Meet the Hello! Hong Kong Tour Guide Team

📸 From left to right:
Alex (front), Mel, and Sinclair (left side), plus Ivy, Andy, and Kiyo (right side, front).

Behind every unforgettable tour is a team of passionate, knowledgeable, and friendly guides who truly love what they do. At Hello! Hong Kong, our guides are more than just professionals—they’re storytellers, cultural ambassadors, and your personal connection to the city.

Recently, our incredible team came together for a well-deserved team-building dinner, and we managed to capture a rare sight: all of them in one frame!

These are the beautiful people who work tirelessly to ensure your Hello! Hong Kong tour is memorable, seamless, and full of authentic local insight. Whether they’re guiding you through historic temples, vibrant markets, or hidden food gems, they do it with warmth, passion, and a genuine love for sharing Hong Kong’s story.

Their diverse backgrounds, fun personalities, and dedication to exceptional service are what make our tours feel less like a sightseeing checklist—and more like an adventure with friends.

Rave Reviews from Happy Travellers

We’re proud of our team—and our guests are, too! Here’s a look at what people are saying about our amazing guide

So next time you join a Hello! Hong Kong tour, know that you’re in the hands of a team that truly cares.

Hong Kong is a city that blends ancient traditions with modern energy. Known for its dramatic skyline, bustling harbors, and rich cultural heritage, it’s a destination that offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore further, a Private Car Tour is one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to see the city. With the help of a knowledgeable private guide, visitors can experience the highlights of Hong Kong in just one day, while learning about the stories and significance behind each site. Below is the best example of places you can visit from the Hong Kong island!

Explore the vibrant heart of Hong Kong with our thoughtfully curated private car tour.

A great way to begin the tour is with breakfast at Lin Heung Tea House in Sheung Wan. This traditional Chinese tea house has been serving classic Cantonese dim sum since 1926 and is one of the last places in Hong Kong to preserve the old-school push-cart service. Inside, the atmosphere is busy and authentic, with locals reading newspapers and chatting over pots of tea. A stop here allows visitors to not only sample a variety of steamed dumplings, buns, and rice rolls, but also observe a living tradition of Hong Kong’s culinary culture.

Moving on to the Central banking district, visitors can explore the heart of Hong Kong’s role as a global financial hub. The area is home to some of the most iconic skyscrapers in Asia, including the HSBC Building and the Bank of China Tower. Along the pavements and open spaces, there are photo stands and interpretive displays that explain Hong Kong’s transformation from a small fishing village to an international trading and banking powerhouse. This part of the tour offers a deeper understanding of the city’s economic foundation and its enduring global influence.

A short ride away is the Central–Mid-Levels Escalator, the longest outdoor covered escalator system in the world. Stretching over 800 meters, it connects the central business district with the mid-levels residential area. Riding the escalator gives visitors a unique perspective on Hong Kong’s hilly terrain, along with views of charming alleyways, cafes, and local shops. It’s also an example of how the city’s urban planning creatively adapts to its geography.

One of the most fascinating stops is Tai Kwun, a heritage complex that used to be the Central Police Station, Central Magistracy, and Victoria Prison. This site has been carefully restored and turned into a cultural and arts space while maintaining its original colonial architecture. A visit here allows people to explore the evolution of Hong Kong’s legal and law enforcement system under British rule, with historical exhibits and preserved prison cells that reveal the city’s past justice system. Today, Tai Kwun also hosts contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events, making it a blend of past and present.

Not far away is Man Mo Temple, one of the oldest and most revered Taoist temples in Hong Kong. Built in 1847 during the early colonial era, the temple is dedicated to Man Cheong, the god of literature, and Mo Tai, the god of war. Traditionally, students would pray here for success in exams. The temple is filled with hanging incense coils and richly decorated altars, creating a serene yet mysterious atmosphere. It’s a peaceful place to reflect on local spiritual practices and Taoist traditions that continue to thrive in modern Hong Kong.

