Hong Kong is packed with iconic neighborhoods, but nothing beats Wan Chai and its perfect mix of city and culture. The range of views and monuments attract different crowds, from history buffs to foodies and shoppers. With so much to see and do, you can easily spend a successful afternoon wandering its lively streets. For today, explore Wan Chai for all it has to offer. Here are some ideas on how to spend a day in Wan Chai, Hong Kong.
Ride the tram
Getting to Wan Chai couldn’t be simpler with the convenience of Wan Chai MTR Station. However, if you’re coming from Hong Kong Island, we highly suggest taking the tram. The Hong Kong Tramway System is the most iconic form of transportation, and for something that is over a hundred years old, it’s pretty efficient! The MTR is inarguably faster but what’s the rush? Savor the exceptional beauty of Hong Kong through the large windows that let the breezy air tunnel through the tram.
Lunchtime at Crystal Jade
First things first – let’s grab some Xiao Long Bao for lunch. With many locations around Hong Kong, Crystal Jade is a chain that luckily has a home in Wan Chai. This Michelin starred Chinese restaurant serves incomparable Xiao Long Bao (Chinese steamed dumplings) and La Mian (hand pulled noodles), perfect for warming you up as the winter wind sneaks in. Despite the incredible service and delectable food, Crystal Jade is reasonably priced with most of their dishes being less than HK$100 (US$13).
Address: Shop 310, Tai Yau Plaza, 181 Johnston Road, Wan Chai
Italian flavors at Pici
If you’re craving a different kind of noodle from the other side of the world, Pici is the place to go. This charming restaurant brings Italy to Hong Kong. You may not be able to travel across the world right now, but with its authentic Italian flavors and homemade pasta, it’s just like the real deal. If you catch yourself dining on a weekday, their $158 HKD (US$20) lunch set includes a starter, pasta and dessert. Trust us, the tiramisu alone makes this deal worth every penny.
Address: 16 St Francis Yard, Wan Chai
Shop at the ‘Toy Market’
After a filling lunch, going for a little walk will help digest all that food. Wan Chai’s Tai Yuen street or “Toy Market,” has a reputation for its vibrant stalls and energetic locals. You’ll find the most random things from plants to scarves, so walking down this street is always entertaining on its own.
Lee Tung Avenue
While walking on the main road, Lee Tung Avenue is quite hard to miss and will surely catch your attention. Welcomed by remarkable art installations, visitors are immediately stunned. With rows of red lanterns dancing with the breeze that stream above you, Lee Tung Avenue is a modernized version of Hong Kong’s culture. Walking down this tree-lined street lets you explore the different stores luring you in.
Surely, by now you’ve done enough walking and it seems like a good time for a break. As you circle back to the entrance of Lee Tung Avenue, Le Pain Quotidien beckons. This quaint cafe is a perfect place to give your legs a rest. Whether you’re up for a small snack or a big meal, Le Pain Quotidien provides simple, nourishing food. The French inspired cafe also has a bakery with irresistible fresh, warm bread. Their organic bread basket is perfect to share with friends – try their slightly guilt-free version of nutella spread. The outdoor seating space is a rarity in this area, so take advantage of this luxury.
Address: Shop G40-41, The Avenue, Lee Tung Avenue, Wan Chai
Wan Chai Wednesdays
Wan Chai Wednesdays refers to Wan Chai’s energetic nightlife bursting on hump day each week. As people get off work or partyers start looking for a good time, Lockhart Road attracts crowds of people to its bars. Lockhart Road bars do have a reputation for being exciting and wild, making it one of Lan Kwai Fong’s greatest competitors. There is a place for everyone, whether you want a laid-back environment or intense clubbing – your night will be memorable.
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