East meets west: The Kiwi traveller’s ultimate guide to exploring Hong Kong

Picture this: the sun is setting as you look out from a rooftop bar with a view of towering skyscrapers. The lights of the harbour are starting to flicker on, illuminating a surreal cityscape.

Your night is just beginning, but when the sunlight returns, there will be old alleyways, historic temples and eclectic markets to explore. The afternoon might bring a hike in nature, a visit to the Chinese Opera and perhaps a drink at an underground speakeasy.

This is east meets west; ancient meets contemporary.

This is Hong Kong.

COA cocktail bar

COA cocktail bar - Pepper Smash cocktail

Jade Market Hong Kong

Sai Yeung Choi Street

Mong Kak- Lai Chi Kok Road

Experience diverse neighbourhoods

Whether you have a few days or a few weeks, paying a visit to some of Hong Kong’s historic neighbourhoods is an absolute must. Expect to stumble across some hidden treasures in the form of streetside temples, quaint alleyways and delectable food from all corners of the globe.

Located in the Kowloon side, Mong Kok is a neighbourhood that’s aptly named; in Cantonese it means “busy corner”, and it’s the city’s busiest commercial district and one of the most populous areas in the world. Here, you’ll feel the pulsating energy of Hong Kong, with its densely packed streets blending historic with modern high-rise buildings.

Mong Kok’s streets are laid out in the traditional way, according to what the shops are selling. Among these streets you’ll find an entire road lined with florists known as the Prince Edward Flower Market. Here you can shop for everything from rosemary, to peonies, to lemon trees. There is a huge range of suppliers and the market is worth a visit purely to take in the vibrant scents and colours.

You can also visit Hong Kong’s largest collection of jade and pearls at the Jade Market in Yau Ma Tei.

On Hong Kong Island, Tai Hang provides the ultimate contrast to Mong Kok. This charming neighbourhood close to Causeway Bay is filled with local bites and coffee shops to delight foodies, quirky indie stores, as well as historic landmarks like the Haw Par Mansion.

Every Mid-Autumn Festival, Tai Hang comes alive with the Fire Dragon Dance. Over three nights, a glowing dragon carried by over 300 performers, dances through the streets in a cultural tradition that wows the crowds.

Wander the alleyways of Sheung Wan, with its juxtaposition of boutiques, cafes and contemporary art galleries interspersed with Ming Dynasty antiques, tea shops and temples. Venture further on foot to Old Town Central where century-old temples share the same streets as fashion-forward concept stores. One of Hong Kong’s oldest districts, Old Town Central is brimming with attractions and fascinating landmarks that tell the tale of shaping the cosmopolitan city of Hong Kong as we know it today.

In the Southside district you’ll find Stanley, where Stanley Market is located selling a range of jewellery, accessories and clothing. This neighbourhood is a true melting pot of cultures, where you’ll discover everything from authentic Indian curries and Japanese ramen to fresh fruit and Western dishes with a twist like durian pizza.

Sheung Wan is a juxtaposition of boutiques, cafes and contemporary art galleries interspersed with Ming Dynasty antiques, tea shops and temples.

Bustling metropolis day and night

Hong Kong’s nightlife is legendary. There’s something here to suit all budgets and tastes; your biggest challenge will be fitting it all in – the city’s got everything from speakeasies to classy rooftop cocktail bars and a total of 78 Michelin-star restaurants.

To really get a feel for the vibe at night time, we suggest taking a night cruise and walking tour. This will introduce you to a Hong Kong that’s filled with high-end cocktail bars, glittering lights, and a spectacular show of colour and music at 8 p.m. each night, complete with lasers and searchlights – A Symphony of Lights.

Start your night with dinner at one of the countless eateries to fit your budget. Here you’ll find all cuisines, from Japanese and Korean to contemporary French fare, Thai noodle shops and Cantonese fusion. Follow in the late Anthony Bourdain’s footsteps at Yat Lok and try their roasted goose.

You may have had your fill, but the night is only just getting started. There are plenty of options to kick on and make the most of your night.

COA has taken out the top spot on the annual Asia’s 50 Best Bars list three years running, so you know it’s a must-visit. The Oaxacan-inspired bar in Central has over 200 bottles of agave spirits.

Transport yourself to Victorian Longon as you step through the entrance to Stockton, a dimly-lit speakeasy on Wyndham Street, hidden down an alleyway. This is the perfect place to come with a partner or a small group of friends for an intimate conversation over a whiskey.

Another bar with an impressive whiskey collection is Bar 001. One of Hong Kong’s original hidden bars is back at a new location above the historic Tai Kwun. Finding the entrance to the bar is part of the thrilling drinking adventure but once you find the buzzer, friendly staff will let you in the back door of this Art Deco style bar to enjoy a range of libations in soft suede booth seating.

You won’t forget the fairytale-esque decor of Dragonfly in a hurry. Cast-iron statuettes, stained glass works, turquoise glass lamps and bronze sculptures add a unique touch to this highly Instagrammable venue.

For something new, try Cardinal Point at the multi-experience space Forty-Five. This bar and stunning al fresco terrace offer a vantage point to experience the city's skyline and harbour from Central. Stop in for sundowners and sip on cocktails, including their five signature tropical sippers.

Number nine on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list Kowloon bar Darkside is a cocktail parlour that offers rare aged spirits, vintage cigars and classic cocktails complemented by sultry live jazz. Sip on a delicious concoction while you sit back and relax to the sound of jazz music.

An enchanting view from a rooftop bar

Ancient meets contemporary

If you want to immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s unique blend of cultures and learn more about its history, there’s ample opportunity at the city’s array of cultural sites and experiences.

M+, Asia’s first global museum of contemporary visual culture, houses 33 galleries and other spaces displaying collections of art, design and architecture from Hong Kong and other parts of Asia in an interactive format. If you’re travelling with a non-arty companion, they can enjoy a spot of shopping or some foodie experiences while you’re taking in the spaces.

While you are in the neighbourhood, check out the Hong Kong Palace Museum, where you’ll gain a greater understanding of art and culture in a global context.

Travel to Kowloon for more gallery time at the Hong Kong Museum of Art. This is an unmissable attraction due to its vast collection of over 17,000 artefacts that showcase local art and convey the richness of Cantonese culture.

One could argue that shopping is culture in Hong Kong; it’s not quite the same as here in Aotearoa. At K11 Musea you’ll encounter a one-of-a-kind shopping experience where culture is brought into the retail experience. There are over 250 global brands, a sustainability-themed Nature Discovery Park, Asia’s largest MoMA Design Store and many other unique experiences.

While you’re in Hong Kong, we’d also recommend going to see a show for a true cultural experience. The Xiqu Centre is a new performing arts centre that features Cantonese opera and traditional theatre (xiqu). Tai Kwun hosts heritage exhibitions in the Old Central Police Station Compound on Hong Kong’s Hollywood Road and is also well worth a visit.