Discover art and culture around every corner

Delve beyond the shimmering lights and fancy façades of Hong Kong and you’ll discover a less-explored world of art, architecture and expression shaped by Cantonese culture and international allure. For culture lovers, here’s how to get off the tourist trail to see the best of it.

Visit modern museums

As Hong Kong’s newest cultural quarter, the West Kowloon Cultural District is home to 17 venues dedicated to art and culture. With 33 galleries and display spaces, M+ ranks among the largest, hosting regular exhibitions on contemporary visual culture. For Chinese art and heritage, visit the Hong Kong Palace Museum or catch a show at the Xiqu Centre.

Discover street art

If you’re in the mood for a snap-worthy stroll filled with inspiring storefronts and epic urban murals, grab your camera and head to ARTLANE. Sai Ying Pun has been transformed into a vibrant outdoor gallery of popping colours and surreal scenes, courtesy of local and international artists. For an alternative canvas, head to West Kowloon and walk from Yau Ma Tei Fruit Market to Yau Sang Cheong calligraphy shop.

Take part in tradition

The best way to immerse yourself in tradition is at Hong Kong’s time-honoured temples and spiritual sites. Perhaps the most monumental is the Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island, overlooked by the 34-metre-tall Tian Tan Buddha. Another must-see is the ancient Sha Tin Che Kung Temple. If you want a truly authentic experience, partake in local customs like tea ceremonies or annual events like the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance.

Appreciate eclectic artforms

From outdoor exhibitions to creative neon signs, art comes in all shapes and sizes in Hong Kong. Get inspired by exploring public spaces like West Kowloon Art Park, The Mills and Leather Factory My Secret Garden, an old tannery turned artsy junkyard. For a glimpse of the city’s iconic luminaries, wait till darkness descends and head to Temple Street Market, Tung Choi Street or Lockhart Road for a neon show. 

Get Insta-inspired

Beyond hotspots like the Avenue of Stars and K11 MUSEA, Hong Kong has a world of Insta-destinations waiting to be found. For photogenic architecture, the spiral staircase at cultural site Tai Kwun is worth a shot, while art-lovers will find their focus at the colourful graffitied murals of HKwalls. For traditional tastes, get a photo with the hanging incense of Man Mo Temple or in the idyllic fishing village of Tai O.