Janella Salvador and Win Metawin in 'Under Parallel Skies,' filmed in Avenue of Stars, Hong Kong Still courtesy of 28 Squared Studios

Hong Kong is a well-loved destination for a quick escape, and it's easy to see why. It's famous for its vibrant and dynamic urban scene. Hong Kong has so much to offer一from sightseeing and shopping to culinary and cultural immersion. Beyond the busy roads and alleys brimming with modern energy, the quiet rural side of 'Asia's World City' speaks volumes about its natural beauty and well-kept traditions.

Recently, the Hong Kong Tourism Board took select media outlets on a tour around some of Hong Kong's popular tourist spots and hidden gem areas. I've been to this destination several times, but I was thrilled to have had the opportunity to see and experience it anew. What's even more fun is that this trip was like a pilgrimage where we retraced the steps of the celebrities who shot Filipino movies there. Because of its proximity to the Philippines, Hong Kong proves to be a convenient filming location and a visually and culturally delightful venue to weave into a narrative.

Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards in 'Hello, Love, Goodbye,' filmed in Aqua Luna on Victoria Harbour Still courtesy of ABS-CBN/Star Cinema

Speaking of pilgrimage: the Metro team did something similar in Seoul, South Korea recently, too, and we visited K-drama filming locations. Organizing your itinerary based on those pop culture references is an interesting way to put a twist on what would otherwise be a trip that may only scratch the surface.

This media familiarization tour in Hong Kong zoomed in on the filming locations of the movies Hello, Love, Goodbye starring Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards; Toss Coin starring KD Estrada and Alexa Ilacad; and Under Parallel Skies starring Win Metawin and Janella Salvador. Although they were all filmed in Hong Kong, it's nice to see the differences in how these Filipino movies presented this go-to destination; in these three offerings, what's common is the balance between the modern and traditional, as well as the beautiful chaos and the inviting calm.

KD Estrada and Alexa Ilacad in 'Toss Coin,' filmed in PMQ, Central Still courtesy of ABS-CBN/Star Cinema

Romantic-drama movie Hello, Love, Goodbye's story shows the experiences of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Hong Kong, where the love story of Joy (Kathryn) and Ethan (Alden) also blooms. ICYMI: This box-office movie is getting a sequel this coming November titled Hello, Love, Again.

Micro film Toss Coin stars Alexa as Pia, a vlogger looking to reunite with her ex-boyfriend in Hong Kong, and Kiko (KD), a musician who crosses paths with the former all because of a simple toss coin.

Under Parallel Skies is a romantic-drama film that zooms in on the narratives of Iris (Janella), a Filipino hotel receptionist, and Parin (Win), a Thai bachelor who's looking for his lost mother. Their chance encounter in Hong Kong leads them to explore a new path in search of happiness.

Next time you plan a trip with your family and friends, say 'Hello Hong Kong' and explore these locations that helped bring the stories of Hello, Love, Goodbye; Toss Coin; and Under Parallel Skies to life.

Scroll through this photo diary below:

Avenue of Stars - Movies filmed here: 'Hello, Love, Goodbye' and 'Under Parallel Skies' | Located along the Tsim Sha Tsui Waterfront, the Avenue of Stars is a promenade that celebrates Hong Kong's film industry and pays tribute to its legendary stars. It features bronze statues of iconic actors and their handprints, making this place a popular attraction. It underwent a major renovation in 2015 and was reopened in 2019, giving space for more seating areas for locals and tourists alike to appreciate better the view of the Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong skyline. It's great to visit the place whether daytime or nighttime (don't miss the free 10-minute 'A Symphony of Light' light and sound show every night at 8 PM).Check out our quick video tour here.

Avenue of Stars - 'Under Parallel Skies' featured this area in its poster, showing characters Iris (Janella Salvador) and Parin (Win Metawin) bonding over coffee and hearty conversations.Check out our quick video tour here.

Avenue of Stars - In 'Hello, Love, Goodbye,' Joy (Kathryn Bernardo) and Ethan (Alden Richards) spend a day together in Avenue of Stars. Ethan imitates the Hong Kong Film Awards statuette replica, making Joy laugh and express how excited she is to be close to saving enough money to move to Canada.Check out our quick video tour here.

Aqua Luna - Movie filmed here: 'Hello, Love, Goodbye' | This wooden Chinese junk has two decks. The lower deck has a covered dining space and an outdoor seating area, while the covered upper deck features lounge beds. When you join the 45-minute evening cruise at 4:30 PM, you get a complimentary drink, perfect for sipping while taking in the beautiful sights around Victoria Harbour. It's such a relaxing ride that offers unique views of Hong Kongーa perfect way to cap off a day! | This photo shows a view of Aqua Luna from the Hong Kong Museum of Art (HKMoA)

Aqua Luna - In 'Hello, Love, Goodbye,' Joy (Kathryn Bernardo) spends her remaining days in Hong Kong with Ethan (Alden Richards) before she moves to Canada, one of the activities they try together is a ride aboard the Aqua Luna. Enjoying the view of the HK skyline and Victoria Harbour, they even recreate the iconic 'Titanic' pose of Jack and Rose.

Central Pier - Movie filmed here: 'Hello, Love, Goodbye' | There are several piers in Central, but the one that served as the filming location for 'Hello, Love, Goodbye' was Pier 9, which is a pick-up point for Aqua Luna. While onboard Aqua Luna, you will see a wider view of the filming location, especially the edge which provided the perfect dramatic backdrop for such an emotional scene. Another angle from this pier, also shown in the film, features the 197-foot-tall Hong Kong Observation Wheel.

Central Pier

Central Pier - View of Pier 9 in Central from Aqua Luna

Central Pier - In 'Hello, Love, Goodbye,' Joy (Kathryn Bernardo) and Ethan (Alden Richards) first get acquainted and share a deep conversation about life and love one beautiful evening here. As the film goes on, the two, who are about to part to pursue their own dreams, open up about their feelings and how they will fondly remember each other despite the distance.

Hong Kong Museum of Art (HKMoA) - Movie filmed here: 'Toss Coin' | Founded in 1962, the Hong Kong Museum of Art (HKMoA) stands as a testament to the vibrant arts and cultural scene of Hong Kong, being the city's first public art museum. Nestled in the heart of the bustling Tsim Sha Tsui district, this architectural marvel was renovated in 2019, with the new facade drawing inspiration from Victoria Harbour. It houses a collection that spans 18,800 sets of exhibits. The HKMoA showcases a diverse range of artistic expressions, from ancient Chinese paintings to contemporary installations. Check out our quick video tour here.

Hong Kong Museum of Art (HKMoA) - In 'Toss Coin,' Pia (Alexa Ilacad) and Kiko (KD Estrada) both pass by the Hong Kong Museum of Art (HKMoA). Pia walks by the museum first while vlogging, going around places that she and her ex-boyfriend consider special to them. Kiko, having seen her live vlog, follows her around, wanting to tell her something about the man she's looking for. Check out our quick video tour here.

Jimmy Bridge - Movie filmed here: 'Under Parallel Skies' | A favorite filming location in Hong Kong is the soft-hued Jimmy Bridge which stands out with its distinct look. This pedestrian bridge on Wai Yip St. is also a favorite photo spot of tourists, with its endless row of windows providing a unique angle and shadow play for those Instagrammable shots. It became popular for its appearance in the Hong Kong film 'Love in a Puff,' from which it earned its nickname, 'Chi Ming Bridge,' after the male protagonist in the film.

Jimmy Bridge

Jimmy Bridge - In 'Under Parallel Skies,' a sad Iris (Janella Salvador) is seen walking through this bridge when she visits the city alone and later receives bad news.

Kowloon City - Thai Street - Movie filmed here: 'Under Parallel Skies' | A so-called Little Thailand can be found in Hong Kong's Kowloon City, located along the eastern blocks of Nga Tsin Wai Road. Here, there is a mix of Thai and Chinese products. It's a must-check-out for the Thai food and herbs and spices.

Kowloon City - Thai Street - In the film, since Parin (Win Metawin) is Thai, he's craving some delicacies from his home country, and Iris (Janella Salvador) knows just where to take him.

Lan Kwai Fong - Mine Bar - Movie filmed here: 'Hello, Love, Goodbye' | Mine is a bar located in Lan Kwai Fong in Central, Hong Kong. Locals and tourists alike frequent this area to dine, have drinks, and go clubbing.

Lan Kwai Fong - Mine Bar - In 'Hello, Love, Goodbye,' Mine serves as the workplace of Ethan (Alden Richards). Joy (Kathryn Bernardo) also works as a part-timer here, and it's where some of the movie's funny-romantic scenes take place.

Luk on Kui - Movie filmed here: 'Under Parallel Skies' | Formerly called Lin Heung Kui, Luk on Kui, is best known for its serving style of dim sum through an old-school trolley. It's such an experience to dine here during lunch hours when the place is packed and loud. It's located in Sheung Wan in Hong Kong. (Try their egg tart too!)

Luk on Kui - In 'Under Parallel Skies,' it's one of the restaurants that Iris (Janella Salvador) and Parin (Win Metawin) check out as they get to know each other.

Mong Kok - Movie filmed here: 'Hello, Love, Goodbye' | Mong Kok, located in the heart of Kowloon, Hong Kong, is known for its vibrant energy and bustling atmosphere. Known as the 'Shopping Paradise,' it offers a diverse range of shopping experiences, from high-end boutiques to street markets. Mong Kok is also a foodie's haven, with countless restaurants and street stalls serving delectable local and international cuisines.

Mong Kok - Mong Kok serves as the backdrop for the movie poster of 'Hello, Love, Goodbye.' Several scenes were filmed here, including the ones with Joy (Kathryn Bernardo) meeting up with a buyer (she sells different products as a sideline), who turns out to be Ethan (Alden Richards).

Mong Kok - Yuen Po Street Bird Garden - Movie filmed here: 'Under Parallel Skies' | This 3,000 sqm. traditional Chinese-style garden is a haven for bird lovers and collectors. The relaxing space showcases the unique 'walking the bird' culture in Hong Kong. Exquisitely designed bird cages and other bird supplies are also available here.

Mong Kok - Yuen Po Street Bird Garden - In 'Under Parallel Skies,' Iris (Janella Salvador) drops by this place to buy a couple of pet birds for her and Parin (Win Metawin).

One-Eight-One Hotel & Serviced Residences - Movie filmed here: 'Under Parallel Skies' | One-Eight-One Hotel & Serviced Residences is located at 181 Connaught Road West in Sai Wan. The almost five-year-old property is just about 30 minutes away from HongKong International Airport. The hotel has 182 elegantly designed rooms that showcase a panoramic view of Victoria Harbour on one side and the breathtaking Hong Kong skyline on the other side. The areas featured in the film include the lobby and one of its Sky Residences suites.Check out our quick video tour here.

One-Eight-One Hotel & Serviced Residences - This area on the 5th floor was featured as an office space in 'Under Parallel Skies.'Check out our quick video tour here.

One-Eight-One Hotel & Serviced Residences - In 'Under Parallel Skies,' One Eight-One Hotel & Serviced Residences is Iris' (Janella Salvador) workplace, where she's employed as a receptionist. It's where she meets Parin (Win Metawin), a Thai bachelor who travels to Hong Kong to look for his mother. This is the hotel lobby, as featured in 'Under Parallel Skies.'Check out our quick video tour here.

One-Eight-One Hotel & Serviced Residences - In 'Under Parallel Skies,' Parin (Win Metawin) is a guest in this hotel. The room featured in the film is one of its Sky Residences, a two-bedroom suite situated on the highest guest floor, the 30th floor. The elegant and muted room features a powder room, two bedrooms (the master bedroom has a full bathroom), living and dining areas, and a kitchenette. One of the most memorable scenes from the movie is Iris (Janella Salvador) and Parin eating 'Thai food from Thai street in Little Thailand' together in the room.Check out our quick video tour here.

One-Eight-One Hotel & Serviced ResidencesCheck out our quick video tour here.

One-Eight-One Hotel & Serviced ResidencesCheck out our quick video tour here.

Peng Chau - Tai Lei Bridge - Movie filmed here: 'Under Parallel Skies' | This bridge leads to a small island, a famous fishing spot, in Peng Chau (which means 'flat island'). To get here, one needs to take a ferry from Central Pier, and the ride takes about 45 minutes. Check out our quick video tour here.

Peng Chau - Tai Lei Bridge - In 'Under Parallel Skies,' Parin (Win Metawin) is seen riding the bike here, patiently waiting for someone.Check out our quick video tour here.

Peng Chau - Tung Wan Beach - Movie filmed here: 'Under Parallel Skies' | This spot by the Tung Wan Beach is a small strip of land, featuring remarkable rock formations. From here, one can see the Disneyland theme park and hotels from afar.Check out our quick video tour here.

Peng Chau - Tung Wan Beach - In 'Under Parallel Skies,' this place serves as a special spot for Iris (Janella Salvador) and Parin (Win Metawin), as it inspires their decision to pursue their dreams and live a new life in search of happiness in this peaceful place.Check out our quick video tour here.

Peng Chau - Chill Chill Country - Movie filmed here: 'Under Parallel Skies' | Chill Chill Country is an accessory shop in the Leather Factory area of Peng Chau. What used to be a leather factory is now an art space. Everywhere you look in this area, there's an interestingly unique artwork一from graffiti to installations. Near the Chill Chill Country is My Secret Garden, an artsy junkyard with different yet creatively placed chairs forming a statement. Check out our quick video tour here.

Peng Chau - Chill Chill CountryCheck out our quick video tour here.

Peng Chau - Chill Chill CountryCheck out our quick video tour here.

Peng Chau - Chill Chill Country - 'Under Parallel Skies' featured this place as the cafe of Iris (Janella Salvador) and Parin (Win Metawin), where they sell Adobo Pork Buns and Thai Milk Tea. A significant place for the two characters as they level up their relationship, they named it 'Fai Lok' or happiness. Check out our quick video tour here.

Peng Chau - Chill Chill CountryCheck out our quick video tour here.

Peng Chau - My Secret GardenCheck out our quick video tour here.

Peng Chau - My Secret GardenCheck out our quick video tour here.

Peng Chau - My Secret GardenCheck out our quick video tour here.

Peng Chau - Siyamon Thai Cooking - Movie filmed here: 'Under Parallel Skies' | This Thai store in Peng Chau sells a wide array of Thai products and delicacies. They also offer Thai cooking classes. Check out our quick video tour here.

Peng Chau - Siyamon Thai Cooking - Iris (Janella Salvador) and Parin (Win Metawin) visited this store, with him introducing her to the Thai delicacy silkworm.Check out our quick video tour here.

PMQ - Movie filmed here: 'Toss Coin' | PMQ (formerly Police Married Quarters) is a historical building that now serves as a creative hub. It features floors upon floors of shops and studios that sell fashion and lifestyle goods. There are also art nooks that offer workshops. Its open space serves as a venue for various events, exhibits, and installations. Check out our quick video tour here.

PMQCheck out our quick video tour here.

PMQ - In 'Toss Coin,' it's one of the places that Kiko (KD Estrada) checks out as he follows Pia (Alexa Ilacad) around. Little does he know that Pia has seen him and is hiding from him, thinking he's a stalker.Check out our quick video tour here.

Sai Kung Mural Arts - Movie filmed here: 'Toss Coin' | While Sai Kung is known for its natural wonders, there's also a side to it that's contemporary and artsy; take, for instance, this street with murals. It values art and culture so much so the three-year program, Sai Kung Hoi Arts Festival, was celebrated here. Check out our quick video tour here.

Sai Kung Mural Arts - This narrow alley, featuring Sai Kung Mural Arts, serves as the venue for the first scene and first meeting of Pia (Alexa Ilacad) and Kiko (KD Estrada) in 'Toss Coin.' In this spot, Kiko, a musician, is playing the guitar while singing on the street, and Pia, a vlogger, wishes upon a coin. The artworks seen here are by Honduran-Hongkongese and American-born artist Carol Bellese Choi (who did a vibrant yet easy-on-the-eyes flower painting highlighting the word “grateful”) and Hong Kong-based mural artist Neil Wang (whose work for this project played with warm toned and abstract forms).Check out our quick video tour here.

Tai O - Movie filmed here: 'Under Parallel Skies' | Nestled amidst the picturesque islands of Lantau, Tai O Fishing Village offers a glimpse into Hong Kong's rich fishing heritage. With its stilt houses lining the waterfront, wooden walkways crisscrossing the village, and a vibrant floating market, Tai O exudes a charm that transports visitors back in time. The village is home to a tight-knit community of fishermen who have preserved their traditional way of life, making it a fascinating destination for those seeking a glimpse of Hong Kong's past.

Tai O

Tai O

Tai O - 'Under Parallel Skies' features Tai O, lending the perfect backdrop for a pivotal scene in the film. Iris (Janella Salvador) joins Parin (Win Metawin) in his search for his mother, bringing them to this quiet place where people lead a simple lifestyle. Here, Parin finds his mother, who is now living with the man she really loves.

Tai O - Solo Cafe - The Solo stilt house cafe is featured in 'Under Parallel Skies' as the house of Parin's mother. In this spot, the mother and son have a heartfelt conversation about her decision to live a new life.

Tai O - Solo Cafe

Location photos by Grace Libero-Cruz

Movie stills courtesy of ABS-CBN, Star Cinema, and 28 Squared Studios

Special thanks to Hong Kong Tourism Board

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