Hong Kong is well-known for its iconic skyline and luxury shopping, but there’s so much more for those looking to explore its cultural and creative side. The Hong Kong Visitor Guide, produced by the Hong Kong Design Centre (HKDC), provides a fresh perspective on the city’s art, design, and architecture. This guide highlights 101 points of interest, ranging from famous landmarks to hidden gems often overlooked, even by locals.
A Fresh Take on Hong Kong’s Cultural Scene
For years, Hong Kong has been viewed as a financial hub, but its cultural landscape has been evolving. According to Eric Yim, chairman of the Hong Kong Design Centre, “There are so many guidebooks to Hong Kong, but there aren’t many for those interested in design, art, and culture.” His statement reflects the need for resources that spotlight the city’s growing creative offerings beyond traditional tourist spots.
The Hong Kong Visitor Guide breaks down the city’s attractions into eight key categories:
1. Insiders’ Picks
2. Culture and the City
3. Creative Landmarks
4. Design and Lifestyle
5. Architecture
6. Accommodation
7. Food and Beverage
8. Nightlife
This format allows visitors to explore at their own pace, with no preset itineraries, giving them the freedom to dive into the city’s rich creative scene.
Cultural Landmarks and Design Highlights
Among the must-visit spots are some of Hong Kong’s most renowned cultural institutions. The M+ Museum, which is dedicated to visual culture, and the Hong Kong Museum of Art are both prominently featured for anyone who is passionate about art and design. These major cultural hubs offer both historical and contemporary insights into the region’s creative expressions.
However, the Hong Kong Visitor Guide also introduces some lesser-known gems. Yim emphasizes, “There are things that may be overlooked even by local Hong Kong people.” One such highlight is the Shaw Auditorium at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. Designed by Danish architecture firm Henning Larsen, this impressive ring-shaped structure has been drawing attention since its opening in 2021.
Another standout is The Mills, located in Tsuen Wan. Once a textile factory, this space now functions as a cultural and design hub, showcasing exhibitions on contemporary textile art and paying homage to Hong Kong’s history in garment manufacturing. These examples reflect the city’s efforts to invest in cultural spaces beyond the well-known West Kowloon Cultural District.
Hidden Treasures and Local Creativity
Hong Kong’s design scene isn’t just limited to its museums and galleries. The guide also brings attention to places like Vessel in Kwun Tong, a unique community hub developed under a highway flyover. This venue hosts various cultural events and activities, making it a creative space for both locals and visitors.
In North Point, Oi!, a former home of the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, has transformed into an art and design venue, expanded in 2022 to house exhibitions and creative events. These kinds of spaces add depth to the city’s vibrant cultural landscape and invite visitors to explore beyond the usual tourist paths.
Shopping for Design Lovers
Given that Hong Kong is a city where commerce and culture often intersect, the Hong Kong Visitor Guide also highlights several spots where visitors can shop for locally designed products and international curiosities. Some of the key shopping spots for design enthusiasts include:
1. André Fu Living – A lifestyle brand created by renowned architect André Fu
2. Latitude 22N – A ceramic studio founded by designers Julie Progin and Jesse McLin
3. Twenty One From Eight – A woodworking studio known for its handmade pieces
4. Douguya Hatcharea – A fascinating space filled with Japanese collectibles
These shops allow visitors to take a piece of Hong Kong’s creative scene home, whether through furniture, ceramics, or other thoughtfully curated objects.
Stylish Spots to Eat, Drink, and Stay
For those seeking a more design-forward experience, the guide also covers well-designed restaurants, bars, and hotels. From high-end eateries to hidden gems, these spots offer not just great food and drinks but also immersive design experiences. Among the public spaces featured, Salisbury Garden stands out. This waterfront space, revamped by British landscape architect James Corner and local studio LAAB Architects, offers stunning views and thoughtful landscaping.
Yim notes that in recent years, Hong Kong has worked hard to make its waterfront areas more accessible and enjoyable for the public. This transformation reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its urban landscape and making cultural spaces more inclusive.
Hong Kong’s Evolving Cultural Identity
The narrative of Hong Kong as a “cultural desert” is becoming increasingly outdated. The city has undergone significant changes in recent years, investing in its creative infrastructure and offering more opportunities for locals and visitors to engage with its artistic and design heritage. With 101 carefully selected locations, the Hong Kong Visitor Guide provides just a glimpse into what the city has to offer in terms of culture and creativity.
