Hong Kong neighbourhood guides

Lantau, the largest of Hong Kong’s many islands, is no longer a remote district frequented only by travellers with suitcases and trail runners with neon gear. The island – which encompasses villages such as Mui Wo and Tai O, as well as the new town of Tung Chung – is dynamic and diverse, offering something for everyone. Find your ultimate outdoor adventure, explore Hong Kong’s lesser-known history, plan a serene staycation or finally check out those tourist hotspots you’ve always been meaning to see. If you’re planning to visit this outlying district, here are our recommendations for the best things to do, eat and see while you’re there. By Yvonne Lau RECOMMENDED: After exploring this massive island, check out some of the other incredible things to do in Hong Kong.

Half-an-hour away from Central lies Peng Chau, one of Hong Kong’s most adorable outer islands and somewhere well off the beaten tourist track. With scenic treks, ancient relics, traditional temples, strong community vibes and no cars in sight, stepping ashore on this tranquil island feels like travelling back in time to old Hong Kong. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel as if you can breathe easier. There’s an undeniable energy to this island that exudes serenity and forces you to slow down. Follow our guide for all the best things to do and eat on Peng Chau! By Sarah Moran

Sandwiched between the bright lights of Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok, Yau Ma Tei is often unfairly overlooked. But this nabe happens to be home to iconic street markets, some of the city’s oldest restaurants and an eclectic mix of other renowned restaurants. Here’s a round up of all the must-see gems in Yau Ma Tei.

Known for being Hong Kong’s business and financial quarter, Central might seem a bit of bore at first, at least compared to hipper neighbourhoods like Sheung Wan or Sham Shui Po. But we’re here to dispute that. This is the place where you can find some of the best bars not just in Hong Kong but Asia. Central is a hub for stellar, world-class contemporary art galleries as well as restaurants. There’s quite a lot to pack in, but here’s just a taste of some of the best things to see, do and eat in Central.

As the world’s busiest and most densely populated urban district in the world, packing an average of 130,000 people into every square kilometre, it should come to no surprise that Mong Kok is full of hidden gems. Aside from being a famous shopping destination with massive shopping malls and street markets, the neighbourhood is home to themed cafés and a whole host of spectacular local eateries. Don’t know where to start? Read on...

Think that Mid-Levels is only a residential hub? Think again. Mid-Levels is facing a cultural renaissance, as it transforms into a hip new neighbourhood with artisanal cafés and eateries, as well as museums and gorgeous parks where a wide range of wildlife live. There’s something here for everyone and secret getaways are hidden behind bushes and foliage, just minutes away from the urban grid-locked streets of Central. Read on to find out what to do in this area. By Karl Lam and Olivia Lai 

There are more than 250 islands within Hong Kong’s territory. But thanks to its (in)famous bun festival, Cheung Chau is one of the most well-known of our SAR’s outlying islands. And why not? The isle offers some picturesque cycling routes, is a foodie paradise and is home to an increasing number of hipster cafés and hidden shops too. So hop on a ferry armed with this guide and discover all the best things to do and eat in Cheung Chau.

Despite being literally one of the busiest and most tourist-packed areas in Hong Kong – the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Avenue of Stars and waterfront promenade alone attracts thousands of visitors every day – you shouldn’t let the crowds put you off from visiting this fun Kowloon ‘hood. Aside from being home to numerous shopping malls and flagship stores for all your favourite brands, TST is packed with top quality and Michelin-starred restaurants, hidden hipster shops and some of the best rooftop bars in town. Let us guide you through all the best experiences and things to do in Tsim Sha Tsui. 

Tourists flock to Stanley on a daily basis to enjoy the quaint seaside neighbourhood’s famous shopping market and sandy beaches. But the coastal town is more than just a tourist trap. There are great al fresco restaurants, leisurely hikes and even a quality dai pai dong offering one of the best varieties of french toast in Hong Kong. Read on to discover the best of Stanley and to remind yourself why it’s worth going south. 

Since Sheung Wan reached its allotted quota of cool, Sai Ying Pun, helped by the arrival of the extended Island Line in 2015, has become Hong Kong’s new hipster central. Much like its neighbouring part of town, this trendy part of Western District is home to a number of brilliant cafés and coffee shops, as well as fantastic international cuisine, from Spanish to Korean fried chicken. And that’s not all. SYP is also home to some of the trendiest art galleries in Hong Kong, ones which are much less stuffy than the ones around Hollywood Road. Interested? Read on to discover the best things to do and the best places to eat in Sai Ying Pun.