweet egg tart and beverage.

Fun Family Staycation

Sometimes you need to get away but whether it’s time or money, you never manage to. This gift doesn’t take too much planning, and you don’t have to go far. The Gold Coast Hotel has wonderful themed room packages that will please kids, and the little kid inside the adult. Plan a mini staycation where you’ll overnight in a whimsically-decorated room with outer space, safari or green upcycled themes, with outdoor activities to match. All have a seaview balcony and some can be booked with adjoining rooms, if you want to leave the older children to themselves and have some alone time with the spouse.

Get Closer to Animals at Ocean Park

Book an unforgettable experience for all ages at Ocean Park, this time without roller coasters. Young and old will delight in getting up close with various animals, even real close, like nose-to-nose with dolphins in the water. Feed the penguins, seals, sea lions, even the resident walrus, who doesn’t mind the odd pat on his round body. There’s also an exciting opportunity to become an honorary panda keeper for the day, visiting the panda enclosure from the inside and preparing special meals for the cute creatures. Pricing for different encounters starts at $60 with valid admission ticket.

Luxury Spa Day

There is no shortage of pampering locales in Hong Kong, what with the many 5-star plush hotels dotted around the city. We all know someone who deserves a day of indulgence, and one of the famed spa experiences in town is at the The Ritz-Carlton. Couples can have the pleasure of a private harbour view spa suite (from $7,050) with personalized spa treatments, swimming pool access and spa cuisine. The Four Seasons is also home to some of the most luxurious treatments money can buy, including customised holistic healing packages, with different wellness programmes (from $2,780). These gifts will never be returned, trust us.

Private Drink Tasting

For the friend who fancies a posh tipple, a drink tasting will go down a treat. The Woods has curated spirits tasting (minimum spend $3,000) and cocktail workshops (minimum spend $6,000) letting you take part in a spirits tasting flight, enjoy a cocktail and even get behind the bar and make your own. Whisky afficionados will welcome what Malt Masters offers, like a premium flight of four different single malt whiskies in a guided and interactive tasting session, or something to go with that whisky: tastings paired with cheese, chocolate or cigars.

Art Workshop

Art lovers of all genres will happily accept a day at one of the workshops offered at Bonart. There’s something for lovers of all things organic (homemade cleaner and eco paper-making workshops), creative arts (glass etching and art jam workshops) and greenery (make your own terrarium). The latter is a unique experience to create a personal mini garden, and comes with its own experience gift voucher (worth up to $1,000) so you can book more than one terrarium workshop (moss, succulent, bonsai) for that special someone.

Macau Tower Adventure

Take your adrenaline junkie pal to Macau for some sky-high adventure at the Macau Tower. What kind of thrill will make it the perfect present? A bungy jump off the 233 m-high Macau Tower, or the Skyjump, a 17-second descent landing on one’s feet at the base of the tower? If they prefer not to drop, then take them on a Skywalk, where there’s no going down, just a wee stroll around the 1.8 m-wide outer perimeter of the tower. Finally, for the fittest friend, book a Tower Climb. The reward after climbing 100 meters up the tower’s vertical ladders are some awesome 360-degree views.

Nancy Matos is a lifestyle and culture writer from Vancouver, Canada currently based in Hong Kong and London, who will happily accept any spa voucher this Christmas.

Lower Cheung Sha beach is a peaceful spot on the South of Lantau Island, with not a highrise in sight, a visit here is good for the soul. The sand is soft, the views are green and peaceful, and the water is great for swimming and watersports. You’ll feel like you’re really getting back to nature when the local buffalo wander through (usually in the late afternoon).

The beach here has a showers and changing rooms, and lifeguards are present from April to October. You can check the latest water quality information from the government here.

Getting There

You can reach Lower Cheung Sha beach by car (there is some parking), taxi or bus from Tung Chung. From Tung Chung take bus 11, 23, or A35.

Or take the ferry from Central to Mui Wo and get a taxi or take bus 1, 2, 3 or 4.

Note that there are no bus stop signposts and there’s also an Upper Chueng Sha stop which could cause confusion. So be sure to ask for LOWER Cheung Sha and ask for help if you’re unsure where to get off.

Glamping & Watersports

Longcoast Seasports rent out all kinds of watersports equipment including bodyboards, SUP, surfboards and kayaks. If you’re keen to try but need a little direction, lessons are also available. You can also hire lifejackets, deckchairs and umbrellas here. If you’d like to try wakeboarding here’s your chance, a $1,600 wakeboarding package includes all the gear and instruction.

Longcoast also have comfortable safari tents, caravans and rooms available if you’d like to stay overnight. The safari tent campsites have a small playground and trampoline for the kids. You can hire a BBQ complete with food or bring your own sausages! The overnight stay package includes watersports equipment rental and is a really fun and affordable way to take a ‘staycation’ in Hong Kong.

Find more staycation ideas here.

Eating & Drinking

Lautau Grocer

This small but well stocked store has all your beach essentials, a good selection of food (great if you’re camping), beers and wines. As well as that, they also have a nice terrace with a view of the beach and sell freshly brewed coffees and snacks. The best thing about this place though is the BBQs! Contact them in advance to arrange a BBQ package for a group of friends, they’ll tailor the food to your budget and preferences.

5465 5511

frankie.yuen@lantau-grocer.com

Lantana

Tuck in to some excellent thin and crispy pizzas and delicious Italian food while you watch the waves roll in. You can also grab a pizza takeaway for those days when you’re too busy messing about in the water to take a long lunch break.

