Hi, I’m Andy
Traveler and photographer.
I don’t travel just to see places. I travel because I want to know if there’s more than just everyday life. More about me
Discover Kowloon’s attractions in the district of Hongkong known for its striking contrasts
In Kowloon, two worlds collide and that’s exactly what makes this district so fascinating. On one side, you’ll find tradition and culture, on the other, modernity and progress. While Hongkong Island impresses with its glittering skyline, business towers and internationally polished atmosphere, Kowloon offers street markets, street food, art and a glimpse into local life.
While Victoria Harbour and the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade feel very touristy, the areas around Mongkok still deliver that raw Hongkong-China vibe. Bustling Mongkok in Kowloon truly comes alive at night, when glowing neon signs light up the streets and create a vibrant, colourful atmosphere. Kowloon is often considered the real or more authentic side of Hongkong and I personally agree with that view. You’ll find all of Kowloon’s highlights in the travel guide below.
By the way, you can find all of Hongkong’s attractions in our complete travel guide. Not in the mood for reading? Then check out our Hongkong photo gallery instead.
What to expect in this travel guide to Kowloon’s attractions:
1.1 Tsim Sha Tsui Walking Tour: Skyline Sightseeing and more highlights
Want to admire the skyline and push your memory card to its limits with travel photos? Then the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade at Victoria Harbour is exactly your thing! This roughly 1.5-kilometre-long waterfront walkway sits at the southern tip of Kowloon and is an absolute must for your Hongkong trip. Along the entire route, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Hongkong skyline, and trust me, your camera will be working overtime capturing it all.
Ideally, visit the promenade once during the day and again at dusk, as both times of day offer completely different atmospheres. In the evening, when the skyline transforms into a colourful sea of lights, the place feels almost magical. During the day, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning 360-degree view across Victoria Harbour all the way to The Peak.
For orientation, the entire promenade runs parallel to Salisbury Road. Along the way, you can make a short detour to Salisbury Garden and the Hong Kong Space Museum. You can open the route directly Google Maps.
This part of the city is very busy and packed with tourists and for good reason. The promenade offers one of the most stunning views of Hongkong’s skyline. Early in the morning, you’ll still find it relatively quiet. The later you arrive, the livelier it gets and by the evening, it can feel almost like a carnival.
It’s best to start your Tsim Sha Tsui promenade walk from the Star Ferry Pier, although you can of course begin from the opposite direction as well.
Along the promenade, you’ll come across several sightseeing spots: the Railway Clock Tower, Kowloon Public Pier, Hongkong Cultural Centre, Hongkong Museum of Art, Avenue of Stars and the Garden of Stars. You’ll find more details about these attractions below.
Getting to Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
Take the MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui Station and use Exit E towards Salisbury Road. Then turn right and walk through the pedestrian underpass to the Hongkong Cultural Centre. The western end with the Star Ferry Pier is just a short walk from there.
Alternatively, you can use Tsim Sha Tsui East Station. In the end, both stations are roughly the same distance away.
Recommended option: Are you staying on Hongkong Island or starting your trip from there? Then I highly recommend taking the ferry to Kowloon. The crossing already gives you an impressive first view of the skyline.
Spots you should visit along the Tsim Sha Tsui walk:
- Star Ferrie- (Pier)
- Railway Clock Tower
- Hongkong Cultural Center
- Kowloon Public Pier
- Hongkong Museum of Art
- Avenue of Stars / Garden of Stars
Useful facts about the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
1.2 Tsim Sha Tsui Walking Tour: Star Ferrie (Pier)
The Star Ferry Pier in Tsim Sha Tsui has been around since 1888 and was the main mode of transport between Hongkong Island and Kowloon until the Cross Harbour Tunnel opened in 1972. The oldest ferry still in operation is the Celestial Star, dating back to 1956. Today, more than 70,000 passengers use the service daily, adding up to over 26 million people per year. From the pier, ferries run to Central and Wan Chai.
A Star Ferry ride across Victoria Harbour is something you definitely shouldn’t miss. The crossing from Tsim Sha Tsui to Central in particular is well worth it, offering spectacular views of Hongkong’s impressive skyline. A ride costs around HK$3 (approx. 40 cents), depending on the route, making it a very affordable alternative to a harbour cruise*.
