Tucked away on the western edge of Lantau Island lies Tai O Fishing Village, a place where time seems to stand still. This quiet, humble village is one of the last remaining communities in Hong Kong that still reflects the city's traditional fishing heritage. A visit to Tai O is a chance to witness a slower pace of life, where locals still dry seafood by hand, boats glide gently through narrow canals, and traditional wooden stilt houses rise gracefully above the water.

Traditional stilt houses line the waterfront of Tai O, reflecting the village’s enduring fishing heritage.

Often called the “Venice of Hong Kong,” Tai O is home to the Tanka people, an indigenous fishing community that has lived on the water for generations. The village is famous for its stilt houses, or pang uk, which were built to adapt to the tidal changes and the daily rhythms of sea life. As you walk through its narrow lanes, you’ll pass small family-run shops selling dried seafood, shrimp paste, and handmade snacks that carry the taste and history of old Hong Kong.

The atmosphere is both peaceful and captivating. Wooden homes weathered by sun and sea tell stories of resilience, while the surrounding mountains and waterways create a picturesque backdrop for photography and reflection. There’s also a chance to spot the elusive pink dolphins in nearby waters, a rare and magical sight that reminds visitors of the natural beauty still thriving around Hong Kong.

No trip to Tai O is complete without sampling its local specialties. The air is rich with the scent of grilled cuttlefish and fresh shrimp paste—two of the village’s most iconic products. Make sure to try the silky tofu pudding, often served chilled, which offers a light and comforting treat after a walk around the village.

Though Tai O feels like a remote escape, it's easily accessible and often included as a highlight in a Lantau tour. Guests who book a tour with Hello! Hong Kong will have the opportunity to explore Tai O alongside other iconic sights like the Big Buddha and Ngong Ping. It’s a wonderful way to combine nature, history, and culture all in one unforgettable day.

Tai O is not just a destination—it’s a living museum, a peaceful village, and a window into Hong Kong’s rich and layered past. For those seeking meaningful travel experiences and a deeper connection to local life, Tai O is a must-visit.

Hong Kong’s culinary soul is roaring back to life. After a few years of quiet introspection, the city's dining scene in 2025 has burst forth with a renewed, electrifying energy that feels both familiar and thrillingly new. Chefs are taking risks, traditions are being playfully reimagined, and hole-in-the-wall spots are gaining cult-like followings overnight. The air is thick with the scent of charcoal grills, bubbling broths, and delicate infusions—a testament to a city that communicates, celebrates, and connects through food. It’s a landscape defined by resilience and relentless innovation.

This vibrant social tapestry is something that hasn’t gone unnoticed. As the team at the social events app Bloc Nearby aptly puts it, “Hong Kong's restaurant scene is about more than just food; it's the city's social heartbeat. We’re seeing a huge surge in people wanting to connect over new dining experiences. They aren't just looking for a meal; they're craving shared memories, and a fantastic restaurant is the ultimate stage for that.” And they're absolutely right. The best tables in town aren't just serving food; they're serving experiences. So, where should you be booking a table right now? Forget the tourist traps and yesterday’s news. We’ve scoured the city, from the glistening towers of Central to the buzzing backstreets of Sham Shui Po, to bring you the definitive list of the 10 best restaurants to visit in Hong Kong right now.

1. Celestial Palate

What it is: A temple to modern Cantonese cuisine in the heart of Central.

Why go: Forget everything you thought you knew about stuffy, traditional Cantonese fine dining. Chef Vicky Lau, a visionary in the local scene, has created a space that is both achingly elegant and surprisingly playful. Celestial Palate takes hyper-local, seasonal ingredients—some grown in their own New Territories greenhouse—and transforms them into works of art. The experience is a narrative, a journey through Hong Kong’s terroir. Think less banquet hall and more art gallery, but one where you can eat the exhibits. The tea-pairing menu, curated by a master who seems to communicate with the leaves, is an absolute must.

Must-try dish: The Slow-Cooked Abalone with Fermented Tofu and Chrysanthemum Glaze. It's an audacious combination that sings on the palate, a perfect blend of oceanic umami and delicate floral notes.

