Winter Wonderland...............Hong Kong lighting up the holidays with WinterFest

From now through January 1, Hong Kong WinterFest, organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, will take place in the at West Kowloon Cultural District. Get in the holiday spirit with a series of citywide events and experiences from top attractions, festive live performances, exclusive menus, dazzling light displays, and so much more.

Harbourside Happenings: “Marine Pyrotechnics” decorate Hong Kong’s skyline with iconic Christmas imagery

A show-stopping marine pyrotechnic display will light up Hong Kong’s skyline with colourful Yuletide motifs for eight nights in December (9, 10, 16, 17, 23–26), including Christmas Eve and Christmas night. Instagrammers won’t want to miss Christmas Town’s 6-story Christmas tree decorated with sparkling lights and topped with a star that shines across Victoria Harbour.

Joyeux Noël! Le Petit Prince celebrates at Ocean Park Hong Kong

Ocean Park Hong Kong invites guests to embark on a luminous adventure with Le Petit Prince. The beloved French literary icon, who this year celebrates his 80th anniversary, will bring his beloved rose to Hong Kong to share the joy of Christmas. Guests can also follow in Le Petit Prince's footsteps, discover light projections, and stroll down the charming “Le Petit Prince Light Alley” for a heartwarming holiday experience that will enchant the whole family.

A Very Disney Christmas: Disney 100 CHRISTMAS LOVE 2000% BE@RBRICK UP comes to Harbour City

Harbour City Hong Kong is set to dazzle this Christmas with an unmissable collaboration between MEDICOM TOY and Disney in “Disney100 CHRISTMAS LOVE 2000% BE@RBRICK UP”. As part of Disney's 100th anniversary celebrations, 100 unique 2000% Disney-themed BE@RBRICK figurines will be on display, including 53 brand-new designs.

A Hong Kong Winter Favorite: The AIA Carnival returns to Central Harbourfront

Get ready for a winter extravaganza at the AIA Carnival in Hong Kong, returning from December 21, 2023, to February 25, 2024. A beloved Hong Kong tradition, the carnival promises thrilling rides, exciting games, and interactive installations, as well as over 1 million plush toys. Visitors can enjoy street performances, food stalls, and live entertainment.

Hong Kong Disneyland debuts “The World of Frozen”, the first of its kind in the world

Step into a magical winter wonderland as Hong Kong Disneyland unveils “The World of Frozen” the world’s first and largest Frozen-themed land. In this enchanting realm that brings iconic characters and scenes from the beloved Disney film to life, visitors can discover the magic of Arendelle’s best-known locations, all idyllically backdropped by the rugged terrain of Lantau Island.

Hong Kong lights up for the festive season

Be among the very first in the world to experience “The World of Frozen”, and be immersed in the festive spirit this Christmas.

These holidays, fans from around the world can join beloved characters including Elsa and Anna from Frozen, BE@RBRICK, and Le Petit Prince in Hong Kong to celebrate the festive season. Beyond these iconic figures, the city offers myriad ways for visitors of all ages to immerse themselves in the festive ambience, promising a season filled with enchantment and joy.

Hong Kong Disneyland debuts “The World of Frozen”, the first of its kind in the world

Step into a magical winter wonderland as Hong Kong Disneyland unveils “The World of Frozen” today (20 November, 2023), the world’s first and largest Frozen-themed land. In this enchanting realm that brings iconic characters and scenes from the beloved Disney film to life, visitors can discover the magic of Arendelle’s best-known locations, including North Mountain and the Bay of Arendelle, all idyllically backdropped by the rugged terrain of Lantau Island.

“The World of Frozen” is home to a range of immersive experiences including multi-sensory boat ride “Frozen Ever After”; “Wandering Oaken's Sliding Sleighs”, a charming carnival coaster that guides guests through the picturesque Arendelle Forest; and “Playhouse In The Woods”, a theatrical experience set deep in Arendelle Forest where the audience can become part of the story.

Harbourside Happenings: “Marine Pyrotechnics” decorates Hong Kong’s skyline with Christmas icons

From 24 November to 1 January, Hong Kong WinterFest, organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, will take place at Harbourside Lawn West of Art Park at West Kowloon Cultural District. A show-stopping marine pyrotechnic display will light up Hong Kong’s skyline with colourful Yuletide motifs for over eight evenings in December (9, 10, 16, 17, 23 –26 December), including Christmas Eve and Christmas night. The not-to-be-missed photo spot of the Christmas Town, the 20-metre, 6-storey giant Christmas tree decorated with glistening lights and a gorgeous star tree topper, will be a striking complement to the dazzling skyline of the Victoria Harbour while exuding peace and hope.

In the lead up to Christmas, the expansive harbourside precinct will also be buzzing with after-dark live entertainment and tasty treats. WestK Nightscapes will see the district come to life over three weekends in November, with free live music across various stages and special offers at the precinct’s restaurants, cafes and food trucks to fuel the revelry under the stars.

