Your ultimate guide to Hong Kong

The days of bracing yourself for crossing the dreaded mainland Chinese borders are soon to be over. If you’ve ever spent a humid public holiday morning standing in a line that seems to stretch into the next decade, you’ll know the feeling of a day trip being overshadowed by the sheer volume of the crowds and the long wait at the borders. The good news is, a high-tech overhaul at the redeveloped Huanggang Port is set to finally ditch the drama and significantly improve the way we cross. According to the latest updates from the Legislative Council and secretary for security Chris Tang, the new facility is moving to a collaborative inspection and joint clearance mode. This means the new Huanggang Port building will house both Hong Kong and mainland authorities under one roof, allowing passengers to clear both jurisdictions in a single location. This streamlined setup is expected to turn a slow half-hour shuffle across the Chinese border into a smooth five-minute transit. The new port will be equipped with 134 automated e-channels and 68 traditional manual counters. For those using the e-channels, there are two ways to navigate – document-reading takes a quick scan of your papers, followed by facial and fingerprint verification. Alternatively, contactless face-scanning uses facial recognition to retrieve your information before you proceed to a final scan and fingerprint capture. Eligibility for these systems depends on your age and residency status. The document-reading process will be open to Hong Kong residents aged seven or above and holders of the home-return permit, mainland travel permit, and those registered for the mainland e‑channel. For the face-scanning procedure, the minimum age is 14 or above and requires no physical travel document after a one-time registration. Photograph: Courtesy Aedas Drivers are also getting an upgrade with a dedicated joint one-stop lane. Instead of the current staggered inspections, a single integrated device will collect the driver’s body temperature, travel document data, facial image, and fingerprints all at once. This information is instantly transmitted to both Hong Kong and Shenzhen authorities for concurrent inspection. While the driver remains in the vehicle, passengers in private cars and cross-boundary coaches will still be required to disembark and use the main clearance halls. As for the timeline, officials are to have the new checkpoint fully operational by the time the current administration wraps up in 2027. Once it is in full operation, the stress of the holiday border rush should finally be a thing of the past, leaving you with more time to actually enjoy your trip. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Hong Kong Cinema Day is back with $30 movie tickets for one day only Hong Kong airport now limits passengers to carrying two power banks each Mandarin Oriental The Landmark is finally reopening this June

Between the price of movie tickets and the expensive bucket of popcorn that you’ll probably finish in the first 10 minutes anyway, a simple trip to the cinema can really do some damage to your wallet. If you’ve been meaning to catch a movie on the silver screen but the thought of a $100+ ticket makes you wince, just know that Cinema Day is back on April 25, meaning you can pick up tickets for any film at any participating cinema in Hong Kong for just $30. Organised by the Hong Kong Theatres Association as part of the Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival 2026, the initiative is a massive thank you to the public for their continued support of local cinema. Whether you are looking to catch a blockbuster in Causeway Bay or an indie flick in Kennedy Town, the deal covers all films (apart from private screenings and special programmes) at various commercial cinemas across the city. This includes: Bestarfilm Cinemas, Broadway Circuit, CGV Cinema, Chinachem Cinema, Cineart Cinemas, Cinema City, Emperor Cinemas, Golden Scene Cinema, Lumen Cinema, Lux Theatre, MCL Cinemas, Newport Circuit, Sunbeam Whampoa (applicable to VIP house, though food and beverages will not be provided).  Tickets for Cinema Day are set to go on sale at 12pm on April 22. You can grab yours by heading down to the box offices in person, or online via various cinema websites and mobile apps (except Lux Theatre). Just keep in mind that there is a limit of four tickets per person for those queuing up at the counter, and online bookings will be subject to the usual rules of each cinema. Tickets get snatched up real quick each year, so make sure you’re ready to hit that refresh button the moment noon rolls around! Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Hong Kong airport now limits passengers to carrying two power banks each Mandarin Oriental The Landmark is finally reopening this June Netflix increases Hong Kong subscription prices across all plans

How many portable chargers do you usually travel with? If the answer is more than two, then you might want to do a quick check of your carry-on before hitting the departure gate. The Civil Aviation Department (CAD) has just updated their safety protocols, and all passengers flying out of Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) are now limited to carrying only two power banks with them. Under this new regulation, using portable chargers to charge devices mid-flight or recharging the batteries themselves via the plane’s USB ports is also strictly prohibited. Passengers must ensure their two permitted units are kept in carry-on bags only and stay within the 100Wh capacity limit, though some airlines may allow up to 160Wh with prior approval. The clampdown, which comes in alignment with the updated International Civil Aviation Organisation guidelines (ICAO), is a direct attempt to prevent ‘thermal runaway’, a volatile state where a damaged or overheating lithium battery can catch fire and spread rapidly in a pressurised cabin. This builds on previous restrictions introduced in 2025 after several lithium battery-related incidents. The ICAO’s global push is about limiting total risk from multiple high-energy devices in one cabin, especially on long-haul flights or with families and tech-heavy travellers who might otherwise carry more. Despite the safety logic, the transition hasn’t been smooth for everyone, with recent reports suggesting a fair amount of confusion on the ground. Many passengers arrived at check-in completely unaware of the updated limits, as the CAD issued the circular with immediate effect and no grace period. While major carriers like Cathay Pacific, HK Express, and Hong Kong Airlines have since started adding warnings at check-in and online, the initial rollout left some travellers scrambling to decide which of their expensive gadgets to surrender to security before being allowed to board. Our advice? Always double-check your bags before leaving home, check with your airline for any carrier-specific rules that you’re unsure of, and visit the official HKIA website or your airline’s page for the latest updates before you fly. Safe travels – and if your battery doesn’t quite make the distance, at least you can finally finish that book you’ve been “reading” for six months. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Mandarin Oriental The Landmark is finally reopening this June Netflix increases Hong Kong subscription prices across all plans See how we liked Le Le, the newest addition to Hong Kong’s Vietnamese restaurant scene