2. Gweilo Grill

What it is: A boisterous, fire-fuelled steakhouse with a distinctly Hong Kong personality.

Why go: Tucked away in a quiet corner of Wan Chai’s Star Street precinct, Gweilo Grill is loud, proud, and utterly delicious. This isn't your typical buttoned-up American steakhouse. Instead, it’s a celebration of global grilling techniques viewed through a local lens. The dry-ageing cabinets are filled with premium cuts from around the world, but the magic happens in the marinades and sauces. Expect flavours like black garlic and preserved black bean rubbing shoulders with classic peppercorn. The atmosphere is infectious—all clinking glasses, roaring laughter, and the hypnotic sizzle from the open kitchen. It’s the perfect spot for a celebratory meal that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Must-try dish: The 45-Day Dry-Aged Ribeye with a side of "Typhoon Shelter" Bone Marrow. Pure, unadulterated indulgence.

3. Monsoon Bistro

What it is: Elevated Southeast Asian street food in a chic, jungle-inspired setting.

Why go: Ever craved the complex, fiery flavours of a Bangkok night market but in a setting where you can sip a craft cocktail? Monsoon Bistro in Kennedy Town is your answer. The restaurant is a lush oasis of hanging plants, rattan furniture, and warm lighting, creating an instant holiday vibe. The menu is a love letter to the street food of Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia, but with each dish deconstructed and elevated. The chefs here aren't just replicating recipes; they're interrogating them, amplifying the flavours and presenting them with finesse. A friend of mine swore the beef rendang here changed his life. I believe him.

Must-try dish: The Scallop and Pomelo Miang Kham. A traditional one-bite wrap that explodes with fresh, zesty, and spicy flavours. It's the entire ethos of the restaurant in a single leaf.

4. Azure

What it is: A breathtaking seafood restaurant offering unparalleled views from Tsim Sha Tsui.

Why go: Let's be honest, sometimes you go for the food, and sometimes you go for the view. At Azure, you don't have to choose. Perched atop a skyscraper on the Kowloon side, the restaurant offers a 270-degree panorama of the iconic Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island skyline. It’s genuinely jaw-dropping. But this is no tourist trap with mediocre food. The kitchen is fiercely dedicated to sustainable seafood, sourced both locally and from small-scale fisheries abroad. The preparation is clean and precise, allowing the pristine quality of the fish and shellfish to shine. It’s a place for special occasions, for dazzling a first-time visitor, or for simply reminding yourself how magnificent this city truly is.

Must-try dish: The Three-Tiered Chilled Seafood Platter. A lavish celebration of the ocean's bounty, featuring everything from local clams to Boston lobster.

5. Terra Firma

What it is: An innovative, farm-to-table restaurant championing the city’s vegetarian and vegan scene.

Why go: For years, vegetarian dining in Hong Kong often meant either traditional Buddhist fare or uninspired Western salads. Terra Firma, located in the artsy enclave of Sheung Wan, has completely shattered that stereotype. This place is cool. The interior is minimalist and earthy, and the menu is a revelation of what can be achieved with humble vegetables. They work directly with local organic farms, and their menu changes almost weekly based on the harvest. This isn't about meat substitutes; it's about celebrating vegetables in their own right, using techniques like fermentation, smoking, and open-flame grilling to unlock incredible depths of flavour. Even the most ardent carnivore will leave impressed.

Must-try dish: The King Trumpet Mushroom "Scallops" with Truffled Celeriac Purée. It’s a feat of culinary alchemy that is savoury, earthy, and mind-bendingly delicious.

6. Kinetic Kitchen

What it is: A chaotic, no-reservations noodle bar that’s worth every minute of the queue.

Why go: Deep in the bustling heart of Mong Kok lies Kinetic Kitchen, a 20-seater joint that has the city’s foodies in a chokehold. The concept is simple: choose your hand-pulled noodles, your broth, and your toppings. But the execution is anything but. The broths simmer for 48 hours, developing a staggering complexity. The noodles have the perfect "QQ" (chewy) texture, and the toppings range from impossibly tender slow-braised beef brisket to fiery Sichuan-style wontons. The energy inside is electric—a symphony of slurping, shouting chefs, and steaming bowls being passed over the counter. It’s a quintessential Hong Kong experience: loud, fast, and unbelievably satisfying.

