Your ultimate guide to Hong Kong

The clock is ticking, and the deadline is just under two weeks away. Whether you’re firmly in the ‘pry the vape from my cold dead hands’ camp or the ‘I’ll just go back to cigs’ group, there’s no denying that nights out will change a lot come April 30.  As part of the Hong Kong government’s anti-smoking drive, the use of vapes and heated tobacco products will be banned from the final day of April. Even possessing small quantities for personal use can incur a fixed fine of $3,000 – already double the current penalty for smoking violations – while having larger quantities can lead to fines of up to $50,000, prosecution, and up to six months’ imprisonment. What constitutes small or large quantities, you ask? Anyone carrying more than five vape pods or five ml of e-liquid, or more than 100 heat sticks or herbal cigarettes will face the maximum penalty sentence, while possession of smaller quantities will be slapped with the $3,000 fine. Considering that a regular disposable vape pen holds about six to seven ml of juice, it’s probably easier than you might think to exceed the possession quantity. Photograph: Shutterstock The rules against vaping and the use of e-cigarettes in Hong Kong from April 30 onwards will be stricter than most people expect. Simply carrying a vape that is switched on and ready to use while in any public place will be illegal. This applies to all electronic smoking devices, heated tobacco products, herbal cigarettes, and the like. For now, they still haven’t banned vaping in private spaces, so it’s best to just keep your fruity clouds at home. Tourists coming to Hong Kong should be aware that this blanket ban applies to them too – non-residents must also not carry or use vapes in public places. Bringing alternative smoking products into Hong Kong, even if only for personal use, will also be illegal. With flavoured cigarettes (apart from menthols) also in the process of being outlawed because the government thinks they ‘entice young people to smoke’, perhaps it might be easier if we just tearfully locked in and kicked inhaling substances into our lungs altogether... Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: A guide to Hong Kong Sevens 2026: Matches, music lineups, and where to celebrate Felix at The Peninsula is hosting vinyl DJ events every Thursday Experience Wong Kar-wai’s iconic ‘Chungking Express’ accompanied by live jazz music

The Hong Kong Sevens 2026 is officially here, and we’re ready for some serious sporting action. Returning to the Kai Tak Stadium, this year’s event marks its 50th anniversary, so you know there’s plenty in store to keep everyone entertained. Whether you’re a hardcore rugby fan or just here for the fancy dress and beers, here’s everything you need to know to survive the three-day spectacle. When and where is the Hong Kong Sevens 2026? The Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens is taking place from April 17 to 19, with world-class rugby and top-tier entertainment hosted at the Kai Tak Stadium within the Kai Tak Sports Park. Can I still get tickets to the Hong Kong Sevens 2026? If you have yet to secure your spot, there’s still a slim window to grab tickets via the official Hong Kong Sevens website: Hong Kong Sevens 2025 ticket prices Three-day weekend pass for adults (general admission): $2,250 per person Three-day weekend pass for children aged 12 or below (general admission): $1,100 per person Adult single-day: $550 for Friday, $1,250 for Saturday and Sunday Child single-day: $300 for Friday, $625 for Saturday and Sunday The South Stand FastPass and Carlsberg Clubhouse are all sold out at this point. However, a new premium option, The Pavilion Pass, has been introduced this year, offering a terrace overlooking the South Stand with free-flowing Aperol and Pimms, as well as queue jump access for those aged 18 and over. Photograph: Courtesy HKCRSpain vs Kenya on the day one of the Cathay / HSBC Hong Kong Sevens 2025 Teams competing at the Hong Kong Sevens 2026 A total of 30 teams from around the world will be playing it out on the field over the course of three days: Men’s SVNS: Argentina, Australia, Fiji, France, Germany, Great Britain, Kenya, New Zealand, Spain, South Africa, Uruguay, USA. Women’s SVNS: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Fiji, France, Great Britain, Japan, New Zealand, Spain, South Africa, USA. Melrose Claymores: The Hong Kong China Men team will take on China and Japan, while Hong Kong China Women team will face Denmark and Thailand. Full match schedule and results for Hong Kong Sevens 2026 The gates will open bright and early each day to accommodate a packed schedule: Friday, April 17: 7am-9.30pm (first match starts 10.30am) Saturday, April 18: 7am-9pm (first match starts 9.30am) Sunday, April 19: 7.30-8pm (first match starts 10am) For details on fixtures and results, fans can stay up to date over at the official match centre’s live scoring board. Photograph: Courtesy Vengaboys Entertainment lineup at Hong Kong Sevens 2026 The HK Sevens’ 50th anniversary brings a star-studded entertainment lineup to the stadium. K-pop girl group Primrose and Filipino singer-songwriter Gwyn Dorado will kick things off at the opening ceremony on Friday evening. Saturday sees the return of the iconic March Past alongside Europe’s top party act, the Vengaboys, followed by an energetic set from DJ Hanna later in the evening. On Sunday, get ready for a stadium-wide singalong as Australian cover band Hindley Street Country Club closes out the weekend with iconic 70s and 80s classics (better start brushing up your lyrics to Sweet Caroline). What’s on at the Hong Kong Sevens Fan Village? This year’s Fan Village will host over 20 DJs, bands, and dance troupes on its own dedicated stage. Foodies can head to the village for over 30 F&B outlets, including Shake Shack, Pret A Manger, and The Coffee Academics, or grab a drink at the signature Carlsberg bar. For the first time, fans can even watch international and local teams at the new warm-up areas or catch celebs like rugby legend Waisale Serevi, DJ Forbes, and Tyla King as they mingle with fans. The space is also family-friendly, featuring bouncy castles, face painting, mini games, and even ponies from the Hong Kong Jockey Club. See the full lineup of acts here. Photograph: Courtesy Hong Kong Rugby Union Banned items at Kai Tak Stadium The last thing you’d want is to be stopped at the gates by security, so be sure you’re not carrying hard-shell water bottles, balls, your own food and drinks, noisy instruments, selfie sticks, remote-controlled devices, or any dangerous items. And while the Sevens always encourage you to go all out with silly attire, note that costumes resembling military personnel are strictly a no-go. Read up on their T&Cs to make sure you’ve got the rules down. How do I get to Kai Tak Stadium? The most convenient, and likely the quickest way, is by taking the MTR and hoping off at Kai Tak or Sung Wong Toi station. There’s also a ferry service from North Point to the Kowloon City Ferry Pier that’s close to Kai Tak Sports Park, and if you’re taking a taxi, there will be dedicated drop-off points at the Kai Tak Stadium and Arena. Ubers (as well as private cars) will only be able to drop you off at the Youth Sports Ground roundabout. Photograph: Courtesy Dorsett Kai Tak The Wine & Dine Village by Dorsett For those looking to escape the stadium frenzy for a little while, Dorsett Kai Tak will also be bringing back its Wine & Dine Village from 12pm to 11pm daily. Located on the hotel’s ground-floor courtyard, the village is just a short walk from the stadium and it’s free for everyone – including four-legged friends! Visitors can look forward to treats from Le Salon de Thé de Joël Robuchon, or tuck into Spanish dishes from Eat Good Spain and Siete Ocho. Other culinary highlights include El Macho, Prosit Bar & Restaurant, Morley Gastro Pub, Diverxu, and Moon Xiang Nong, while those looking for tipples can head to Jin Bo Law skybar. The entertainment is just as varied as the menu, as Red Bull is taking over the entertainment duties with a three-day programme of live music. Expect beats from DJs such as Karlie, BBF, and HOVA, alongside K-pop dance sessions on April 18 at 3pm and 7pm. There’s also plenty to do for families, including face painting and photo booths, as well as a Best Costume Competition, which you can enter by sharing a photo of your look and tagging the hotel on Instagram. One winner will be chosen each day to receive a free stay for next year’s Hong Kong Sevens. Pet owners have not been forgotten either, as there’ll be a dedicated Pawsome Playground on the second floor and complimentary treats from Buddy Bites while stocks last. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Felix at The Peninsula is hosting vinyl DJ events every Thursday Experience Wong Kar-wai’s iconic ‘Chungking Express’ accompanied by live jazz music The new Kai Tak Hospital is set to open for patients this October