If you arrive from Central or Wan Chai and exit the pier, you’ll find several shopping malls and additional piers to your left (west), including the China Ferry Terminal, where ferries depart for Macau. At the end of the walkway, the Dolphin Sunset viewpoint offers a beautiful perspective of the surrounding skyline, enhanced by a fountain featuring dolphin sculptures.
On the right-hand side (east), the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade begins, packed with great photo spots. From the pier, it’s just a short walk to the Railway Clock Tower, which you’ll likely notice immediately upon arrival.
1.3 Tsim Sha Tsui Walking Tour: – Railway Clock Tower
Construction of the Railway Clock Tower was completed in 1915, and it is the only remaining part of the old railway station, which was replaced by a new one in 1970. Despite public protests, the original station was demolished, with only the Clock Tower being preserved. It is now a protected heritage monument.
Standing 44 metres tall, the tower is an ideal starting point and orientation landmark for the Tsim Sha Tsui walkway. For a great view of the Railway Clock Tower, head to the nearby reflecting pool.
In front of the red-brick structure, you’ll find the Kowloon Public Pier, and just behind it stands the Hongkong Cultural Centre, shaped like a curved wedge.
1.4 Tsim Sha Tsui Walking Tour: Hongkong Cultural Center
Right behind the Clock Tower and Kowloon Public Pier, you’ll find the Hongkong Cultural Centre. This architecturally striking building opened in 1989 and houses a concert hall, a theatre, a studio theatre and exhibition galleries.
In front of the complex, there’s also a large and beautiful plaza lined with palm trees. With 8,000 pipes and a value of around HK$10 million, the organ inside is one of the largest in the world.
The curved structure is one of Hongkong’s most popular venues for orchestral performances, opera shows and theatre productions. If you’re a music lover, you’ll definitely enjoy it here. You can find the current programme of the Hongkong Cultural Centre via this Link.
1.5 Tsim Sha Tsui Walking Tour: Kowloon Public Pier
The viewing platform at Kowloon Public Pier offers stunning views over Victoria Harbour and Hongkong’s skyline. Whether during the day or at night, this elevated spot is perfect for capturing your best travel photos.
Try to visit Kowloon Public Pier between 6 pm and 8 pm. This way, you can experience the skyline in daylight, catch the sunset as it bathes the skyscrapers in golden light, and then watch as dusk sets in around 7 pm, transforming the skyline into a sea of lights. It’s a truly unforgettable sight.
Tip / Don’t miss:
From 8 pm onwards, the skyline turns into a spectacular laser show known as A Symphony of Lights. The colourful display lasts around 14 minutes and should definitely be on your to-do list.
Hongkong Museum of Art.
Right next to Kowloon Public Pier and the Hongkong Cultural Centre, you’ll find the Museum of Art. The museum houses over 16,000 exhibits, ranging from calligraphy and Chinese antiques to works by local artists. You can find the current exhibition programme and further information on the official museum website. The museum is open from 10 am to 6 pm on weekdays and closes at 7 pm on weekends.
1.6 Tsim Sha Tsui Walking Tour: Avenue of Stars / Garden of Stars
The Avenue of Stars in Hongkong is the Asian counterpart to the famous Walk of Fame in Los Angeles. Set against the impressive backdrop of Victoria Harbour’s skyline, you’ll find over 100 handprints and statues of well-known stars. Due to a three-year renovation, the Avenue of Stars was temporarily relocated to the Garden of Stars. Since February 2019, the renovation has been completed and most of the sculptures have returned to their original location along the Avenue.
The redesigned walkway was inspired by Bruce Lee’s philosophy “be like water” and enhanced with flowing water features and various light elements. Thanks to augmented reality technology, you can even interact with the superstars via your smartphone and watch movie clips. The Avenue of Stars is located directly opposite the Hongkong Museum of Art. Dive into Hongkong’s film history, also known as the Hollywood of Asia.
Getting to Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
Take the MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui Station and use Exit E towards Salisbury Road. Then turn right and walk through the pedestrian underpass to the Hongkong Cultural Centre. The western end with the Star Ferry Pier is just a short walk from there.
Alternatively, you can use Tsim Sha Tsui East Station. In the end, both stations are roughly the same distance away.