5465 5511

service@lantana.hk

Bathers

The most upmarket option on Lower Cheung Sha, this al fresco restaurant serves all your favourites including burgers, fish & chips, salads, steaks and more. They also have an appealing kids menu.

2504 4788

Book online

Mr Chipper

Only open on Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays, this place serves really good fish & chips to takeaway.

2504 4788

Long Island

The friendly staff at this laidback beachfront restaurant serve up a tasty mix of Western and Asian dishes, cocktails and beers.

2320 2001

Read our guide to hiking Sunset Peak, Lantau, here!

What to Do

Tai Long Wan

Secluded and stunning, Tai Long Wan is off the beaten track for sure: after arriving in Sai Kung centre, you need to take a minibus, taxi or speedboat to get there, but there’s a reason why people make the trek. The 3 kilometer-wide bay on the east coast of the Sai Kung Peninsula is home to four equally gorgeous beaches – Tai Wan, Tung Wan, Sai Wan and Ham Tin Wan – and is a mecca for surfers (Tai Long Wan means “Big Wave Bay”). It’s an all around top choice for those wanting to really get away from it all.

TikiTiki Bowling Bar

Spend the day at the beach, and end it with a lively round of bowling! TikiTiki Bowling Bar makes for a fun and unique bowling experience with its bright Polynesian interior, lanes with bright lights and a visually engaging video wall. Head out to the restaurant area after for island-style food, cool tropical cocktails and live music.

4/F Centro, 1A Chui Tong Road, Sai Kung, New Territories; 2657 8488 or reservations@urban-ent.com

Astropark

Fancy a night of stargazing? Bet you don’t do that too often, so why not bring the family, or make it a romantic outing with a loved one. Astropark, located in Sai Kung’s High Island Reservoir is divided into three zones (for daytime visitors, casual users or amateur astronomers) with ancient and modern astronomical instruments to peruse. Guided tours are organized by the Hong Kong Space Museum or you can just drop by, as no reservation is needed. The best part: admission is free and it’s open 24 hours.

Sai Kung, New Territories; 2721 0226

Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park

This photo of Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park is a sheltered bay in north Sai Kung covering an area of about 260 hectares, and it’s something to be seen. The marine park is one of four in Hong Kong, and the first to be designated (in July 1996), with more than 100 species of coral fish and 60 types of hard coral. Bring your snorkelling gear and see the remarkable sealife for yourself, kayak through the clear waters for a great view of the surrounds, or just sit by the serene bayside and chill.

Sai Kung, New Territories; 2708 8885 or mailbox@afcd.gov.hk

Splash Hong Kong 

The waters off Sai Kung are prime for water sports and diving, and Splash Hong Kong can help you out, whether you’re looking for a fun diving excursion or want to take a diving course. The award-winning, PADI Instructor Development Five Star Dive Center offers a range of diving services and courses, plus equipment sales and servicing.

58-72 Fuk Man Road, Sai Kung, New Territories; 2792 4495 or info@splashhk.com

Where to Eat

One-ThirtyOne

This is a dining experience you’ll be talking about for a while afterwards. One-ThirtyOne serves contemporary European cuisine in a picturesque 3-storey Mediterranean-style house, in one of the most beautiful parts of Sai Kung, Three Fathoms Cove. Sip some pre-dinner Champagne on the green grass out front and take in the pretty view, which sometimes can include yachts bringing guests in on the private dock, and even small helicopters landing on the lawn with eager diners.

131 Tseng Tau Village Shap Sze Heung, New Territories; 2791-2684 or onethirtyoneinhk@gmail.com

Sai Kung Sing Kee

This Michelin guide rated dining spot on the waterfront has an awesome view, with some of the freshest fish you can imagine: it’s caught straight from the water, then the masters whip up a memorable Cantonese meal for you to enjoy. Sai Kung Sing Kee is known for its abalone, carefully prepared a variety of ways (we like it deep-fried) and there’s plenty of space to take it all in, with 12 dining rooms spread over three floors.

39 Sai Kung Tai Street, Sai Kung,New Territories; 2791 9887 or singkee@rocketmail.com

The Conservatory

Quickly gaining a great reputation from locals and visitors alike, The Conservatory is a warm and laid-back dining experience. The restaurant, bar and café serves Mediterranean favourites like tapas (you must try the pesto chicken and parmesan risotto balls) and mezze perfect for sharing, plus good-sized gourmet salads and thin-crust pizzas when you want it all for yourself. Brunch is popular on weekends, so book ahead, and take it outside on the terrace on a sunny Sai Kung afternoon.

G/F, 26 Wan King Path, Sai Kung, New Territories; 2792 1105 or conservatory@enotecagroup.com

Little Cove Espresso

The baked goods and dessert here are so good, both in flavour and looks,  you’ll be regularly whipping out your phone for Insta posts. They are inventive – Earl Grey and Lemon Muffins, Coconut Panna Cotta with Buckwheat Granola, Chia, Banana and  Strawberry – and accommodate everyone as many are vegan, paleo, and free of gluten, refined sugar and dairy. There’s a lovely outdoor setting for enjoying a healthy breakfast, or a hearty lunch bowl, like the Middle Eastern Lamb Salad Bowl.

Sai Kung Town Villa Block A, Siu Yat Building Block A, Shop 1+2, G/F, Sai Kung Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung, New Territories; 9572 8560 or info@littlecoveespresso.com

Honeymoon Dessert

A Sai Kung favourite for more than 20 years, this sweet spot brings locals in daily and attracts people from all over for its traditional Chinese desserts. Its known for Chinese dessert soups made with fresh fruit and coconut milk, and the fruit pancakes are also popular. Choose from mango or banana, or other more exotic picks like durian or yam.