Music enthusiasts, you’ll want to perk up your ears for this one! The stylish restaurant and bar Felix on the top floor of The Peninsula Hong Kong hotel has launched a brand-new event series that focuses on DJs spinning tunes on vinyl records. Every Thursday, from 8pm to 11pm, a rotation of highly respectable DJs such as Brahms, Roy Malig, Johnny Hiller, and NeeNo will spotlight their own distinctive styles with curated playlists of both mellow tracks and upbeat grooves. Music buffs would be interested to know that this is a great opportunity to experience some deep cuts from each DJ’s extensive record collections, with genres ranging from soul and jazz to Mediterranean Balearic and funk. The Philippe Starck-designed Felix has always been a stylish, intimate space with large windows framing the city’s harbour views, and the whole experience is bound to be elevated to the next level with the vinyl series as well as special drinks and snacks that take inspiration from the 80s and 90s to go with the tunes. Photograph: Courtesy The Peninsula Hong Kong Start with the 45 & Fine, a blend of sweet peach and cranberry that’s crisp and easy to drink, before moving on to the Needle Drop, which blends espresso and tequila crowned with cloud-like foam. Finally, High Fidelity leans towards citrus and herbal notes – perfect for those who don’t like their cocktails sweet and prefer tipples like a negroni. These specialty cocktails are available at $188 each. The vinyl puns and references don’t just end there; they also extend to the snacks menu. Shrimp Toast on the Tables ($188) comes on a dish made to resemble a vinyl disc, while Turning Mini Burgers ($248 for two pieces) are pork sliders with black buns. For something a little lighter, there’s also the Analogue Popcorn ($158) flavoured with seaweed and black peppercorn. Soak in the warmth and crackle of music on vinyl while enjoying the ambiance of one of Hong Kong’s most snazzy bars since the early 90s. Felix is located on 28/F, The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Experience Wong Kar-wai’s iconic ‘Chungking Express’ accompanied by live jazz music The new Kai Tak Hospital is set to open for patients this October Jean-Pierre has created a new menu of cheeky French classic cocktails