Hong Kong invites global travellers to discover the city’s diverse gastronomy and nightlife with a month-long gourmet extravaganza

This autumn, Hong Kong Tourism Board invites food and wine lovers from around the world to celebrate the joys of gastronomy in Asia’s culinary capital with the return of the city’s large-scale outdoor culinary event, Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival. The four-day festival also kicks off a month-long series of vibrant nightlife happenings taking place citywide throughout November.

It’s back: Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival returns in physical format

Taking place from 26–29 October at Victoria Harbour’s Central Harbourfront Event Space, Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival 2023 will be a four-day gourmet extravaganza backdropped by the iconic city skyline. This year’s edition, which is the first physical edition of the event following a five-year hiatus, will boast nearly 300 booths showcasing global food and wine offerings, as well as a suite of interactive workshops for food lovers of all ages. Eligible overseas visitors will also receive a free cocktail on arrival.

Wine will naturally be a focus of the Festival, with the popular Major Country Pavilions showcasing makers from 36 countries around the world. This year, the spotlight will be on the classic vintages from France and Italy and emerging wine regions from Thailand, Moldova and Finland. In a Festival first, a dedicated display for Chinese Wine Discovery is being introduced, featuring wine merchants including Xige Estate and Chateau Mihope from Ningxia (Northwest China), Yunnan Red Wine & Spirits, and Shandong-based Mystic Island Winery.

The four-day event will allow visitors to indulge in a diverse array of global flavours in a single visit, with dishes ranging from punchy, flavour-filled street food and nostalgic local favourites to refined hotel delicacies by vendors including The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong.

New to the Festival is Tasting Theatre, a number of hands-on workshops will also be on offer for visitors of all ages feeling inspired to roll up their sleeves and don an apron, with insightful and engaging sessions including ‘Plant to Plate’, ‘Origin of the Coffee Bean’, ‘The Story of Rice’ and more. Cooking demonstrations and workshops will be led by celebrity chef He Jiansheng from Shunde, Guangdong and award-winning Taiwanese baker Wu Pao-chun, who will join Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival for the first time.

Taste Around Town takes over Hong Kong throughout November

HKTDC Food Expo PRO and Hong Kong International Tea Fair to take place together in August

Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Food Expo PRO and Hong Kong International Tea Fair will be staged together from 17 to 19 August 2023 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The fairs will bring together a wide range of global speciality food and beverage, tea, and related products, providing a one-stop sourcing platform for F&B importers, wholesalers, retailers, restaurants, hospitality groups, department stores and e-tailers. The fair is open to public visitors with ticket admission on the last day (19 Aug).

Food Expo PRO: Asia’s key trade event for F&B

This year, the Food Expo Trade Hall will transform into Food Expo PRO and will focus on and further deepen the B2B elements, with a view to providing a one-stop professional business platform to help F&B industry players explore opportunities and build connections. Food Expo PRO presents the “Food Science and Technology” zone, as well as pavilions from various countries and regions, including Mainland China, Japan, South Korea, Poland and more. Other product categories include food & beverage products, food packaging, labeling & logistic service, food processing products, machinery, and Halal food and beverage products.

The concurrent Hong Kong International Tea Fair brings together a wide variety of products including tea and tea-related products, tea packaging, tea ware and tea technology. Serval provinces from Mainland China will set up group pavilions at the fair. Also, Sri Lanka pavilion is returning this year, bringing Ceylon tea products from the region.

The two fairs will continue to adopt the HKTDC’s EXHIBITION+ model that integrates online and offline elements, extending face-to-face interactions from physical events to smart business platform, Click2Match, which will be open to participants from 10 to 26 August.

In addition, the International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products (ICMCM), organised by the Modernized Chinese Medicine International Association (MCMIA) together with the HKTDC and eight scientific research institutions, will be held at the same venue on 17 and 18 August to deliver professional Chinese medicine insights into the industry.

Register for Free Buyer Badge Now: https://rb.gy/nnwus

Hong Kong's best harbourside activities to beat the summer heat

The iconic Victoria Harbour turns up the heat this summer as it hosts an array of incredible things to eat, see, do, and capture in photos right by the water.

Must-See Spectacle: The Giant Rubber Duck Returns With A Friend

Summer in Hong Kong will see a diverse range of events come to the city, and the season is starting in an eye-catching fashion. In 2013, Victoria Harbour was home to Rubber Duck, a large-scale inflatable sculpture created by Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman and curated by Hong Kong creative collective AllRightsReserved, which became a symbol of summertime playfulness. This summer, the 18-metre-tall rubber duck returns for a two-week stay and it is being joined by an identical friend. DOUBLE DUCKS by Florentijn Hofman, organised by AllRightsReserved, will see two rubber ducks take pride of place in Victoria Harbour from 10–23 June.