Mandarin Oriental The Landmark, Hong Kong is back with a new look – and it’s not just a lick of paint and some new cushions. Reopening its doors on June 1, the hotel has undergone a total transformation, with a renewed arrival experience, refreshed rooms and suites, and expanded culinary and wellness offerings.   Photograph: Courtesy Mandarin Oriental The Landmark, Hong Kong   Guests will immediately notice the difference when stepping through the brand-new entrance, now located on Queen’s Road Central. Designed by local interior architect Joyce Wang, the arrival foyer is a nod to the heritage of Hong Kong’s grand residences. Taking cues from the façades and gardens of historic structures such as Yu Yuen and Tai Fu Tai Mansion in the New Territories, the space sees a blend of Qing dynasty and Western influences, swapping cold marble for warm terracotta tones and deep greens. A curved stone staircase leads guests up to an intimate lobby lounge, with the ascent lined by commissioned artworks that reflect the city’s skyline and energy. Photograph: Courtesy Mandarin Oriental The Landmark, Hong Kong Upstairs, the 109 rooms and suites have also been given a major makeover by Wang. Starting at 42sqm, the L450 rooms have been stripped back and lightened with timber floors, silk wall coverings, and custom rugs inspired by historic brickwork patterns found across the city. The hotel’s signature curved glass bathrooms and seven-foot round bathtubs remain in the larger L600 rooms, but the textiles have been upgraded to 530-thread-count linen. For those looking to host, the Entertainment Suite now features a state-of-the-art entertainment wall, a kitchen decked out in Gaggenau appliances, and a climate-controlled sleep system for anyone who takes their shut-eye seriously. Photograph: Courtesy Mandarin Oriental The Landmark, Hong Kong On the food front, the hotel remains a culinary juggernaut with seven Michelin stars under one roof. Culinary director Richard Ekkebus continues to steer the ship at the hotel’s flagship restaurant Amber – which holds three Michelin stars and a Michelin green star for sustainability – while welcoming the addition of The Cellar Immersion, a new “immersive food and wine journey” tucked inside the restaurant’s cellar. Elsewhere on the floor, you’ll find three-Michelin-starred Sushi Shikon and Michelin-starred Kappo Rin, alongside the contemporary French bistro Somm. New to the line-up is Blanc De Noirs, a dedicated champagne bar, and Commune, an artisan coffee atelier in the lobby perfect for a quick caffeine fix or a relaxing afternoon of expertly crafted coffee. Photograph: Courtesy Mandarin Oriental The Landmark, Hong Kong While the rooms and restaurants open this June, the wellness side of things will follow shortly after, with the spa set to unveil its new look in July. Designed as a hub offering contemporary therapies, holistic healing techniques, and fitness experiences, there’s everything from yoga, pilates, and gyrotonic to a sparkling lap pool and traditional hammam and rasul rituals. If you fancy being one of the first through the doors, the hotel is running an exclusive ‘A Taste of the Next’ opening offer for stays between June 1 and November 30, 2026 (bookings must be made by August 31). Rates for L600 rooms start from $7,200 per night and include a daily dining credit of $3,000, while suites come with a $5,000 credit. Call 2132 0188 or email lmhkg-reservations@mohg.com for reservations, or visit mandarinoriental.com for more info. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Netflix increases Hong Kong subscription prices across all plans See how we liked Le Le, the newest addition to Hong Kong’s Vietnamese restaurant scene Hong Kong International Airport has been named best in the world at Global Travel Awards 2026