Driving along Hollywood Road, one of the oldest streets on Hong Kong Island, visitors pass antique shops, historic buildings, and modern art galleries. This road has long been known for its trade in Chinese antiques and colonial-era artifacts. Just off Hollywood Road is Ladder Street, a steep stairway lined with stone steps and old-style buildings. This street reflects the physical and cultural layers of the city, where old temples, colonial remnants, and contemporary murals exist side by side. It’s a great place to see how Hong Kong’s heritage is preserved amid urban development.

A must-see highlight is Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island. Reached by a scenic drive, the Peak Galleria lookout offers sweeping views of the city’s skyscrapers, Victoria Harbour, and beyond. The Peak has long been a symbol of status and luxury — in colonial times, only the elite were allowed to live there. Today, it’s one of the most visited places in Hong Kong and a perfect spot for panoramic photos. With a private guide, visitors can learn about the transformation of the area and the engineering behind the Peak Tram and its surrounding development.

Crossing over to Kowloon via the harbour tunnel brings travelers to Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, where the famous Bruce Lee statue stands proudly. This site honors the legendary martial arts actor and his connection to Hong Kong cinema. The promenade itself offers some of the best views of the city’s skyline, especially at sunset. Along the walkway, visitors can learn about Hong Kong's film industry and its cultural impact on the world through installations and star plaques.

The Clock Tower nearby is a historic reminder of the old Kowloon-Canton Railway terminus, built in 1915. It stands next to the Star Ferry Pier, a functioning transport link that has been in operation since the late 19th century. These landmarks are part of Hong Kong’s colonial heritage and offer insight into the city’s transport history and maritime importance. Just across the road is the Peninsula Hotel, one of the most luxurious hotels in Asia. Opened in 1928, it has hosted royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries, and is known for its elegant afternoon teas and Rolls-Royce fleet.

A Private Car Tour of Hong Kong makes it easy to explore these varied sites in comfort, with the added benefit of a private guide who brings the city’s stories to life. From ancient temples and colonial buildings to modern skylines and cultural icons, this tour is ideal for anyone looking to experience the best of Hong Kong in a personalized and efficient way.

When people think of Hong Kong, a few vivid images often come to mind: steaming baskets of dim sum, red taxis darting through busy streets, neon lights, and skyscrapers shrouded in crisscrossing bamboo scaffolding. While many of these sights are here to stay, one might not be around for much longer. Hong Kong’s government has announced plans to gradually phase out bamboo scaffolding in favor of metal alternatives, signaling the end of a visually iconic and historically rich practice.

Skilled workers working tirelessly using Bamboo scaffolding.

If you’re taking a Hong Kong tour, you’ve probably already seen these astonishing structures—bamboo poles tied together by hand with nylon strips, wrapped around high-rises and temples alike. This centuries-old technique has long symbolized Hong Kong’s fusion of tradition and innovation. Light, flexible, and surprisingly strong, bamboo scaffolding is a masterful craft passed down through generations.

But times are changing. Safety concerns and modernization efforts have prompted the government to gradually phase out bamboo scaffolding in favor of metal alternatives. While metal may offer improved consistency and durability in the long term, it also marks the end of a uniquely local trade and visual hallmark.

For those visiting Hong Kong, now is the time to look up—literally. Spotting a bamboo-wrapped building is like catching a glimpse of living history. It’s one of those authentic, fleeting experiences that makes your Hong Kong tour truly special.

Connect with Hello! Hong Kong

At Hello! Hong Kong, every private customised tour is built around you. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, foodie, photographer, or someone simply curious about Hong Kong’s contrasts and culture, our tours blend top highlights with hidden gems. Now, we’re excited to introduce three thoughtfully curated add-ons that you can include to make your experience even more unforgettable.

1. Victoria Peak Tram Ticket

No visit to Hong Kong is complete without experiencing the Peak Tram. This funicular ride—one of the oldest in the world—whisks you up to Victoria Peak, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the city’s iconic skyline, harbour, and surrounding islands. This add-on not only saves time with pre-arranged tickets but also adds a touch of nostalgic charm to your day. Pair it with a Star Ferry ride and you’ve got a beautifully balanced intro to Hong Kong’s past and present.

Why it’s a must-add:
It’s one of Hong Kong’s most iconic attractions. Skip the queues, enjoy stunning views, and get stories from your guide you won’t find in a brochure.