Must-Join Events: Traditional Festivals with Modern Twist and Live Entertainment

Traditional Festivals with a Modern Twist

An iconic Hong Kong summer tradition, the Dragon Boat Festival this year takes place on 22 June. Race meets on that day can be found citywide including at Stanley, where over 200 local and international teams compete in a series of races – with many paddlers in colourful costumes – amid a vibrant, carnival-like atmosphere.

The excitement continues to the weekend of 24–25 June with the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races, featuring over 160 teams from 10 countries and regions of about 4,000 best racers around the world paddling through Victoria Harbour cheered on by drummers and fans. Fans watching from the Avenue of Stars will be able to stop by the LINE FRIENDS Hello Hong Kong Dragon Boats Photo Spots. From 19 June for two weeks, this playful display invites visitors to stop by to pick up an exclusive souvenir and take a selfie with their favourite LINE FRIENDS characters in a dragon boat-themed exhibit.

Live entertainment lights up the harbourside

Summer is the perfect time for live outdoor entertainment, and Hong Kong has plenty on offer this season. Over five consecutive weekends from 8 July, the Wan Chai harbourfront welcomes the first-ever Harbour Chill Carnival. Organised by Hong Kong Tourism Board, this family-friendly event features live music performances from on a stage on the water, performing arts showcases, and exhilarating X Games demonstrations. Stay until sundown for a special edition of “A Symphony of Lights” multimedia light and pyro show that illuminates the Hong Kong skyline.

The party comes to Discovery Bay on 29-30 July for NextWave. Hong Kong's first-ever beach carnival features an array of live performances and DJ sets by local and international artists, as well as food trucks, artisan markets and water sports.

The action returns to Central Harbourfront on 5–6 August for the S2O Hong Kong Songkran Music Festival, which brings the energy of Thailand’s famed New Year celebrations to the city for the very first time. Expect a top-tier line-up of DJs and thrilling water and light spectacles, accompanied by stunning visual effects and a 360-degree water splashing experience.

Must-Eat Treats: Savour classic Hong Kong fare by the harbourside

Free air tickets to Hong Kong available to U.S. travellers on 17th May

Hong Kong is ready to welcome global visitors with its recent "Hello Hong Kong" promotional campaign, launched in February. This initiative represents the city's enthusiastic outreach to international tourists. To entice travellers, the Hong Kong Airport Authority is offering 500,000 complimentary air tickets across various markets.

In the U.S. market, tickets are distributed through Cathay Pacific. Although the base fare is waived, U.S. passengers are still responsible for airport fees and taxes.

Limited Tickets Are Available

A limited number of round-trip economy class tickets to Hong Kong will be offered in the U.S. beginning May 17 at 5:00 PM PDT/8:00 PM EDT. There is a limit of one ticket per transaction while supplies last.

For a chance to access the tickets, U.S. visitors need to sign up at the Cathay Pacific website to receive their unique code on 17th May to claim this limited-time offer.

Travellers are responsible for taxes, airport fees and other charges.

To learn more about Hello Hong Kong, click here.

One Million Hong Kong Goodies Vouchers for Visitors to Enjoy Citywide Perks

Aside from air tickets, the HKTB, in collaboration with the tourism and hospitality sectors, has assembled an array of enticing deals from over 16,000 outlets across the city to welcome back visitors. Initially, at least 1 million "Hong Kong Goodies" visitor consumption vouchers are being distributed by HKTB’ s designated channels. These vouchers include complimentary welcome drinks at participating bars, restaurants, and hotels, or cash vouchers redeemable in the transportation, culinary, and retail sectors, as well as at various attractions.

Showcasing Hong Kong's New Experiences and Events

Experience the charisma of Hong Kong's unique pop culture with legendary icons

Hong Kong has one of the most influential pop cultures among Asian cities, especially its pervasive Cantopop and movies from the 1980s to the 1990s, which gave birth to a lot of superstars who were well-known internationally. The timeless influence of those masterpieces can still be found in the pop culture of Hong Kong and even the rest of Asia.

The first-ever “Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival” kicks off in April, with over 20 exciting events scheduled throughout the year. An array of experiences await visitors to relive the golden age of Hong Kong superstars, including Leslie Cheung and Anita Mui, who reigned in the music and movie industries.

Some pop culture classics will be reinterpreted with unconventional modern elements, including makeovers of some one-of-a-kind melodies with new components, like jazz and a cappella. With fresh presentations of Hong Kong classics, these events pay tribute to the legendary trendsetters who have assiduously contributed to the local pop culture.

Here are four recommended experiences for visitors to savour and reminisce about the old days, paying tribute to the legends.

