Visit Hong Kong’s neighbourhoods and discover the city like a true local. Old Town Central, Eastern District, Sham Shui Po and Wan Chai are just a few of the hidden gems you need to add to your itinerary.
Beneath the stunning skyline of Old Town Central, history, arts, food and culture flourish in one of the city’s oldest and most archetypal neighbourhoods. With exceptional street art, shopping and dining on every corner, this neighbourhood is a perfect starting point for visitors. Take yourself on a self-guided walking tour through the Instagram-friendly streets, and enjoy not to be missed highlights including, Man Mo Temple, the newly opened Tai Kwun – Cultural Centre, Graham Market and the famous mid-level escalators. If all that walking works up an appetite, you’re in luck. Old Town Central is a foodie haven offering everything from traditional Dai Pai Dong to world-class Michelin cuisine.
On a map, Eastern District takes the shape of a sea serpent writhing along the shores of Victoria Harbour. This neighbourhood was once Quarry Bay’s old dockyards, but in recent years it has been transformed into a bustling commercial district, dotted with pristine pockets of nature, excellent seafood restaurants and a fascinating motley of local culture. Soak up the city views and take a breezy stroll along Quarry Bay Park’s famous waterfront promenade and check out the dynamic ArtisTree – Taikoo, Cultural Centre. Make sure you don’t miss the centres unique Fireboat Alexander Grantham Exhibition Gallery – a mini-museum housed in an actual grounded boat once used to fight Hong Kong’s fires.
Sham Shui Po is one of Hong Kong’s oldest districts. At first glance, this historically working-class neighbourhood may seem intimidating, but it offers a distinctive urban charm and a fascinating glimpse into a Hong Kong of the past. Located on the Kowloon side, Sham Sui Po is known as the haberdashery region. In recent years, the area has experienced a surge in modern infusion to create a unique neighbourhood that delivers old traditions with a fresh take. Test your haggling skills at the unique and colourful markets, sample the city’s most authentic street food and discover captivating local stories.
If you think Wan Chai is just The World of Suzie Wong, Karaoke bars and neon lights, think again. This pulsating district has its share of good time joints and exotic nightlife. What’s really exciting is Wan Chai’s thrilling evolution into one of the Hong Kong’s coolest and fast-paced neighbourhoods. It has a heady mix of old and new and East meets West, where new bars and happening restaurants mix with old tenement buildings and hidden temples among the district’s towering skyscrapers.
Remember… Qantas Frequent Flyers can earn double points* on these great Hong Kong land deals when combined with a Qantas airfare. To book your next Hong Kong experience, visit qantasholidays.com.au or call 1300 443 485.
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