SELF-GUIDED WALKS

CONTENTS
02
Time Travellers Modern-day Hong Kong may be best known
for its glossy skyscrapers and world-class
10 attractions, but to understand how the city

Crazy for Art became the bustling metropolis that it is

today, one only need to pay a visit to Old

20
Town Central.

Tasting Hong Kong One of the oldest yet also most dynamic
districts in the city, Old Town Central –

30
encompassing the sloped streets and
small alleys of Central and Sheung Wan –
Treasure Hunt encapsulates Hong Kong’s rich and diverse
spirit. A place where century-old temples
38 share the same streets as fashion-forward
Highlight Route concept stores, or where authentic tea
houses coexist with modern art galleries,
this colourful neighbourhood is at once old
and new while also being proudly local and
unmistakably global.

Immensely walkable and brimming with

attractions, this neighbourhood is perfect
to experience on foot. There’s plenty to
discover here, from heritage buildings
and art institutions to local eats and fun
souvenirs. Whatever your interests are,
this guide will lead you to some of the best
things that Old Town Central has to offer.
Have fun exploring.

Disclaimer:
Old Town Central is produced by Time Out Hong Kong and published by the Hong Kong Tourism Board. The Hong Kong Tourism Board
shall not be responsible for any information described in the book, including those of shops, restaurants, goods, and services, and they
do not represent and make guarantees concerning any such information regarding shops, restaurants, goods and services and so on,
including commercial applicability, accuracy, adequacy and reliability, etc. Information as described in the book is as of September
2023. Customers can refer to relevant parties if they have any enquiries. The guide is carefully compiled in order to provide the most
accurate information and the Hong Kong Tourism Board and Time Out Hong Kong will not be liable for any outdated information, errors
or omissions.
 TIME TRAVELLERS

Time Travellers THE BEGINNINGS OF MODERN-DAY HONG KONG

Exploring Old Town Central is like taking a trip back in time. The neighbourhood, which These historic sites played an important role in the early chapters of the city’s
transition from a humble settlement to a modern metropolis.
encompasses Central and Sheung Wan, was where some of the earliest chapters of
modern Hong Kong history unfolded. Today, more than 180 years since the British first
settled at Possession Point, this district is still home to cobblestone streets, heritage 1 Possession Street
buildings, traditional temples and other fascinating landmarks that illustrate its storied Ordinary as it may seem, Possession Street has
past and its early role in shaping the cosmopolitan city of Hong Kong as we know it today. a significant place in the history of Hong Kong.
On 25 January 1841, the British navy arrived at
nearby Possession Point (now Hollywood Road
Park) and began 150 years of colonial rule, marked
by a flag-raising ceremony the day after the initial
landing. Originally perched on the waterfront,
Possession Street was given a new lease of life
through reclamation. The area is now dotted with
hip restaurants and boutiques, alongside historic
stores where you can still sample a taste of an
older Hong Kong.

2 Pottinger Street
Pottinger Street and its surrounding area give a good sense of what the lives of Central’s early dwellers
would have been like. The stone slabs spanning the entire street were laid in an irregular manner for
a reason: some sections of this street between Hollywood Road and Connaught Road Central were
particularly steep, and the uneven pavement made it easier for commuters and merchant-bearers to
walk on while also allowing rainwater to flow down. Because of the unique design, locals still refer to it
today as ‘Stone Slab Street’.
There were stalls on either side of the street when it was constructed in the 19th century. Originally,
they sold household goods, or offered services such as shoe and pot repairing, as well as clothing
alteration. Today, as consumer habits have changed, most of them sell festive costumes or handicrafts.