Passing on the Legend with a Brand New Interpretation

Miss You Much Leslie Exhibition

To commemorate the 20th anniversary of the passing of Leslie Cheung (“Gor-gor”) this year, the Hong Kong Heritage Museum has organised an exhibition, with Cheung’s close friends Florence Chan, William Chang and Wing Shya as guest curators. Featuring his stage costumes, vinyl records, music and film work, awards and personal collections, the exhibition presents Cheung’s legendary achievements in music and film, as well as his influence on popular culture.

Movie Tram – Tales Told by Cinematic Storytellers
Movie Tram

** Tickets available online for registration

A quintessential Hong Kong symbol on the move, the tram is a vessel of the city’s unique scenery and memories, making it an ideal backdrop for a lot of Hong Kong movies. The Festival will present “Movie Tram” tours, in which the participants will take a walking tour around film locations in Central & Western District before hopping onto a tram, where famous filmmakers, including Stanley Kwan and Kearen Pang, will share behind-the-scenes stories and inspirations for cinematic creativity, uncovering the gems of the city’s moving pictures.

In the Mood for Qipao – A Showcase of the Flourishing Era of Hong Kong Cinema
Cinderella and Her Qipao Exhibition

The qipao (cheongsam) is a fashion symbol of Chinese culture, as well as a key styling element for female leads in a lot of Hong Kong movies. This exhibition organised by the Hong Kong Film Archive, with over 30 qipaos from a selection of films spanning different eras will be on display, recreating the cultural landscapes of the past with pieces worn by iconic actresses such as Maggie Cheung and Brigitte Lin.

Out of Thin Air: Hong Kong Film Arts & Costumes Exhibition

The Hong Kong Heritage Museum and Hong Kong Film Arts Association will jointly present the exhibition. Through the display of iconic costumes, props, sets, paraphernalia and workshop scenes, the exhibition will take visitors behind the scenes to explore the nature of Hong Kong’s film culture, as well as the highly adaptable professionalism and creative inclusiveness of film industry workers.

More riveting activities will debut soon. Make these experiences part of your itinerary and embark on a distinctive pop culture journey in the footsteps of legendary Hong Kong superstars.

For more information about the “Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival”, please visit https://www.pcf.gov.hk/en.

Hong Kong to Host Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023

Hong Kong to Host Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023

The region’s best bar talent will land in Hong Kong on 18 July, as the city reinforces its position as the leading hub for world-class cocktail experiences in Asia

Asia’s very best bartenders and drinks industry talent will gather in Hong Kong this July as the city hosts Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards ceremony, one of the region’s most authoritative and prestigious surveys of cocktail tastes and trends. For its 2023 edition, the annual awards have partnered with the Hong Kong Tourism Board to bring the event to the city for the very first time on 18 July 2023.

“We are delighted to host this year’s edition of Asia’s 50 Best Bars in July, one of the region’s most significant celebrations of hospitality, which further affirms Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s foremost hub for cocktail experiences. We look forward to inspiring the region’s best bar talent with what Hong Kong has to offer,” Dr Pang Yiu-kai, Chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, says.

Arts in Hong Kong: A Vibrant Citywide Celebration of Creativity

The eyes of the art world are on Hong Kong this week as colour, creativity and vibrancy descend upon the city. Headlined by Art Basel Hong Kong and Art Central, the internationally renowned celebration of arts and culture features a suite of world-class events, exhibits and experiences taking place throughout the city, showcasing Hong Kong’s thriving creative landscape while reinforcing its position on the world stage cultural hub.

Art Basel Hong Kong (running through March 25) is hosting the biggest edition of the international art fair since 2019 featuring 177 exhibitors from 32 countries and territories. Taking place concurrently will be Art Central (running through March 25), Hong Kong’s homegrown art fair that has established itself as one of the region’s most significant platforms for emerging artists. These two world-class art fairs have firmly established Hong Kong as one of the world’s foremost hubs for international arts and cultural exchange.

Hong Kong Tourism Board is also teaming up with Art Central in launching an “Arts in Hong Kong Café” to invite visitors to walk into the contemporary art gallery-like café and see the collaborative works of local and overseas artists.

Show-stopping installations, must-see exhibitions across the city

As Hong Kong’s stock on the global arts stage continues to grow, a host of opportunities for artistic encounters can also be discovered around town.

Street Art in the Spotlight

Street art will be in the spotlight during this dynamic art week, with prominent showcases examining the movement from its beginnings to the present.

Throughout the year, Hong Kong plays host to a vibrant and diverse range of arts and cultural events that showcase the city's creative energy and talent. These events will set the stage for even more cultural celebrations this spring, such as the upcoming Le French May.

Hong Kong drops face mask rules

Photo by Ruslan Bardash on Unsplash

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government announced they will drop the mandatory mask-wearing rule starting today - 1st March for all visitors travelling to Hong Kong.  This means that travellers will no longer be required to wear masks indoors and outdoors and can enjoy Hong Kong’s iconic and new experiences to the fullest.

