Hong Kong is full of surprises. Beyond its famous skyline and busy shopping streets lies a treasure trove of hidden gems—places that locals love, but many visitors miss.

If you want to explore off-the-beaten-path spots without straying too far from the city, here are 8 hidden gems you can easily visit using MTR, tram, or taxi.

1. Nan Lian Garden – A Tranquil Oasis in the City

Just steps from Diamond Hill MTR Station, Nan Lian Garden is a peaceful escape filled with classical Chinese landscaping, lotus ponds, and a golden pagoda. Despite being in the middle of Kowloon, it feels worlds away from the city buzz.

2. Hau Wong Temple (Kowloon City) – Where History Meets Community

Tucked away behind busy roads and construction sites in Kowloon City, Hau Wong Temple is a quiet 18th-century temple with colorful tiles, ancient trees, and a strong sense of local culture. It’s easy to visit before or after exploring the nearby Kowloon Walled City Park.

3. Kowloon Walled City Park – A Forgotten Chapter of Hong Kong

Once the site of the most densely populated place on Earth, this historic park is now a lush green space with preserved stone gates, display halls, and stories of old Hong Kong. Just a 15-minute walk from Lok Fu or Sung Wong Toi MTR stations.

4. Sai Wan Swimming Shed – A Scenic Photo Spot

Located in Kennedy Town, this quiet pier and swimming shed is one of the city’s best-kept sunset spots. Popular with local photographers and Instagrammers, it’s easily reachable by tram or MTR and a short walk along Victoria Road.

5. Duddell Street Steps and Gas Lamps – A Colonial-Era Secret

Hidden among Central’s skyscrapers, Duddell Street is home to historic gas lamps that still glow at night. This small staircase feels like a movie set and is one of the last remaining colonial-era sites in the heart of the city.

6. PMQ – Creativity Meets Heritage

The former Police Married Quarters on Hollywood Road has transformed into a hip design hub featuring local artists, boutiques, and pop-up exhibitions. It’s stylish, quiet, and culturally rich—an easy add-on while exploring Central or Soho.

7. Blue House Cluster – Heritage with a Human Touch

This set of restored 1920s tenement buildings in Wan Chai features bright blue walls, traditional balconies, and a living museum vibe. Still home to local residents, it’s a great spot to learn about Hong Kong’s community-led conservation efforts.

8. Tai Kwun – Art, Culture, and History in One Spot

Located in the heart of Central, Tai Kwun is a beautifully restored colonial police station turned heritage and arts centre. Many tourists miss it while rushing through Soho, but it’s one of Hong Kong’s most unique venues—offering free exhibitions, art installations, and a peaceful courtyard café atmosphere. Easy to reach by MTR (Central or Hong Kong Station) and a short walk from the Mid-Levels Escalator.

Explore a Different Side of Hong Kong

These hidden gems are perfect if you're short on time but want to experience something unique and authentic. Each one reveals a layer of Hong Kong that’s not in the guidebooks—but is easy to reach by MTR or taxi.

Want to see more of these places with a local expert? Our Hello! Hong Kong guides can take you on a customized walking or cultural tour that shows you the city through a different lens.

Hidden Gems in Hong Kong You Haven’t Seen Yet