If your weekend plans usually involve sinking into your sofa while catching up on the latest K-drama, then you might not want to hear that your next Netflix binge is about to cost a little more. The streaming giant is upping prices across all three of its subscription tiers in Hong Kong, marking the first time the platform has adjusted its local rates since April 2024. Depending on your plan, you’re looking at an increase that ranges between 6.8 percent and 11.4 percent. Subscribers on the basic plan will have to dish out $78 per month instead of $73. Those on the standard plan will see their monthly bill rise from $88 to $98, while the top-tier premium plan has climbed from $108 to $118. Even the cost of adding an extra member to your account has been adjusted, moving up to $31 per month from the previous $28 for each person living outside your household.  If you’re an existing subscriber, expect to see an email about the new rates one month before your next billing cycle. As for new users, these prices are effective immediately. The platform stated that the price changes are to reflect local market conditions, such as tax adjustments or inflation, and to continue funding its ever-expanding library of content. For comparison, a monthly subscription to Disney+ currently starts at $81 for its standard plan, while Apple TV remains one of the more affordable options at $68 per month, and HBO Max’s standard plan sits in the middle at $78 per month. So, while a few extra dollars each month might not break the bank, you might want to ask yourself if the latest season of your favourite show is worth the extra $10... or are we just one more ‘minor adjustment’ away from making us all nostalgic for the days of Pirate Bay? Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: See how we liked Le Le, the newest addition to Hong Kong’s Vietnamese restaurant scene Hong Kong International Airport has been named best in the world at Global Travel Awards 2026 One OK Rock’s May 2026 Hong Kong concerts have been cancelled

If your usual choices when it comes to Vietnamese cuisine is typically bánh mì and phở, possibly extending to bún bò Huế, then we’re sorry but you should expand your palate in Southeast Asian flavours. Luckily, there’s a new kid on the block who can help with just that. Enter Le Le, a brand-new restaurant on Lyndhurst Terrace that describes itself as “progressive Vietnamese enriched by Vietnamese-Chinese heritage”. The founder Elizabeth Chu is of Vietnamese-Chinese heritage herself and grew up in Saigon, so this restaurant is very much a passion project that honours the tastes of her childhood. Since Vietnam and China have had a long history of culture exchange and cross-immigration, it only makes sense that both cuisines are deeply entwined – and Le Le’s menu reflects this cultural context with traditional Vietnamese dishes subtly enhanced by Chinese cooking techniques. Photograph: Catharina Cheung Even from the delicately prepared amuse-bouche of flower clam tart with ram and coriander root juice and oyster with pickled garlic, it is immediately apparent that a careful adherence to classic Vietnamese flavours – despite the fancier concept – is the name of the game here.  As a soup lover, I was blown away by Le Le’s reimagining of the phở gà chicken noodle soup, which is prepared with pork bone and Jinhua ham in a siphon coffee maker. If you’ve been paying attention you might ask after the chicken; the answer is that the “noodles” are actually the meat itself, where chicken thigh is pulverised until it can be worked with, with no flour then shaped into the exact width of phở noodles in a touch of culinary genius. It can’t get better than supremely comforting flavours served with a show and a surprise. Photograph: Courtesy Le Le (L) / Catharina Cheung (R) The duck served three ways is also fantastic, showcasing northern Vietnam’s tradition of roast duck which Hongkongers can definitely relate to. 14-day aged, slow-cooked duck with crispy, glazed skin is accompanied by a duck leg sausage spring roll and house-made duck liver pâté – the latter is meant to be eaten with the bánh tiêu savoury doughnuts that come on the side. Foodies in the city know good roast duck when we get them, and this dish, with its slightly tangy mắc mật duck jus and the red vinegar glaze on the crispy duck skin, really hit the spot. Photograph: Courtesy Le Le The main dish comes in a flurry of little plates and containers, presenting brined and smoked pigeon, a small pot of vibrant three-coloured glutinous rice, and a duck bone soup on the side. The tender pigeon pairs perfectly with a dipping sauce of 10-year Chinese black vinegar, coffee, and palm sugar, since its bittersweet notes cut through the gamey richness of the bird. Photograph: Catharina Cheung Even the desserts were standouts, with a lemon balm sorbet served on a bed of yoghurt and fresh, pickled, and candied cucumbers acting as the ideal refresher after heavy flavours. But the best post-meal treat has got to be the bắp rang bơ which was inspired by the traditional Vietnamese snack of buttered popcorn. A Marou chocolate base is topped with corn risotto, brown butter, another layer of corn mousse, and a crunchy crisp for a dessert that reminded me of Japanese corn soup in the best possible way. Photograph: Courtesy Le Le And in case you’re wondering, Le Le takes its name from the whistling duck that’s common in Vietnam. Traces of this bird can be found in Le Le’s space, such as a powdered sugar motif on a dessert or as the cutest ceramic menu holder on the table. The restaurant is currently in its soft launch phase, with the dinner tasting menu priced at a very reasonable $888 and the option to add $498 for wine pairings. Lunch menus will be added soon as well. Le Le has taken over Testina’s old space, and can be found at 3/F, 8 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Hong Kong International Airport has been named best in the world at Global Travel Awards 2026 One OK Rock’s May 2026 Hong Kong concerts have been cancelled Gap is reopening in Hong Kong after a five-year hiatus