10A-C Po Tung Rd, Sai Kung, New Territories; 2792 4991 or info@honeymoon-dessert.com

Where to Shop

The Bottle Shop

Beer lovers always on the hunt for an exotic import are frequent visitors to Sai Kung’s Bottle Shop. It offers a slew of the top craft beers in the world, and the friendly staff know their stuff if you need help deciphering one bottle from another. But it goes beyond beer, with quality spirits and wine, and you can pick up snacks and sweets by local businesses or imported brands.

G/F 114 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, New Territories; 2791 1600 or shop@thebottleshop.hk

BeCandle

We’ve been fans of BeCandle ever since we came across the artisan candle shop. The candle scents are not too overpowering (we love the Cinnamon, Musk and Sandalwood) and are all made by hand in Sai Kung with high quality vegetal wax and premium fragrance oils. The minimalist glass jars look great in any room, or take a travel candle in a portable tin to brighten a stuffy hotel room.

8 Wang Street, Sai Kung, New Territories; 9839 1180 or info@becandle.com.hk

The Dutch

A wee taste of Holland in seaside Sai Kung, who would have thought? Dutch expats can get a taste of home and counter any gouda cravings, as the shop boasts a large selection of the popular cheese. The rest of us can happily partake in the world of Dutch cheeses, and the accommodating staff will help you pair each one with a carefully selected glass of wine or beer. Yes, you can come here to nibble and shop!

19 Hoi Pong Street, Sai Kung, New Territories; 2792 6179 or info@thedutch.hk

Le Magasin

For all things French, Le Magasin is a one-stop shop filled with genuine French products including a  nice selection of food, condiments, deli meats and sweet-smelling soap from Provence. And of course, there is cheese and wine – en entire wine cellar in fact stocked with reds, whites and rosés from around France, with a variety of organic wines.

12 Hoi Pong Street, Sai Kung, New Territories; 2791 or lemagasin21@gmail.com

25 cool things to do in Hong Kong!

These museums are mostly free or inexpensive, but you can save even more by purchasing a Museum Pass which gives unlimited admission into LCSD museums. An annual family pass is $100, an individual pass is $50, and a child’s $25. Museums covered include Hong Kong Museum of History, Hong Kong Science Museum, Hong Kong Space Museum, Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence and Dr Sun Yat-sen Museum.

Children’s Discovery Museum

You must pre-book for this fairly small child-focused museum in North Point. This is a totally hands-on experience and includes a performance area with mini TV studio and stage, a small banyan tree-house, a water play area, a baby/toddler area, a topographic sand tray and a maker-room. There are educational messages about environmental awareness which may be lost on the younger crowd. My 4, 7 and 10 year olds all really loved their visit here, especially tinkering in the maker room.

Cost:           Book for a 2.5 hour session, prices range from $60 – $110 per person, depending on age and whether weekday or weekend. Closed on Mondays.
Location:  1/F, China United Centre, 28 Marble Road, North Point

Space Museum

We love the space museum, it’s a really fun and educational museum to visit with kids. Located right by the Star Ferry pier in TST, the permanent exhibits are split over two floors – the ‘Hall of the Cosmos’ and ‘Hall of Space Exploration’. 70% of the exhibits are interactive, such as the ‘space surfing’ game, the gyroscope, a time travelling game, a room that replicates the sensation of being on a space station and loads more. The educational information is accessible to children of all ages at their own level. 2 hours here will cover everything, but you can extend the visit by combining it with a trip to the OMNIMAX space theatre next door.

Cost:          $10 adults, $5 children; Omnimax shows $24 adults, $12 children (can use museum pass). Closed on Tuesdays.
Location:  10 Salisbury Road, TST, Kowloon

Maritime Museum

At Central Pier 8 you can find the Hong Kong Maritime Museum. This is a small museum and most of the exhibits are not hands-on, but having said that there a few hands-on exhibits that my kids really love. The biggest hit has to be the real command bridge from a 1960s ship, complete with ship’s wheel, morse code machine, lots of buttons to press, a telephone – their imaginations can run riot. The images and models of Hong Kong’s harbour past and present are fascinating, and there are great views of Victoria Harbour with some telescopes to look out for sea traffic. This museum fills in an hour or so and when you’re done you can head upstairs to Café 8 for a simple but tasty lunch.

Cost:           $30 adults, $15 children
Location:   Central Pier 8

Science Museum

With more than 500 exhibits, and 70% of them hands-on, you could easily fill half a day here. Galleries cover a wide range of science and technology topics including light, sound, motion, electricity and magnetism, mathematics, life science, biodiversity, environmental protection, transportation, telecommunication, food science and home technology. The Children’s Gallery features special activities for kids including the Big Kids’ Work Site where children can get hands-on learning about building and the Build Your Own Coaster activity. This is right opposite the History Museum so you could potentially have a double museum trip day!

Cost:          $20 per person, (can use museum pass)
Location:  2 Science Museum Road, TST East, Kowloon,

Fireboat Alexander Grantham

If you have a fire engine lover or boat enthusiast then they will enjoy a visit to Fireboat Alexander Grantham. This 1950s fireboat was in service in Hong Kong until 2002, and now you can walk around and look at all the firefighting equipment. You can combine your trip with some play time at Quarry Bay Park.

Cost:           Free. Closed on Tuesdays.
Location:  Quarry Bay Park

Hong Kong Museum of History

This photo of Hong Kong Museum of History is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Explore the history of Hong Kong from 400 million years ago, up until the handover in 1997, through over 4,000 fascinating objects on display in the permanent Story of Hong Kong exhibition. Although this is less hands-on than some of the other museums on this list, the displays will spark interest and conversation. Check the museum website for the latest special exhibitions. This museum is directly opposite the Science Museum so it’s easy to combine both for a day out.

