Central Travel Guide

A comprehensive guide to Central in Hong Kong including places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink, accommodations, local culture, transport options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Central

Central is the heart of Hong Kong’s bustling metropolis, a financial and business hub with a rich cultural history, and home to some of the most iconic landmarks in Hong Kong. Central’s streets are packed with high-end shops, Michelin-starred restaurants, historical buildings, and modern architecture. It’s a vibrant neighborhood that’s alive 24/7, and there’s always something new to discover.

List of Places to Visit in Central

If you’re looking for things to do in Central, here’s a list of popular attractions to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hong Kong Museum of History: Explore the city’s history and culture through interactive exhibits and displays.
  • Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware: A quaint museum housed in a colonial-era building, displaying exquisite Chinese tea ware.
  • Man Mo Temple: A traditional Chinese temple dedicated to the gods of literature and martial arts.
  • Victoria Prison: A historic site that once held political and criminal prisoners, now a museum depicting the harsh conditions of colonial-era prisoners.

Natural Attractions of Central: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Victoria Peak: Take a tram to the top of Hong Kong’s highest mountain for a stunning panoramic view of the city skyline and harbor.
  • Hong Kong Park: A green oasis in the heart of the city, featuring a conservatory, aviary, and a scenic waterfall.
  • Lung Fu Shan Country Park: A lush forested area perfect for hiking and mountain biking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central

Central is surrounded by mountainous terrain, providing several hiking and biking routes for adventure seekers. Some popular routes include:

  • Hong Kong Trail: A 50km hiking route that starts in Victoria Peak Garden and winds through the city’s countryside.
  • Lantau Trail: A scenic 70km trail overlooking the island of Lantau, with several starting points throughout Central.
  • Morning Trail: A popular 5km hike that starts at the Botanic Garden and ends at the top of Victoria Peak.

Best Things to Do in Central: Activities and Tours

  • The Peak Tram: Take a 125-year-old tram up to the top of Victoria Peak.
  • Aberdeen Harbor Cruise: Take a boat tour of Aberdeen Harbor and its floating fish village.
  • Lantau Island and Giant Buddha: Take a cable car up to Ngong Ping Village and visit the Big Buddha statue.

Week-Long Itinerary for Central

Day 1:

  • Visit Man Mo Temple and Hollywood Road’s antique shops.
  • Check out the street art on Graham Street and Peel Street.

Day 2:

  • Explore Victoria Peak and take plenty of photos of the stunning views.
  • Walk around Hong Kong Park and check out its conservatory and aviary.

Day 3:

  • Visit the Hong Kong Museum of History.
  • Take in the stunning views of Victoria Harbor at Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade.

Day 4:

  • Go hiking on the Hong Kong Trail or Lung Fu Shan Country Park.
  • Visit the Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware.

Day 5:

  • Take a boat tour of Aberdeen Harbor and its floating fish village.

Day 6:

  • Visit the Big Buddha statue on Lantau Island.
  • Explore Ngong Ping Village and its shops and restaurants.

Day 7:

  • Take a day trip to nearby destinations like Macau or Guangzhou.

Food and Drink Scene of Central

Central has a thriving food culture, catering to different tastes and budgets. Here’s what you should try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dim Sum: A traditional Chinese breakfast consisting of steamed or fried dumplings, buns, and other small dishes. Try some at Tim Ho Wan or Lin Heung Tea House.
  • Roast goose: A popular Cantonese dish with crispy skin and tender meat. Try some at Yung Kee Restaurant.
  • Egg tarts: A sweet pastry with a rich custard filling. Try some at Tai Cheong Bakery.

Local Beverages

  • Milk tea: A fusion of British and Chinese cultures, with strong black tea mixed with condensed milk. Try some at Lan Fong Yuen.
  • Tsingtao beer: A refreshing beer brewed in China. Try some at any local bar.

Where to Stay in Central: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Central has a wide range of accommodation options, catering to different budgets and tastes. Here are some popular options:

  • Mandarin Oriental: A luxurious 5-star hotel with stunning views of Victoria Harbor.
  • Four Seasons Hotel: Another upscale hotel with panoramic views of the city and harbor.
  • Shama Central Serviced Apartments: A popular mid-range option with modern, spacious apartments.
  • YHA Mei Ho House Youth Hostel: A budget option with dormitory-style accommodation.