Must-try dish: The Dan Dan Noodles with a "Volcano" spice level, if you dare. It’s a mouth-numbing, soul-warming bowl of pure perfection.

7. The Old Colonial

What it is: A nostalgic and refined restaurant reviving historical Hong Kong-style Western cuisine.

Why go: Before the era of global celebrity chefs, Hong Kong developed its own unique style of Western food—a fascinating culinary blend born from its colonial past. The Old Colonial, set in a beautifully restored heritage building in Tai Kwun, pays homage to this nearly-lost cuisine. It’s a journey back in time. The menu features classics like Borscht soup, baked pork chop rice, and Swiss sauce chicken wings, but they are all prepared with modern techniques and top-tier ingredients. It’s comfort food, elevated to an art form. The decor, complete with dark wood, brass fittings, and vintage photos, completes the immersive, nostalgic experience.

Must-try dish: The Signature Prawn Toast. A far cry from your local takeaway version, this one uses whole tiger prawns and is impossibly crispy and decadent.

8. Harbour's Echo

What it is: A forward-thinking Japanese omakase with a focus on dry-ageing.

Why go: Omakase counters are plentiful in Hong Kong, but Harbour's Echo distinguishes itself with its obsessive focus on ageing fish. Chef Kenji Tanaka believes that, like a fine cut of beef, many types of fish benefit from a period of controlled ageing, which concentrates their flavour and tenderises their texture. A meal here is an education. You might have a 10-day-aged snapper next to a fresh-caught sea urchin, allowing you to directly compare the flavour profiles. The minimalist 12-seat counter ensures an intimate and personal experience, as Chef Tanaka guides you through each course with quiet expertise.

Must-try dish: Whatever Chef Tanaka puts in front of you. Trust the process.

9. The Humble Dumpling

What it is: An artisan dumpling house that has become a local institution.

Why go: In a city that runs on dumplings, it takes something special to stand out. The Humble Dumpling in Sham Shui Po is that special something. It started as a tiny family-run stall and, thanks to word-of-mouth and rave reviews, has expanded into a slightly larger (but still perpetually packed) eatery. They do one thing, and they do it perfectly. The dumpling wrappers are rolled to an almost translucent thinness, yet they have a resilient chew. The fillings are creative and always bursting with flavour. Forget your standard pork and chive; here you’ll find combinations like black truffle and mushroom, or spicy lamb with cumin.

Must-try dish: The Pan-Fried Scallop and Asparagus Dumplings. Served with a crispy, latticed "skirt," they are a textural masterpiece.

10. Neon Dagger

What it is: A secret, speakeasy-style izakaya serving inventive yakitori and rare Japanese whisky.

Why go: You won't find a sign for Neon Dagger. Tucked behind what looks like an old umbrella shop on a back alley in Lan Kwai Fong, you enter through a hidden door. The vibe inside is Blade Runner meets an intimate Tokyo listening bar, with neon lights reflecting off dark surfaces and a curated vinyl soundtrack. The menu focuses on yakitori, but with a twist. Think chicken oysters with yuzu kosho or pork belly glazed with black sugar and shichimi. The real treasure, however, is the whisky collection. The owner is a fanatic, and the bar stocks bottles you simply won't find anywhere else in the city. It's the kind of place you take someone you really want to impress.

Must-try dish: The Tsukune (chicken meatball) served with a cured egg yolk for dipping. It’s smoky, rich, and utterly addictive.

And there you have it. Ten incredible reasons to be excited about eating in Hong Kong in 2025. This is a city that never stands still, and its food scene is a thrilling reflection of its dynamic spirit. From the dizzying heights of a harbour-view seafood palace to the humble satisfaction of a perfectly crafted dumpling, the message is clear: Hong Kong is hungry. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your chopsticks, book that table, and get ready to fall in love with this city's incredible flavour all over again. The adventure is served.

Since 2014, our Hong Kong Island Food Tour has introduced thousands of hungry travelers to the bold flavors and rich stories of this culinary capital. This is the original, award-winning Hello! Hong Kong food tour — thoughtfully updated over the years, yet still proudly rooted in tradition.