2. 45-Minute Tea Etiquette Workshop

Step into a calm and reflective space with our traditional tea ceremony experience. In this 45-minute workshop, you’ll learn to brew tea using a Gaiwan, explore the etiquette behind the ceremony, and understand the philosophy that has shaped this centuries-old Chinese tradition. Hosted in a specialist tea house, it’s the perfect way to slow down, engage the senses, and deepen your appreciation for Cantonese and Chinese culture.

Why it’s a must-add:
It offers a peaceful, immersive break during your city adventure. Perfect for culture lovers, this is a rare chance to connect with Hong Kong’s heritage beyond the surface.

3. Sampan Boat Ride in Aberdeen

Travel back in time with a 20-minute sampan ride through the Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter. These small wooden boats were once essential to everyday life for Hong Kong’s fishing communities. As you cruise past a mix of traditional fishing vessels, floating homes, and flashy superyachts, your guide will share stories of Hong Kong’s seafaring history and the Tanka people who once lived on the water.

Why it’s a must-add:
It’s a unique glimpse into the city’s maritime roots—something you won’t get from the usual tourist route. Because Aberdeen is around 30 minutes from Central, we recommend this add-on for tours lasting 6 hours or more.

Every one of these experiences adds depth and texture to your customised tour. Let us know what sparks your interest—we’ll design your day around it. This is your Hong Kong, your way.

Landing at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is just the beginning of your adventure in Asia’s World City. Whether you're here for business, sightseeing, or a quick layover, getting from the airport to the heart of the city is incredibly convenient. With multiple transport options ranging from high-speed trains to affordable buses and readily available taxis, you can choose what best suits your budget, schedule, and comfort level. In this guide, we break down the most efficient and reliable ways to travel from Hong Kong Airport to the city, so you can start your journey stress-free.

Airport Express Train

The Airport Express is a quick way to travel from the airport to the city, For individual passengers, the train service will have you at the Kowloon Station in just 20 minutes.

Bus

Buses are the cheapest way to get to the major areas of Hong Kong. Also, tourists can enjoy the scenery along the way, especially admire the views of Tsing Ma Bridge. "A" routes are the most comfortable way to get to the city center

Taxis

Taxis offer a door to door service to and from Hong Kong International Airport. Arriving passengers can catch a taxi at the Taxi Station, located near the left-hand ramp outside the Arrivals Hall. Fares are metered and detailed information about charges are clearly displayed inside each cab. Hong Kong taxis are color-coded according to their operating areas.

Red taxis operate in urban areas. They serve all destinations throughout the city (except the southern side of Lantau Island and Tung Chung Road).

Green taxis operate in the New Territories.

Blue taxis operate only on Lantau Island (except Discovery Bay).

Which Option is Best for You?
Each transportation mode from HKIA offers distinct advantages. If you're in a rush, the Airport Express zooms you to Central in under 30 minutes and is ideal for travelers with light luggage. If you’re on a tighter budget or want to see more of the city en route, the city buses are a great choice, offering various routes to different districts. Meanwhile, taxis are perfect for door-to-door convenience, especially if you're arriving late at night or traveling with family or heavy luggage.

Whether you prioritize speed, savings, or comfort, there's an airport transfer option tailored for your needs.

 

We’re proud to share that Hello! Hong Kong Tours has been recognized by Feedspot as one of the Top 20 Hong Kong Travel Blogs! This exciting recognition means that our blog is being noticed for its helpful tips, local insights, and honest stories about exploring the real Hong Kong. Whether it's discovering hidden food spots, learning local history, or finding the best city views, we love helping travelers experience more than just the usual tourist path.

Being featured on this list encourages us to keep sharing what makes Hong Kong so special. It also helps more people find us online, so we can continue connecting curious travelers with unforgettable local adventures. Thank you for following along — and if you haven’t yet, check out our blog and join us on a tour to see why Hong Kong is a place worth exploring deeply!

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When you walk into a traditional Chinese temple in Hong Kong, you’re often greeted by a swirl of incense, quiet prayers, and the steady, rhythmic sound of bamboo sticks rattling inside a red wooden cylinder. This is Kau Cim – an age-old practice of seeking answers from the divine. For locals, it’s a spiritual ritual. For curious visitors, it’s a rare chance to step into the shoes of those who live their daily lives with deep-rooted faith.