2 3
 TIME TRAVELLERS

LANDMARKS INFLUENCED BY EAST AND WEST CULTURE 5 Dr Sun Yat-sen Museum

Hong Kong’s unique cross-cultural heritage is duly reflected in the architecture and conceptual Despite its Edwardian-style facade – complete
design of these iconic monuments. with Greek columns and stained glass windows –
this four-storey museum is dedicated to the life
and achievements of Dr Sun Yat-sen, who was
3 Hong Kong Museum of Medical
an instrumental figure in the establishment of
Sciences the Republic of China. The museum includes two
This Edwardian brick building is a symbol of the permanent exhibitions that showcase artefacts from
development of medical sciences in Hong Kong. Dr Sun’s eventful life and career, and also highlights
After the bubonic plague hit the city in the late the statesman’s close ties to Hong Kong, where he
19th century, the government stepped up efforts received his secondary and university education and
in medical development, which eventually led began to nurture some of his progressive ideas.
to the establishment of the first bacteriology 7 Castle Road, Mid-Levels, Central
institute. The laboratory came into service in +852 2367 6373
1906 as the city’s first purpose-built clinical hk.drsunyatsen.museum
laboratory for public health, and the cornerstone
of the development of medical sciences in Hong
Kong. The museum now contains important
exhibits on the city’s medical history and is the
first institution of its kind to compare Chinese and
Western pathologies.
2 Caine Lane, Mid-Levels, Sheung Wan
+852 2549 5123
www.hkmms.org.hk

4 Chinese YMCA of Hong Kong,

Bridges Street Centre
Hong Kong’s architecture was greatly enriched
when Western and Chinese influences came
together during the previous era. The Bridges
Street Centre of the Chinese YMCA of Hong
Kong, which is just steps away from the Hong
Kong Museum of Medical Sciences, is a perfect
case in point. Completed in 1918, the centre is
a six-storey blend of Chicago School architecture
and Chinese roofing techniques. In the early
20th century, it was a major social centre for the
Chinese youth community and boasted enviable
facilities, such as a fitness centre, restaurants
and a hostel, as well as Hong Kong’s very first
indoor swimming pool.
51 Bridges Street, Sheung Wan
+852 2540 0526
bsc.ymca.org.hk

4 5
 TIME TRAVELLERS

PLACES OF WORSHIP
From Chinese temples to Catholic cathedrals, the cultural melting pot of Hong Kong is home
8 Jamia Mosque
to places of worship for faiths and religions from all over the world. You can easily recognise Hong Kong’s oldest
mosque by its mint-green facade and gorgeous
Islamic-influenced architecture. With its Arabic-
6 Tai Ping Shan Street style windows and gates, the Grade I historic
building stands out among its Mid-Levels
Walk up from Possession Street and you will find yourself
surroundings. Aside from being a place of worship
at Tai Ping Shan Street. A number of distinctive ancient
for Muslims in Hong Kong, Jamia Mosque is also
temples line the two sides of this 300-metre-long path.
an important historic landmark that dates all the
The most eye-catching of them all is probably the smoky,
way back to the 1840s.
red temple called Kwong Fook I Tsz. Built in 1856, it is a
classic example of a temple that fulfilled diverse roles. It 30 Shelley Street, Central
was an ancestral temple for migrant families, a shelter for +852 2523 7743
the ill and also housed memorial tablets for immigrant
workers who passed away while in Hong Kong. Also be
sure to visit Kwun Yum Temple, which is still frequented
by worshippers.

7 Man Mo Temple
A five-minute walk from Tai Ping Shan Street, Man Mo Temple is a stunning
complex estimated to have been built more than 150 years ago. It comprises
three blocks, each serving different purposes. The namesake structure, Man
Mo Temple, pays tribute to the God of Literature and the God of War, while
Lit Shing Kung was created for all heavenly gods. Finally, Kung Sor was an
assembly hall for resolving community disputes.
A great place to visit for history lovers, the well-preserved historic building
houses a bronze bell dating back to 1847 and a sedan chair from 1862. The
structure itself is just as fascinating, and comprises granite pillars, granite
door frames, engraved wood plaques and ancient mural paintings.
124-126 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan
+852 2540 0350

9 Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

The Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception was moved to this quiet Mid-Levels location after its previous
incarnation was destroyed in a fire. Built in the late 1880s, the church is a stunning example of gothic architecture
and was constructed in a cruciform shape with a central spire. The structure has been designated a Grade I historical
building and was also given an Honorable Mention by the UNESCO Asia Pacific Heritage Conservation Award in 2003
following its extensive renovation. Equally stunning inside, the cathedral is open for mass every Sunday and for public
visitations from Monday to Saturday.
16 Caine Road, Mid-Level, Sheung Wan
+852 2522 8212
cathedral.catholic.org.hk

6 7
 TIME TRAVELLERS

INNOVATIVE TRIBUTES TO HONG KONG HISTORY

Using modern technology and cutting-edge design, these sites celebrate the heritage of the
city in exciting new ways.