The announcement comes as the city prepares to host a line-up of large international events in the coming month, such as Clockenflap (March 3-5), Art Basel (March 23-25) and the Hong Kong Sevens (March 31 – April 2). Travellers from near and far are invited to dance and sing along to the performers at Clockenflap, cheer for their favourite teams and party with cool drinks at the celebrated Hong Kong Sevens; and meet with world-class gallerists at the Art Basel Hong Kong.

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Try afternoon tea!  

The Murray Hong Kong (1969) Hong Kong, China

The Murray Hong Kong, a member of Historic Hotels Worldwide since 2019, dates to 1969 and is a monument to midcentury modern architecture located in Hong Kong, China’s Central District. Winner of the Historic Hotels Worldwide Awards of Excellence Best Historic Hotels Worldwide Hotel in Asia/Pacific in 2022, The Murray Hong Kong boasts some of the city’s best restaurants offering the most memorable dining and lifestyle experiences in the city. 

Emirates will ramp up frequencies to Hong Kong with a daily non-stop service from its Dubai hub, starting from 29 March 2023

The Airbus A380 - still the luxurious backbone of the Emirates fleet

Emirates will ramp up frequencies to Hong Kong with a daily non-stop service from its Dubai hub, starting from 29 March 2023, adding to its existing daily flight from Dubai to Hong Kong via Bangkok and increasing the airline’s operations in the market up to 14 weekly flights. The resumed service will provide more capacity, choice and flexibility for travellers, as the airline continues to expand its global operations in line with sustained demand for international travel.

Operated by an Airbus A380 aircraft, Emirates’ flight EK380 will depart Dubai at 10:45hrs and arrive in Hong Kong at 22:00hrs. The return flight EK381 will depart from Hong Kong at 00:35hrs and arrive in Dubai at 05:00hrs. All times are local.

By bringing back its Dubai-Hong Kong flight EK380/EK381, Emirates is responding to the growing demand on the route and offering travellers the choice to fly non-stop or break their journeys in Bangkok.

Tickets can be booked on emirates.com, the Emirates App, or via travel agents. Travellers are also encouraged to check the latest entry requirements.

As one of Emirates’ key Asian destinations, the airline reaffirms its commitment to supporting Hong Kong’s post-pandemic recovery, increasing capacity to serve travellers originating from Dubai or connecting in Dubai from other cities in its global network. Throughout the pandemic, Emirates has supported the market’s local community by maintaining the trade links between Hong Kong and other strategic markets within its network, successfully transporting imports and exports through its airfreight division, Emirates SkyCargo. 

The most heartwarming festive landmarks in Hong Kong - ideal for your insta/social media photos....

The winters may be gentle in Hong Kong, but the festive spirit here shines bright in the region. Heartstring-tugging, romance-inviting Christmas décor is just part and parcel of the whole holiday experience — and here are five dazzlingly Instagrammable spots that you and your beloved friends and family should not miss in the coming weeks:

Hong Kong WinterFest – The Tallest Outdoor Christmas Tree in Town

This holiday season, an over-20-metre, gloriously lit Christmas tree sits centre stage at the romantic Christmas town in West Kowloon Cultural District harbourfront — the heartland of Hong Kong WinterFest — brought to you by the Hong Kong Tourism Board. Featuring music and special twinkling lighting effects, the city’s tallest outdoor Christmas tree, paired with gorgeous panoramic views of the world-famous Victoria Harbour, will be tempting your smartphone camera. Don’t forget to visit Christmas Wonderland during the Christmas period, where Christmas-themed lodges await you to embark on a fantastic Christmas journey.

Date: 25 November 2022 – 1 January 2023

Venue: Harbourside Lawn West, West Kowloon Cultural District

Harbour City – A Shimmering Fantasy Fairyland

One of the largest shopping malls in town has turned into a “Unicorn Merry-Go-Round Paradise” this year, leading visitors to the land of fairytales. Walking through the Ocean Terminal Forecourt, visitors will be surrounded by a myriad of sparkling Christmas trees, both earth-bound and sky-high. Also not to be missed: the Unicorn Merry-Go-Round Palace, featuring hundreds of glamourous star-like lights hanging from the ceiling: the best photo spots for your Instagram post!

Date: 17 November 2022 – 2 January 2023

Venue: 3-27 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui

Lee Tung Avenue – Asia’s Largest Disco Ball Decoration

It’s all about the glitz and glam this festive season at Lee Tung Avenue. Asia’s biggest disco ball — at 7 metres tall, and covered in over 2000 mirror pieces — hovers over the Avenue’s tree-lined walkway, while golden hits from the 70s and 80s blast through the air.