This is the kind of experience you won’t find in guidebooks.

Student from De Paul University trying the Kau Cim - where bamboo sticks are used to seek answers from the divine.

Why Kau Cim Matters

Kau Cim, sometimes known as the "Chinese Fortune Stick" practice, involves shaking a container filled with thin bamboo sticks – each with a number – while silently asking a question or seeking guidance. One stick will eventually fall out, and its number corresponds to a specific fortune or poem, known as a chim. This fortune is then interpreted, often with help from a temple guide or fortune teller nearby.

It’s more than just a novelty. To many locals, it’s a serious moment of reflection and belief – a way to connect with higher powers and seek clarity during uncertain times. Whether it’s about relationships, health, career, or general direction in life, Kau Cim is seen as a bridge between the human and the divine.

Experience It Like a Local – With a Customised Tour

When you book a Private Customised Tour, especially with a local guide who understands the traditions, you’re not just sightseeing. You’re experiencing. You’re living a day in the life of a local.

We believe that travel should go deeper than photo stops. That’s why on our personalised tours, we invite guests to try local traditions like Kau Cim for themselves – not just watch others do it. Imagine standing in front of a centuries-old altar, holding the bamboo cylinder in your hands, shaking it with quiet focus, and waiting for a single stick to fall out. Your guide then helps interpret the result, giving you insight into not just your “fortune” – but into how locals seek wisdom, comfort, and hope through faith.

Learning the Heart of Local Culture

Hong Kong may be known for its skyline and street food, but its spiritual traditions are just as rich. From Taoist temples filled with colorful deities to quiet Buddhist prayer halls, every corner has a story to tell. A local guide can explain how Kau Cim fits into the bigger picture of belief systems here – and how faith shapes decisions, festivals, and even daily routines.

And because the tour is customised, you can pair your Kau Cim experience with other spiritual or cultural stops:

• Visiting the famous Wong Tai Sin Temple, where wishes are said to come true.

• Exploring lesser-known neighborhood temples filled with stories of local deities.

• Learning about the rituals behind offerings – why oranges, incense, and paper money are used.

This is the magic of a Private Customised Tour, it gives you the freedom to explore, ask questions, and even make your own wish to the gods – just like the locals do.

The Dragon Boat Festival (also known as Tuen Ng Festival) is one of Hong Kong’s most thrilling cultural events, held on May 31, 2025. This festival has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years and is celebrated across the city with vibrant boat races, traditional food, and various exciting customs. It’s a unique time to visit Hong Kong, where locals gather to pay homage to the ancient poet Qu Yuan, whose story inspired this lively celebration.

What to Expect:

During the Dragon Boat Festival, the highlight is undoubtedly the dragon boat races. Teams of rowers race along Victoria Harbour, their boats decorated with fierce dragon heads and tails, creating a spectacle that’s both competitive and exciting to watch. The atmosphere is full of energy, with thousands of spectators cheering on their teams from the shores. The races themselves are often followed by a festival of music, dancing, and traditional performances that fill the streets of Hong Kong.

In addition to the races, you’ll find zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) being sold everywhere. These dumplings, wrapped in bamboo leaves and filled with ingredients like pork, beans, and salted egg, are a beloved traditional food during the festival. Locals and visitors alike enjoy sharing these tasty treats with friends and family as part of the celebration.

Why Visit Hong Kong During the Festival:

If you’re planning a Hong Kong tour, the Dragon Boat Festival offers a perfect opportunity to experience the city’s unique cultural traditions. Whether you’re in the bustling heart of Kowloon or the scenic waterfront of Central, the entire city comes alive with the spirit of competition and festivity. It’s a great time to explore not only the races but also Hong Kong’s local markets, temples, and vibrant communities. The festival is also an ideal moment to witness the strong sense of family and community that runs deep in Hong Kong’s culture.

From lively races to delicious food, the Dragon Boat Festival is a must-see event for anyone visiting Hong Kong at the end of May. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in a centuries-old tradition, connect with locals, and enjoy the island’s festive atmosphere.