10 Tai Kwun
Tai Kwun, meaning ‘big station’ in Cantonese, was
a nickname for the former Central Police Station
Compound, which boasts a history of more
than 170 years. The site comprises 16 heritage
buildings – all magnificent works of architecture.
The former Police Headquarters, for example, is a
resplendent example of Neoclassicism while the
barracks, built between 1862 and 1864, is known
for its distinctive Roman-style arch.
Wonderfully preserved, the historical site
has since been transformed into an arts and
culture hub – and one of the largest conservation 12 Hong Kong News-Expo
projects to date in Hong Kong. Along with two
The former Bridges Street Market has undergone a massive
newly built structures, the original buildings now
transformation to become the Hong Kong News-Expo, Asia’s
house art galleries, retail shops and various bars
first exhibition and education facility to showcase and celebrate
and restaurants. Tai Kwun also hosts curated
the role of media and journalism in Hong Kong. The Grade III
art exhibitions, performances, workshops, film
historic building houses interactive exhibitions demonstrating
screenings and guided tours, so be sure to check
the development of local media, spanning from its infancy in
ahead for schedules and details.
the form of newspaper and radio to television and digital media.
10 Hollywood Road, Central Join the free seminars, workshops and guided tours for a deeper
+852 3559 2600 understanding and appreciation of the Hong Kong press.
www.taikwun.hk
2 Bridges Street, Central
+852 2205 2233
www.hkne.org.hk

11 Pak Tsz Lane Park 13 Central Market

From Tai Kwun, walk down Hollywood Road and you’ll soon One of the revitalisation projects under Urban Renewal Authority
reach Pak Tsz Lane Park, one of the 16 stops along the Dr Sun and managed by Chinachem Group, the revitalised Central
Yat-sen Historic Trail. This tranquil patch of green was built to Market is one of the latest developments in Central. Covering
commemorate the achievements of the Furen Literary Society, over a 12,000-square-metre area, the Grade III historic building,
which was founded by revolutionary leaders Yeung Ku-wan and located between Queen’s Road Central and Des Voeux Road, has
Tse Tsan-tai on 13 March 1892. The group eventually merged been converted into a ‘Playground for All’, offering experiences
with Dr Sun’s Revive China Society and was heavily involved and venues for dining and retail aimed at connecting the local
in the 1911 Chinese Revolution. Revitalised with an urban community to the neighbourhood’s history, tradition, and
architectural design, this memorial park features exhibition contemporary culture.
panels, interactive facilities and an educational playground 80 Des Voeux Road Central, Central
that traces the society’s history and revolutionary activities. +852 3618 8668
Pak Tsz Lane, Central www.centralmarket.hk/en/

8 9
 CRAZY FOR ART

ART AND CULTURE HUBS

From a gallery complex to a private museum, these centres of creativity all call
Central home.

14 PMQ
Formerly the Police Married Quarters, PMQ now houses
works by promising young artists and designers in
Hong Kong. Not only will you find a fascinating line-up
of creative studios and designer products here, but
there are also frequent exhibitions and workshops,
giving you insights into the local creative scene. That’s
not all: several heritage sites still remain at PMQ, such
as the Former Central Junior Police Call Clubhouse
and the granite stairs and rubble retaining wall of the
Central School.
35 Aberdeen Street, Central
+852 2870 2335
www.pmq.org.hk

15 Fringe Club
Situated amid the hustle and bustle of Central, Fringe Club
distinguishes itself from the surrounding high-rises with a
neoclassical exterior made of milky white and brown bricks.
Since it inhabited part of the Old Dairy Farm Depot in 1984,
the Fringe Club has been a celebrated exhibition and performance

