NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH

Hong Kong

Wondering where to explore when next in town? Here’s a map to guide you

ILLUSTRATION PAOLO LIM

CENTRAL

The city’s financial centre and the site of many a famous skyscraper, notably Norman Foster’s HSBC Bank building, Central is packed with swanky malls like the Landmark, where the well-heeled shop before afternoon tea at the Mandarin Oriental. The two main nightlife districts are SoHo – south of Hollywood Road – and Lan Kwai Fong.

WAN CHAI

It may be Hong Kong’s red-light district but the bars that populate this corner of town are more voyeuristic tourist attraction than serious city menace. Besides, Wan Chai also boasts some sophisticated saloons, such as the Pawn, in a restored colonial building with a rooftop garden, and Agave, which serves up some of the best mojitos in town. If drinking’s not your thing, head to the Hopewell Centre for a dining experience featuring 360-degree city views.

MONG KOK

A riot of colour and youthful energy, Mong Kok is a popular hang-out for image-conscious teenagers on the prowl for their next fashion fix. Visit one of the district’s many malls, such as Langham Place, which is linked to the trendy Langham Hotel. To eat like a local, pick up some fish balls or siu mai (dumplings) at one of the ubiquitous street food stalls, and wash it all down with a fruitflavoured bubble tea from the Saint Alp’s Tea House chain.

TSIM SHA TSUI

Home to the most eyepopping display of lights in a city where neon is everywhere, Tsim Sha Tsui’s Nathan Road is a 1.6km-long strip of shops, bars and eateries. It’s teeming with tourists but once you get off the main drag, you can make your own fun, whether it’s slurping cheap noodles or souvenir-shopping at Temple Street Market.