When bringing up Wong Kar-wai films, it’s often the cinematography and visual aesthetics that get discussed but we think a huge part of what makes them so enjoyable is the music. After all, who can forget Faye Wong’s seminal cover of The Cranberries’ ‘Dreams’ in Chungking Express or ‘Yumeji’s Theme’ repeatedly highlighting wistful longing in In The Mood For Love?  Creative studio Gentle Pause is here to emphasise the musical component of Wong Kar-wai’s vision with a screening of his 1994 romance anthology Chungking Express. What makes this viewing special is that they are collaborating with jazz collective Fountain de Chopin, who will be reimagining the film’s urban romance, the loneliness of trying to get by in the city, and the profundity of connections between strangers through live jazz interpretations. Maybe they’ll play a jazzy version of ‘California Dreamin’’...  Photograph: Courtesy Gentle Pause / Fountain de Chopin If you like arthouse cinema, want to experience Wong Kar-wai’s filmography in a different way, enjoy jazz music, or want something romantic to do that blends outdoor movie watching, a music performance, and our amazing Hong Kong cityscape, then this is the weekend activity for you. As a nod to the prominent colours in Chungking Express, the playful dress code urges attendees to dress in shades of green or yellow. The screenings will run on May 1 and 2 at the K11 Musea Sculpture Park, with tickets priced at $498 per person. There is also the option to add on drinks: an event exclusive movie-themed cocktail is available for $76, Coca-Cola in a retro glass bottle for $12, and Sprite for $8. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: The new Kai Tak Hospital is set to open for patients this October Jean-Pierre has created a new menu of cheeky French classic cocktails Globally renowned DJ Haai returns to Hong Kong for a one-night waterfront showcase

The Hospital Authority (HA) has confirmed that the brand-new Kai Tak Hospital – set to become the largest public hospital in the city – will officially open its doors to patients this October, kicking off a gradual phased opening that will serve over 1.8 million residents across Yau Tsim Mong, Kowloon City, Wong Tai Sin, and Kwun Tong once fully operational. The 500,000-sq-m complex will consist of five interconnected towers, housing 2,400 beds, 37 operating theatres, and a range of advanced clinical facilities such as Hong Kong’s first public hospital cyclotron, a machine that produces the radioactive tracers needed for PET scans, and a hyperbaric oxygen chamber. Beyond the wards, the site will also feature landscaped terraces, rehabilitation gardens, and a pedestrian waterfront promenade to offer patients some much-needed breathing room amidst the clinical surroundings. The initial phase will see the Specialist Out-patient Clinic Block and the Oncology Block opening, with services from the Family Medicine Integrated Centre and out-patient services for medicine, surgery, neurosurgery, and oncology up and running first. The Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, along with a range of supporting clinical services, will also be part of the October launch. The second phase is a bit further down the track, with the in-patient wards, surgical theatres, and the 24-hour accident and emergency services slated to open in 2028. This staggered approach is designed to ensure a smooth transition as the hospital gradually absorbs clinical services from Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QE). It is also set to work in tandem with the neighbouring Hong Kong Children’s Hospital, creating a comprehensive medical campus that will act as the flagship for the Kowloon Central Cluster. If you are currently under the care of QE or any specialist clinics within the district, it’s worth keeping a close eye on your phone as the HA will be reaching out via text and the HA Go app to let patients know if and when their future appointments will be relocated to the new Kai Tak facilities. Stay tuned for more updates on exactly when those clinic doors will swing open later this year. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Jean-Pierre has created a new menu of cheeky French classic cocktails Globally renowned DJ Haai returns to Hong Kong for a one-night waterfront showcase Siobhan Haughey and Ryan Choi awarded top honours at Hong Kong Sports Stars Awards

Since opening just under a year ago, Black Sheep’s Parisian bistro Jean-Pierre has become a firm favourite amongst Soho’s restaurants and drinking holes. Ahead of their first anniversary, the bistro has refreshed their cocktail menu so if you’re a fan of their perfectly savoury Cornichon Martini, then you’ll need to stop by Bridges Street for a tipple or five. From the beginning of this month, JP’s maître des cocktails Suraj Gurung has begun serving a new range of drinks inspired by places or characters that tell a good story. The standout is the exclusive Bleu Martini, a moreish combination of vodka, vermouth, Roquefort cheese, and pear eau de vie that’s only available during the month of April. Other new offerings include Madame Claude, an iteration of the pornstar martini made with vodka, blended malt, passionfruit cordial, verjus, and sparkling wine; the crisp Club 55 featuring Select Apéritif, Provençal herbs, sparkling wine, and an olive; and L’Étranger, which sees a base of Martell VSOP cognac and Amaro Montenegro sharpened with lime and ginger.  Photograph: Courtesy Jean-Pierre There’s also the Abricot Sour, which mixes apple brandy, apricot liqueur, lime juice, Le Perruche sugar, and egg white; and, finally, the Opera, which reimagines the Parisian cake with almond-infused bourbon, cacao, La Perruche sugar, and orange bitters. Jean-Pierre’s signature drinks will still be available alongside these new offerings, served from 6pm until late. For a true bistro experience, order the croque monsieur or the JP burger to keep you going as you work your way through the new menu. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Globally renowned DJ Haai returns to Hong Kong for a one-night waterfront showcase Siobhan Haughey and Ryan Choi awarded top honours at Hong Kong Sports Stars Awards Hong Kong’s first permanent Chiikawa shop is opening in Mong Kok this month