Crazy for Art

venue, and has helped introduce experimental works to the city’s
art scene. Catch a host of poetry reading sessions, exhibitions and
plays and musical performances while you’re here, but be sure to
One of the most vibrant neighourhoods in Hong Kong, Old Town Central is bursting check the events calendar before you visit.
with creativity on every street corner. This area has everything from experimental stage 2 Lower Albert Road, Central
performances held inside a repurposed depot, to world-class art exhibitions and edgy +852 2521 7251
graffiti that graces the walls of small alleys. www.hkfringeclub.com

10 11
 CRAZY FOR ART

16 Pedder Building
Housed within this beautiful Beaux-Arts style structure and a
Grade I historic building is a wonderful range of internationally
renowned galleries including the likes of Gagosian and Pearl
Lam Galleries. Spanning multiple floors, Pedder Building is the
ideal destination for gallery-hopping and discovering works by
some of the biggest names and up-and-coming artists in the
current global art scene.
12 Pedder Street, Central

18 H Queen’s
17 Liang Yi Museum
This 24-storey vertical art space is currently
This private art museum is a shining gem in the heart of Sheung home to world-class galleries and auction houses
Wan, especially for antiquities lovers. Spanning four storeys, including David Zwirner, Hauser & Wirth, and
Liang Yi Museum collects and showcases rare and under-the- Tang Contemporary Art. But what sets H Queen’s
radar Chinese antique furniture, as well as European bejewelled apart from other art spaces in the city is its
clutches, compacts and powder boxes from luxury design massive venues. Expect an elevated artviewing
brands such as Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels. Make sure experience at these multi-floor galleries and
to book an appointment if you want to peruse the museum’s plenty of large-scale installations that wouldn’t fit
fascinating relics. in other locations.
181-199 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan 80 Queen’s Road Central, Central
+852 2806 8280 +852 2343 1738
www.liangyimuseum.com www.hqueens.com.hk

12 13
 CRAZY FOR ART

STREET ART
The streets and walls of Old Town Central often double as canvases for gorgeous works of
graffiti. Keep an eye out for these murals as you stroll around the neighbourhood.

19 21A Lyndhurst Terrace 20 45-53 Graham Street

It‘s hard to miss the massive portrait of a man surrounded by rising bubbles on the slopes of Cochrane Street.
This hidden mural painting is done by local graffiti artist Peck who has decorated several walls in the city. Viewers
Set against the black mosaic tiles of the building, Hong Kong-based French muralist Elsa Jean de Dieu has injected
have to peek in between two units to be rewarded with a wall full of colourful 3D lettering that spell out the artist’s
her signature joy and lightness to the bustling streets of Soho. The mural is also one of many born out of the HK Walls
name, tucked away in this narrow alley.
2018 project.

14 15
 CRAZY FOR ART

22 Shingo Art
Japanese celebrity Shingo Katori has recently joined the fray of the Hong Kong
street art scene to present a vibrant, red painting underneath one section of
the Central – Mid-Levels escalator. The choice of colour, the Bauhinia motifs
and the miniature skyline are all in tribute to Hong Kong. Take a step back and
you’ll find that together, these elements form an image of a dragon.

Intersection of Hollywood Road and Shelley Street

23 Madera Hollywood Hotel

Nothing screams star power like the iconic figures of Marilyn Monroe, Audrey
Hepburn and Charlie Chaplin. Covering the facade of this Hollywood Road
21 46 Graham Street / 48 Hollywood Road hotel, the screen legends, accompanied by Frank Sinatra, are painted in pop
Without a doubt the most photographed example of street art in Hong Kong, local graffiti artist Alex Croft’s colourful art-like style in front of imagery of the Hong Kong skyline. Here’s your chance
mural of old townhouses shines a light on the city’s iconic tong lau tenement buildings. Boasting a vibrant blue to get a selfie with these Hollywood greats.
background, this piece of street art is a vibrant and colourful window into the past. 53 Hollywood Road, Central

