Cultural Experiences to Explore in Central Hong Kong
Central is the beating heart of Hong Kong, a mesmerising fusion of ancient traditions and modern skyscrapers. While a bustling business district, Central is also a cultural hub home to some of Hong Kong’s most cherished historical sites and vibrant artistic venues. Here, amid the frenetic pace of life, you’ll find quiet temples, charming art galleries, and an eclectic dining scene that mirrors the rich diversity of Hong Kong’s cultural heritage. Explore the depths of Hong Kong’s history and culture with our guide to the Central District.
Tai Kwun
Tai Kwun, a former Central Police Station compound, has been transformed into a vibrant cultural venue and lifestyle destination. This historic site features restored buildings that now host art exhibitions, musical performances, book fairs, and theatrical productions, providing a dynamic cultural experience in a unique historical setting in Hong Kong.
Tai Kwun Restaurants
Tai Kwun offers a sensory feast with its diverse cultural and culinary offerings. At Madame Fu, visitors are treated to a modern take on traditional Cantonese dishes, while The Chinese Library offers a sophisticated dining experience showcasing Hong Kong’s rich culinary heritage. Aaharn, an award-winning Hong Kong restaurant featuring a menu of authentic Thai dishes is another Tai Kwun must-visit. If you’re in the mood for Italian, Pazta provides a delightful alfresco setting, while Sushi lovers will appreciate the meticulously crafted offerings at Sushi Zo.
Exhibitions at Tai Kwun Contemporary
Tai Kwun Contemporary is the art gallery within the compound, known for showcasing a diverse range of art from Hong Kong and beyond, with five to eight exhibitions a year. The exhibitions often explore significant cultural themes and feature both established and emerging artists, making Tai Kwun a hot spot for art lovers in Hong Kong.
Temples in Central Hong Kong
Man Mo Temple
This revered temple, dedicated to the gods of literature and war, is one of the oldest and most famous temples in Central Hong Kong. Dedicated to the King Emperor Man and Holy King Emperor Kwan, the temple offers a serene atmosphere amidst the bustling city, with giant incense coils that fill the air with aromatic smoke.
Kwun Yum Tong Temple
Located a short walk from Man Mo Temple, Kwun Yum Tong is a sanctuary dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy. This temple is a favoured place for locals seeking peace and spiritual solace, making it a top destination for visitors interested in exploring traditional religious practices.
Kwong Fuk Ancestral Hall
Nestled on Tai Ping Shan Street, Kwong Fuk Ancestral Hall dates back to the 1850s and is home to a few local deities, including Buddhist ‘Mad Monk’ Ji Gong and two love gods, HeHe Erxian, known for answering love prayers. With its fiery red exterior and hanging coils of incense, Kwong Fuk Ancestral Hall is another must-visit temple in Central Hong Kong.
Explore Ladder Street
Ladder Street, named for its many steps, begins on Queens Road and continues up to Sheung Wan mid-levels. The street, built between 1841 and 1850, offers a glimpse into Hong Kong’s culture and colonial history and is an exciting area to explore on foot. Consider visiting nearby Cat Street and Antique Street, where you can browse through a fascinating array of artefacts and vintage finds.
PMQ
Once the Police Married Quarters, PMQ was reinvented as a centre for creative and design industries in 2014. This cultural hub is home to a range of boutiques, design studios and workshops where local designers and artists display and sell their work. Hosting regular pop-up night markets, product launches, and fashion shows, PMQ is a unique space where the creativity of Hong Kong’s talented artists comes to life.
Eating at PMQ
Eating at PMQ in Hong Kong offers an array of dining experiences, showcasing an eclectic mix of cuisines. Sip specialty teas at T/EA, indulge in creative pasta dishes at Pasteako, enjoy the refined French cuisine at Louise, and experience authentic Thai street food at BKK Thai Street Food.
Shopping at PMQ
Shopping at PMQ is a vibrant showcase of Hong Kong culture, craftsmanship and unique designs. At Hiraya Scent & Co., indulge in candles made from sustainable ingredients. Explore Anaphe for timeless fashion staples, or step into Alternative Country for a modern twist on vintage boot designs. For those keen on sustainable living, Bamboa Lifestyle offers a range of eco-friendly bamboo products, from comfy clothing to soft home textiles.
Hong Kong’s Wet Markets
Graham Street Wet Market
Get a taste of Hong Kong culture at one of the oldest wet markets in Hong Kong. Clustered around Graham Street, this neighbourhood market is brimming with hawkers selling fresh produce, seafood and trays of tofu. The historic market offers the perfect opportunity to witness daily local life in Central Hong Kong.
Star Ferry
Taking a ride on the Star Ferry from Central to Tsim Sha Tsui is an iconic Hong Kong experience. It offers stunning views of the skyline and a pleasant escape from the busy streets, all while providing a historic mode of transportation that Hong Kong residents have used for over a century.
Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens
Situated on the slopes of Victoria Peak, the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens is the oldest public garden in Hong Kong, dating back to 1871. The 5.6-hectare garden features a greenhouse and lush, themed gardens with native and rare species. It is also home to a small zoo featuring over 150 birds, 89 mammals and 21 reptiles, including Tamarins, Lemurs, Sloths, Otters and Meerkats. The historic gardens offer a tranquil refuge among the urban hustle of Central Hong Kong.
Hotels in Central Hong Kong
Located in the vibrant heart of Hong Kong on Arbuthnot Road, Ovolo Central is a designer hotel boasting spacious, well-lit rooms with stylish, contemporary interiors. The hotel features amenities like super-speed WiFi, self-service laundry, an in-room bar, and thoughtful touches, including Apero hour and flexible cancellation. Perfectly situated at the centre of the city’s famed nightlife and dining districts, Ovolo Central is the ultimate sanctuary in Central Hong Kong.
Central is where Hong Kong’s history and contemporary culture converge. From historical sites and art galleries to temples and lively local markets, this district provides a comprehensive look at the diverse cultural heritage of Hong Kong, making it an essential experience for any visitor to the city.