Clockenflap and Umami are teaming up to bring the globally acclaimed DJ, singer-songwriter, and producer Haai back to Hong Kong for an electrifying showcase by the Wan Chai waterfront on April 17. Since her breakout residency at London’s Phonox in 2016, Haai has built a reputation in the circuit for a sound defined by a “tempo-shifting philosophy”. Her sets typically blend heavy-duty techno and euphoric breakbeats – a style she has taken to major stages including Glastonbury, Sonar, and EDC Las Vegas. This one-night event is a return of sorts for the DJ, who was one of the highlight acts at Clockenflap in 2023. This time around, the action moves from the Central Harbourfront to the more intimate, panoramic setting of Pier 1929 in Wan Chai. Supporting Haai on the night is a talented lineup featuring Mr. Ho, Eugene, Sleepy, and Yee. If you are looking to get on the dance floor, general access tickets range from $399 to $439. There is also a fast pass option for $529, which gets you a drink, a free merch item, and re-entry throughout the night. You can grab tickets now through Umami’s events website, and given the popularity of her last Hong Kong appearance, you better move quick. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Siobhan Haughey and Ryan Choi awarded top honours at Hong Kong Sports Stars Awards Hong Kong’s first permanent Chiikawa shop is opening in Mong Kok this month Charlie Puth is set to perform in Hong Kong this October on his ‘Whatever’s Clever! World Tour’

It has been a massive year for Hong Kong’s sporting scene, and the Cathay 2025 Hong Kong Sports Stars Awards – the city’s very own “Sports Oscars” – was the perfect celebration of that success. The city’s top athletes recently gathered at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre for the ceremony, where impressive sporting feats across individual and team categories were recognised for their contribution to a standout year for the city. Taking home the top honours were swimming sensation Siobhan Haughey and world’s number one fencer Ryan Choi, who were named the female and male Best of the Best winners, respectively. For Haughey, this marks the fourth time she has secured the award, having previously won in 2021, 2022, and 2023. This win comes on the heels of a dominant run at the 15th National Games, where she bagged two gold medals in the women’s 100m and 200m freestyle events, alongside bronze medals in the 50m freestyle and 50m breaststroke. Despite the repeated victories, the swimmer remains humble about the recognition, noting that winning the award again was particularly difficult this year given the high bar set by her fellow athletes. She also expressed that while she does not swim simply for the awards, she is happy to receive them as they’re a testimony to how much the city’s sporting scene is truly flourishing. On the men’s side, Ryan Choi scooped the Best of the Best award on his very first nomination. It has been a whirlwind year for the fencer, who became the first Hong Kong male foilist to be crowned a world champion after winning individual gold at the World Championships. On the way to reaching his top ranking, Choi also won gold at the FIE Grand Prix Foil in Shanghai and the Asian Fencing Championships. When out of his fencing whites, the athlete has even found time to make waves in the Cantopop scene, having recently self-funded his debut single titled My Most Hated Male Singer. The awards ceremony also gave recognition to a wider circle of Hong Kong athletes. The men’s handball team secured the Hong Kong Sports Stars Award for Team Only Sport for the first time following their semi-final run at the National Games. In the Sports Combination category, the men’s foil team shared the spotlight with badminton mixed doubles pair Jordan Tang Chun-man and Tse Ying-suet, as well as table tennis duo Wong Chun-ting and Baldwin Chan Ho-wah. Other individual winners included tennis player Coleman Wong, who reached the round of 32 at the US Open, and cyclist Ceci Lee Sze-wing, who took home three gold medals at the National Games. Check out the full list of awardees here. With the 2026 Asian Games coming up in September, we’re eager to see what this talented pool of athletes has in store for the city this time around! Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Hong Kong’s first permanent Chiikawa shop is opening in Mong Kok this month Charlie Puth is set to perform in Hong Kong this October on his ‘Whatever’s Clever! World Tour’ The Rescued Feast returns this April for a special Earth Day brunch