16 17
 CRAZY FOR ART

ARTLANE
Discover more wonderful street art
Hong Kong has to offer and venture
out towards Sai Ying Pun’s ARTLANE,
where local and international artists
have turned the building walls of Ki Ling
24 Tank Lane
Lane and Chung Ching Street into a
Paying tribute to the one and only Bruce Lee, South Korean graffiti artist Xeva used his signature mosaic technique to kaleidoscopic canvas.
create this large mural, which captures the likeness of the martial arts superstar. Strike a jeet kune do pose next to
the graffiti at this staircase for the perfect Hong Kong snapshot.
ARTLANE, Sai Ying Pun

18 19
 TASTING HONG KONG

TRADITIONAL CHINESE FLAVOURS

Tasting Hong Kong These time-honoured eateries are loved for their authentic Chinese fare, be it Cantonese
A true food paradise, Old Town Central is a melting pot of flavours with something to sate dim sum or traditional baked treats.
all tastes. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Hong Kong, there’s plenty here that fits
the bill, from traditional dim sum to baked treats sold at shops that have stood the test of
time. Of course, the culinary landscape here is also influenced by Hong Kong’s status as a 25 Luk Yu Tea House
multicultural, trend-setting metropolis, and you’ll find plenty of Michelin-starred restaurants Established in 1933, this three-
here, as well as cutting-edge fusion cuisine and cocktail bars that rank among the best in storey restaurant boasts plenty of
the world. old-world charm, especially with its
historical design juxtaposed with
traditional Chinese furnishings. It’s
also one of the best spots in town for
an authentic dim sum meal, served
with a wide variety of expertly brewed
teas. The restaurant also offers
larger dishes for dinner, such as the
signature sweet and sour pork and
roasted crispy chicken.
24-26 Stanley
Street, Central
+852 2523 5464

26 Lan Fong Yuen

If you want a cup of Hong Kong-style
milk tea, head to Lan Fong Yuen.
The popular beverage was influenced
by British culture but is made with
evaporated milk and sugar. Be sure
to try the famous “silk stocking milk
tea” which is passed through a fine
mesh to give it a particularly smooth
texture. While Lan Fong Yuen’s original
street stall still stands on Gage Street,
head to the restaurant tucked behind
for dishes such as the chicken noodles
with scallion oil.
2 Gage Street, Central
+852 2544 3895

20 21
 TASTING HONG KONG

27 Sing Heung Yuen

Housed in a wide alleyway, this dai
pai dong (open-air food stall) may
not look particularly fancy but it’s
perpetually packed with customers
who come from all corners of the
city for the signature tomato noodle
soup and crispy buns with lemon
and honey. Cheap, cheerful and
immensely comforting, the food
here is so popular that even local
celebrities have been spotted eating
here. Drop by for an afternoon bite
after browsing nearby attractions
such as Pak Tsz Lane Park and PMQ.
2 Mee Lun Street, Sheung Wan

29 Kung Lee Herbal Tea Shop

Founded in the 1940s, Kung Lee is still loved and frequented by many locals. The store retains much of its old-school
features, including its wooden fixtures, ceramic tiles and ceiling fans. On the menu, the sugarcane juice is the bestseller.
28 Tai Cheong Peeled and steamed using traditional methods, the sugarcane is pressed with an antique juicer to produce a refreshingly
sweet beverage that supposedly boasts a host of health benefits. Also don’t miss the sugarcane pudding and various
Fancy a piping hot, silky and irresistibly
herbal teas.
aromatic egg tart? Grab one from Tai
Cheong Bakery. With more than 60 60 Hollywood Road, Central
years of history, this time-tested shop +852 2544 3571
used to be a favourite of Hong Kong’s
last colonial ruled governor, Chris
Patten. Although the bakery now has 30 Chan Yee Jai
branches all across the city, the original
location on Lyndhurst Terrace remains Want to bring a traditional Hong Kong-style snack
the most iconic. back home? Then be sure to visit Chan Yee Jai.
Founded in 1927, the store offers a wide variety of
35 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central
traditional Chinese confections, including almond
+852 8300 8301
biscuits, haw flakes, preserved lemon and plum,
www.taoheung.com.hk/en/brands/
tai_cheong/index.html bird’s nest cakes, sesame cakes and more.
176B Queen’s Road Central, Central
+852 2543 8414
www.chanyeejai.com.hk
(Chinese only)