2026 Time Out Recommends will make a stronger return this summer, featuring a handpicked selection of 300 local shops, restaurants, and must-visit spots, inviting readers to explore the very best of Hong Kong. This year, Time Out Hong Kong is joining forces with HSBC Reward+ for the first time to roll out Kick-Off Hot Treats, with well-loved local restaurants Sick! Burger and Elephant Grounds offering free treats for a limited time starting in April! During the ‘2026 Time Out Recommends x HSBC Reward+’ campaign period starting in April, simply register your Standalone RewardCash Programme Profile in the HSBC Reward+ app and show your account page (click here for the steps). Then, make any purchase with an eligible credit card to redeem a selected dish or drink from Sick! Burger and Elephant Grounds. Visit the campaign website now for details.  To celebrate outstanding local businesses, Time Out Hong Kong’s editorial team unveils the 2026 Time Out Recommends lists, spanning ‘Things to do’, ‘Restaurants’, ‘Bars’, ‘Cafés and Bakeries’, ‘Cheap Eats’, ‘Shopping’, and ‘Beauty and Wellness’. Look out for the iconic red ‘2026 Time Out Recommends’ stickers at 300 venues – your signpost to the city’s next great destination. The complete lists will be revealed this summer – stay tuned!   T&Cs apply.  To borrow or not to borrow? Borrow only if you can repay!  

The Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has officially been crowned the best airport in the world at the Global Travel Awards 2026. The result comes from a vote where 2.5 million travellers from more than 150 countries across the globe had their say. After years of playing catch-up with top-tier airports in Asia, the Middle East, and other regions, the people have spoken – and they’ve put Hong Kong at the top. What seems to have impressed voters is the airport’s consistently high performance in areas including security processing, aviation infrastructure, passenger services, and continuous enhancement of passenger facilities. The journey through the terminals has become a notably smoother experience, thanks to some snazzy tech upgrades like its facial recognition technology, which now powers fully automated security gates, immigration channels, and boarding gates. Photograph: Cara Hung The airport is also in the middle of a major overhaul of its security screening process, where traditional X-ray channels are being replaced by CT-driven screening. This will also be available at the upcoming Terminal 2 – set to fully open next month – alongside other upgrades of passenger facilities. The Global Travel Awards win was not the only achievement added to the wall this year. HKIA also picked up two significant accolades at the 2026 World Airport Awards by Skytrax. The airport was named the winner for World’s Best Airport Security Processing and, perhaps more impressively, we also took home the title for World’s Best Airport Washrooms. After a total redesign based on “a thorough analysis of passenger behaviour”, the updated facilities now feature interactive elements and improved hygiene standards. Whether or not HKIA stays at the top is another story, but for now, at least you can count on a decent bathroom break before your next long-haul flight. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: One OK Rock’s May 2026 Hong Kong concerts have been cancelled Gap is reopening in Hong Kong after a five-year hiatus Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards returns to Macau for 2026 edition

Sometimes, the world works in mysterious ways that seem to suggest a fundamental incompatibility in people or forces. Unfortunately for Hong Kong fans of the Japanese rock band One OK Rock, this seems to ring true for the musical act and our city, as the alt-rock quartet have just announced the cancellation of the Hong Kong leg of their Detox Asia tour. According to organiser Live Nation, there were “unforeseen circumstances that were outside the control of the artist and the organiser” that couldn’t be resolved despite their best efforts. Usually, this vague statement points towards larger sociopolitical reasons, as can be seen in the recent decline in Sino-Japanese relations since Japanese prime minister Sanae Takaichi took the office – several Japanese artists have since been blocked or boycotted from performing in mainland China as well as its Special Administrative Regions, such as Ayumi Hamasaki’s concert that was supposed to take place in Macau this January. One OK Rock were supposed to perform two nights on May 2 and 3 at the Central Harbourfront, but Live Nation announced on April 9 that the concerts would not be going ahead. Looking back at their supposed string of bad luck with our city, the band have had to cancel their Eye of the Storm concert back in 2020 due to the pandemic, and again in 2023 for their Luxury Disease tour (though the latter event was eventually able to be rescheduled for two months later in December).  It looks like the Detox concert will not be rescheduled, as the organiser has already mentioned refund procedures. Luckily, ticketholders will not have to go through much hassle, as those who have purchased from the official channels of Cityline, Trip.com, and Damai will be refunded in full, with the payment automatically deposited back into the same credit card or digital payment method used for ticket purchases. There is no need to make refund requests through any platform, and the refunding process will take approximately six to eight weeks for Cityline, and seven to 10 working days for Trip.com.  Check this space for information as we find out more, and here’s hoping One OK Rock will be coming back soon! Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Gap is reopening in Hong Kong after a five-year hiatus Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards returns to Macau for 2026 edition Chinese fashion brand W.Management is moving into the old H&M in Causeway Bay

