The Pawn heritage building in Wan Chai Hong Kong

Wan Chai Neighbourhood Guide: Where to Eat, Drink, Stay and Play

Wan Chai building and taxi with text overlay The Pawn heritage building in Wan Chai and tram with text overlay Neon lights in Wan Chai market in Hong Kong with text overlay

Wan Chai (or Wanchai) is one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in Hong Kong, and I’m not just saying that because I’ve lived here for the past decade.

Balcony in Hong Kong

Oftentimes you will hear that Hong Kong is a city of contrasts: old and new, East and West, high-rises and nature, all co-existing in harmony. Wan Chai is a perfect example of the confluence of all of those opposing elements.

Taxi in front of the Blue House in Wan Chai Hong Kong

Where is Wan Chai in Hong Kong, you ask? Loosely, it is sandwiched between Admiralty and Causeway Bay right in the city centre, and extends all the way from Bowen Road down to Victoria Harbour.

Wan Chai sign post in Hong Kong

Throughout Wan Chai you’ll find skyscrapers, an international conference and exhibition centre and towering office buildings and hotels. But scattered between these monuments of modern architecture are heritage buildings, traditional mom and pop shops, a bustling wet market, and plenty of hidden gems.

Lanterns in Hong Kong

Wan Chai was featured in the 1960’s movie, “The World of Suzie Wong”, and sometimes gets a bad rap for being a “seedy” party area – but the truth is that the (fairly tame) “red light district” runs along 3 blocks of 1 street in Wan Chai. Don’t listen to anyone who tells you to skip Wan Chai, because they don’t know what they’re on about.

Blue House cluster in Hong Kong

Wan Chai is one of the best places in Hong Kong to explore traditional culture and heritage – make sure you bring your phone or camera to capture some candid street photos of the city.

Star Street area in Hong Kong

Read on for everything you need to know about visiting the Wan Chai district – where to eat, where to stay, things to see and do and where to grab a drink (or two).

Essential tips for visiting Hong Kong

View of Hong Kong from an airplane

✈️ To get into Hong Kong you’ll need to fly into Hong Kong International Airport. A cab from the airport to the city costs approximately HK$350-450 and typically takes less than 45 minutes/1 hour from door-to-door, or you can pre-book your private airport pick up or drop off here.

Hong Kong Airport Express train

However, the best way to get to and from the airport is via the Airport Express train. Tickets can be purchased at the station and the train stops in Tsing Yi, Kowloon and Hong Kong Island – it takes just 24 minutes from end to end! Get 20% off your Airport Express ticket and buy your ticket ahead of time online here.

If you’re staying in Wan Chai, take the Airport Express train to Hong Kong station (in Central) and switch to the blue MTR Island line or hop in a taxi – the ride should cost you no more than HK$40-50.

🛂 Most visitors to Hong Kong do not require a visa for entry. See here for more details.

Hong Kong money notes

💱 The local currency is the Hong Kong dollar and the exchange rate is US$1 to HK$7.6 or €1 to HK$8.7. Most places accept Visa, Mastercard or American Express. There are tons of ATM machines around Hong Kong, just make sure you’ve enabled international withdrawal or your card has the “Plus” or “Cirrus” logo on the back. If you’re looking to exchange money in Wan Chai, there are several currency exchange shops along Johnston Road close to MTR exit A3.

🎟️ You pretty much never have to pay full price for admissions tickets in Hong Kong as most tour operators, car charters, spas and major attractions are listed on Klook. Just click here and search for places you want to go, and book online for discounted entry or head on over here to read more about how to use Klook to book travel experiences.

📱 Buy a local SIM card. The easiest way to do that is via Klook – you can get a 7 day Hong Kong tourist SIM card and pick it up from the airport on arrival.

🚗 Getting around Hong Kong is easy. Wan Chai has its own MTR subway station with plenty of different exits that will get you to where you need to go. Public transportation is efficient, cheap and clean, and the network is very extensive. Taxis are cheap as well if you are in a hurry.

Octopus Card in Hong Kong

One of the first things you have to do when you arrive in Hong Kong is get an Octopus card. It is a stored value card that works on all public transportation (but not in taxis). You can purchase your tourist Octopus card in advance here – pick it up from the airport when you arrive, and it comes with HK$50 already pre-loaded.

🌤️ Hong Kong gets 4 seasons! It is not a year-round tropical country as many people seem to believe. Summers are HOT and it gets fairly cold during the winter months (December to February). The best time to visit Hong Kong for milder weather is from March to early June, and September to November (but avoid the 1st week of May and 1st week of October as the city can get busy during China’s “Golden Week” holidays).