On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day, LTA will Let It Snow — by featuring snow “effects” when the skies turn dark. Put on your sparkliest disco outfit on Christmas Day to join the Christmas Night Fever, complete with dance performances and live DJ entertainment.

Date: 18 November 2022 – 2 January 2023

Venue: 200 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai

LANDMARK – Oversized Gingerbread Bakery Adventure

With the activation of the charitably scrumptious Mrs Claus Bakery at LANDMARK’s lofty, high-ceilinged atrium, the spirit of giving is at an all-time high at the shopping complex this merry season. While a giant gingerbread house, floating aircraft and hot-air balloon, together with cutesy animal friends marking the Bakery premises, there is no shortage of picture-perfect moments on site. Save some film roll for Mrs Claus and her trusty sidekick, Gingerbread Man!

Date: 24 November 2022 – 2 January 2023

Venue: 15 Queen's Road Central, Central

Hong Kong’s Top Art Happenings to Visit This Autumn

A three-story high Gummy Bear sculpture by American artist WhIsBe is part of the "Tick Tock, Tick Tock" art exhibition in Hong Kong this autumn. (Photo: Business Wire)

This autumn, Hong Kong will showcase a new series of arts and culture experiences to welcome travellers to discover the arts and culture hub in person. Arts and culture have always been among the city’s key tourism appeals. With the development of world-class art venues in recent years, Hong Kong has continued to add new experiences to elevate its profile in the global arts and culture scene.

Not to be missed are the following exhibitions and happenings around town, ranging from world-renowned artists to the city’s latest public art installation at a Hong Kong landmark.

The newest must-see art exhibitions around town

Giant 26-Foot-Tall Gummy Bear Sculpture coming to the Tsim Sha Tsui Clock Tower brought by the First Initiative Foundation

Nov 17, 2022 – Mid-Dec 2022 | Near the Tsim Sha Tsui Clock Tower

First Initiative Foundation will hold a large-scale public art exhibition, called "TICK TOCK, TICK TOCK" next to an iconic landmark, the Tsim Sha Tsui Clock Tower, in mid-November. The exhibition will feature renowned American artist WhIsBe's largest art piece to date, a giant red sculpture that juxtaposes a modern form and prehistoric elements via the incorporation of dinosaur features with the well-loved gummy bear. A smaller teal sculpture, standing eight-feet high, will also be featured at the iconic Hong Kong harbor-front. The two sculptures will be complemented by playful digital elements such as AR effects and Instagram filters to further enhance the viewing experience and remind visitors of sweet memories.

Immersive Media Art Exhibition ARTE M at K11 HACC

Oct 2022 – Dec 2023 | 2F K11 HACC K11 ATELIER King’s Road

Hong Kong welcomes ARTE M to K11 ATELIER King’s Road for a 15-month special temporary edition of the immersive media art exhibition ARTE MUSEUM in its first-ever overseas location. It is created by Korean digital design company d’strict, the team behind “WAVE”, a hugely popular public media art installation at COEX in Seoul. Bringing together six media artworks under the theme “Eternal Nature”, the exhibition will move permanently to 11 SKIES in late 2023 to early 2024, with more works added to the collection.

New experiences in West Kowloon Cultural District

Top Bars in Hong Kong Make The World’s 50 Best Bars 2022

ARGO, situated in a prime location by Victoria Harbour, serves unique, creative spirits with ingredients sourced in Hong Kong and beyond. (Photo: Business Wire)

Hong Kong has some of the best nightlife and top bars in Asia. Newly opened in July 2021, ARGO, a cocktail bar housed in the Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, made an impressive debut in The World’s 50 Best Bars 2022 at 28th place, alongside Mexican-inspired craft cocktail bar, Coa, standing in 17th place.

The new entrant, ARGO, situated in a prime location by Victoria Harbour, is decorated with natural elements. The bar design seamlessly blends the indoor and outdoor environment, taking guests to the edge of Hong Kong's signature harbour. Featuring innovative, forward-thinking concepts, the bar serves unique, creative cocktails with ingredients sourced in Hong Kong and beyond.

“We are extremely honoured to be a part of The World’s 50 Best Bars list, alongside many great bars and friends. It’s a testament to the team’s hard work and commitment to pursuing excellence in providing the best bar experience,” said Lorenzo Antinori, beverage manager of Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong. Living in Hong Kong for almost two years, Antinori believes Hong Kong is a special place. “The mix of East and West and Hong Kong’s incredible heritage of flavours and culinary techniques have inspired us with its unique character as a melting pot of cultures and traditions.”

Making the list for the third year, Coa is a Mexican-inspired bar dedicated to bringing agave spirits to the
forefront of Asia's cocktail scene. (Photo: Business Wire)

Making the list for the third year, Coa is dedicated to bringing agave spirits to the forefront of Asia’s cocktail scene. Co-founded by award-winning bartender Jay Khan, the Mexican-inspired bar offers people from all walks of life an extensive range of spirits, including mezcal, tequila and raicilla.