It is time to accept that the Chiikawa obsession isn’t going anywhere. After months of endless pop-up queues and frantic online refreshes, Hong Kong is finally getting its first permanent Chiikawa Shop! From city-exclusive collections to how you can actually get in, here’s everything you need to know before the madness begins. When and where is Chiikawa Shop opening in Hong Kong? The new flagship is scheduled to officially open its doors on April 18 at Mong Kok’s MOKO mall, spanning more than 4,000sq ft across two levels. On the ground floor (MTR level), shoppers will find Hong Kong-exclusive collections as well as themed photo spots, while the second-floor shop will feature rotating themes to keep things fresh. The first themes to take over the upper floor are ‘Magical Chiikawa’ and ‘Chiikawa Baby’, both of which will offer dreamy decorations and limited-edition merchandise. Photograph: Courtesy Nagano / Niko-Niko Lifestyle Store Chiikawa Shop Hong Kong exclusive series The highlight for local fans will undoubtedly be the two exclusive series designed specifically for our city. The red-white-blue collection pays a playful tribute to our ubiquitous iconic tri-colour nylon bags, with the Chiikawa characters peeking out in the most endearing way. There’s also a cha chaan teng collection that sees the gang dressed up as local food staples like lemon tea, egg tarts, and pineapple buns. These items are exclusive to the Hong Kong shop, so they’ll likely be the first things to disappear from the shelves. How to book your visit to the new Chiikawa Shop If you are planning to visit during the opening week, take note that registration is strictly required for entry from April 18 to 24. Online bookings open on April 14 at 11am via the KKday platform. To secure a spot, simply select your preferred date and time, and provide the full names of up to two people per booking. Those with a successful ground-floor reservation will automatically be granted access to the second-floor shop on the same day. While registering, fans can also sign up for a special opening day fan meeting on April 18. Full details for the meet-and-greet can be found on the official announcement. Photograph: Courtesy Nagano / Niko-Niko Lifestyle Store Popular Japanese Chiikawa collections For those who missed out on earlier international releases, the shop is bringing back a heap of highly sought-after collections from Japan, including returning fan-favourites like the Super Spicy mascots, traditional daruma plushies, tail-themed keychains, honeybee bag charms, and more. Special Chiikawa freebies on opening day To celebrate the grand opening, the shop is handing out some special gifts to early visitors starting from April 18. Any purchase at the shop will come with a complimentary limited-edition postcard, and if you’re planning on grabbing a bigger haul, just know that an expenditure of $588 or more will get you a Hong Kong-exclusive light-up Chiikawa wand. Designs are distributed randomly and are available while stocks last, so don’t miss out! For the latest updates, be sure to keep an eye on the shop’s official Instagram page. Chiikawa Shop in Hong Kong Opening date: April 18, 2026 Address: Shop M10, G/F, MOKO, Mong Kok Open hours: 10am to 9pm Address: Shop 236, 2/F, MOKO, Mong Kok Open hours: 10.30am to 9.30pm Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Charlie Puth is set to perform in Hong Kong this October on his ‘Whatever’s Clever! World Tour’ The Rescued Feast returns this April for a special Earth Day brunch Hong Kong ticket prices for Post Malone’s ‘Big Ass World Tour’ concert have been announced

We all love a good Sunday brunch, but if you’re looking for something different – say, an upscale feast made entirely from just food surplus and scraps – then Eaton HK and Chomp might have the perfect table for you. Taking over the terrace at Terrible Baby on April 26 (12 noon-3pm), The Rescued Feast is back for its first-ever weekend edition to celebrate Earth Day. According to the Environmental Protection Department, over 3,000 tonnes of food are discarded daily in Hong Kong, contributing significantly to our city’s landfill problems. The Rescued Feast is here to spotlight this issue, proving that surplus ingredients can be transformed into an exceptional dining experience while educating guests on the importance of food waste reduction and sustainable practices. Photograph: Courtesy The Rescued Feast Stepping up to the plate is Eaton HK’s executive chef Alex Lee, who brings over two decades of culinary experience spanning some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens and Michelin-starred restaurants. Lee and his team will have a tight 24-hour window to assess the donated ingredients before deciding how to transform them into an inspiring spread for 200 guests. Chef Lee’s style usually leans into a mix of Western techniques and Chinese influences, which should make for a pretty interesting spread given the zero-waste brief. Photograph: Courtesy The Rescued Feast Tickets are priced from $500, which covers the event entry, the full buffet, a welcome glass of prosecco or a soft drink, and a goodie bag stuffed with gifts and vouchers from friends of The Rescued Feast. Terrible Baby will also have a lineup of cocktails available, as well as lively DJ beats to keep the vibes going throughout the afternoon. If previous events are anything to go by, you’ll even be handed takeaway boxes at the end to ensure that absolutely nothing from the buffet goes to waste! Head over to chomphk.com now to grab your ticket. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Hong Kong ticket prices for Post Malone’s ‘Big Ass World Tour’ concert have been announced Huanggang Port to offer new ‘one-stop’ system when crossing the mainland Chinese border Hong Kong Cinema Day is back with $30 movie tickets for one day only