👚 What to wear in Hong Kong: In general, there are no strict dress codes in Hong Kong; however, Hong Kong can still be considered relatively conservative compared to some major Western cities. You should be prepared for stares (from both men and women) if you wear revealing clothing.

During the summer, it can be hot and humid so bring loose fitting, breathable clothing. However, most indoor places blast the air conditioning so it can be freezing cold – you’ll want to have a thin cardigan, sweater or scarf on hand.

During the winter months, it rarely falls below 8-10 degrees Celsius (46-50 Fahrenheit) but because of the humidity it can feel much chillier. If you are visiting from mid-December to mid-March it would be prudent to bring a warm scarf and a thick coat or down jacket.

🌐 Language in Hong Kong: The main language spoken in Hong Kong is Cantonese, a local dialect. Many people speak English (or at least basic English), and almost all signs are bilingual.

🗓️ Wondering how many days to spend in Hong Kong? For a first time visitor looking to visit the top attractions in Hong Kong I would recommend spending no fewer than 3-4 days in the city. If you plan on embarking on any Hong Kong day trips or exploring the city off the beaten track, plan to set aside anywhere from 5-10 days for your Hong Kong itinerary.

For a full list of things you should know before your trip, head on over here for the top things you should know before visiting Hong Kong!

Where to stay in Wan Chai District

Wan Chai neighbourhood in Hong Kong from above

Wan Chai has a handful of boutique hotels to offer, and is one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in on Hong Kong Island.

The Fleming urban hotel in Hong Kong queen sized bed

It offers easy access to the Wan Chai MTR subway station, buses, trams and is also walking distance to Admiralty.

I’m a big fan of The Fleming, a boutique hotel in Wan Chai just steps away from the MTR and a perfect base for city exploration. The hotel’s design is inspired by Hong Kong’s heritage and the iconic Star Ferry, and offers visitors the opportunity to stay in a space that celebrates the spirit and essence of the city. Click here for current rates and availability at The Fleming.

Also located in the hub of Wan Chai is the brand spanking new Hong Kong boutique hotel, The Hari. The stylish and sleek hotel is the epitome of class, with every last inch of The Hari exuding sophistication without losing practicality. You’ll love the thoughtful design at The Hari, and will be welcomed in with open arms by their incredible team. Click here to book your stay at The Hari!

Island Shangri-La is one of the most popular luxury hotels in Hong Kong. It offers extremely spacious rooms (many of which have since been renovated), fantastic dining options, a brand new wellness center and outdoor pool. It is not in Wan Chai proper, but is right next to it in Admiralty with direct access to Pacific Place (a huge shopping mall). The walk into Wan Chai will take you under 5 minutes.

We loved the panoramic view from our room at the Island Shangri-La (inter-connecting rooms are also available), and you are guaranteed excellent service and hospitality in an extremely elegant setting. Click here to check rates and availability at Island Shangri-La!

If you’re looking for more options, I’ve heard good things about Hotel Indigo, OZO Wesley, Empire Hotel and The Grand Hyatt. You can read more reviews here and check out Wan Chai hotel availability and current rates on Booking.com, or check out some other tried-and-tested Hong Kong boutique hotels here.

What to do in Wan Chai District

Street art in Wan Chai Hong Kong

Wan Chai is a treasure trove of sights, sounds and smells. Spend a few days discovering its gems and wandering down narrow laneways and side streets on foot. Here are some of the best things to do in Wan Chai, one of the most underrated neighbourhoods on Hong Kong Island!

1. See the Blue House cluster and visit the House of Stories

Hong Kong Wan Chai Blue House

The cluster is one of the few remaining examples of old-school tenement buildings in Hong Kong and made up of 3 brightly coloured buildings (blue, yellow and orange). The Blue House Cluster is one of the most colourful places in Hong Kong and was built between the 1920s and 50s.

Blue House in Wan Chai Hong Kong

The bold Blue House is listed as a Grade I historic building, which means that it is a building “…of outstanding merit, which every effort should be made to preserve if possible.

Hong Kong Wan Chai Blue House House of Stories

Make sure you stop by the Hong Kong House of Stories, which hosts exhibitions that introduce visitors to the community and showcase the history and architectural features of the Blue House Cluster. The mini museum aims to raise public awareness of the regional and cultural conservation by providing information of past Hong Kong society and culture.

Hong Kong Wan Chai Blue House House of Stories

Getting to the Blue House Cluster is easy – it is located along Stone Nullah Lane just off Queen’s Road East, one of the main streets running through Wan Chai.

