After almost a month, I am back to write at these blogs.
Hong Kong comes alive at night, abuzz with diners, revelers, theater goers and even market traders still out plying their wares. The nightlife scene is rightly legendary: there is something to do at every time of the day in this city that never sleeps. The nightlife options are too numerous to mention, but below you’ll find just a sample of what’s on offer: from cultural performances through to late-night party venues and midnight feasts. You can also spend a whole night in Wan Chai with our guide to one of the city’s most renowned night owl destinations.
So you’re after a good time? You’ve definitely come to the right city! Hong Kong boasts entertainment galore and most of it kicks off after sunset. Whether you’re after a classy cocktail in a trendy bar, live entertainment that beats through the night, a late-night snack to quell those hunger pangs or even a midnight run, Hong Kong is the city to oblige.
If you’ve already heard of Hong Kong’s crazy all-night vibe, then it’s surely because of the sheer number of bars of all shapes and sizes. Most first-timers head straight to the thoroughfares of Lan Kwai Fong in Central, which are packed full of bars and nightclubs, with revelers spilling out onto the streets at all hours. However away from this main draw, lots of trendy niche bars are opening up for a slightly more cultural experience.
For a really cultured night out, you should seek out an authentic Cantonese opera performance. Sunbeam Theatre is one of Hong Kong’s most historic theaters, having been founded in 1972 by a troupe of Shanghai immigrants, and it’s renowned for its Chinese traditional art performances—Cantonese opera in particular. Many of the Cantonese opera stars of note will have trod these boards at one point in their careers, so you’ll certainly find authentic performances here, held most days of the week in its two auditoriums. Another unique theater venue with a proud history is the Fringe Club, one of the city’s foremost art spaces that’s been providing a platform for artists since 1984. There is always something creative going on here, so whether you’re after a Shakespeare rendition, a stand-up comedy show, a live music gig, an art exhibition or a poetry evening, then be sure to look up the Fringe Club’s events calendar while you’re here.
If you’re looking for a more active nighttime activity then head out on the Bowen Road Fitness Trail. Positioned half way up to the Peak, this popular 4-kilometer-long running and walking trail is safe and well-lit at night, with lookout points that furnish vistas across to Kowloon and beyond. Mid-way along the route you’ll discover Lovers’ Rock, a boulder which is said to have the power to grant happy marriages. You’ll often find worshippers making a beeline for this pilgrimage site, which sits loftily above the city. Not only is this trail a great location for a spot of nighttime exercise, but you’ll also find memorable skyline views from here, minus the crowds.
Hong Kong’s nightlife is legendary and you’ll be sure to feel the vibe too after trying some of these suggestions. But whatever you do while you’re here, just be sure to capture the city’s skyline view at night—it’s one experience that will stay with you forever. The special crocodile meat available in the mid-night could be one of the most crowdy place.