Tip: Are you staying on Hongkong Island or starting your trip from there? Then I highly recommend taking the ferry to Kowloon. The crossing already gives you an impressive view of the skyline.
2. Mongkok: China for Beginners
What were your main reasons for visiting Hongkong? Let me guess: admiring the skyline? No doubt, that alone is worth the trip. Most itineraries include stops like The Peak, the Avenue of Stars or Victoria Harbour. And rightly so, these are absolute must-see spots you shouldn’t miss. But then there’s Mongkok, a district that’s often overlooked and treated as an afterthought in travel planning, which I think is completely undeserved.
Mongkok may no longer be a hidden gem, but the atmosphere here feels far more authentic than at the typical tourist hotspots. This is where the Asian vibe truly comes to life. Surrounded by colourful, glowing neon signs, you’ll find yourself stepping into a completely different world. Hongkong as a whole is already a wild and vibrant megacity, but Mongkok takes it to another level. It’s loud, crowded and bursting with energy. With a population density of around 50,000 people per square kilometre, Mongkok once even made it into the Guinness World Records as the most densely populated district in the world.
Mongkok is a true shopping paradise. From high-end boutiques in the southern part of the district to countless affordable street markets, you’ll find everything here. Beyond shopping, it’s also a popular entertainment and nightlife area among locals. Head to Mongkok and simply let your senses, and maybe your shopping instincts, guide you.
You’ll find an overview of the markets below:
- Ladies Market
- Langham Palace
- Mongkok Computer Center
- Sneakers Street
- Flower- und Bird Market
- Goldfhish Market
- Temple Street Night Market
Useful facts about Mongkok, Hongkong
2.1 Mongkok: Overview of the Markets
Ladies Market Mongkok
As the name suggests, this market mainly focuses on products for women. You’ll find clothing, accessories and cosmetics, along with food stalls selling noodles, seafood, vegetables and fruit. For orientation, the Ladies Market is located on Tung Choi Street.
Getting there (MTR): Mongkok Station, Exit B2. View on Google Maps
Langham Palace Mongkok
Looking for a more upscale shopping experience? Langham Place, with its 59 floors, is one of the tallest buildings in Mongkok and home to a massive shopping mall. The mall spans nine levels and features more than 40 shops, bars and restaurants. From shoes and bags to fashion, sportswear and jewellery, you’ll find a wide range of options, including many international brands. The mall is located on Portland Street and is easily accessible by MTR. More on the official Website.
Getting there (MTR): Mongkok Station, Exit C4 / E1. View on Google Maps
Mongkok Computer Center
Are you into tech or looking for electronic gear? The Mongkok Computer Centre has everything from computers, cameras and phones to accessories and repair services. Spread across three floors, it houses around 70 shops, many offering similar products. Whether you need an extra memory card, a power bank or a selfie stick, you’ll likely find it here. On busy days, the centre attracts up to 10,000 visitors. It’s located on Nelson Street.
Getting there (MTR): Mongkok Station, Exit E1. View on Google Maps
Sneakers Street Mongkok
Worn out your shoes from sightseeing? Love sneakers? Then this is your place. Fa Yuen Street is said to have one of the highest concentrations of sports shoe and sportswear shops in the world. You’ll find all major brands, colours and styles across countless stores. If you’re into sneakers, you could easily spend hours here.
Getting there (MTR): Mongkok Station, Exit B3. View on Google Maps
Flower- und Bird Market.
Love flowers and plants? At the Flower Market in Mongkok, you’ll find a huge variety of plants, flowers, pots, vases and exotic species. Just a short walk to the east, you’ll reach the Bird Market.
The Bird Market is set in a charming area and is relatively compact. It mainly focuses on birds and bird-related products. While seeing animals in cages might not be for everyone, the traditional atmosphere still makes it worth a visit.
The Flower Market is located on Flower Market Road, while the Bird Market can be found on Yuen Po Street.
Getting there (MTR): Prince Edward Station, Exit B2. View on Google Maps
Goldfhish Market Mongkok
Curious about common pets in Asia? The Goldfish Market on Yuen Po Street revolves around aquatics. Alongside goldfish, you’ll see colourful saltwater fish, frogs, turtles and other reptiles. Some shops also sell cats and other small animals.