Our small group food tour guests experiencing to be a local in a day.

Your journey begins in a 90-year-old tea house, where dim sum still arrives on rattling trolleys — a rare and nostalgic experience even for locals. From there, we visit a Michelin-recommended family-run noodle shop for handmade wonton noodles served in steaming, flavorful broth. Along the way, you’ll sip on silky smooth Hong Kong-style milk tea, ride the iconic Ding Ding tram, and enjoy perfectly roasted meats in a historic Cantonese kitchen once praised by none other than Anthony Bourdain.

But this tour isn’t just about what we eat — it’s about understanding why. We explore Hong Kong’s layered food culture through preserved snacks, soy sauce traditions, herbal medicine shops, and dried seafood streets. Each stop tells a story about the people, history, and values that shape daily life in this ever-evolving city.

Over the course of 3 kilometers, you’ll wander through Sheung Wan, Central, and Wan Chai, uncovering the city’s hidden corners, colonial-era buildings, bustling markets, and back alleys filled with character.

Whether you're a food lover, a culture seeker, or just curious about what makes Hong Kong tick — this tour is your flavorful introduction to the city’s heart and soul.

What to Expect: Hungry Ghost Festival in August

Wander the streets of Hong Kong in August, and you might stumble upon burning incense, smoky offerings, and even Chinese opera performances popping up in parks and empty lots. These are signs that the Hungry Ghost Festival is in full swing—a deeply rooted Chinese tradition observed during the seventh lunar month, when it’s believed that the gates of the underworld open and spirits roam among the living.

A traditional Chinese opera performance during the Hungry Ghost Festival in Hong Kong. The front rows are left empty—for the spirits believed to roam freely during Ghost Month.

Photo credits: HKTB

In 2025, Ghost Month begins on 23 August and ends on 21 September. Here are the key dates to note:

• 23 August 2025 – This marks the first day of the 7th lunar month, when the Gates of Hell are believed to open, allowing spirits to enter the world of the living.

• 6 September 2025 – Known as Ghost Day, this is the 15th day of the lunar month and considered the most spiritually active period.

While ceremonies take place throughout the month, the days leading up to and after Ghost Day often feature the most public offerings and rituals.

A Month for Spirits

Unlike other Chinese festivals that center around celebration, the Hungry Ghost Festival is focused on respect, remembrance, and spiritual safety. According to folklore, the spirits of the deceased—especially those without families to honor them—are allowed to visit the living world. Locals take extra care to appease these roaming souls through rituals that ensure harmony between the living and the dead.

Burning Rituals and Paper Offerings

One of the most visually striking traditions is the burning of joss paper—items made from bamboo paper that represent money, clothes, and even luxury goods like smartphones or cars. These offerings are burned in small street-side furnaces, especially near housing estates and temples, as a way to “send” them to the spirits in the afterlife.

Street Performances for the Spirits

You might also see temporary stages being set up for Chinese opera shows or puppet performances. Interestingly, the front rows are often left empty—not for latecomers, but for the spirits themselves. These performances are considered a form of entertainment and respect for those who no longer walk among us.

Food for the Hungry

As the name suggests, food plays a central role in the festival. Families prepare elaborate meals and leave a portion out as offerings to their ancestors and wandering ghosts. You’ll also find special dishes during this time, such as sweet rice cakes and vegetarian meals offered at temples.

Tips for Travelers

• Be respectful: Avoid stepping on or disturbing offerings, even if they’re in the middle of the sidewalk.

• Photograph with care: If you come across a ceremony or burning ritual, ask for permission before taking photos.

• Try the food: Some local eateries offer seasonal snacks that tie into the festival—don’t miss the chance to sample them!

Whether you're a curious traveler or a culture enthusiast, witnessing the Hungry Ghost Festival offers a unique window into Hong Kong’s spiritual traditions. It’s a time when the city becomes a blend of reverence, ritual, and mystery—an experience not easily forgotten.

Hong Kong is a playground for photographers, influencers, and casual travelers who love to snap and share. If you're looking for the most Instagrammable spots without straying too far from the city centre, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re into colorful street scenes, panoramic views, or cultural icons, here are 5 picture-perfect places you need to visit in 2025!