22 23
 TASTING HONG KONG

MODERN DELIGHTS 32 H Code

Get a taste of Hong Kong’s contemporary dining scene, which offers everything from reimagined Located near the top of Pottinger Street, H Code
Canto classics to international fare served in stylish surrounds. is a meeting and networking space set in the
heart of Central. Its rich and diverse food
offerings make it a fantastic hangout. Indulge
your palate at fine dining restaurants like Bo
Innovation and Clarence; enjoy the casual and
chillaxing atmosphere at NOJO Ramen x Izakaya;
and refresh with a tipple at standout drinking
spots such as The Diplomat and Bar De Luxe.
45 Pottinger Street, Central
+852 2510 8633
www.hcode.com.hk/en

31 Duddell’s
This Michelin-starred restaurant brings together
fine art and fine dining. Boasting a spacious
terrace and elegant interiors, Duddell’s offers
modern takes on traditional Cantonese cuisine
with signatures such as honey-glazed barbequed
pork and stir-fried Boston lobster with Maotai.
Guests can also enjoy exquisite dim sum as well
as cocktails inspired by the five elements.
3/F, Shanghai Tang Mansion, 1 Duddell Street,
Central
+852 2525 9191
www.duddells.co

24 25
 TASTING HONG KONG

WORLD-CLASS BARS
Whether you’re in the mood for wines, cocktails or just a great spot to hang out at, these
fantastic bars are worth raising a glass to.

35 Foxglove
Decked out in glamourous, 1950s-style fashion,
this elegant watering hole has the added fun
of being hidden behind the mock exterior of an
umbrella shop. The bar creates unique cocktails
based off of famous singers, such as Aretha
Franklin and Elvis Presley. Aside from sipping on
these carefully crafted libations, you can also enjoy
live music performances on most nights. Insider’s
33 LPM Restaurant & Bar tip: this hidden bar also boasts its own hidden bar
This popular Niçoise restaurant has locations all over the world, including in London, Miami, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. in the form of Frank’s Library – a speakeasy that
Like the flagship location in London, the Hong Kong branch serves delicious, French-Mediterranean cuisine with focuses on premium drinks.
a focus on quality ingredients and authentic flavours. Signature dishes include escargots, whole roasted chicken 2/F, Printing House, 6 Duddell Street, Central
stuffed with foie gras and, of course, the salad Niçoise. +852 2116 8949
1/F, H Queen’s, 23-29 Stanley Street, Central https://mingfathouse.com/restaurants/foxglove
+852 2887 1113
www.lpmrestaurants.com/hongkong

36 Room 309
Opened by Hong Kong’s leading
mixologist, Antonio Lai, Room 309
is a discreet bar hidden within
The Pottinger hotel off the steps
of Pottinger Street. Guests must
request for a key card from its sister
bar, The Envoy, before they are
granted access. Once inside, you’ll
find an intimate space that plays on
one’s imagination with features such
as an invisible menu and expertly
34 Fukuro
crafted cocktails that are crystal
This modern izakaya serves delicious sharing plates in a fun clear in appearance.
and boisterous environment. Signature dishes include jet-fresh
3/F, The Pottinger Hong Kong,
raw seafood, crisp tempura items and various tasty morsels
74 Queen’s Road Central, Central
cooked on the robata grill. In true izakaya fashion, the tipples of
www.room309.hk
choice include quality highballs and premium sakes.
1-5 Elgin Street, Central
+852 2333 8841
www.fukuro.com.hk