It’s no secret that we love this city and all it has to offer, and we’re always proud to call ourselves Hongkongers. But if there’s one gripe we have – a bone to pick, if you will – it is that Hong Kong is not exactly the most pet-friendly place in the world. We have the bustling city, the teeming nightlife, the lush greenery, and so much amazing food, but when we look at other cities all around the world, Hong Kong pet owners can’t help but think about how we can’t simply stroll into malls or places of entertainment with our furry companions, or even ride on the subway with them. Luckily, things are taking a turn for the better, with the Hong Kong government recently announcing the introduction of a special permit that will allow selected restaurants to welcome dogs indoors. Targeted for approval by mid-2026, between 500 and 1,000 permits will be issued to restaurants which apply for them. This means that we could see a sudden influx of restaurants that actively embrace patrons dining alongside their pets within this year – an absolute dream for dog owners who are tired of being relegated to outdoor seating with no air conditioning. View this post on Instagram A post shared by April & Artie (@aprilandartie) To address some of these queries: restaurants granted the pet permit will be allowed to determine the extent of their participation, and the policy does indeed cover air-conditioned areas in restaurants. Pet owners will be required to keep their dogs under control at all times with a leash no longer than 1.5 metres or secured to a fixed object. Dogs will also not be allowed on dining tables or to come in contact with food and tableware. It remains to be seen whether there’s a limit on how many dogs each pet owner can bring into eateries, and secretary for environment and ecology Tse Chin-wan also said on February 10 that dog diapers will most likely not be made mandatory as it may cause discomfort to dogs who don’t need them. High-risk venues like hotpot or barbecue restaurants will not be granted pet permits.  When asked which restaurants they would want to see welcome their pets in the near future, Hong Kong’s pet owners are not picky – they’re just happy that the option to do so is happening in the first place. Stephanie Lown, who works at the SPCA Hong Kong and is the founder of the outdoor adventure group Exploring Dogs, is just “thrilled to have any options open up to dogs at all!” Her rescue dog Lola is an energetic, active adventurer of the great outdoors, so Lown can think of “nothing better than ending a hike with your dog and being able to stop at a café or restaurant for a nice refreshing drink or meal”. Cho would love to see Korean restaurants and dim sum places adopt a pet-friendly attitude, while Dorathy wants to see their dining options expand to include cha chaan tengs or fast-food joints. We don’t know if Maxim’s Palace in City Hall or your local Café de Coral will soon embrace hungry pups, but it sure is a nice thought! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Life in Hong Kong with Lola (@livin_da_vida_lola) Promoting pet-friendly eateries is a great step in making Hong Kong a more inclusive city for animals. Considering that the local pet economy is a multi-billion dollar market driven by mostly younger citizens with the financial means and the inclination to provide the best for their animals, there is plenty more that can be done to make people happy while tapping into this sizable income pocket. Hong Kong is already trying out having pets on public transport, with select bus routes accommodating animals on certain days of the week and the Light Rail in the New Territories allowing pets on the weekends. Pet owners are now eagerly waiting for expanded transportation options, as well as regulations that don’t require their pets being placed in carriers – it’s easy to put a Pomeranian in a bag, but try doing the same with a Bernese Mountain Dog.  “Right now, I am always on foot or taking cabs everywhere whenever I travel with my dogs,” Cho muses. “I hope one day dogs will be allowed on either the MTR or on buses.” Dorathy concurs, saying that as a medium-sized dog owner, “it would be fantastic to bring my dogs on the MTR and buses”, adding that she wouldn’t mind putting her Samoyeds in diapers to ensure hygiene if needed. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Exploring Dogs (@exploringdogs) Cho also adds that there are not enough dog-friendly parks and beaches in Hong Kong – dogs are currently banned from most parks and public beaches, with only a handful open to dog owners and their pups. “We usually end up on unregulated beaches that are filled with plastic, broken glass, and trash, which is so dangerous for dogs. Hopefully we’ll see more dog-friendly places so our fur babies can enjoy nature too.” Lown looks even further ahead, hoping to see more housing options open up to pet owners as well. “The last couple of years have definitely shown promise with ferries, KMB buses, and the MTR welcoming dogs for SPCA’s Dogathon, but we still have some ways to go. Other countries have had these pet-inclusive policies for years, if not decades!” Lastly, she hopes that with this recent wave of pet-friendly sentiment, the Hong Kong government might review the city’s animal cruelty laws, which she laments have not been updated in 90 years. “It would be good to see the government finally implementing a ‘Duty of Care’ policy which would help improve animal rights and welfare in Hong Kong.” Hear, hear! Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Hong Kong’s recent food poisoning outbreak linked to raw oysters Calbee opens a limited-time Chinese New Year pop-up at Citygate Outlets for snack fans Macau is the most active region in Asia when it comes to love and sex, according to Time Out

Ever wanted to go back in time and shop at a supermarket from the 1950s? It might come off as a rather specific fancy, but for those who harbour such a dream, you’re in luck: Hong Kong’s homegrown supermarket giant, Wellcome, is hopping aboard the nostalgia train with the launch of a retro-inspired concept store in Yau Ma Tei. Designed as a tribute to Hong Kong’s extensive retail history, Wellcome has repurposed its Prosperous Garden branch in Yau Ma Tei as an exhibition destination to celebrate the supermarket’s 80-year-plus legacy. Founded in 1945, Wellcome has been a constant in the lives of local families, serving the needs of generations of Hongkongers. As the city evolved, Wellcome evolved with it, but this branded concept shop preserves a slice of the supermarket as shoppers might have seen it back in the 1950s to the 1970s, complete with vintage character, photogenic interiors, and time-limited collectibles. Each aisle, stocked with a curated selection of products, doubles as a fetching backdrop oozing charm and colour, so no doubt this location will quickly become a popular attraction! Photograph: Courtesy Wellcome Snap photos of the LED-emblazoned shopfront, which takes its cues from Hong Kong’s famous urban landscape of neon lights; discover classic interior design elements such as the vintage silver-and-green turnstile, a sea of red plastic lamps popularised in wet markets, and patterned floor tiles; and admire nostalgic grocery setups and heritage exhibits that showcase the allure and shared memories of Hong Kong’s past.  As part of the concept store activation, Wellcome is also launching special deals and brand collaborations to commemorate the occasion, including a reusable Wellcome Retro Eco Bag for $28 with a single transaction of $100 – it’s reminiscent of Wellcome’s old-school red-and-yellow carrier, making for a keepsake that’s both practical and sentimental. Additionally, Wellcome will team up with tech equipment manufacturer Smeg to offer a limited-edition Lifebox ($88 with any purchase of $100 or more) from February 6 to 19, and Hong Kong’s own lifestyle brand G.O.D. for a Lunar New Year-themed game set ($68). Photograph: Courtesy Wellcome Wait, there’s more! While the weather’s still below 20 degrees Celsius, pop over to Prosperous Garden to sip warmed Vitasoy soy milk from glass bottles – a Hong Kong childhood memory that many will dwell on fondly. You can also take your chance at a Lee Kum Kee capsule machine from now until March 31, which will dispense a surprise miniature magnet depicting one of the condiment maker’s signature products. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Harbourside Swing Fest returns for its 2026 edition in late April Shiro brings its signature ‘crystal sushi’ to its second location in Tai Kwun Everything you need to know about Japan’s official cherry blossom forecast 2026