After a five-year hiatus that left a denim-shaped hole in our high streets, the American retail giant Gap is officially staging a comeback in Hong Kong. The news marks a major pivot for a brand that packed its bags and shuttered all eight of its local outposts in 2020. While we are still waiting on the exact details, the relaunch was announced as part of the brand’s massive regional expansion, which involves opening 50 new stores across the region this year, targeting major hubs and hotspots in both Hong Kong and mainland China. Whether they will go for another sprawling multi-storey flagship like the previous Central store or opt for more curated boutiques remains to be seen. While everyone is busy speculating on what the new-and-improved shopping experience might actually look like, things are expected to be a little different this time around. The brand is now under the wing of Baozun Inc., an e-commerce and brand management powerhouse that took over the Greater China business in late 2022. The strategy has shifted from a one-size-fits-all American approach to a much more nimble, locally tuned operation. Think faster product cycles, sharper pricing, and a renewed focus on the stuff they actually do best – denim, sportswear, and those adorable tiny baby clothes that almost trick you into wanting kids. This new business model seems to be paying off. Speaking to Bloomberg TV in a recent interview, Vincent Qiu, the chairman and chief executive of Baozun, noted that the brand reached a key operational milestone by breaking even for the first time in the most recent quarter. He suggested that the business is finally finding its rhythm again after several years of restructuring, with sales jumping by more than 20 percent over the last year. With new stores expected to crop up across the city throughout 2026, we are already clearing out our wardrobes to make space for a fresh pair of jeans and a cosy hoodie. Watch this space to be the first to know when and where those first few shops will land! Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards returns to Macau for 2026 edition Chinese fashion brand W.Management is moving into the old H&M in Causeway Bay The Hong Kong Story Exhibition finally reopens after nearly five years

It’s no secret that we love this city and all it has to offer, and we’re always proud to call ourselves Hongkongers. But if there’s one gripe we have – a bone to pick, if you will – it is that Hong Kong is not exactly the most pet-friendly place in the world. We have the bustling city, the teeming nightlife, the lush greenery, and so much amazing food, but when we look at other cities all around the world, Hong Kong pet owners can’t help but think about how we can’t simply stroll into malls or places of entertainment with our furry companions, or even ride on the subway with them. Luckily, things are taking a turn for the better, with the Hong Kong government recently announcing the introduction of a special permit that will allow selected restaurants to welcome dogs indoors. Targeted for approval by mid-2026, between 500 and 1,000 permits will be issued to restaurants which apply for them. This means that we could see a sudden influx of restaurants that actively embrace patrons dining alongside their pets within this year – an absolute dream for dog owners who are tired of being relegated to outdoor seating with no air conditioning. View this post on Instagram A post shared by April & Artie (@aprilandartie) To address some of these queries: restaurants granted the pet permit will be allowed to determine the extent of their participation, and the policy does indeed cover air-conditioned areas in restaurants. Pet owners will be required to keep their dogs under control at all times with a leash no longer than 1.5 metres or secured to a fixed object. Dogs will also not be allowed on dining tables or to come in contact with food and tableware. It remains to be seen whether there’s a limit on how many dogs each pet owner can bring into eateries, and secretary for environment and ecology Tse Chin-wan also said on February 10 that dog diapers will most likely not be made mandatory as it may cause discomfort to dogs who don’t need them. High-risk venues like hotpot or barbecue restaurants will not be granted pet permits.  When asked which restaurants they would want to see welcome their pets in the near future, Hong Kong’s pet owners are not picky – they’re just happy that the option to do so is happening in the first place. Stephanie Lown, who works at the SPCA Hong Kong and is the founder of the outdoor adventure group Exploring Dogs, is just “thrilled to have any options open up to dogs at all!” Her rescue dog Lola is an energetic, active adventurer of the great outdoors, so Lown can think of “nothing better than ending a hike with your dog and being able to stop at a café or restaurant for a nice refreshing drink or meal”. Cho would love to see Korean restaurants and dim sum places adopt a pet-friendly attitude, while Dorathy wants to see their dining options expand to include cha chaan tengs or fast-food joints. We don’t know if Maxim’s Palace in City Hall or your local Café de Coral will soon embrace hungry pups, but it sure is a nice thought! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Life in Hong Kong with Lola (@livin_da_vida_lola) Promoting pet-friendly eateries is a great step in making Hong Kong a more inclusive city for animals. Considering that the local pet economy is a multi-billion dollar market driven by mostly younger citizens with the financial means and the inclination to provide the best for their animals, there is plenty more that can be done to make people happy while tapping into this sizable income pocket. Hong Kong is already trying out having pets on public transport, with select bus routes accommodating animals on certain days of the week and the Light Rail in the New Territories allowing pets on the weekends. Pet owners are now eagerly waiting for expanded transportation options, as well as regulations that don’t require their pets being placed in carriers – it’s easy to put a Pomeranian in a bag, but try doing the same with a Bernese Mountain Dog.  “Right now, I am always on foot or taking cabs everywhere whenever I travel with my dogs,” Cho muses. “I hope one day dogs will be allowed on either the MTR or on buses.” Dorathy concurs, saying that as a medium-sized dog owner, “it would be fantastic to bring my dogs on the MTR and buses”, adding that she wouldn’t mind putting her Samoyeds in diapers to ensure hygiene if needed. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Exploring Dogs (@exploringdogs) Cho also adds that there are not enough dog-friendly parks and beaches in Hong Kong – dogs are currently banned from most parks and public beaches, with only a handful open to dog owners and their pups. “We usually end up on unregulated beaches that are filled with plastic, broken glass, and trash, which is so dangerous for dogs. Hopefully we’ll see more dog-friendly places so our fur babies can enjoy nature too.” Lown looks even further ahead, hoping to see more housing options open up to pet owners as well. “The last couple of years have definitely shown promise with ferries, KMB buses, and the MTR welcoming dogs for SPCA’s Dogathon, but we still have some ways to go. Other countries have had these pet-inclusive policies for years, if not decades!” Lastly, she hopes that with this recent wave of pet-friendly sentiment, the Hong Kong government might review the city’s animal cruelty laws, which she laments have not been updated in 90 years. “It would be good to see the government finally implementing a ‘Duty of Care’ policy which would help improve animal rights and welfare in Hong Kong.” Hear, hear! Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Hong Kong’s recent food poisoning outbreak linked to raw oysters Calbee opens a limited-time Chinese New Year pop-up at Citygate Outlets for snack fans Macau is the most active region in Asia when it comes to love and sex, according to Time Out