Getting there (MTR): Mongkok Station, Exit B2. View on Google Maps
Temple Street Night Market
Looking for more shopping adventures? The Temple Street Night Market, located just outside Mongkok, feels like a classic Asian bazaar. You’ll find jewellery, electronics, watches, men’s clothing and much more. If you get hungry, plenty of food stalls serve local dishes. The market’s authentic Hongkong atmosphere has even made it a filming location for several movies. It’s located in Yau Ma Tei along Temple Street.
Getting there (MTR): Jordan Station, Exit A. View on Google Maps
All of these markets are located close to each other and can easily be combined into a round trip. Start by heading to Mongkok Station, Exit B2, and begin your walk at the Ladies Market. From there, continue to the Langham Place shopping mall, the Computer Centre, Sneakers Street, the Goldfish Market and finish at the Flower Market. Afterwards, you can use Prince Edward MTR Station for your return journey.
If you’re unsure or prefer exploring the markets with a local guide, you can book one online here.*
Open the market route above directly on your smartphone via Google Maps
3. Chi Lin Kloster / Tempel
The Chi Lin Temple is one of Kowloon’s attractions you definitely shouldn’t miss. As you enter the impressive complex, you’re greeted with a beautiful view of the temple and its surrounding gardens, complete with peaceful lotus ponds. The site is framed by nearby skyscrapers, creating a striking contrast between tradition and modernity.
The well-maintained grounds around the wooden temple feature lush greenery and carefully arranged bonsai trees, displayed in intricately carved containers. Inside the temple halls, you’ll find various relics and statues made of gold, wood and clay, representing Buddhist deities. If you ever need a break from the concrete jungle and busy crowds, a visit to Chi Lin Nunnery offers a refreshing cultural escape.
Originally built in 1934, the Chi Lin Nunnery once served as a retreat for Buddhist nuns and was renovated in 1998 in the style of the Tang Dynasty. One of its most fascinating features is its traditional wooden construction without the use of nails, as the wooden elements are fitted together like a puzzle. This building technique symbolises harmony between humans and nature.
Useful facts about Chi Lin Temple
4. Nan Lian Garden Hongkong
The picturesque Nan Lian Garden is located right next to Chi Lin Nunnery and can easily be visited together. Covering around 3.5 hectares, the garden was designed in the style of the Tang Dynasty and offers a peaceful escape from the city. Every element, from rocks to trees, has been carefully placed according to traditional Tang design principles.
Surrounded by towering skyscrapers, you can stroll through this beautifully landscaped park and discover highlights such as the Golden Pavilion, connected by the Zi Wu bridges, a wide variety of plants and trees, the Chinese Timber Architecture Gallery, and two ornamental ponds filled with koi fish. Behind a cascading waterfall, you’ll even find a vegetarian restaurant, a truly unique setting.
Nan Lian Garden is a perfect spot to capture stunning travel photos and to enjoy some calm and relaxation.
The garden was a joint project between Chi Lin Nunnery and the government and was opened to the public in 2006.
Useful facts about Nan Lian Garden
Where to stay in Hongkong
Where I stayed – Dorsett Mongkok (Kowloon)
Located in the heart of Kowloon, the Dorsett Hotel offers a convenient base for exploring Hongkong. You’ll find various shopping and dining options in the surrounding area.
The rooms are simple but functional, and the nearest MTR station (Olympic Station) is about a 10-minute walk away. Popular attractions such as the Ladies Market, Temple Street, Tsim Sha Tsui, and the Avenue of Stars can be reached by metro in around 15 to 20 minutes.
The Dorsett Mongkok is not as centrally located as some other hotels, but for Hongkong standards, it falls into the more affordable range. If you’re not in a rush and want to keep your budget under control, this could be a good option for your stay.
Where I stayed – Gloucester Luk Kwong Hotel (Hongkong Island)
On another visit, I stayed at the Gloucester Luk Kwong Hotel on Hongkong Island. The location is very central, with easy access to the MTR, making it a great base for exploring the city.
For Hongkong standards, the rooms are surprisingly spacious and offer good value for money. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants, shops, and nightlife options in the surrounding area.
If you’re looking for a centrally located hotel with relatively large rooms at a reasonable price, the Gloucester Luk Kwong is definitely worth considering.