What to Buy in Central: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to bring back something unique from Central, consider buying these items:

  • Chinese tea: Hong Kong is famous for its tea, and you can find many varieties at Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware or LockCha Tea House.
  • Jade jewelry: Jade is considered a precious stone in Chinese culture, and you can find beautiful pieces at Sincere Jade.
  • Chinese silk: Hong Kong is known for its high-quality silk, and you can buy it at any of the tailors in Central, like Lee Baron or Tai Pan Row.

Local Culture and Customs of Central

Hong Kong has a rich cultural heritage, with an interesting blend of Chinese and British influences. Some customs and traditions to be aware of when visiting Central include:

  • Respect elders: Chinese culture values respect for elders, so be sure to greet them first and use formal titles when addressing them.
  • Do not tip: Tipping is not customary in Hong Kong, but you might see it in some high-end restaurants or hotels.
  • Face-saving: Face-saving is a crucial concept in Chinese culture, and it means avoiding embarrassment or shame. It’s essential to be aware of others’ feelings and not to lose face yourself.

Best Time to Visit Central

Hong Kong has a subtropical climate with hot and humid summers, and mild winters. The best time to visit Central is during the cooler months from October to December, where the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. Avoid visiting during Chinese New Year, as many shops and attractions might be closed.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central

Do:

  • Try the street food and market snacks, like egg waffles or fish balls.
  • Check out the local architecture, like the famous HSBC Building.
  • Take advantage of the many free events and exhibitions, like ArtWalk or Halloween parties.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public areas or indoors.
  • Cross the streets when the pedestrian light is red.
  • Wear revealing or provocative clothing in traditional areas or temples.

Safety and Health

Safety in Central

Central is a generally safe neighborhood, but visitors should be cautious of pickpockets, especially on crowded streets or public transportation. It’s also essential to follow basic safety precautions, like locking doors and windows in your hotel room.

Health in Central

Hong Kong has excellent healthcare facilities, but visitors should still travel with appropriate health insurance. Tap water in Hong Kong is safe to drink, but visitors might prefer bottled water for taste.

Getting to Central: Transportation Options and Logistics

Central is easily accessible from any part of Hong Kong, with several transportation options.

Airports Near Central

  • Hong Kong International Airport: The main airport in Hong Kong, with direct flights to major cities around the world. It’s a 30-minute drive or a 24-minute train ride to Central.

Bus Stations Near Central

  • Macau Ferry Terminal: A popular transportation hub for visitors traveling to and from Macau. It’s a ten-minute walk to Central from the ferry terminal.
  • China Ferry Terminal: Another ferry terminal that connects Hong Kong with mainland China cities like Shenzhen and Guangzhou.

Other Options

  • MTR: Hong Kong’s rapid transit system is extensive and efficient, with several stations throughout Central.
  • Trams: An iconic and affordable way to see the city while exploring Central.
  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Central, but it’s essential to carry small change, and peak hours might lead to higher fares.

How to Get Around in Central

Central is a relatively small neighborhood, and most attractions are within walking distance. It’s also easy to explore Central on a bicycle or take local transportation like trams or buses.

Where to Go Next from Central: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Central is a great base for exploring nearby attractions and destinations. Some popular excursions include:

  • Macau: A former Portuguese colony that’s now a popular gambling and tourist destination. It’s only an hour ferry ride from Hong Kong.
  • Lantau Island: Visit the Big Buddha statue and explore the island’s beautiful nature trails and beaches.
  • Tai O Fishing Village: A traditional fishing village with stilt houses and a lively market.

Conclusion

Central is a neighborhood with something for everyone, whether you’re an adventure seeker, history buff, or foody. With its many attractions, local culture, and excellent transportation options, it’s a must-visit destination in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Island skyline Hong Kong Island skyline The Cenotaph. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, it is almost identical to the London Cenotaph. The Cenotaph. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, it is almost identical to the London Cenotaph. The Peak Tower: close to the highest point on the island, the views on a clear day make this an essential part of every tourist's itinerary. The Peak Tower: close to the highest point on the island, the views on a clear day make this an essential part of every tourist's itinerary. Lan Kwai Fong at night Lan Kwai Fong at night