Old Town Central - Hong Kong
Old Town Central repackages the diverse tourism appeal of Central, including a number of thematic walking routes to introduce heritage buildings and landmarks, arts and culture, lifestyle as well as dining and entertainment offerings in the district. Together with the Tai Kwun (or the former Central Police Station Compound), the Central and Western District has been transformed into a community filled with an “art-across-time” ambience.
Where world collide
Modern-day Hong Kong may be best known for its glossy skyscrapers and world-class attractions, but to understand how the city became the bustling metropolis that it is today, one need only to pay a visit to Old Town Central.
One of the oldest yet also most dynamic districts in the city, Old Town Central — encompassing the sloped streets and small alleys of Central and Sheung Wan — encapsulates Hong Kong’s rich and diverse spirit. A place where century-old temples share the same streets as fashion-forward concept stores, or where authentic tea houses coexist with modern art galleries, this colourful neighbourhood is at once old and new while also being proudly local and unmistakably global.
Immensely walkable and brimming with attractions, this neighbourhood is perfect to experience on foot. There’s plenty to discover here, from heritage buildings and art institutions to local eats and fun souvenirs. Whatever your interests are, this guide will lead you to some of the best things that Old Town Central has to offer. Have fun exploring.
A walk through Old Town Central’s highlights
There’s no shortage of attractions in Old Town Central, from decades-old temples to chic rooftop bars. To help you make the most of your time in this vibrant neighbourhood, we’ve put together this highlight route, which allows you to discover some of the best historic monuments, shops and restaurants in the area. Whether you’re looking to learn about the colourful heritage of this district or sample some delicious local eats, this walking tour will introduce you to the very best that Old Town Central has to offer while also helping you to discover some other hidden gems along the way.
Tasting Hong Kong in Old Town Central
A true food paradise, Old Town Central is a melting pot of flavours with something to sate all tastes. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Hong Kong, there’s plenty here that fits the bill, from traditional dim sum to baked treats sold at shops that have stood the test of time. Of course, the culinary landscape here is also influenced by Hong Kong’s status as a multicultural, trend-setting metropolis, and you’ll find plenty of Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as cutting-edge fusion cuisine and cocktail bars that rank among the best in the world.
See how Old Town Central shaped the city
Exploring Old Town Central is like taking a trip back in time. The neighbourhood, which encompasses Central and Sheung Wan, was where some of the earliest chapters of modern Hong Kong history unfolded. Today, about 180 years since the British first settled at Possession Point, this district is still home to cobblestone streets, heritage buildings, traditional temples and other fascinating landmarks that illustrate its storied past and its early role in shaping the cosmopolitan city of Hong Kong as we know it today.
A treasure hunt in Old Town Central
A neighbourhood as steeped in history as it is brimming with style, Old Town Central is the perfect place to seek out a unique gift or memento to bring back home. Whether you want to visit a local market, comb through an antique store or look your best at one of the many fashionable concept shops, this happening area boasts no shortage of gems waiting for treasure hunters to discover.
Crazy for art in Old Town Central
One of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in Hong Kong, Old Town Central is bursting with creativity on every street corner. This area has everything from experimental stage performances held inside a repurposed depot, to world-class art exhibitions and edgy graffiti that graces the walls of small alleys.