Cost:          $10 adults, $5 children (can use museum pass). Closed on Tuesdays.
Location:  Location: Science Museum Road, TST East, Kowloon,

Hong Kong Heritage Museum

This photo of Hong Kong Heritage Museum is courtesy of TripAdvisor

The Children’s Discovery Gallery here is specially designed for children aged 4-10. There are 8 learning playzones that include a Mai Po marshes zone, an archaeology zone and a new territories village. There’s also a fun Hong Kong Toy Story exhibition that covers the evolution of toys in Hong Kong and includes a hands on playing area. The museum is right beside Sha Tin Park which has a playground and bike track.

Cost:           Free. Closed on Tuesdays.
Location:  1 Man Lam Road, Sha Tin

Tai Po Railway Museum

If you have transport and train loving kids then they’ll enjoy exploring the historic trains and carriages at this fairly small display in Tai Po.

Cost:           Free. Closed on Tuesdays.
Location:  13 Shung Tak Street, Tai Po Market, Tai Po

Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence (currently closed for rennovations)

Lots of excitement to be found amid the tanks and cannons here, and a fun outdoor area to run around in too. It’s currently closed for a revamp so watch this space for updates.

Cost:           currently closed (can use museum pass)
Location:  175 Tung Hei Road. Shau Kei Wan

Find more indoor fun and play options in this article!

Canal Road Villain hitters

This macabre activity under the darkened shadow of the Canal Road flyover is compelling. You have probably seen the ladies sitting there under the noisy bridge with a mixture of statues, prayer papers, candles and incense. Their offer is to dispel negativity from you and onto anyone who has caused you harm; around HK$50 to spite your enemies. The process includes invoking the spirits by hitting a small piece of paper with an old shoe, probably the worst insult you could have thrust upon your antagonists. However, these ladies will listen (they are all over 70 and have heard a lot), so if you are looking for a pragmatic way to get something or someone out of your thoughts and feel better, this is a very cathartic way to do it.

Old Tai Po police station

Some are still in commission, some have been converted into hotels (like the former Tai O police station), but the former-colonial police station in Tai Po offers a number of reasons to visit. Guests can enjoy the museum of police history in the New Territories, a zero waste shop with local produce and tasty vegetarian restaurant EatWell Canteen – all ingredients are sourced from their own gardens and Kadoorie Farm. Youngsters can enjoy the garden area and even help to water the plants. The whole site aims to limit its impact on the environment by reducing its carbon footprint. The police station is a short walk from Tai Po Market MTR station.

T-Park

Who knew that sludge could be fun? This state of the art facility in Tuen Mun converts the sludge from the harbour into electric energy for Hong Kong. They regularly run tours of the facility and guests can also enjoy time in the spa pool overlooking Deep Bay, which is also heated via the energy conversion process.

Other highlights are the T-café with sustainable vegetarian cuisine and re-purposed furniture and the T-Sky viewing platform and outdoor habitat which looks across to Shenzhen. Visits must be booked online, and there are shuttle bus services from Tuen Mun V city mall (Tuen Mun MTR exit D). And if you are in this area it is also worth a visit to….

Lau Fau Shan

Try a visit to this wonderful fishing village as a contrast to Sai Kung or Lamma. It also affords you a beautiful sunset due to its location on the north west coast of the New Territories overlooking Shekou and Shenzhen Bay. There are a multitude of fish restaurants serving the freshest seafood. You may have seen the oyster rafts in Deep Bay if you have crossed the Shenzhen Bay bridge into China, but not known what they were. Lau Fau Shan had a booming oyster farming industry but due to pollution and cheaper imports, there are very few now remaining. If you see dried oysters for sale in Hong Kong, very often they have come from Lau Fau Shan. Definitely worth a trip before the industry declines fully.

Sai Yuen Farm, Cheung Chau

At Sai Yuen Farm little ones can enjoy the model boating pond, feeding the goats or spending an hour of tree climbing practice with Climbing Monkeys (four years and above). For older children aged eight and above, there is a 10-meter-high tree-top canopy walk with the thrill of a zip-line to finish, or the option to join a team for barrier archery combat (ages 5+). Teenagers are not forgotten with the Segway course through Devil’s Forest (13 years and above), where the skill is more how to control the vehicle rather than winning races.

In order to get to Cheung Chau go down to Pier Number 5 on Hong Kong Island, next to the Star Ferry. There are slow ferry and fast ferry services leaving every 30 minutes. If you have the time I would recommend the deluxe upgrade on the slow ferry so you can enjoy the scenery open-air at the back of the boat.

Find more fantastic places for outdoor play and exploration in this post!

Noon Day Gun

Think loud… even though you know the exact time this 3 lb gun goes bang, it doesn’t stop you jumping out of your skin! The Noon Day Gun has been fired by an employee of Jardine Mathesons since the 1860’s (with a brief gap during the second world war). This salute should have been reserved for senior naval officers when entering the harbour, however, the Jardine Matheson private militia would salute their own Taipans when they arrived from sea.  As a penalty they were given the task of firing the noon day gun in perpetuity. The gun used to be louder in fact, the 6 lb version was replaced in 1967 and sits outside the former Marine Headquarters, Hullet House in Tsim Sha Tsui.

