Hong Kong may be one of the most iconic cities in Asia, but there’s much more to explore than just touristy sites and bustling streets.
If you’re searching to venture off the beaten path and discover a different side of this vibrant city, here are our favorite hidden gems! You can go to Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific with ease so plan to see these too.
1. Shek Kwu Chau
Less than 4km west of Cheung Chau, Shek Kwu Chau is an idyllic little island that remains virtually unknown to locals. Home to a government-funded rehab centre, this tranquil spot remains off the tourist map and can only be accessed with permission.
Shek Kwu Chau is an undiscovered gem, boasting local Hong Kong street food and rustic temples as well as hiking trails and beaches. But perhaps most importantly, Shek Kwu Chau offers a true haven of peace and serenity.
This area boasts numerous hidden streets that have been decorated with graffiti art by both local and international artists. Additionally, they were chosen as a designated spot for HKwalls – an annual street art festival that brings together talented creators from around the globe.
One of the most captivating attractions in this region is the Yick Fat Building, which looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. This complex has become so vibrant that it has become a sought-after destination for travelers searching for something unique and Instagrammable.
If you are planning on staying in Hong Kong for some time, we suggest exploring some of its lesser-known gems and trying them out.
2. Peng Chau
Peng Chau, an island half an hour from Hong Kong’s Central business district, offers a tranquil haven of serenity and calm. Here you can escape the hectic pace of Hong Kong city life, enjoy hiking in nature’s untouched beauty, sample fresh seafood dishes and simply unwind.
On this small and secluded island, there is plenty to see and do. One notable temple is Tin Hau Temple – a Grade II historic building constructed in 1792.
You’ll also spot some historic wooden buildings and fishing boats. For an even more thrilling adventure, you can even go snorkelling at Tai Lei Island’s nearby beach!
In the afternoon, you can walk north along the Peng Chau Family Trail and ascend Finger Hill for stunning views of the entire island. This path is not particularly challenging and provides a convenient way to explore the north end of Hong Kong.
Sun-Sat Store is another hidden treasure in downtown Burbank. Here you can purchase local handcrafts and antiques, make some memories with family photos, enjoy a cup of coffee while browsing through their selection of vintage items.
3. High Street
If you’re a fan of shopping, eating or just searching for something different in Hong Kong, there are plenty of hidden gems around the city. Finding these hidden gems may take some effort but the rewards are worth all the effort!
High Street is a vibrant commercial corridor spanning from Centre Street to Bonham Road in Sai Ying Pun. It’s home to several small businesses and serves as an integral part of the local community.
The neighbourhood is becoming a hotspot for both visitors and locals looking to sample Hong Kong’s bustling restaurant scene. There are numerous new establishments opening up in the area that serve up dishes from Thai to Italian and everything in between.
High Street is not only home to restaurants, but it also features an array of shops and cafes hidden down cobbled streets. It makes for a perfect destination to go out for dinner with friends or family, providing plenty of dining options in one place!
Neal’s Yard is another hidden treasure. This courtyard houses health food shops and cafes, making it difficult to spot the entrance from Neal Street but once you do, the courtyard provides a breathtaking oasis. Sit outside with your coffee or snack while admiring all of its picturesque features.
4. Kowloon Walled City Park
Kowloon Walled City Park is an idyllic park filled with lush vegetation and stunning water features. It has a fascinating history that dates back to when Hong Kong was still part of China.
In 1842, Britain took control of Hong Kong and built a walled fort to protect it from invasion. This became known as Kowloon Walled City.
The walled city had become an unregulated jungle of gangs, brothels and opium parlours that no government wanted to touch. It was one of the world’s densest populations, giving rise to what felt like their own country for many inhabitant.
To get there, take one of the many buses that serve the area. Although a bit further from town center, the park is easy to locate and open daily until late.
It boasts remnants from the Walled City and a Yamen, or almshouse that served as a community hub. Furthermore, there are eight walks that lead you to various scenic landmarks.
If you’re looking for a break from all the noise and bustle of Hong Kong, look no further than this stunning park. It offers visitors an opportunity to delve into its past while relaxing in an idyllic atmosphere.
5. The Bethanie
The Bethanie, situated along Pok Fu Lam Road on Hong Kong Island, is one of the most intriguing sights to behold while you are here. Constructed in 1875 as a sanatorium – the first of its kind in Asia – it served as headquarters for the Paris Foreign Missions Society until 1964 when it became part of Hong Kong Parks & Gardens.
Bethanie was once home to more than 6,000 recovering missionaries who came here for medical care before returning to their missions in East Asia. As such, it became the most significant base for French missionaries working there.
Today, The Bethanie is home to Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts’ School of Film and Television. It was carefully restored with help from Arup and architect Philip Liao & Partners after an exhaustive investigation into its historical background.
In 2006, Bethanie completed its restoration and now houses the HKAPA School of Film and Television, a chapel, and museum. Additionally, there is a Jackie Chan Screening Room thanks to a donation from his Charitable Fund. Furthermore, there are historical items from over 300 years ago on display, such as artifacts from French missionary activities in Asia.
6. The Yick Fat Building
If you’re searching for a Hong Kong hidden gem, The Yick Fat Building is your perfect pick. This public housing apartment complex with pop culture relevance has long been a favourite photo spot among visitors to Hong Kong.
Quarry Bay, about 20 minutes by car from Tsim Sha Tsui, can easily be reached by bus. Alternatively, take the MTR to Tai Koo Station and exit at Exit B for easy access.
The Yick Fat Building is a vibrant residential complex that looks like something out of a Disney fairy tale. There are three towers filled with apartments and small shops.
After 1950s, Hong Kong experienced a shortage of affordable housing. Local businessman Watt Mo-kei and his company Cheong K saw an opportunity to capitalize on this boom by building a low-income housing complex in Quarry Bay.
Locals refer to this E-shaped complex affectionately as “Monster Building.” Consisting of five separate buildings–Oceanic Mansion, Fook Cheong Building, Montane Mansion, Yick Cheong Building and Yick Fat Building–the E-shaped complex was constructed during the 1960s due to a population boom in the area and intended to provide government-subsidized housing for those most in need.