Ever wanted to go back in time and shop at a supermarket from the 1950s? It might come off as a rather specific fancy, but for those who harbour such a dream, you’re in luck: Hong Kong’s homegrown supermarket giant, Wellcome, is hopping aboard the nostalgia train with the launch of a retro-inspired concept store in Yau Ma Tei. Designed as a tribute to Hong Kong’s extensive retail history, Wellcome has repurposed its Prosperous Garden branch in Yau Ma Tei as an exhibition destination to celebrate the supermarket’s 80-year-plus legacy. Founded in 1945, Wellcome has been a constant in the lives of local families, serving the needs of generations of Hongkongers. As the city evolved, Wellcome evolved with it, but this branded concept shop preserves a slice of the supermarket as shoppers might have seen it back in the 1950s to the 1970s, complete with vintage character, photogenic interiors, and time-limited collectibles. Each aisle, stocked with a curated selection of products, doubles as a fetching backdrop oozing charm and colour, so no doubt this location will quickly become a popular attraction! Photograph: Courtesy Wellcome Snap photos of the LED-emblazoned shopfront, which takes its cues from Hong Kong’s famous urban landscape of neon lights; discover classic interior design elements such as the vintage silver-and-green turnstile, a sea of red plastic lamps popularised in wet markets, and patterned floor tiles; and admire nostalgic grocery setups and heritage exhibits that showcase the allure and shared memories of Hong Kong’s past.  As part of the concept store activation, Wellcome is also launching special deals and brand collaborations to commemorate the occasion, including a reusable Wellcome Retro Eco Bag for $28 with a single transaction of $100 – it’s reminiscent of Wellcome’s old-school red-and-yellow carrier, making for a keepsake that’s both practical and sentimental. Additionally, Wellcome will team up with tech equipment manufacturer Smeg to offer a limited-edition Lifebox ($88 with any purchase of $100 or more) from February 6 to 19, and Hong Kong’s own lifestyle brand G.O.D. for a Lunar New Year-themed game set ($68). Photograph: Courtesy Wellcome Wait, there’s more! While the weather’s still below 20 degrees Celsius, pop over to Prosperous Garden to sip warmed Vitasoy soy milk from glass bottles – a Hong Kong childhood memory that many will dwell on fondly. You can also take your chance at a Lee Kum Kee capsule machine from now until March 31, which will dispense a surprise miniature magnet depicting one of the condiment maker’s signature products. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Harbourside Swing Fest returns for its 2026 edition in late April Shiro brings its signature ‘crystal sushi’ to its second location in Tai Kwun Everything you need to know about Japan’s official cherry blossom forecast 2026