Monkey Mountain, Kam Shan Country Park 

At weekends you will find many visitors to the car park along Tai Po Road. This is a known hang-out for the monkeys of Hong Kong (a hybrid of the long-tailed and golden Macaque). They were first introduced in the 1950’s as a natural way of controlling the spread of poisonous vines in the New Territories that could affect the fresh water in the Shing Mun reservoir. However their population has boomed and there are now over 1,800. They are super smart – you may spot them tearing the rubber lining from cars who have been brave enough to park there with food inside. At weekends you will also find volunteers making sure the monkeys are not fed unhealthy snacks and treats by well-wishers.

Find more ideas for easy hikes in this post.

We’ve got more inspiration of cool things to do in Hong Kong in this post and fantastic family days out in this post!

Amy Overy is a certified private tour guide in Hong Kong and founder of Hong Kong Greeters Tours. They have been helping people fall in love with Hong Kong since 2012… leaving them with special memories, seeing and doing things they would never have expected, and of course having lots of fun! Hong Kong Greeters are top rated on TripAdvisor and can offer tours in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Mandarin, Russian and Cantonese.

Let’s Get Quizzical: Best Quiz Nights

Who doesn’t love a good pub quiz night? The incredibly popular UK pub fixture can also be found in several watering holes in Hong Kong, where you can test your trivia knowledge almost every day of the week. Some are goofy, some are serious (no mobile phones!) but each one is fun. Remember it’s not about who wins, it’s about hanging out with friends and having a good time…right?

White Stag does one of the more popular ones in the city, with quiz nights twice a week (Sunday and Monday from 7.30pm), where the winner gets a round of drinks. Questions are fairly easy and laughter always abounds.

Where: G/F, The Broadway, 54-62 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai

Contact: 2866 4244 or staghead@netvigator.com

Rummin Tings, the bustling Caribbean bar in Central, does theirs every Monday at 8.00pm, when teams battle it out for $500 worth of bar vouchers. Losers get a free shot of rum, so it’s not all bad.

Where: G/F, 28 Hollywood Road, Central

Contact: 2523 7070 or info@rummintings.hk

Tuesdays at 8.00pm load up on British pub grub while seeing just how good your general knowledge is at Trafalgar. Everyone’s a winner here, with prizes for all teams that take part, and a jackpot prize of bar vouchers worth $500 for the winning team.

Where: 5/F, The Broadway, 54-62 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai

Contact: 2110 1535 or info@trafalgar.com.hk

Mr and Mrs Fox hosts a bi-monthly quiz (check their Facebook page for dates and times) with some choice prizes like dinner vouchers, bottles of booze, a $1,000 bar tab and a trophy to show off at work the next day.

Where: 23 Tong Chong Street, Quarry Bay

Contact: 2697 8500 or dine@mrmrsfox.com

McSorley’s runs a quiz night every first and third Wednesday of the month at 8.00pm. It´s always packed with the post-work Central crowd who love a good meat pie, trivia and bagging a dinner voucher prize, for more of those tasty pies down the road.

Where: G/F, 46 Staunton Street, Soho, Central

Contact: 2385 5515 or soho@mcsorleys.com.hk

Old Wan Chai favourite The Queen Victoria does a Monday pub quiz at 8.30pm with rotating categories every week like ‘world leaders’, ‘royalty’ and a video round. Like most of the other quizzes, $500 in bar vouchers is up for grabs, and even those who don’t win still get a little something.

Where: 108 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai

Contact: 2529 7800 or thequeenvictoriahk@gmail.com

Hong Kong’s Got Talent: Open Mic Nights

If you think you’re pretty funny, show your stuff with other budding comics at an open mic night, or sit back and have some laughs while others have a go. More of a Shakespeare than a Seinfeld? There’s an open mic night for poets too.

Yes, Hong Kong has its own comedy scene, and if you weren’t aware, BAR109’s Comedy Open Mic Mondays (in English) is a great introduction. Entry is free, drinks are cheap, and it’s pretty darn funny to witness the city’s comics testing out their latest material. Every first and third Tuesday of the month, Cantonese speakers get a dose of comedy at the Chinese Comedy Open Mic. Either way, give it a go – there’s a free beer in it for you if you go on stage.

Where: 109 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai

Contact: 2861 3336 or all@bar109.com

Champs Restaurant and Bar at The Charterhouse Hotel holds comedy nights once a month, with some recognised comedic talent having graced the stage such as Dwayne Perkins, Barry Hilton and Tom Cotter. Decent pub food and beer, plus plenty of hilarity, means you’re in for a good night out.

Where: 209-219 Wan Chai Road

Contact: 2833 5566 or info@charterhouse.com

If once in a while isn’t funny enough for you, TakeOut Comedy Club does comedy all the time. In fact, it’s billed as the first full-time comedy club in Asia. Various comedians from around the world pass through here to do shows, and there’s also an open mic night every Tuesday at 8.00pm. It’s free to perform, or $50 to just observe and chuckle with a cold one.

Where: Basement, 34 Elgin Street, Soho, Central

Contact: 6220 4436 or jami@takeoutcomedy.com

For a spot of prose during the evening, head to Social Room in Central with Peel Street Poetry. The local poetry and spoken word collective meets weekly for open mic readings at 8.00pm. Everyone is welcome, so let your inner poet shine.

Where: 3/F, Won Hing Building, 74-78 Stanley Street, Central

Contact: 2915 0373 or sroomhk@gmail.com

Drinking Games

Who said bar games are just darts and foosball? Hong Kong bars have bowling, crazy golf and other activities for those who like their beer with a some physical entertainment, and even old-school arcades and plain old board games for chilled-out folk.