The Salisbury – centrally located (Kowloon)
The Salisbury stands out with its excellent location in Kowloon, right by the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. You can reach the Avenue of Stars within just a 5-minute walk. Most rooms offer spectacular views of Victoria Harbour and Hongkong’s iconic skyline.
Many of Kowloon’s main attractions are right on your doorstep. Other sights, such as the markets in Mong Kok, can be reached by MTR in around 20 to 30 minutes. The nearest metro station is just around the corner and only a short walk away.
The hotel not only offers functional rooms but also features an indoor pool.
Compared to the Dorsett Hotel mentioned earlier, The Salisbury is priced slightly higher, but it also offers a much more central location. In my opinion, it provides great value for money and strikes a good balance between a prime location and an affordable stay. It’s definitely one of my top choices for my next trip to Hongkong.
Regent Hong Kong (Kowloon)
The Regent Hong Kong also impresses with its perfect location right on the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. Most of Kowloon’s main attractions are within walking distance and can be reached in just a few minutes. There’s also an MTR station nearby.
At the Regent, you can expect true five-star comfort, along with stunning views of Victoria Harbour and Hongkong’s impressive skyline. The hotel also features an outdoor pool and, for Hongkong standards, spacious rooms with excellent amenities.
However, a stay at the Regent is not for budget travellers. All Hotels in Kowloon here.
Butterfly on LKF Boutique Hotel (Hongkong Island – Central)
Hongkong Island is home not only to many of the city’s top attractions, but also to its iconic skyline and dense forest of skyscrapers. This is where you’ll find international corporations – and those who can afford to live here are certainly at the top end of Hongkong’s price range. As a result, the Central district is one of the most expensive areas in the city, and accommodation here reflects that.
A centrally located option that still offers good value for money is the Butterfly on LKF Boutique Hotel. The hotel is within walking distance of major sights such as Lan Kwai Fong, the Mid-Levels Escalator, and Hong Kong Park.
The Peak Tram, which takes you up to Victoria Peak with its incredible skyline views, is also just a short distance away.
Hotel Madera Hollywood (Hongkong Island – Central)
Hotel Madera Hollywood is located in the vibrant Central district on Hongkong Island and is perfect if you want to be right in the middle of the action. Thanks to its central location, you can quickly reach many of the city’s main attractions, as well as trendy restaurants and bars.
The spacious suites offer a charming mix of modern comfort and retro design. The hotel also features a fitness centre, so you can stay active during your trip.
Wharney Hotel (Stadtteil Hongkong Island – Wan Chai)
Das Wharney Hotel befindet sich im lebendigen Wan Chai-Viertel, einem idealen Ausgangspunkt, um Hongkong zu erkunden. Von hier aus erreichst du schnell das Nachtleben, Restaurants und Einkaufsmöglichkeiten. Die Zimmer sind komfortabel und bieten alles, was du für einen angenehmen Aufenthalt brauchst. Besonders erwähnenswert ist der Aussenpool, der an heissen Tagen für eine willkommene Abkühlung sorgt, sowie die Sauna, die nach einem langen Tag Entspannung bietet.
Holiday Inn Express Hong Kong (Hongkong Island – Causeway Bay)
Holiday Inn Express in Causeway Bay offers a central location at a fair price. Situated right next to Times Square, it’s perfect for convenient shopping.
The rooms are simple and comfortable, and the included breakfast makes for an easy start to the day. The location is especially practical if you want quick access to the city centre or explore the lively surroundings.
Conclusion on Kowloon, Hongkong
A visit to Kowloon is something I recommend to every Hongkong traveller, if only for the breathtaking skyline views. Whether by day or night, the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade is one of the best viewpoints in the city. The Avenue of Stars, the Asian version of the Walk of Fame, is another absolute must-see.
Mongkok had a truly captivating effect on me. With its glowing neon signs, endless crowds and countless shops, it felt like stepping into a completely different world. And yes, it genuinely fascinated me, even though I’m not much of a shopping person.
I was also impressed by the unique setting of Chi Lin Nunnery and the adjacent Nan Lian Garden, especially with the surrounding skyscrapers creating such a striking contrast.
Do you have any questions about the Kowloon travel guide?
What do you think about Kowloon and its attractions? Do you have any additional tips or experiences to share? Or any questions about Kowloon? I’d love to hear from you in the comments.
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