Love dim sum and surreal imagery? You’re in good company. Hong Kong street artist Lousy, best known for his bold graphics resembling glyphs and pictorial shapes, is collaborating with viral food photographer-artist David Leung – also known as Davidgoodtime, who specialises in capturing reflected food images highlighting pareidolia – for a dynamic exhibition about dim sum and the ritual of yum cha.  Hosted at JPS Gallery, ‘Double Umami’ is an artistic ode to Hong Kong cuisine, reimagined through the unique lenses of two distinctly different creators, who shaped their love of dumplings and morning teas into a visual celebration of Hong Kong’s DNA.  Photograph: Courtesy JPS Gallery In the exhibition space, visitors will encounter a customised dim sum cart installation, decorated by David and Lousy, in addition to photographs depicting beloved dim sum dishes in Leung’s signature mirrored style, mounted inside bamboo steamers crafted by master artisan Lui Ming of Ming Sang Steel Bamboo Receptacle. ‘Crab’s Kid Burn & Sell’ shows siu mai in a different light, appearing almost like the face of a crustacean, while ‘Char Siu Cat No. 2’ draws parallels between char siu bao and felines. We also particularly liked the birdcage installation which houses real emu eggs and plastic cards from dim sum carts inscribed with the Chinese onomatopoeia for bird chirps. Photograph: Courtesy JPS Gallery Branching out from photography onto canvas and installation work for the first time, Leung is also presenting the ‘Sauce’ series, applying the same mirrored techniques to create patterns reminiscent of Rorschach inkblot tests. Inspired by traditional Fu Lu Shou statues representing fortune, prosperity, and longevity, Leung uses foldable boards loaded with pigment to ‘find’ faces hidden in the paint. In contrast, Lousy – rather than focusing on the food aspect of dim sum – aims to capture the feeling of community and chaos experienced during a yum cha get-together. He paints and draws on top of old dim sum order sheets to give graphic form to the hustle and bustle of a Cantonese restaurant, depicting figures sat at a table, abstract interpretations of food, hands pouring tea, and more. Photograph: Courtesy JPS Gallery David and Lousy’s collaborations don’t end there. Lousy has teamed up with Wendy’s Wok World for a ‘Special Collab Soy Sauce’. 22 bottles of Tiu Yuen small-batch soy sauce are covered in custom packaging artwork created by Lousy. Meanwhile, Leung worked with chef May Chow of Little Bao to wrap 50 bottles of her handcrafted Fook Jiang chilli sauce in original ‘chilli sauce’ Rorschach artworks, bringing the food-focused project one degree closer to the art of Chinese cooking. ‘Double Umami’ is on exhibition at JPS Gallery from January 30 to March 7. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Art book publisher Taschen is having a huge sale in early February Starbucks opens at the Hong Kong Palace Museum with Hong Kong’s first Chinese calligraphy shop sign and exclusive products Fujifilm releases a camcorder-instant camera hybrid in the instax mini Evo Cinema

Listen, we love a good beat drop or screaming chart-toppers like any other nighttime reveller in the city, but in this era of EDM and throwback pop-heavy party scene, it would be nice to enjoy something authentic that sounds different for once. Well, it looks like we got our wish, because a vinyl record-based bar has just announced they’ll be opening in Lan Kwai Fong. The brainchild of longtime friends Brian and Ah Hei, the 8055 vinyl bar has had previous iterations based in Causeway Bay and Wan Chai, which grew in popularity to welcome even local celebrities and creatives like Eason Chan and Tyson Yoshi as patrons. The pandemic eventually saw the shuttering of the bar – but not for good. Photograph: Courtesy 8055 Building on their seven-year brand identity as a hotspot for authentic vinyl DJ-ing, graffiti art, and Japanese chill drinking culture, 8055 is now back in the game with a new home in the heart of Hong Kong’s nightlife district, Lan Kwai Fong. Expect the warmth and pops of analogue sound being played all night, with a focus on Japanese hip-hop, jazz, funk, and city pop – a sound that’s pretty unique within our nightlife scene and, frankly, a breath of fresh air from all the other clubs around. To pair with the music, 8055’s drinks turn the focus on premium Japanese whiskies and umeshu plum wine. Their signature tipple is an elegant, simple umeshu soda, but you can also truly do things the Japanese way by leaving the choice up to the bartender, omakase-style. Staying true to the brand’s history, 8055’s new venue will also allow guests to freely draw, scribble, and unleash creativity all over the walls with graffiti markers, so if you’ve ever left your mark in bars like Not2Sweet, you’ll want to do the same here as well. Photograph: Courtesy 8055 Check things out at 8055’s grand opening party on January 24, when they’ll be hosting a 10-hour DJ relay from 8pm onwards. The lineup will include Andrew Bull, better known as DJ El Toro or the ‘Father of Hong Kong DJs’, who is famous for initiating the city’s first disco in The Peninsula hotel as well as the iconic Canton Disco. Sounds like a party and a half! Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Kodak Apparel opens a time-limited concept store in Hong Kong New brasserie Chouchou brings French comfort food to an elevated setting in Wan Chai Sai Ying Pun’s historic steakhouse Sammy’s Kitchen announces closure this month

The popular Japanese mascot series Namagaki is taking over Festival Walk in Kowloon Tong with a themed installation! Since Namagaki characters began popping up inside claw machines and arcades across town, so many hearts have been captured by their simple yet lovable designs and adorably blank expressions. The Namagaki Festival features a series of installations and exhibits for fans to take pictures with, as well as a charming merch pop-up with exclusive items for sale. Photograph: Courtesy Yell / Festival Walk At the centre of the installation is a four-metre-tall giant oyster can, where Namagaki characters spill out alongside rainbow-coloured sweets. Right next door is the pastel-coloured Namagaki Washoku House, where cute oyster characters act as chef and waiter at this makeshift traditional Japanese eatery. See if you can spot the pink pumpkins dotted around the space – it’s the installation’s discreet nod to the upcoming spooky season.  Beyond photo ops, fans will definitely delight in browsing through the themed pop-up store housing over 100 exclusive Namagaki products, including 80 first launches in Hong Kong that span everything from stationery to t-shirts and tote bags. Don’t forget to stop by the Namagaki claw machine and the collectible trading card capsule machine for an adorable surprise!  Photograph: Courtesy Festival Walk In the spirit of Halloween, Festival Walk is inviting visitors to trick or treat around designated stores in the mall. Exclusive to My Festival members, take part in this seasonal activity by purchasing a $1,000 gift card to receive a limited-edition Baby Namagaki birthstone bag charm and candy can clutch – where you can store your hard-earned sweets.  Namagaki Festival will be at Festival Walk from October 24 to November 13. See footage of the Namagaki Festival pop-up here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Hong Kong (@timeouthk) Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: 18 hotels in Hong Kong and Macau have been awarded 2025 Michelin Keys OneRepublic is coming back to Hong Kong in February 2026 The best Halloween parties in Hong Kong this year

