As the sun sets over the Hong Kong skyline, a world of exciting possibilities opens up. From rooftop bars and world-class restaurants to captivating attractions and thrilling night hikes, Hong Kong is a city that truly comes alive after dark.
Here, we take a closer look at five of the very best ways to enjoy this wonderful city, a former British colony, at night.
Attractions open at night
Experience Hong Kong’s iconic landmarks in a different light. Visit the enchanting Hong Kong Observation Wheel, which illuminates the waterfront with a dazzling display of colours or discover the Temple Street Night Market, where visitors can shop for souvenirs and sample delicious local, street food late into the evening. To marvel at the city skyline from above, travellers can visit Sky Terrace 428, the largest viewing platform in Hong Kong standing at 428 metres above sea level, or head to Sky100, a 360-degree indoor observation deck, which offers views of Hong Kong Island, Victoria Harbour, the Kowloon Peninsula and Tai Mo Shan.
Bars and restaurants
Hong Kong’s nightlife scene offers a plethora of bars and restaurants catering to every taste. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Victoria Harbour from renowned rooftop bars like Ozone at The Ritz-Carlton – the highest rooftop bar in Asia – and Aqua in Tsim Sha Tsui for delicious cocktails amid the cityscape. Savour delectable cuisine at Michelin-starred restaurants such as Lung King Heen and T’ang Court, which serves dishes including stir-fried fresh lobster and Peking duck,or explore the vibrant street food stalls for an authentic, local culinary experience.
Late-night shopping
Hong Kong is a shopaholic’s paradise. Travellers can explore bustling night markets like the Ladies’ Market and Mong Kok’s Sneaker Street, which offer everything from fashion and electronics to street food and quirky souvenirs well into the night. Many locals and visitors enjoy these markets because of their lively streets and carnival-like atmospheres, with families and friends often attending together to shop till they drop.
Sunset hikes
For outdoor enthusiasts, Hong Kong offers remarkable hiking trails that provide unforgettable sunset and twilight experiences. Embark on the Peak Circle walk in Hong Kong, a journey that offers a captivating experience as the day transitions into night. As travellers explore the winding trails and paths, they’ll be surrounded by the beauty of nature amid the city’s skyline. The highlight of this hike is that it concludes just in time for twilight, when the sky is painted in a palette of soft hues, creating a magical ambience – the perfect reward for an invigorating hike. Tourists looking for a bit of a challenge can also opt to ascend through verdant forests and picturesque landscapes on the Sunset Peak hike as they make their way to the summit, where nature’s grandeur awaits. Sunset Peak is a testament to Hong Kong’s natural beauty and offers travellers a serene escape away from the bustling city below.
Cultural festivals and events
The city’s calendar is filled with exciting nighttime events and festivals. From the Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival in October which showcases the city’s culinary talents, to the New Year’s Eve countdown at Victoria Harbour, a spectacular fireworks extravaganza, and the perfect event to see in the New Year. February will see the city celebrate Chinese New Year, which is one of the most important festivals in Hong Kong. Over the years, the city has developed its own set of traditional festivities that take place during the first 15 days of Chinese New Year which continue well into the night, including the Lantern Festival, when softly lit animal-shaped lanterns dance across the night sky.
For more information on the Neon City, visit: discoverhongkong.com.
All imagery credit: The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB)