Revealed on October 4th in Barcelona, The World’s 50 Best Bars 2022 introduces outstanding bars in 26 cities around the world. Over 650 renowned international drinks experts, including bartenders and drinks writers, cast their votes based on their best bar experiences.

With these brilliant outlets in Hong Kong shining bright in the international awards, the bar scene is becoming even more vibrant. From luxury liquor and wine to creative cocktails and locally crafted beers, there is always an option to amaze. Hong Kong’s home-grown talent and world-class mixologists keep breaking boundaries, providing an exciting array of beverages.

For the future trips to Hong Kong, be sure to bookmark these award-winning bars on your bucket list.

For the latest travel requirements for inbound travellers, please visit https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/plan/traveller-info/boarding-and-testing-arrangements-upon-arrival.html.

Iconic Hong Kong Peak Tram back in operation after makeover

The Peak Tram, Asia’s oldest funicular railway and a must-visit attraction in Hong Kong, takes visitors on a spell-binding ride to the Peak again with a redesigned tramcar, terminus ushers and upgraded facilities as of August 27, 2022. The new Peak Tram will reward passengers with a mesmerizing panorama of Victoria Harbour and a fresh, enhanced experience, making it one of the latest developments in the many exciting tourist attractions and experiences in Hong Kong.

The new Peak Tram dons the classic “Peak Tram Green,” in a nod to its heritage and earlier generations of tramcars in the 20th century. It provides a 75% increase in capacity, carrying 210 passengers, and its larger windows offer an unobstructed, panoramic vista of the world-famous skyline of Hong Kong.

In addition to the modern design of the tramcar, the tram terminals have been refurbished, offering an entertaining experience to passengers with five engagement zones. As they enter the Central Terminus, visitors are welcomed by the Eye of Infinity, a 10-metre-tall sculpture featuring a constantly evolving light display that embodies Hong Kong’s spirit of ascension, while Go Wild At The Peak showcases the diverse wildlife found at the Peak with a wrap-around, full-immersion video experience. The centennial history of the Peak Tram, operating since 1888, comes alive in dynamic experiences at The Beating Heart, An Icon is Born, and Once Upon a Tram.

Hong Kong Palace Museum officially opens its doors

After five years in the making, the prestigious Hong Kong Palace Museum (HKPM) opened on Sunday, 3rd July, as the latest addition to Hong Kong’s arts and cultural offerings and the West Kowloon Cultural District. Joining a host of other landmark attractions on the storied Victoria Harbour waterfront, such as the newly opened M+ and recently renovated Hong Kong Museum of Art, the HKPM not only elevates the city’s lineup of renowned museums but also enriches its diversity of the arts and culture scene. What’s more, the much-loved “A Symphony of Lights” will bathe Victoria Harbour in lights, music and colours with an enchanting special edition every night in July.

A must-visit museum full of priceless treasures

Located on the western tip of the West Kowloon Cultural District, the HKPM joins M+, Asia’s first global museum of contemporary visual culture, the Xiqu Centre for Chinese opera and Freespace contemporary performance venue, to take the area to new heights. Visitors can look forward to a wide array of captivating exhibitions, shows, activities and events that deepen and diversify the city’s cultural offerings.

The HKPM is a must-visit attraction for arts and culture lovers, and a treasure trove of rare artefacts. For starters, it houses one of the world’s most impressive collections of Chinese ceramics and more than 900 works of art on loan from the esteemed Palace Museum in Beijing – among the largest and finest the Palace Museum has ever made to another cultural institution outside the Mainland since its establishment. The HKPM also displays 13 precious pieces borrowed from the Louvre as a testament to the museum’s role as an East-meets-West Centre for International Cultural Exchange.

Dane Cheng, Executive Director of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, said: “We are delighted to welcome the Hong Kong Palace Museum to Hong Kong’s artistic and cultural landscape and the West Kowloon Cultural District. Exciting, dynamic and constantly evolving, the district is brimming with activities and discoveries that underscore Hong Kong’s reputation as a leading destination for arts and culture lovers. We believe this world-class museum will generate even more interest for Hong Kong as an arts and cultural destination and solidify the city’s position as a centre for international cultural exchange.”

Enhanced “A Symphony of Lights” illuminates new landmarks across Victoria Harbour including Star Ferry

With Hong Kong’s dynamic skyline as a canvas, “A Symphony of Lights” show takes viewers on a multimedia journey that celebrates the city’s culture and innovative spirit. At 8pm every night through July, the captivating spectacle will feature new elements, including a fleet of 6 Star Ferries adorned with glittering light installations, and expand to include new landmarks, such as the HKPM and M+. With an array of distinguished arts and cultural venues and enhanced nightly light shows, visitors can now immerse themselves in a one-day adventure by the waterfront in the refreshed West Kowloon Cultural District.

