Things To Do
in Kowloon

Kowloon, Hong Kong, is a vibrant urban area known for its rich cultural heritage and bustling streets. It features a mix of modern skyscrapers and traditional markets, providing a unique glimpse into both contemporary and historical aspects of Hong Kong life. Kowloon is famous for its night markets, shopping opportunities, and diverse culinary scene.

The area is also home to stunning waterfront views and parks, making it a favorite destination for both tourists and locals.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kowloon
morning
:

Start your day at Victoria Harbour with a walk along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade to enjoy the stunning skyline views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Kowloon Walled City Park, where you can explore the historical remnants of the former walled city and enjoy its beautiful gardens.

evening
:

Head to Temple Street Night Market for dinner and shopping, where you can enjoy street food and shop for souvenirs.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Shopping
morning
:

Begin your day at Wong Tai Sin Temple, a famous Taoist temple known for its fortune telling.

afternoon
:

Explore the bustling streets of Mong Kok, especially the Ladies Market for fashion and accessories.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a visit to the Sky100 observation deck for panoramic views of the city at night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Noodles$50
Coffee$30
🍽️Restaurant Meal$100
🚕Taxi Ride$80
🏨Hotel Night$800

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and diverse food options.
  • Vibrant nightlife and shopping scene.
  • Beautiful views and outdoor activities.
  • Can be crowded, especially on weekends.
  • High cost of living compared to other regions.
  • Some areas can be noisy at night.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "唔該" - Thank you
  • "幾多錢?" - How much is this?
  • "廁所喺邊?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我唔明白" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Kowloon

Visit one of these nice places.

Victoria Harbour

An iconic spot to capture the skyline of Hong Kong, especially during sunset.

Kowloon Walled City Park

Beautiful gardens and historical structures make for stunning photographic opportunities.

Temple Street Night Market

The vibrant colors and lively atmosphere provide excellent candid photography chances.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kowloon

Kowloon offers a diverse culinary landscape that reflects its rich cultural tapestry. Visitors can indulge in a variety of local dishes that highlight the flavors of Hong Kong cuisine.

Kowloon Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dim Sum

A traditional Cantonese meal consisting of small dishes served in steamer baskets, perfect for sharing.

Must-Try!

Wonton Noodles

A popular noodle dish featuring thin egg noodles served with dumplings filled with shrimp or pork.

Pineapple Bun

A sweet bun with a crispy topping, often enjoyed with a slice of butter.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Temple Street Night Market

A vibrant market offering a wide range of street food, from seafood to local snacks.

Mong Kok Street Market

Famous for its street food stalls, offering everything from fish balls to egg waffles.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kowloon experiences a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are mild and can be quite dry, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The transitional seasons of spring and autumn are pleasant, making them ideal times for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Personal Space

Hong Kong locals value personal space; avoid standing too close in queues.

Dining Etiquette

It's customary to wait for the host to start the meal before eating.

Receiving Business Cards

Always receive and give business cards with both hands as a sign of respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kowloon is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services are reliable, and English-speaking assistance is often available.

Tipping in Kowloon

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Hong Kong, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but cash is still widely used, especially in street markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

March to May offers mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

June to August can be hot and humid, with occasional rain; dress lightly and stay hydrated.

Autumn

September to November features cooler, dry weather, perfect for exploring the city.

Winter

December to February is cool but not freezing, making it comfortable for sightseeing; occasional rain is expected.

Nightlife Guide

Kowloon at Night

Kowloon boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, clubs, and night markets. Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok are popular areas for nightlife, offering everything from live music venues to dance clubs. You can also find some rooftop bars with stunning views of the skyline. The atmosphere is lively, particularly on weekends, with locals and tourists mingling in the streets.

Hiking in Kowloon

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lion Rock Trail

A challenging hike offering stunning views of Kowloon and the New Territories.

Ng Tung Chai Waterfall Trail

A scenic trail featuring multiple waterfalls, suitable for a refreshing day out in nature.

Airports

How to reach Kowloon by plane.

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)

Located about 34 km from Kowloon, this major international airport serves as the primary gateway for travelers to Hong Kong.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kowloon is quite walkable, especially in areas like Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok, where pedestrian-friendly streets and ample signage make navigating easy. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. Public transport options also enhance walkability, allowing easy access to more distant sites.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Cantonese

The majority demographic group, Cantonese speakers are predominant in culture, cuisine, and daily life.

Expats

A significant expatriate community exists, contributing to the cultural diversity of Kowloon.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

A widely popular sport in Hong Kong, with local leagues and a vibrant fan culture.

Basketball

Basketball is popular among youth, with many courts available in parks and schools.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kowloon can be congested, especially during peak hours. Public transportation, including the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, and ferries, is efficient and widely used. The MTR is the fastest way to navigate the city, linking major areas, while taxis are readily available but can be costly during rush hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kowloon.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to check for hidden meat ingredients.

Halal Food

There are several Halal-certified restaurants, particularly in areas with a significant Muslim population.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Kowloon has a robust healthcare system, featuring both public and private hospitals. The public healthcare system offers affordable services, but waiting times may be longer. Private hospitals provide quicker service but at a higher cost. Pharmacies are widely available, and many staff speak English.

Discover Hong Kong

Read more in our Hong Kong 2025 Travel Guide.

Hong Kong Travel Guide