2. Experience sensory overload in Wan Chai Market

Wan Chai wet market in Hong Kong

Wan Chai Market is made up of a few different sections – the wet market where fish mongers, butchers and vegetable and fruit stalls sell fresh produce day in and day out, and the dry market area where you’ll find old school toy shops, florists, clothing and accessories for sale.

The area is a hub of hustle and bustle non-stop activity that offers a glimpse into everyday life in Hong Kong.

Wan Chai wet market in Hong Kong

This is one of the best places for street photography in Hong Kong – make sure you check out the wet and dry market, and stop by at night to see the neon lights and signs sparkle.

Ready to book your Hong Kong trip? Here are some personal tried-and-tested recommendations in Wan Chai: I’m a fan of The Fleming (a Hong Kong-inspired boutique hotel), The Hari (a classy and sophisticated hotel with functional and stunning rooms) and the Island Shangri-La (a luxury hotel in Admiralty, a quick 5 minute walk away from Wan Chai). You can also check out some other highly rated Hong Kong hotels here.

3. Visit Pak Tai Temple complex

Pak Tai Temple in Wan Chai Hong Kong

Located in Lung On Street behind the Blue House Cluster, the Pak Tai Temple was built by local residents in 1863. The temple is listed as a Grade I historical building and is one of the biggest temples on Hong Kong island.

4. Stroll down the mini flower market

Gresson Street Wan Chai

You may have heard of the flower market on Kowloon side, but Wan Chai is also home to a smaller market on Gresson Street. There are only 3-4 shops selling potted orchids, succulents and other flowers, but what I love about this little nook is the multi-coloured stalls.

Gresson Street Wan Chai

The street is especially active during Chinese New Year, typically in January or February of each year.

5. Discover the street art in Wan Chai

Street art in Wan Chai Hong Kong

The odd piece of street art has always been around in Wan Chai, but in 2019 a large-scale street art event descended upon Wan Chai and graced us with dozens of new pieces to breathe even more life into an already vibrant neighbourhood. Read more about street art in Hong Kong here.

Street art in Wan Chai Hong Kong

Start on Queen’s Road East and make your way towards Morrison Hill Swimming Pool – make sure you explore all the different side streets: the fun is in wandering around and spotting the pieces on your own!

Street art in Wan Chai Hong Kong

Check out even more things to do in Hong Kong that probably aren’t in your guidebook!

Ready to book your Hong Kong trip? Inspired by the Star Ferry, I’m a big fan of The Fleming, a design boutique hotel in Wan Chai just steps away from the MTR. Click here for current rates and availability at The Fleming.

I also highly recommend The Hari, a sophisticated boutique hotel in the heart of Wan Chai with some fantastic in-house restaurants. Click here to book your stay at The Hari!

For a luxury Hong Kong hotel with all the 5-star facilities, look no further than Island Shangri-La in Admiralty. Click here to check rates and availability at the Island Shangri-La.

If you’re looking for more options, I’ve heard good things about Hotel Indigo, OZO Wesley, Empire Hotel and The Grand Hyatt. You can read more reviews here and check out Wan Chai hotel availability and current rates on Booking.com.

6. Attend exhibits at the Hong Kong Arts Centre

Hong Kong Arts Centre in Wan Chai

The Hong Kong Arts Centre is a non-profit arts organization established in 1977. It promotes contemporary performing arts, visual arts, film and video arts, and hosts regular exhibits, performances and screenings throughout the year.

Hong Kong Arts Centre in Wan Chai

Its focus is on Asian contemporary art and visiting the centre is a great way to learn about the local arts scene in the region. The Hong Kong Arts Centre is a great rainy day hangout if you want to find some shelter.

7. Check out the view from the observation elevator

Observation lift in Hopewell Centre Hong Kong

Hopewell Centre is an iconic cylindrical building bam-smack in the middle of Wan Chai. It is also home to a pair of observation lifts overlooking Victoria Harbour and whole Wanchai area.

The “ride” itself takes no longer than a few seconds, but there are no entry fees and offers a panoramic view of Wan Chai from above. Head to the 17th floor for the observation lifts.

8. Walk through Wan Chai Park

Children's park in Hong Kong

Wan Chai Park is a small park in the heart of the island. Though it is much smaller than Hong Kong Park in Admiralty, Wan Chai Park offers a breath of fresh air and splash of greenery in a fairly built-up park of the island.

9. Stock up on gadgets at Wan Chai Computer Centre

Wanchai Computer Centre in Hong Kong

Wanchai Computer Centre is a multi-level mall with dozens upon dozens of shops filled with every electronic gadget you could ever need. Looking for a new charging cable? Wanchai Computer Centre will have it. Need some GoPro accessories? Yup. How about some new travel speakers? Look no further.