Love dim sum and surreal imagery? You’re in good company. Hong Kong street artist Lousy, best known for his bold graphics resembling glyphs and pictorial shapes, is collaborating with viral food photographer-artist David Leung – also known as Davidgoodtime, who specialises in capturing reflected food images highlighting pareidolia – for a dynamic exhibition about dim sum and the ritual of yum cha.  Hosted at JPS Gallery, ‘Double Umami’ is an artistic ode to Hong Kong cuisine, reimagined through the unique lenses of two distinctly different creators, who shaped their love of dumplings and morning teas into a visual celebration of Hong Kong’s DNA.  Photograph: Courtesy JPS Gallery In the exhibition space, visitors will encounter a customised dim sum cart installation, decorated by David and Lousy, in addition to photographs depicting beloved dim sum dishes in Leung’s signature mirrored style, mounted inside bamboo steamers crafted by master artisan Lui Ming of Ming Sang Steel Bamboo Receptacle. ‘Crab’s Kid Burn & Sell’ shows siu mai in a different light, appearing almost like the face of a crustacean, while ‘Char Siu Cat No. 2’ draws parallels between char siu bao and felines. We also particularly liked the birdcage installation which houses real emu eggs and plastic cards from dim sum carts inscribed with the Chinese onomatopoeia for bird chirps. Photograph: Courtesy JPS Gallery Branching out from photography onto canvas and installation work for the first time, Leung is also presenting the ‘Sauce’ series, applying the same mirrored techniques to create patterns reminiscent of Rorschach inkblot tests. Inspired by traditional Fu Lu Shou statues representing fortune, prosperity, and longevity, Leung uses foldable boards loaded with pigment to ‘find’ faces hidden in the paint. In contrast, Lousy – rather than focusing on the food aspect of dim sum – aims to capture the feeling of community and chaos experienced during a yum cha get-together. He paints and draws on top of old dim sum order sheets to give graphic form to the hustle and bustle of a Cantonese restaurant, depicting figures sat at a table, abstract interpretations of food, hands pouring tea, and more. Photograph: Courtesy JPS Gallery David and Lousy’s collaborations don’t end there. Lousy has teamed up with Wendy’s Wok World for a ‘Special Collab Soy Sauce’. 22 bottles of Tiu Yuen small-batch soy sauce are covered in custom packaging artwork created by Lousy. Meanwhile, Leung worked with chef May Chow of Little Bao to wrap 50 bottles of her handcrafted Fook Jiang chilli sauce in original ‘chilli sauce’ Rorschach artworks, bringing the food-focused project one degree closer to the art of Chinese cooking. ‘Double Umami’ is on exhibition at JPS Gallery from January 30 to March 7. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Art book publisher Taschen is having a huge sale in early February Starbucks opens at the Hong Kong Palace Museum with Hong Kong’s first Chinese calligraphy shop sign and exclusive products Fujifilm releases a camcorder-instant camera hybrid in the instax mini Evo Cinema

Listen, we love a good beat drop or screaming chart-toppers like any other nighttime reveller in the city, but in this era of EDM and throwback pop-heavy party scene, it would be nice to enjoy something authentic that sounds different for once. Well, it looks like we got our wish, because a vinyl record-based bar has just announced they’ll be opening in Lan Kwai Fong. The brainchild of longtime friends Brian and Ah Hei, the 8055 vinyl bar has had previous iterations based in Causeway Bay and Wan Chai, which grew in popularity to welcome even local celebrities and creatives like Eason Chan and Tyson Yoshi as patrons. The pandemic eventually saw the shuttering of the bar – but not for good. Photograph: Courtesy 8055 Building on their seven-year brand identity as a hotspot for authentic vinyl DJ-ing, graffiti art, and Japanese chill drinking culture, 8055 is now back in the game with a new home in the heart of Hong Kong’s nightlife district, Lan Kwai Fong. Expect the warmth and pops of analogue sound being played all night, with a focus on Japanese hip-hop, jazz, funk, and city pop – a sound that’s pretty unique within our nightlife scene and, frankly, a breath of fresh air from all the other clubs around. To pair with the music, 8055’s drinks turn the focus on premium Japanese whiskies and umeshu plum wine. Their signature tipple is an elegant, simple umeshu soda, but you can also truly do things the Japanese way by leaving the choice up to the bartender, omakase-style. Staying true to the brand’s history, 8055’s new venue will also allow guests to freely draw, scribble, and unleash creativity all over the walls with graffiti markers, so if you’ve ever left your mark in bars like Not2Sweet, you’ll want to do the same here as well. Photograph: Courtesy 8055 Check things out at 8055’s grand opening party on January 24, when they’ll be hosting a 10-hour DJ relay from 8pm onwards. The lineup will include Andrew Bull, better known as DJ El Toro or the ‘Father of Hong Kong DJs’, who is famous for initiating the city’s first disco in The Peninsula hotel as well as the iconic Canton Disco. Sounds like a party and a half! Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Kodak Apparel opens a time-limited concept store in Hong Kong New brasserie Chouchou brings French comfort food to an elevated setting in Wan Chai Sai Ying Pun’s historic steakhouse Sammy’s Kitchen announces closure this month