Located on the western tip of the West Kowloon Cultural District, the Hong Kong Palace Museum (HKPM) is the latest addition to Hong Kong’s arts and cultural offerings, and is a treasure trove of rare artefacts.

Hong Kong Welcomes 2022 with First-Ever Arts Spectacular at Victoria Harbour

Featuring the city’s flagship Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra alongside the recently opened M+, with countdown lights on its facade, radiant harbour lights and more to ring in the New Year

Hong Kong New Year Countdown Celebrations 2021-Skyline-M+-West Kowloon  Photo Kevin Mak. Courtesy of Herzog & de Meuron

Hong Kong’s iconic Victoria Harbour promises to offer an electrifying experience this New Year’s Eve, with a three-part countdown spectacular presented by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) that brings the city’s thriving art scene right to the global centre stage. From around the world, viewers can enjoy the dazzling live concert and exciting countdown moment via live-streaming at https://www.discoverhongkong.com/countdown.

The newly opened M+ will amplify the brilliant lights around Victoria Harbour as Asia’s first global museum of contemporary visual culture in the West Kowloon Cultural District lends its 216-feet-tall LED facade for a grand visual countdown display. Starting in the evening on New Year’s Eve, the facade will showcase a sweeping, high-contrast visual tale created by talented local digital artists as a homage to the city’s various landmarks, neighbourhoods, and vibrant arts and culture scene.

The M+ Facade will be transformed into a countdown clock that travels across the rich cityscape of Hong Kong during the final minute of 2021, building perceptible excitement about the year ahead. As the clock strikes midnight, the numerals “2022” and New Year greetings will be splashed across the screen to deliver blessings to the world. The site of the newly opened M+ in West Kowloon is also the centrepiece of the WinterFest celebrations with dazzling views of Hong Kong’s iconic skyline and a Harborfront Park transformed into a storybook Christmas Town. This year, the six-story tree has been relocated from Central to West Kowloon for the first time.

The dazzling light art extravaganza, featuring the facades of numerous prominent skyscrapers along the entire Victoria Harbour, will be further enhanced by an outdoor concert in the West Kowloon Cultural District, led by the city’s flagship orchestra, the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra (HK Phil). Winner of the prestigious Gramophone Orchestra of the Year award in 2019, the HK Phil will perform energetic and jubilant music for a global audience to build anticipation as Hong Kong celebrates the New Year.

For more information about the Hong Kong New Year Countdown Celebrations, please visit https://www.discoverhongkong.com/countdown.

Photo BrandHK

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How Hong Kong is Spreading Joy This Christmas Season

Christmas is just around the corner, and Hong Kong is one of the best cities at celebrating this special season, according to the Hong Kong Tourism Board. Events and activities are resuming in this vibrant city with preparations in full swing. There is a myriad of unique shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences to be discovered in the festive season from near and far.

Christmas Town in the West Kowloon Neighborhood: The site of the newly opened M+ in West Kowloon is Hong Kong’s newest cultural hotspot. It is the centrepiece of the WinterFest celebrations with dazzling views of Hong Kong’s iconic skyline and a Harbourfront Park transformed into a storybook Christmas Town. This year, the six-story tree has been relocated from Central to West Kowloon for the first time, putting the cultural district in the spotlight.

Shopping Spectacular: Hong Kong has an enviable reputation as a shopper’s paradise, and with a burgeoning scene for independent artisans, it’s easier than ever to find stylish, creative, and unique gifts, which you can also find online, to remind you of a trip, past or future.

Decorate Your Tree, Hong Kong Style: A gift company inspired by Hong Kong, The Lion Rock Press began as part of a 120-year-old family business specializing in paper and printing. It offers beautiful heirloom Christmas ornaments inspired by local culture.

Hearty Delicacies: Hong Kong winter cuisine offers signature dishes like Claypot Rice, Roasted Goose and Hotpot. On your trip you will want to try these at traditional and modern locales:

Hong Kong celebrates the return contemporary art fair

Art Basel is officially scheduled to take place from 21 to 23 May at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). More than 100 galleries from Asia, Europe and the Americas have confirmed their participation (Photo courtesy to Art Basel)

When event venues shut down globally during the pandemic, people flocked online in record numbers to satisfy their deep craving for art and culture. As the world cautiously looks to resume international travel and bring back events, it is fitting that art is a driving force to make this happen, with Hong Kong paving the way in the hope of safely staging large-scale events again.

In May, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) rolled out the ‘Arts in Hong Kong’ campaign to promote a series of major events, in both physical and digital format, organised by fair organisers and cultural institutions around town. It ensures that audiences can reconnect with art and the vitality of Hong Kong, whether here in person or abroad.