Ready to book your hotel in Wan Chai? Check out The Hari (a sophisticated boutique hotel in the heart of Wan Chai) and The Fleming (a unique boutique hotel in Wan Chai that is an homage to the city’s legendary Star Ferry). For a 5-star Hong Kong hotel with more facilities including a gym and pool then consider checking out Island Shangri-La.

10. Take the Star Ferry

Star Ferry crossing Victoria Harbour in Hong Kong

Most people visiting Hong Kong for the first time know about the iconic Star Ferry, a passenger ferry that scurries between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon all day long. What most visitors don’t know is that the Star Ferry not only operates between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui, but also Wan Chai and Tsim Sha Tsui.

Star Ferry Victoria Harbour Cruise Hong Kong

Crossing Victoria Harbour and seeing the skyline from the water offers up one of the best views of Hong Kong. For just .50 cents or HK$2.7 on the weekdays and HK$3.7 on the weekends, riding the Star Ferry is one of the most budget-friendly things to do in Hong Kong.

11. Indulge in a foot massage

We Hong Kongers love a good foot massage, and it is also one of the best things to do in Hong Kong on a rainy day. Lay back and let the reflexologist work their magic on your tired feet. I like heading to Happy Foot or FootSpa Garden – their masseuses are experienced and the hygiene is fairly impeccable.

Where to eat in Wan Chai

Street food in Wan Chai Hong Kong

I am extremely lucky that Wan Chai is home to some of the best restaurants in Hong Kong and that I can get my fill of street food, tapas, ramen, pizza and pad thai without having to go far. Here are some of my favourite places to eat in Wan Chai!

Traditional Hong Kong street food – Wan Chai is home to a handful of traditional Hong Kong street food stalls. You’ll find them next to Wan Chai Computer Centre and around the Morrison Hill swimming pool area along Wood Road. Make sure you try the garlic noodles, cheong fun steamed rice rolls and curry fish balls!

APT – Serving up some of the most beautiful, customizable dishes of avocado toast, APT is probably my favorite brunch spot in Wan Chai. The coffee is stunning, and it’s the perfect weekend spot for friends and family.

Five Guys – Wan Chai is home to Hong Kong’s very own Five Guys franchise location. If you’re craving a good ol’ burger with all the fixings then head to Five Guys – just beware that the lines to get in can be long on the weekends!

Shake Shack – More of a Shake Shack fan? There’s a massive Shake Shack store down the road in Pacific Place in Admiralty. Try the special milk tea milkshake exclusive to Shake Shack in Hong Kong.

Motorino – If you’re craving an authentic Neapolitan pizza, look no further than Motorino on Ship Street. Remember to save some space for their incredible homemade tiramisu.

22 Ships – On the slightly pricier side but a lovely little Spanish restaurant serving up modern tapas in the heart of Wan Chai. The food is stunning and tastes outrageously good – come here early as they don’t take reservations.

Spice House – Craving some no-frills Thai food? Spice House has you covered.

Samsen – Don’t mind waiting in line for some mouthwatering Thai food? Head to Samsen for their boat noodles, pad see yew and coconut ice cream. They have an amazing lunch set menu as well, just get there before the lunch crowd gets there! They don’t take bookings and the restaurant is small, so don’t come with a big group.

Fini’s – Fini’s serves up Italian American fare – head here for pizza, wings, mac n’ cheese and their classic southside cocktail.

Dim Dim Sum – Who doesn’t love yum cha? It is a traditional Cantonese mid-morning meal consisting of dim sum dishes like turnip cake, shrimp dumplings and barbecue pork buns. Get your dim sum at Dim Dim Sum on Tin Lok Lane or head to Kam Fai Dim Sum Restaurant on Spring Garden for a more local and traditional experience.

Liu Yuan Pavilion – Celebrating a special occasion and want to eat incredible Shanghainese food? Head to Liu Yuan on Lockhart Road. Reservations are essential.

Kabata – Kabata is my go-to Japanese eatery in Wan Chai. It’s located on a small side street off Johnston Road and offers consistently delicious Japanese fare.

Pici – Craving some fresh pasta? Head to Pici at St Francis Yard – their pasta is made from scratch every day and is cooked to perfection. They don’t take bookings and the restaurant is small, so don’t come with a big group.

Deng G – Want some authentic spicy Sichuanese food? Head to Deng G. They also offer hot pot which is perfect during the winter months!