You’ll quickly become a regular at Tikitiki Bowling Bar, if not for the lively bowling at their ‘Krakatoa Lanes’, then for the gorgeous Polynesian interior and cool tropical cocktails. The lanes come alive with bright lights and a visually engaging video wall, with lots of room for a group of friends to take turns playing. Head out to the restaurant area after for island-style food and live music.

Where: 4/F, Centro, 1A Chui Tong Road, Sai Kung

Contact: 2657 8488 or reservations-tbb@urban-ent.com

Strokes is a 9,000 sq-ft crazy golf venue and bar/restaurant, where the food is actually restaurant-quality. The ‘green’ and ‘guilty’ food menus offer lots of options far from nachos and wings, plus delicious cocktails and artisan drinks. Take them in the retro lounge in between games of crazy golf played on one of the bright courses – ‘Palm Springs’ or ‘Coachella Valley’ – featuring loop-the-loops, tunnels and ball jumps.

Where: G2-3, 1/F, Fashion Walk, 9 Kingston Street, Causeway Bay

Contact: 2877 1800 or booking@strokeshk.com

‘Life is like a carnival, enjoy it!’ say the gang behind the Tsim Sha Tsui venue Carnival that houses lots of gaming fun under one roof, with booze to boot. Drinks are served on festive mini merry-go-rounds and Ferris Wheels, and the overall ambiance is, well, carnivalesque, with bright lighting, bouncy music and interactive games like beer pong, and craps tables with LED lighting.

Where: 6/F, 8 Observatory Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon

Contact: 3705 3985 or info@carnivalbar.com

Bedecked in cool graffiti and tucked away on the third floor of Lyndhurst Terrace is HQ by Terrace Concepts, boasting a large space with plenty of gaming options to go along with drinks and nibbles. Play a game of pool, a round of flip or slap cup, or relive the 80s in their dedicated arcade zone, where a highlight is the Mario Kart video game in which multiple players can take the wheel.

Where: 3/F, 1 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central

Contact:2602 7118 or info@hqbar.hk

It may sound dull to some, but hey, some of us like an old-fashioned board game. Odd Boardgame Bar & Cafe caters to those who like their Jenga with a pint, or a tipsy game of Scrabble. Try spelling out those big words over a round of shots, smart guy.

Where: 12/F, Hanway Commercial Center, 36 Dundas Street, Mong Kok

Contact: 9884 5776

Boozy Bands: Where to Catch Live Music

There are times when you fancy a smooth whisky and some jazz, or a stiff drink with loud guitar. Aren’t you lucky, then, that Hong Kong has an eclectic mix of bars with live music on almost every day of the week for all tastes.

The Wanch has been kicking it in Wan Chai since 1987. It’s the kind of place that is anything but pretentious, where you know the music will be raw, you can dance without caring what anyone else thinks, and are guaranteed to make some new mates. The live acts rotate and are often cover bands, but once in awhile there’ll be a real gem thrown into the mix, with bands coming from all over the world to perform.

Where: 54 Jaffe Road, Wan Chai

Contact: 2861 1621 or thewanch@live.com

If you ask anyone in Hong Kong if they know of a good bar in Kowloon, they will most likely say there’s a place in Tsim Tsa Shui that has great jazz. That place is Ned Kelly’s Last Stand, and the music is rousing Dixieland and New Orleans jazz. Greats like Rosemary Clooney and Sergio Mendes have all graced the stage here at some point, and nowadays the China Coast Jazzmen, led by Colin Aitchison, keeps them entertained. All lovers of music should come here.

Where: 12 Ashley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui

Contact: 2376 0562

One of the city’s most celebrated music locales has gone through some changes. Orange Peel is now BB Jazz Lounge and is members-only. This does make sharing the love of live music a bit harder, but membership has some perks: buy a bottle of your favourite cognac or whisky and they’ll put your name on it, so you can come in whenever you like and enjoy it. The swank club (serving items like oysters and caviar for snacks) brings in some of the top names in jazz in a very relaxed and chic setting.

Where: 2/F, Ho Lee Commercial Building, 38-44 D’Aguilar Street, Central

Contact: 2641 2880 or info@bbjazzlounge.com

Foxglove

Another sophisticated jazz venue, this time disguised as an umbrella shop. Foxglove goes after the feel of drinking dens of the 1950s and offers a rare selection of cognac and spirits. The speakeasy serves superb cocktails and French bistro-style food in a stunning interior: gorgeous leather chairs and dim lighting invite you to relax against a sweet backdrop of live music ranging from jazz to Latin.

Where: G/F, 18 Ice House Street / 6 Duddell Street, Central

Contact: 2116 8949 or reservation@foxglovehk.com

Gecko IB Whisky & Live Jazz

Jazz and whisky go hand in hand at Gecko IB Whisky & Live Jazz bar in Central. It’s intimate, meaning you’ll often be fighting for space with a saxophonist, but that’s part of the charm. After midnight, a DJ spins a different kind of sound to mix things up a bit.

Where: LG/F, Au’s Building, Ezra’s Lane, Central

Contact: 2855 9533 or jiwan@dragonace.com.hk

Fire Up the Shisha

You’ve no doubt walked through a cloud of shisha smoke on a night out in Lan Kwai Fong. The sweet-smelling flavoured tobacco smoked in eye-catching glass pipes (also called hookahs) is enjoyed in parts of the world like the Middle East, and Hong Kong has its share of bars for sitting back and puffing away.

Probably the only shisha joint that serves bubble tea, Boba Bear started in Los Angeles´ Koreatown and has since set up shop in Seoul, and here in Causeway Bay. Shisha smoking is a serious affair at Boba Bear, with tailored pipes to choose from depending on how strong you like your pull, special add ons, and a myriad of flavours ranging from blueberry muffin to spiced chai.

