There are some fabulous cities in the world where just one night is all it takes to give you an experience that you’ll never forget. Hong Kong is definitely one of those locations and if you’ve only got a small window of opportunity then you’re going to need to know what to do and where to go in order to pack it all in.
Below are just a few of the nocturnal highlights that HK has to offer and no matter what you’re into there’s never a dull moment so make an early start and hit the ground running because as the quote from Anthony Bourdain suggests, this is one after hours tour that’s as exciting as it’s educational.
Hong Kong is a wonderful, mixed-up town where you’ve got great food and adventure. First and foremost, it’s a great place to experience China in a relatively accessible way.
Views
There’s only one place to be at sunset in Hong Kong and that’s the highest point on the island, the Peak. With panoramic views spread across the city and beyond to Victoria Harbour and the surrounding hillsides, this is just a remarkable place to watch the world down below light up and if you’ve got an important question to pop there’s no better time or place other than the Peak at sunset. Accessible by tram via the lower terminal on Garden Road, getting to the Peak in daylight hours is an experience in itself and as tram rides stop around midnight you’ll have plenty of time left to descend into the city to continue your sole night of adventure.
Bars
Hong Kong has got a serious selection of bars although, not all of them are at ground level or easily recognisable from their understated frontages. As with all major cities, it’s sometimes best to travel with a partner who really knows where they’re going as from rooftop bars accessible via supermarket lobbies to traditional English pubs that are hidden down a flight of stairs, getting to grips with HK’s bar scene is sometimes as bewildering as it is exciting. Best advice for one night in HK is to stick to SoHo or Lan Kwai Fong, and if you have a chance to try the ice bar then make sure you take full advantage of the fur coats on offer as Vodka has never tasted so chilled.
Clubs
Neon lighting, vast dance floors and more party people than you can shake a glow stick at, the club scene in Hong Kong is alive and well which all adds up to good times if you only have one night to shake your funky stuff. Wan Chai tends to be where it’s at when it comes to nightclubs and if you don’t mind bumping into the occasional banker then you’re bound to fall into bed with your ears buzzing and a smile on your face. Of course, depending what you’re into, there are plenty of alternative venues for a night out with restaurants, theatres and live music venues offering a chance to appreciate an international flavour as well as plenty of traditional Chinese charm. In the morning, find peace and tranquility on Lantau Island.
Markets
If you’ve never been to a night market before then don’t underestimate what an exciting experience this can be as from stinky tofu and candy floss to all manner of live entertainment and spiritual remedies, Hong Kong’s markets are a ‘must see’, especially if you’re only in town for a short amount of time. Temple Street is definitely the place to be after dark and presents a fascinating glimpse at both the people and the culinary delights of China’s prodigal son as well as a mesmerising mix of street food, juice stalls and open kitchens which all aim to keep you from your bed until the wee small hours.
Experience travels in another way. Experience gifts by Tinggly:
