Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Think you know everything about Hong Kong? Prepare to be surprised. The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is launching its new regional campaign focused on curating a list of the city's hidden gems for visitors to explore. Beyond its spectacular skyline and vibrant streets lies a wealth of hidden treasures waiting to be uncovered. Whether you are an adventurer, a culture vulture, a shopaholic, or a foodie, there are special experiences uniquely Hong Kong waiting to be discovered. 

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

As part of this campaign, HKTB invites visitors to discover these hidden gems through a curated list tailored to different travel preferences. This experience is enhanced by an interactive AI-powered tool, providing a personalized travel guide along with an AI-generated photo of yourself in a Hong Kong setting.

Here is how to create your personalized travel guide:

1. Visit this website and agree to the Terms & Conditions.

2. Answer a few questions about your travel preferences, like the types of activities or adventures you are interested in.

3. Upload or take a clear photo based on the provided guidelines.

4. Receive your AI-generated photo and a tailored travel profile.

5. Share your personalized photo and travel profile on Facebook, Instagram, or both.

This AI tool will generate recommendations for Hong Kong's hidden gems based on your travel profile, making your visit unique and suited to your interests.

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

HKTB's curated list features hidden gems categorized into four themes: nature & adventure, arts & culture, shop & play, and food & drinks.  

Nature & adventure

Hiking in Hong Kong has gained popularity over the years, but few realize that the city is connected to 263 islands with 535 hiking, cycling, and mountain biking trails. What is unique about Hong Kong is that some of these islands and trails are located near urban centers, making commute times within an hour via public transport. Embark on a journey through Hong Kong's breathtaking landscapes and serene escapes, where natural beauty and tranquility await at every turn. 

1. Peng Chau

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Escape the city's hustle and bustle by visiting Peng Chau, a quaint car-free island with scenic hiking trails, traditional temples, and a glimpse into Hong Kong's slower-paced lifestyle. Peng Chau was once an industrial hub with more than 100 factories. Now, the defunct Fook Yuen Leather Factory has been revitalized by a passionate Peng Chau native into a charming art junkyard with quirky displays and vibrant graffiti. These art installations are changed regularly to offer fresh visual experiences for visitors.  

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Address: Peng Chau, Hong Kong   

How to get there: Take a ferry from Central Pier No. 6, accessible from MTR Hong Kong Station. The trip takes about 25 minutes on the Fast Ferry and 40 minutes on the Ordinary Ferry. Fares range from HKD 9.90 to HKD 28.40 for the Ordinary Ferry and HKD 18.40 to HKD 54.30 for the Fast Ferry.  

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board 

Must-try activities: Take photos at the defunct leather factory and the scenic beach spot where actress Janella Salvador and Thai actor Win Metawin filmed a scene overlooking Hong Kong Disneyland for the movie 'Under Parallel Skies.' It is a good spot to look out over the calm waters and relax. 

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

2. Red Incense Burner Summit 

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Also known as Braemar Hill, this relatively easy hiking trail offers a view of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and Victoria Harbour. This vantage point is one of the popular local spots to witness the sunset and captivating night views of Hong Kong. Check the sunset time before heading up.    

Address: North Point, Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong   

How to get there: Hike in the late afternoon for the full hiking course or take a bus to Upper Braemar Hill Bus Terminus and walk five minutes.  

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board 

Things to note: Photos are best taken with clear skies. Do check the weather and sunset time, and bring a flashlight if visiting in the evening.    

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Arts & Culture

Indulge in Hong Kong's rich heritage and vibrant arts scene, where history and creativity converge to offer a journey through time and culture.   

3. Tsz Shan Monastery  

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Nestled in the lush hills of Tai Po, this serene and spiritual retreat provides a tranquil setting for meditation and reflection.   

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

One of the notable features of Tsz Shan Monastery is the towering 70-metre-tall bronze-cast white Guan Yin statue built upon a 6-meter-high granite base. 

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Beneath the statue sits Hong Kong's first museum exclusively dedicated to Buddhist art and relics. Opened in 2015 by Mr. Li Ka-Shing who has built Tsz Shan Monastery as an institute for Buddhist practice and learning, the monastery offers visitors various mindfulness activities, including tea meditation, zen calligraphy, walking meditation, and water offerings.   

Address: 88 Universal Gate Road, Tai Po, Hong Kong   

How to get there: Bus or minibus from MTR Tai Po Market Station, or taxi.   

Things to note: Admission is free, but reservations are required and slots are open at the start of each month. The monastery accommodates 400 visitors daily. Dress appropriately, such as in sleeved tops, mid-calf dresses, or mid-calf pants.  

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Shop & play

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board 

Explore local crafts and innovative play spaces that showcase Hong Kong's vibrant creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.   

4. Mahjong workshop

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Founded by Karen Aruba, whose family once ran a major mahjong factory in Hong Kong, this mahjong tile coloring workshop reflects her passion for preserving mahjong craftsmanship and cultural heritage.   

Her father, Master Ricky Cheung, a mahjong tile specialist, leads the sessions. Participants will learn about the craft's history, drill their own mahjong tile, and take home a unique handmade tile.   

Address: Karen Aruba Studio, L6-15, 30 Pak Tin Street, JCCAC, Shek Kip Mei, Kowloon, Hong Kong   

Must-try activities: Create a personalized mahjong tile with unique patterns and metallic colors.  

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Workshop info:  Karen Aruba Studio

5. Upper Lascar Row

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Known for its eclectic mix of antique shops and thrift stores, this vibrant street offers unique finds and vintage treasures. It is a paradise for shoppers looking for one-of-a-kind items, from antique trinkets to retro collectibles.   

Address: Upper Lascar Row, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong   

Must-try activities: Hunt for rare antiques and collectibles while exploring the streets.  

Food & drinks 

Embark on a culinary journey through Hong Kong's diverse offerings, from hidden cafes to traditional eateries that shape the city's gastronomic scene.   

6. Tai Ping Koon

Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Known to be one of the oldest western restaurants opened by Chinese in China and Hong Kong, Tai Ping Koon is a historical restaurant known for its fusion of Western and Chinese cuisine, offering a nostalgic dining experience. It is a must-visit for anyone looking to taste a piece of Hong Kong's culinary history.   

Address: Multiple locations - Central, Causeway Bay, Tsim Sha Tsui, Yau Ma Tei    

Must-try food: Roasted pigeon, Swiss style chicken wings, and baked souffle.  

Tai Ping Koon's Swiss style chicken wings. Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Tai Ping Koon's baked souffle. Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

7. Kinsman 

This hidden gem offers a nostalgic setting that is inspired by Wong Kar-wai's classic films and a range of innovative crafted cocktails. It is an ideal spot for a relaxed evening out with friends, offering a cozy atmosphere and celebration of traditional Cantonese spirits. This bar also offers local snacks and desserts with a twist, such as curry squid and yin & yang pudding with black sesame and walnut puree.    

Address: 27-33 Kimberley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong   

Must-try cocktail: The Kowloon Dairy, the bar's innovative take on Hong Kong milk punch.   

 Photo source: Hong Kong Tourism Board 

For more information on Hong Kong's hidden gems and exclusive deals, visit: www.discoverhongkong.com.