26 27
 TASTING HONG KONG

38 The Iron Fairies

With sumptuous interiors by renowned
designer Ashley Sutton, The Iron Fairies feels
like it belongs in the pages of a fairy tale.
The most stunning features here are the
10,000 butterflies that dangle elegantly from
the ceiling, as well as the miniature, iron-
wrought fairy figures that adorn the tables.
It’s a wonderfully whimsical place to enjoy
exquisitely prepared cocktails and comfort
food such as mini grilled cheese sandwiches
and handcrafted burgers.
LG/F, Chinachem Hollywood Centre, 1-13
Hollywood Road, Central
+852 6202 0000
www.diningconcepts.com/restaurants/
Iron-Fairies

37 The Old Man

Currently ranking at 47 in Asia’s 50 Best
Bars 2023, The Old Man is one of the
finest places for a drink in Hong Kong.
There’s impeccable attention to detail
here, as demonstrated by the L-shaped
bar, which has a cooling strip running
down the middle to keep drinks chilled.
Expect excellent and elegant cocktails –
many of which take inspiration from the
words and stories of esteemed American
novelist, Ernest Hemingway.
37 Aberdeen Street, Central
+852 2703 1899
www.facebook.com/TheOldManHK/

28 29
 TREASURE HUNT

OLD HONG KONG TREASURES

From traditional crafts to antique souvenirs, these shops and stalls offer plenty
of old-school gems that are perfect as souvenirs.

39 Upper Lascar Row

The highlight of Upper Lascar Row is the seemingly
endless row of antique stores, offering an eclectic
collection of Chinese calligraphy, art and vintage
furniture. This runs parallel to stalls that sell an
array of bric-à-brac collectibles, such as Mao
Zedong alarm clocks and Bruce Lee posters.
In recent years, local designer boutiques and
vintage clothing stores have popped up nearby,
attracting more locals as well as visitors.

Upper Lascar Row, Sheung Wan

40 Linva Tailor
In business since 1965, Linva Tailor on Cochrane Street shot to fame after the period drama blockbuster,
In the Mood for Love, featured its custom-made cheongsams. These dresses were commonly worn in
Hong Kong up to the 1960s and 1970s, and at Linva, you can find an exquisite, ready-to-wear collection,
and also order one that’s tailor-made.
38 Cochrane Street, Central
+852 2544 2456

Treasure Hunt
A neighbourhood as steeped in history as it is brimming with style, Old Town Central is the
perfect place to seek out a unique gift or memento to bring back home. Whether you want
to visit a local market, comb through an antique store or look your best at one of the many
fashionable concept shops, this happening area boasts no shortage of gems waiting for
treasure hunters to discover.

30 31
 TREASURE HUNT

FUN AND QUIRKY FINDS

Be prepared to be surprised and delighted at these unique shops, which offer everything
from vintage dresses and jewellery to floral teas packaged in beautiful boxes.

41 Chu Wing Kee

This iconic neighbourhood homeware shop is a treasure trove of household goods from a time gone by. A dwindling sight
in Hong Kong, Chu Wing Kee is a place where you can find stacks of old-school crockery and teapots, bamboo baskets
dangling from the ceiling, and feather dusters and kerosene stoves tucked away in corners. Forget mass-produced
modern items and opt for these classic and affordable Hong Kong products, which also make for great souvenirs.
24 Possession Street, Sheung Wan
+852 2545 8751 43 Select 18
Treasure hunters will be delighted at Select 18,
a place caught up in time with a carefully curated
collection of treasures ranging from vintage
42 Graham Street Market spectacles, bags and hats to old radios and vinyl
records, among other items amassed by owner
With more than a century’s history, Graham Street Market is a
Mido, a native Hong Kong citizen of Indian descent.
great place to experience life as a local. The sloped street is
An avid collector of Scandinavian furniture and
flanked by food stalls on either side, selling everything from
eyewear, Mido also has a taste for vintage items, as
fresh vegetables to live seafood. Along the market, you’ll also
reflected by the collectibles he personally gathered
find traditional shops selling items that are great as souvenirs.
or received from relatives abroad.
For example, founded in 1917, the Kowloon Soy Company
(9 Graham Street, Central, +852 2544 3697) is renowned for 14 Tung Street, Sheung Wan
its soy sauce made with traditional techniques. +852 9121 3011