Local diners – There are tons of local Hong Kong diners, or “cha chaan tengs” in Wan Chai. You can’t go wrong with wonton noodles (“wun tun meen”) or beef stir fry noodles (“gon chau au hor”). This is the one I always go to for a quick meal.

Where to drink in Wan Chai

Wooloomooloo rooftop bar in Wan Chai Hong Kong

Not only is Wan Chai full of amazing eateries and restaurants, it is also a great neighbourhood to head to for a few glasses of vino or a cocktail. Here are some of my favourite bars in Wan Chai.

The Pawn and Johnston Street in Hong Kong

The Pawn [Now Woo Cheong Tea House] – The Pawn is a classy bar-slash-restaurant located within a preserved heritage building. It used to be, you guessed it, a pawn shop and is one of my favourite places for a laid back drink while watching the trams saunter up and down the street. The Pawn also happens to be one of the best places for weekend brunch in Wan Chai.

Tai Lung Fung – I love Tai Lung Fung. It is just across the street from my apartment and has an insane happy hour deal. The decor is inspired by old Hong Kong and is a very popular place for locals and expats alike.

Oola Petite – Oola Petite on Star Street is a modern eatery with fantastic drinks deals throughout the week.

Lockhart Road – Though it is sometimes referred to as Hong Kong’s Red Light District, there are a number of laid-back sports bars down Lockhart Road. If you’re looking to grab a drink and watch a sports match or take part in a pub quiz, head to Devil’s Advocate, Joe Bananas or Carnegies. For live music, head straight to The Wanch. They also tend to get fairly packed on Friday and Saturday nights.

Ruam – a casual Thai eatery with a gorgeous terrace area and a kick-ass cocktail menu.

Where to get coffee in Wan Chai

Coffee at APT in Wan Chai Hong Kong

Over the past few years, the quest for a cup of excellent coffee has become increasingly easy in Hong Kong. Wan Chai is home to several coffee joints where you can get your caffeine fix. These are some of my favourite cafes in Wan Chai.

Elephant Grounds – Elephant Grounds on Star Street is a large coffee shop that not only serves up a delicious brew, but also some great food if you’re hungry.

Coffee Academics – Probably the OG coffee shop in Hong Kong, Coffee Academics has been around a long time and offers a fantastic flat white. They have 2 branches in Wan Chai – one close to Pacific Place, and the other one closer to Causeway Bay.

Blue Bottle – The stylish coffee shop with a cult following occupies two floors around the corner from Star Street.

Coco Espresso – Coco Espresso is a fan favourite in Hong Kong. They do a delicious oat milk flat white if you’re lactose intolerant.

Omotesando – Not exactly the cheapest cup of coffee in Hong Kong, but Omotesando hails from Japan and has been serving up concoctions for a few years. Their staff wear lab coats and they treat coffee making like a true science.

Cupping Room – The Cupping Room is a small coffee shop that has a loyal customer base on Swatow Street. Their coffee has been consistently good throughout the years, but seating is limited.

Joint – A recent transplant from Kennedy Town, Joint is a dog-friendly coffee shop that serves up a mean flat white.

Crew – This hip spot is perfect for people-watching. There isn’t much seating inside but the team here serve up an incredible cuppa and you can park yourself in the open-air seating area outside.

Between – A minimalist coffee shop off the main road, Between serves a great “inverted” oat milk flat white. Perfect for slow mornings.

Ready to book your Wan Chai hotel stay? Inspired by the Star Ferry, you will love the stunning rooms at The Fleming, a unique boutique hotel in Wan Chai that is perfect for your city getaway. Click here for current rates and availability at The Fleming.

I also enjoyed our time at The Hari, a sophisticated boutique hotel in the heart of Wan Chai with some fantastic restaurants on offer. Click here to book your stay at The Hari!

If budget is not an issue, check out the luxurious Island Shangri-La in Admiralty. We loved the panoramic view from our room and the service is flawless. Click here to check rates and availability at Island Shangri-La.

If you’re looking for more options, I’ve heard good things about Hotel Indigo, OZO Wesley, Empire Hotel and The Grand Hyatt. You can read more reviews here and check out Wan Chai hotel availability and current rates on Booking.com.

Lego building in Wan Chai Hong Kong

Visiting Hong Kong? Here are some insider guides you might find helpful:

Have you been to Wan Chai in Hong Kong before? What are some other things to do that you would add to this list? Share them in the comments section below!

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2 Comments

  1. This sounds like my kind of neighborhood, and I love the street murals and that art center! I’ve only been to Taiwan in that region of the world but really want to go back someday.

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