If someone asked you to describe Hong Kong, your first thoughts might be of a modern cityscape, filled with skyscrapers and businesses.

While it’s true that Hong Kong has an important standing in the international business world, it also offers a host of incredible eateries, historic buildings, cultural venues and green spaces.

However, if you stick to the popular tourist trail, you could miss out on some impressive sights and experiences.

Read on to discover 10 fabulous hidden hotspots in Hong Kong to visit in 2024.

1. Speakeasy-style and hidden bars

Many “Speakeasies” in Hong Kong are themed bars that are intentionally hidden from plain sight.

Inspired by the Prohibition era of the 1920s and 1930s, when the sale of alcohol was made illegal in the United States, Hong Kong’s hidden bars are deliberately hard to find.

Don’t expect neon signs or grand entrances to guide you into these watering holes. Indeed, seeking out the best venues is part of the fun!

When you find one of these out-of-sight gems, you’ll be rewarded with innovatively designed spaces, tantalising cocktails and an ambience that provides a truly unique experience.

We won’t spoil your fun by providing an exhaustive list of locations. However, if you like whiskies, the Mizunara bar, tucked away inside a commercial building in Wan Chai, might be a good place to start your speakeasy hunt. Or you might want to explore the Lockdown bar in Central, which has a rather unusual entrance, a toilet.

For cocktails, 001, in Tai Kwun, is a real gem. Although, pay special attention while trying to find its entrance, as I think you’ll agree with us that it is worth the effort……

2. Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city, Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden offers 148 hectares of land to explore.

Set on the northern slopes of Hong Kong’s highest mountain, Tai Mo Shan, Kadoorie Farm was originally set up to aid poor farmers in the New Territories.

It has since evolved into a conservation centre, where visitors can explore beautiful walking trails, themed gardens and vegetable terraces. There’s even a wildlife sanctuary – keep your eye out for roaming animals such as hawks, deer and leopard cats.

3. The charming border town, Sha Tau Kok

For decades, this small rural border town was part of the Frontier Closed Area, making it almost impossible to access by non-residents.

Fortunately, the government began opening Sha Tau Kok to tourists in 2022 and visitors are slowly discovering this hidden gem.

Having been isolated for so long, the town has retained a traditional and tranquil feel making it an ideal escape from the city. Just be sure to obtain the necessary permit from the Hong Kong Police Force before travelling.

4. Choi Lung Restaurant

If you’re looking for high-quality hidden eateries in Hong Kong, you’ll be spoilt for choice. There’s a wealth of dining options from street food stalls and noodle bars to waterfront restaurants.

The Choi Lung Restaurant can be found in Chuen Lung Tsuen, which means “Dragon Steam Village”. This quaint village is renowned for its teahouses and Choi Lung is one of the most popular.

Enjoy an authentic dim sum experience al fresco on the roof or patio, before walking it off on an energetic hike up Tai Mo Shan, or “foggy mountain”.

5. The Hidden Space gallery

When it comes to visual arts, there’s no shortage of art institutions and international galleries to satisfy your cultural appetite in Hong Kong.

In fact, there’s art to be found throughout the city, even in the unlikeliest of places. So, keep your eyes peeled as you walk around.

One of the less mainstream art venues that’s well worth a visit, is the Hidden Space Gallery, located in a nondescript industrial building in Kwai Hing.

This independent artist-run venue was founded in 2017 and promotes experimental installation and performance artwork. There’s also an annual Hidden Space Award which provides a solo exhibition with mentorship to an outstanding BA art programme graduate.

6. Ching Chung Koon temple and gardens

If you’re unfamiliar with Hong Kong, you might view it as a concrete jungle, filled with commercial buildings and little else.

If so, you may be surprised to learn that green spaces account for up to 40% of the city, which is more than either London or New York can boast of.

This means there are plenty of hidden gardens to seek out and get lost in.

The Taoist temple and gardens of Ching Chung Koon, located in Tuen Mun, offer an oasis of nature and serenity. Take your time meandering among the bonsai trees, rock gardens, and pagodas. The annual bonsai festival, which usually takes place in the spring, is a must-see!

7. Africa Coffee & Tea shop

You could easily walk past the Africa Coffee & Tea shop without knowing it. While it’s conveniently located just minutes from the MTR station, this delightful café is “hidden” on the 15th floor of an unassuming commercial building in Wong Chuk Hang.

The owners pride themselves on having established Hong Kong’s first true African-inspired open-plan venue.

Enjoy premium single-origin coffee made from beans sourced directly from Africa, alongside delicious snacks, such as Ugandan chapattis filled with egg and vegetables.

What’s more, the Africa Coffee & Tea shop is founded on ethical and sustainable practices. So, you can indulge your tastebuds with the peace of mind that you’re consuming fairly traded products served in an environmentally friendly manner.

8. Nam Sang Wai wetlands

If you’re craving a moment of peaceful reflection away from the city centre, head to the Nam Sang Wetlands in the northeast New Territories.

Enjoy looking out across the calm waters, taking in the striking views, and exploring the abandoned village.

While more people are cottoning on to the appeal of this beautiful area, for now, it remains off the more well-trodden tourist path. So, it’s an ideal addition to your list of hidden hotspots to explore in 2024.

9. Lee Tung Avenue Rooftop Garden

While Lee Tung Avenue bustles with shoppers and diners, a hidden oasis of greenery and tranquillity lies overhead.

A lift will speed you to this pretty rooftop garden in no time. You can even take your pet with you!

The garden has an endearing love theme and great views over the city. So, if you’re looking for your next photo opportunity, this could be an ideal hotspot for you.

10. Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir

Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir is a must-see hidden Hong Kong landmark.

Located on Mission Hill in Sham Shui PO, the reservoir was only rediscovered in 2020 after being out of use for decades.

It’s an impressive example of architecture and engineering that provides a valuable insight into Hong Kong’s history.

You can book either a guided or self-guided tour to explore this century-old service reservoir.

Get in touch

If you’ve found an incredible hidden hotspot in Hong Kong that we’ve missed, please let us know!

We love exploring this fantastic city and can’t wait to hear your suggestions. Please email info@bmpwealth.com or call +852 3975 2878.