Remember when we all saw a giant Doraemon sitting unexpectedly at the dockyard along Tsing Yi last week? Well, the news is out and it’s not that a robotic cat is invading Hong Kong – instead, a fleet of floating inflatable sculptures will be making their appearance along Victoria Harbour next month. AllRightsReserved, the local creative brand behind last year’s thousands of panda sculptures and the recent Chiikawa exhibition in Tsim Sha Tsui, is putting on the Water Parade, where a set of four giant, floating inflatable figures will be making a debut at sea. In the lineup is Doraemon, perched on his favourite dorayaki snack; Elmo from the Kaws & Sesame Street collaboration; McDonalds’ purple blob-shaped mascot Grimace; and Labubu, the globally viral Nordic-inspired monster by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung. After a trial run in the waters of Tsing Yi on September 20, these four figures will be set afloat along Victoria Harbour on October 25, and will be shown in brand-new poses. Visit them just off of Tamar Park in Admiralty and snap plenty of photos, because when else are you going to see such universally recognised and different cartoon characters all sitting together? Photograph: Courtesy AllRightsReserved On November 1, the floating sculptures will be taken on a water parade between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, sailing along both sides of Victoria Harbour, before departing from our waters on the evening of the same day. For the entire duration of the sculpture display, there will also be a Water Parade Market at the promenade near Tamar Park. Aside from pop-up stores, F&B stands, game booths, photo spots, and a capsule toy zone, the market will also feature other internationally popular IPs from KPop Demon Hunters, season five of Stranger Things, Squid Games, Snoopy and the Peanuts, as well as Hong Kong’s classic TOLO Founding Duck, which is marking its 40th anniversary. Early-bird tickets to the festivities will be available at $50 for adults, starting at 12 noon on September 26. Walk-in tickets can also be purchased on site, subject to availability. All tickets include a $20 merchandise voucher, which can be redeemed cumulatively on purchases of every $200. Attendees can also buy a viewing platform special ticket at $150, which includes entry to the Water Parade Market. See some footage of the Water Parade here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Hong Kong (@timeouthk) Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: The best Oktoberfest events happening in Hong Kong this year The best things to do in Hong Kong this week (September 22-28) Super Typhoon Ragasa: Hong Kong braces for the strongest typhoon of the year as it approaches the city

Do you remember an exhibition last summer that displayed miniature scenes of the Central and Western districts in Pacific Place? In case you missed it, the Joyful Miniature Association (JMA) is back once again, this time with more incredibly detailed dioramas of life in Hong Kong, including seven brand-new miniatures that have never been seen before. The 24 art pieces will highlight some of Hong Kong’s famous landmarks, cultural customs, and unique lifestyles. Peek into painstaking recreations of Sunday dim sum at Maxim’s Palace in City Hall, chaotic nighttime revelry along Lan Kwai Fong, the customs of worship and pin wheel buying at Man Mo Temple and Wong Tai Sin Temple, a moving model of the fifth generation of the Peak Tram funicular railway, views of Victoria Harbour complete with boats sailing and fireworks, and more.  Photograph: Courtesy Joyful Miniature Association The new miniatures at this show include the Kai Tak Sports Park, the legendary old Kowloon Walled City, night scenes of Temple Street, horse racing, aquatic animals on sale at one of the many shops along Goldfish Street, the cable car at Ngong Ping 360, and Hong Kong’s transhipment history at the Insta-famous Western District Pier. The JMA brings together over 100 Hong Kong artists who collectively integrate the traditionally European craft of miniatures with our distinctly local culture using cutting-edge technology. If there’s one way to stroll through the most iconic sights and experiences of Hong Kong in just a few steps, this exhibition is definitely it. ‘Hong Kong: Through the Looking Glass Miniature Exhibition’ will be on display at The Peak Tower from April 25 to June 23 – JMA’s longest exhibition in the city. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Hong Kong ranked as the 10th most walkable city in the world; 1st in East Asia Hong Kong Airport Express proposes fare increase of 9.4 percent The Cheung Chau Bun Festival is hosting a carnival this Sunday

We sit down with artist and designer Joe Foti before his new exhibition in Hong Kong

March in Hong Kong is not complete without a trip to the Wanchai Convention Centre to spend a day or two at Art Basel. This year’s fair gathers 240 global galleries, with large-scale installations, paintings, sculptures, digital art, live performances, video works, and more to see!

From a world without colours to her love of big city metros, we caught up with British artist Monster Chetwynd for a round of quick-fire questions while she's in town for her new installation at Pacific Place!