Where:  30/F, 38 Yiu Wa Street, Causeway Bay

Contact: 2618 6907 or info@bobabear.com

Vibes at The Mira is a fave bar/lounge for spreading out with a group of friends in the large open-air terrace, or having an intimate one-one-one evening in a private cabana. Lotus-shaped open fire pits, running waterways and bamboo groves will make you feel like you’re sitting in a sort of paradise, which becomes Middle Eastern-esque with belly dancing entertainment, mezze platters and shisha. Prices are steep, but at least the service is attentive (they change the charcoal frequently) and the tobacco flavours are minty and fruity fresh.

Where: 5/F, The Mira, 118 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui

Contact: 2315 5999 or vibes@themirahotel.com

Lilya brings Morocco to Hong Kong in so many wonderful ways, from the delicious tagine to a glorious wall of bright babouches (Moroccan slippers) inside. The Middle Eastern decor is straight out of Marrakesh, with short lounge tables, mosaics and silk patterned pillows. Cocktails are served in photo-worthy drinking vessels and shisha is smoked while relaxing on velvet pouffes on the terrace, in tropical flavours like pineapple and coconut.

Where: 2/F, 77 Wyndham Street, Central

Contact: 2526 2578

A prime spot for people watching from the balcony overlooking the packed streets of Lan Kwai Fong while unwinding with some shisha, Otto Lounge has sugary sweet picks like gummy bear tobacco served in Lavoo shishas. The hand-blown glass shishas are unlike the tall shisha pipe, instead low-lying in design, which apparently provides a smoother flavour. As well, it means there’s no towering shisha pipe getting in the way of conversation with friends, or checking out the animated scenery a night in LKF often brings.

Where: 4/F, 15-16 Grand Progress Building, Lan Kwai Fong

Contact: 6627 7499 or info@ottolounge.com

Drinking and Diving: Pool Parties

No, we don’t condone swimming while under the influence. We’re talking about pool parties, Hong Kong-style! This means rooftop pools with wicked views and beach-side settings boasting exquisite vistas, all equipped with top-notch bars.

Every summer, The W Hong Kong splashes out with the mother of all pool parties, and this year they’re back with the X Summer Crush Pool Party. It takes place on four dates (June 23, July 14, August 11 and September 1) with the famous WET rooftop pool, 211 meters above ground on the 76th floor, as the backdrop. Panoramic city and harbour views, DJs, Champagne, cocktails, a playful augmented reality photo booth, dazzling live performances and a poolside BBQ await.

Where: W Hong Kong, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon Station, Kowloon

Contact: 3717 2783 or happenings.hk@whotels.com

On Hong Kong’s southside, Cabana is an inviting luxury beach club with an outdoor bar and plenty of sunbeds to lounge on while taking in soothing views of the sea. The spacious (10,000 sq ft) open-air rooftop is just the ticket for some repose, where you can soak up your worries in one of the tranquil Japanese baths, or crawl away with a book in a private cabana.

Where: East Wing, L2, Shop 216, The Pulse, Beach Road 28, Repulse Bay

Contact: 2889 5939 or cabana@lecomptoir.hk

Still not sure what to do this weekend? Let us help with our comprehensive guide to what’s on around Hong Kong!

Nancy Matos is a lifestyle and culture writer from Vancouver, Canada currently based in Hong Kong and London, who always makes time for a pub quiz.

The History

The building sits in one of the first areas of Hong Kong to have been colonized by the British. Many of the original colonial buildings in this area were demolished long ago to make way for new development, but the former Police Station stands as a testament to the Hong Kong of days gone by. Tai Kwun is made up of a cluster of declared monuments including the former Central Police Station, Central Magistracy and Victoria Prison.

The Space

The building underwent an 8-year, $3.8 billion dollar renovation headed by the Hong Kong Jockey Club in what is the biggest and most expensive heritage conservation project the city has seen.

16 buildings of former Central Police Station and Victoria Prison were included in the revitilisation project. Some of the buildings are more than 150 years old and hold a wealth of Hong Kong’s cultural memory and heritage.

The renovation has updated the space while still maintaining many of the historical features. Some prison cells in the building were left as is so visitors can see them, as has the original prison yard where high profile inmates such as Ho Chi Minh – leader of Vietnamese independence would have spent time. A 60 year old mango tree was also left untouched at the demands of the HK Police Force.

In addition to the gallery and exhibit space, Tai Kwun also contains some 12 bars and restaurants as well as shops such as local ceramics company Loveramics and Yuen’s Tailor which was employed to make ceremonial uniforms for the police force.

What’s On

The Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts opened with its inaugural exhibit: “100 Faces of Tai Kwun” which is set to run through 2 September

With an array of narratives, memoirs and anecdotes on display, ‘100 Faces of Tai Kwun’ features stories of ex-officers, ex-offenders, shop owners, kaifongs (neighbors in Cantonese), and scholars etc, unfolding the intricate network of interpersonal relationships in the neighborhood and their perspectives of the CPS compound.

In addition, the exhibition has set up a “mini Central” in the exhibition using the contours of the tenement buildings (tong laus) and signboards from different eras in Central to interpret an old Central streetscape with elements of modern designs and celebrate the legends of the historic community.

Local illustrator, Flyingpig, was invited to present the various tales. He created the illustrations for the exhibition as well as a new book, Once Upon a Time in Tai Kwun based on the 100 stories of the Central kaifongs.