1. Choi Hung Estate – The Rainbow Basketball Court

This pastel-colored housing estate is a social media classic — and it’s still going strong in 2025. The rainbow basketball court, framed by apartment blocks painted in soft shades, creates the perfect pop for your feed. Go early in the morning for fewer crowds and dreamy lighting!

📍 MTR: Choi Hung Station (Exit C4), a short ride from Central

Photo by Alexandr Bormotin on Unsplash

2. Victoria Peak – The Classic Skyline Shot

You can’t come to Hong Kong and skip The Peak. Capture the city’s iconic skyline from the Sky Terrace or the Lugard Road Lookout. Golden hour here is absolutely magical — think cotton candy skies and glittering skyscrapers. It’s touristy, yes, but for a reason!

📍 Peak Tram from Central or bus/taxi up the hill

Alvin and family visiting the Peak on theer customised tour

3. PMQ – Hip, Artsy, and Full of Character

Once a police dormitory, now a hub of creativity, PMQ in Central is filled with independent boutiques, art exhibits, and eye-catching design corners. It’s perfect for lifestyle and fashion shots, especially with its mix of industrial and modern architecture.

📍 35 Aberdeen Street, Central

PMQ in central - Hong Kong Tourism Board

4. Man Mo Temple – Red Lanterns and Incense Swirls

Step into another world at Man Mo Temple, one of the oldest temples in Hong Kong. The hanging coils of incense, traditional red lanterns, and beams of sunlight filtering through the smoke create an atmospheric, almost mystical photo opportunity.

📍 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan

5. Murray House and Stanley Promenade – Seaside Serenity

For a quieter but equally beautiful scene, head to Stanley. The colonial-style Murray House, colorful market stalls, and seaside views offer a softer side of Hong Kong. It’s perfect for relaxed vacation vibes and a stylish coffee shot by the water.

📍 Stanley, 30 minutes from Central by bus or taxi

Murray House Stanley

Map created with Wanderlog, a travel planner on iOS and Android

There’s no place quite like Hong Kong—a city where neon-lit streets meet quiet mountain trails, where traditional dim sum restaurants sit beside sleek rooftop bars, and where old fishing villages are just a short ride from gleaming skyscrapers. It’s a city best experienced not with a fixed itinerary, but with flexibility and curiosity.

That’s why our private customised tours have always been about giving travellers the freedom to explore at their own pace. Whether you prefer discovering local neighbourhoods on foot or covering more ground in a private car, the journey is tailored to your interests, energy levels, and pace.

And now, we’ve added a few extra options to help you experience even more of what makes Hong Kong so special.

Ride the Historic Peak Tram

The Peak Tram isn’t just a mode of transport—it’s part of Hong Kong’s story. As you ascend steeply toward Victoria Peak, you’re following a route that’s been in use since 1888. The short ride offers sweeping views of the skyline and a chance to reflect on how the city has grown from a colonial port into a global metropolis. At the top, you’re rewarded with one of the most iconic views in Asia—perfect for taking it all in or capturing a photo to remember it by.

Take a Sampan Ride through Aberdeen

In the southern part of Hong Kong Island lies Aberdeen, a harbour where traditional fishing life still lingers. A 20-minute ride in a sampan—a small wooden boat—gives you a close-up look at the floating village culture that once defined much of the city’s coastline. It’s a peaceful contrast to the city’s fast pace and offers insight into how generations of fisherfolk lived, worked, and formed communities on the water.

Experience a Tea Tasting Workshop

Tea is more than just a drink in Chinese culture—it’s a ritual, a conversation starter, and a way to slow down. This 45-minute tea tasting workshop introduces you to different types of locally loved teas and the customs behind them. You’ll learn how tea is brewed and served, what different varieties symbolise, and why tea has remained such an important part of daily life for centuries.

These new add-ons are a gentle way to deepen your experience in Hong Kong. They’re not flashy or rushed—they’re reflective moments that help make sense of the city’s rhythm and layers. If you’re planning a customised tour, consider adding one (or all) of these into your day. They each offer something unique—and very “Hong Kong.”

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.