32 33
 TREASURE HUNT

UNIQUE CONCEPT STORES

44 ABoutique More than mere retail stores, these chic boutiques double as lifestyle concepts, offering a
Founded in 2011, ABoutique range of curated products to suit different needs.
is committed to showcasing
contemporary emerging labels
and timeless designs to Hong
Kong shoppers and fashionistas.
Pick from a great variety of eye-
catching brands and its wide
selection of chic outfits, shoes
and accessories. You can easily
find a new wardrobe here that will
help you stand out from the crowd.
19 Aberdeen Street, Central
+852 2851 6055
www.aboutique.hk

45 Bang Bang 70s

As its name suggests, this funky vintage store
specialises in 1970s fashion and apparel. Here,
you can rummage through a myriad of groovy
clothing and memorabilia that’ll have you
nostalgic for the disco days. Turn Bang Bang’s
checkered tiled floors into your personal dance
floor as you try on everything from platform
boots to rare retro bags and even pre-loved
luxury clothing and accessories.
1/F, 16A Aberdeen Street, Central
46 Goods of Desire (G.O.D.)
+852 6461 7448 Goods of Desire (also known as G.O.D.) is a
lifestyle brand offering products with a distinct
Hong Kong flair. The shop was founded in 1996
and started in a small industrial space in Ap Lei
Chau. Since then, it has expanded to various
branches in the city and overseas. Shop here for
cool T-shirts, stationery, and quirky household
accessories designed with a cheeky sense of
humour inspired by Hong Kong culture.
48 Hollywood Road, Central
+852 2890 1876
www.god.com.hk

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MODERN HANDICRAFTS
These shops offer beautiful, handmade items, with some even offering workshops that allow
you to create your own.

47 Loveramics
Redefining ceramics as more than
just kitchenware, Hong Kong-
founded Loveramics designs fun and
energetic goods that brighten up
any table or countertop. Marvel at a
dizzying collection of themed plates,
colourful mugs, teapots, coffee
accessories and cutlery, and feel
free to coordinate or mix and match.
You can’t go wrong with the classic
collections, but the contemporary
and quirky designs will certainly
spruce up any kitchen.
Shop 104, Barrack Block, Tai Kwun,
10 Hollywood Road, Central
+852 2884 0003
www.loveramics.com

48 Glocal Mahjong
Mahjong is an integral part of Hong
Kong’s culture. Homegrown brand Glocal
Mahjong celebrates this unique heritage
with an array of mahjong-themed
products that you won’t find anywhere
else. Think custom-design mahjong
sets, stationery, lifestyle items, and
wearables like T-shirts, bags, and even
gold-plated necklaces.
Unit S405, 4/F, Staunton, PMQ,
35 Aberdeen Street, Central
+852 2546 3178
www.glocalmahjong.com

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HIGHLIGHT ROUTE

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There’s no shortage of attractions in Old Town Central, from decades-old temples

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to chic rooftop bars. To help you make the most of your time in this vibrant L
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neighbourhood, we’ve put together this highlight route, which allows you to MTR C N
STA T IO
discover some of the best historic monuments, shops and restaurants in the QUEE
area. Whether you’re looking to learn about the colourful heritage of this district or N’S
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sample some delicious local eats, this walking tour will introduce you to the very R AL
STANLE
best that Old Town Central has to offer while also helping you to discover some Y ST

COCHRANE
other hidden gems along the way.

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Possession Chu Wing Tai Ping Upper Lascar Man Mo Pak Tsz Lane 46 Graham Street / Tai Cheong Lan Fong Tai Kwun
Street Kee Shan Street Row Temple Park 48 Hollywood Road p.22 Yuen p.8
p.3 p.32 p.6 p.31 p.6 p.8 street art p.21
p.16

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 HONG KONG TOURISM BOARD
VISITOR SERVICES

HONG KONG TRAVEL BUDDY

Visiting Hong Kong? Scan the QR code to access the ‘Hong Kong Travel Buddy’
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Information is correct as of September 2023, but is subject to change without prior notice. Hong Kong
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services; or for any errors or omissions.

© Copyright Hong Kong Tourism Board 2023

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