A series of other free programs will run from 29 May and will include theatre performances, singing, film screening, musical performances and art exhibits. Find out the full programme and follow along to find the details of future events on the Tai Kwun website or their Facebook page.

Note: In order to preserve the historical integrity of the building, event organizers have set up a timed entry system. Members of the public who wish to visit should apply for a timed entry ticket on the event website and plan to use public transportation if at all possible as parking near Tai Kwun is likely to be quite scarce.

Looking for fun things to do in Hong Kong? Check out our what’s on guide here!

Today, Danny has a roof over his head, a community of professionals committed to his wellbeing, a part-time job that enables him to serve other homeless individuals, and – with an address and resume to his name – the hope of full-time employment in the coming months. Danny has a second chance at life, thanks to the compassion and commitment of hero to the homeless, Jeff Rotmeyer.

Meet Jeff

Jeff, a Canadian-born English teacher who moved to Hong Kong twelve years ago, is the founder of Impact HK – a one-year old NGO that supports and empowers the homeless. Already the founder of a charity for the Down Syndrome and autistic community, his desire to help the homeless began in 2014 when a friend opened his eyes to the plight of street sleepers in Sham Shui Po. Distraught by what he learned that day, Jeff embarked on a monthly ‘kindness walk’ and invited friends to join him. It wasn’t long before Hong Kong’s huge-hearted community got wind of this simple yet powerful way to serve the needy. Impact HK was born and now there are at least 30 walks per month in five locations across the city.

Every day, volunteers meet with the homeless and hand out food, toiletries, free laundry coupons and other necessities. Most importantly, they offer the one thing that could’ve saved these individuals from the streets in the first place: connection.

Jeff explains: “People become homeless for many reasons, but I’ve seen one commonality: they have zero connections. They don’t have best friends and they don’t have family members strong enough to stop them from becoming homeless in the first place. We do the kindness walks to build trust. Once we have their trust, we build friendship. Once we have friendship… well, you wouldn’t let your friend sleep outside on the street, would you?”

Positive Friendships; Positive Futures

There are currently more than 1,000 registered street sleepers in Hong Kong, according to Government statistics. These figures exclude the numerous homeless individuals that aren’t registered as homeless. Recent reports indicate a growing number of street sleepers are employed but can’t afford the city’s astronomical rents.

Impact HK’s goal is to provide the homeless with a connection to friends, society and a safe and comfortable home. When their homeless friends show willingness and commitment to take the leap, the charity endeavors to raise funds to give them a home. Impact HK pays a two-month deposit, one month’s rent and the real estate fee for an apartment, which, in total, adds up to approximately $62,000. Their once-homeless friend is empowered to continue paying rent through part-time employment as Community Helpers at the Guestroom, the charity’s new day care in Tai Kok Tsu. Their job is to serve and show kindness to the 400+ homeless people in the surrounding area, which gives them a sense of pride and helps with their rehabilitation.

At the Guest Room – where the homeless have access to food, clothing, toiletries, towels and a shower across the street – Community Helpers receive a one-year rehabilitation program in the form of counseling, nutrition guidance, financial advice and mentorship.

“The individuals on the street are in incredible pain. Being homeless in Hong Kong is extremely difficult and destructive. There’s the pain that they suffer while they’re homeless and there’s the pain they had that led them to homelessness. To expect that individual to jump into a full-time job is ridiculous. What we do is provide a stepping stone with love, kindness and opportunity to really give them a holistic transformation and rehabilitation,” Jeff explains.

Earlier this month, Jeff and his team homed and hired their tenth Community Helper. CK had been living on a footbridge in Sham Shui Po, the poorest area in the city.

“CK is a gentleman I’ve known for a year. He has shown that he is ready for the change. I don’t have the funds for him but I’m going to do this anyway. We’ll find a way to raise the money,” he shares.

The Power of Numbers

Jeff is calling on the generosity of Hong Kongers to raise funds essential to rehabilitate CK and the many homeless people who are ready to take the leap with the charity’s help.

In addition to financial support, Jeff hopes more volunteers will step up and serve. More walk leaders are needed to oversee the kindness walks, as are more counsellors, mentors, sports coaches, and kind individuals to help out at the Guest Room.

“We’ve only been able to get to where we are through the power of numbers. People in Hong Kong are willing to serve; they truly care about making a difference. Every single person has their own piece of a puzzle that they can offer to this,” he says.

From Collaboration to Job Creation

With the commitment of partners and volunteers, Jeff is setting the wheels in motion for a massive job creation movement within three key industries: painting, second hand clothing and recycling.

By the end of summer, Jeff will launch the Second Coat Painting Company, where Community Helpers will receive training and salaries to paint residential and commercial properties and – partnering with Habitat for Humanity – paint senior homes.

Given how many packages of clothing the charity receives every day, Jeff also plans to establish a second-hand clothing store. Manned by Community Helpers, a pair of jeans will come with an affordable price tag of no more than $10 – a far cry from the prices existing second-hand stores charge the seniors in Sham Shui Po who are desperate for second hand clothing.

“Our employees will be those that were once homeless and are in our rehabilitation program. It’s a triple whammy: wages, clothing and hiring people that need jobs! We’re giving people the opportunity to work; we’re building up their experience; and we’re giving them an address.

Through multiple connections, we will empower them, rehabilitate them and give them their second chance at life.”

Visit Impact HK’s website here to learn more about their work and what you an do to support them. 

Angela Kaur Baura is the founder and chief storyteller at Inkspirer – a content writing consultancy that collaborates with editors and entrepreneurs to empower individuals on their life journey. As a content writer and communications strategist, she has two decades of experience writing stories worth telling for global and local brands across Asia, the US and the UK.