Five years ago, in 2020, Jonathan embarked on an unforgettable journey through Hong Kong with one of our expert guides, Ryan, on a private, customised 8-hour tour. His mission? To discover the hidden gems of the city, dive deep into local food culture, and experience Hong Kong like a true insider.

In his vlog, Jonathan takes us along for the ride — from tucked-away noodle shops and family-run eateries to centuries-old temples and vibrant local markets. With Ryan leading the way, Jonathan explores the rich cultural fabric of Hong Kong, far from the usual tourist spots.

One of the most powerful moments in the video is Jonathan’s raw and honest account of witnessing the Hong Kong protests first-hand. He shares a thoughtful reflection on the energy of the city, its resilience, and addresses common concerns about safety, offering valuable perspective to future travelers.

This vlog is a time capsule — a delicious, emotional, and eye-opening look at a city in motion. Whether you’re planning a trip to Hong Kong or just curious about its hidden side, Jonathan’s video is well worth the

Inspired to create your own customised adventure in Hong Kong? Book a private tour with Hello! Hong Kong today and let us show you the city through a local’s eyes.

If you’re visiting Hong Kong in early May, you’re in for a rare and meaningful experience. Buddha’s Birthday, celebrated this year on May 5, 2025, is one of the most important spiritual holidays in the region—and there's no better place to witness it than Lantau Island.

Lantau isn’t just home to the airport and stunning nature trails. It’s where you'll find Ngong Ping, a peaceful plateau that transforms into a vibrant gathering space during this annual festival. At the heart of it all stands the awe-inspiring Big Buddha (also known as Tian Tan Buddha), one of the largest seated outdoor bronze Buddhas in the world.

How Locals Celebrate Buddha’s Birthday

Across Hong Kong, temples open their doors to thousands of worshippers who come to pay their respects to Siddhartha Gautama—the founder of Buddhism. But Lantau’s Po Lin Monastery, just a short walk from the Big Buddha, is the spiritual center of the celebration.

Here’s what you can expect to see and experience:

• Bathing the Buddha: A beautiful ritual where people gently pour water over a statue of the baby Buddha. It’s a symbolic act that represents cleansing the soul and letting go of past misdeeds.

• Incense and Offerings: The air is filled with fragrant incense smoke, while devotees offer fruits, flowers, and prayer scrolls at temple altars.

• Chanting Ceremonies: Monks lead the community in rhythmic prayers that echo through the monastery halls.

• Vegetarian Food Stalls: Many locals eat vegetarian meals during this time as an act of compassion, and several stalls pop up around the temple serving delicious meat-free local dishes.

Even if you’re not Buddhist, you’ll feel welcomed by the inclusive and peaceful nature of the celebration. It's a rare opportunity to take part in a living tradition and witness the harmony between spirituality and daily life in Hong Kong.

Why Visit Lantau on Buddha’s Birthday?

Visiting Lantau during Buddha’s Birthday offers a completely different side of Hong Kong—one that's spiritual, scenic, and deeply rooted in tradition. Imagine walking up the 268 steps to the Big Buddha while surrounded by incense, chanting, and panoramic mountain views. It’s an atmosphere that’s hard to put into words.

And while many visitors make the trip on their own, joining a guided Hong Kong tour that focuses on Lantau can give you a much richer understanding of what you're seeing.

Explore with a Local Guide on a Private Lantau Tour

If you're the kind of traveler who likes to go deeper, our Private Lantau Tour is designed to show you more than just the famous spots. Along with visiting the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery, we’ll take you to places like Tai O Fishing Village, where traditional stilt houses still line the water, and you'll learn how this quiet community has changed over time.

You'll also hear stories about Buddhist practices, local customs, and how Lantau’s unique blend of old and new shapes life on the island today. It’s a great option for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for something meaningful, personal, and memorable.

Plan Your Visit

Buddha’s Birthday on Lantau Island is a must-see if you’re in town this May. It’s more than just a cultural event—it’s a celebration of peace, compassion, and heritage in one of Hong Kong’s most beautiful settings.

Whether you go on your own or with a local guide, this is the kind of moment that will stay with you long after your trip ends.