The popular Japanese mascot series Namagaki is taking over Festival Walk in Kowloon Tong with a themed installation! Since Namagaki characters began popping up inside claw machines and arcades across town, so many hearts have been captured by their simple yet lovable designs and adorably blank expressions. The Namagaki Festival features a series of installations and exhibits for fans to take pictures with, as well as a charming merch pop-up with exclusive items for sale. Photograph: Courtesy Yell / Festival Walk At the centre of the installation is a four-metre-tall giant oyster can, where Namagaki characters spill out alongside rainbow-coloured sweets. Right next door is the pastel-coloured Namagaki Washoku House, where cute oyster characters act as chef and waiter at this makeshift traditional Japanese eatery. See if you can spot the pink pumpkins dotted around the space – it’s the installation’s discreet nod to the upcoming spooky season.  Beyond photo ops, fans will definitely delight in browsing through the themed pop-up store housing over 100 exclusive Namagaki products, including 80 first launches in Hong Kong that span everything from stationery to t-shirts and tote bags. Don’t forget to stop by the Namagaki claw machine and the collectible trading card capsule machine for an adorable surprise!  Photograph: Courtesy Festival Walk In the spirit of Halloween, Festival Walk is inviting visitors to trick or treat around designated stores in the mall. Exclusive to My Festival members, take part in this seasonal activity by purchasing a $1,000 gift card to receive a limited-edition Baby Namagaki birthstone bag charm and candy can clutch – where you can store your hard-earned sweets.  Namagaki Festival will be at Festival Walk from October 24 to November 13. See footage of the Namagaki Festival pop-up here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Hong Kong (@timeouthk) Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: 18 hotels in Hong Kong and Macau have been awarded 2025 Michelin Keys OneRepublic is coming back to Hong Kong in February 2026 The best Halloween parties in Hong Kong this year

Remember when we all saw a giant Doraemon sitting unexpectedly at the dockyard along Tsing Yi last week? Well, the news is out and it’s not that a robotic cat is invading Hong Kong – instead, a fleet of floating inflatable sculptures will be making their appearance along Victoria Harbour next month. AllRightsReserved, the local creative brand behind last year’s thousands of panda sculptures and the recent Chiikawa exhibition in Tsim Sha Tsui, is putting on the Water Parade, where a set of four giant, floating inflatable figures will be making a debut at sea. In the lineup is Doraemon, perched on his favourite dorayaki snack; Elmo from the Kaws & Sesame Street collaboration; McDonalds’ purple blob-shaped mascot Grimace; and Labubu, the globally viral Nordic-inspired monster by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung. After a trial run in the waters of Tsing Yi on September 20, these four figures will be set afloat along Victoria Harbour on October 25, and will be shown in brand-new poses. Visit them just off of Tamar Park in Admiralty and snap plenty of photos, because when else are you going to see such universally recognised and different cartoon characters all sitting together? Photograph: Courtesy AllRightsReserved On November 1, the floating sculptures will be taken on a water parade between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, sailing along both sides of Victoria Harbour, before departing from our waters on the evening of the same day. For the entire duration of the sculpture display, there will also be a Water Parade Market at the promenade near Tamar Park. Aside from pop-up stores, F&B stands, game booths, photo spots, and a capsule toy zone, the market will also feature other internationally popular IPs from KPop Demon Hunters, season five of Stranger Things, Squid Games, Snoopy and the Peanuts, as well as Hong Kong’s classic TOLO Founding Duck, which is marking its 40th anniversary. Early-bird tickets to the festivities will be available at $50 for adults, starting at 12 noon on September 26. Walk-in tickets can also be purchased on site, subject to availability. All tickets include a $20 merchandise voucher, which can be redeemed cumulatively on purchases of every $200. Attendees can also buy a viewing platform special ticket at $150, which includes entry to the Water Parade Market. See some footage of the Water Parade here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Hong Kong (@timeouthk) Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: The best Oktoberfest events happening in Hong Kong this year The best things to do in Hong Kong this week (September 22-28) Super Typhoon Ragasa: Hong Kong braces for the strongest typhoon of the year as it approaches the city

Do you remember an exhibition last summer that displayed miniature scenes of the Central and Western districts in Pacific Place? In case you missed it, the Joyful Miniature Association (JMA) is back once again, this time with more incredibly detailed dioramas of life in Hong Kong, including seven brand-new miniatures that have never been seen before. The 24 art pieces will highlight some of Hong Kong’s famous landmarks, cultural customs, and unique lifestyles. Peek into painstaking recreations of Sunday dim sum at Maxim’s Palace in City Hall, chaotic nighttime revelry along Lan Kwai Fong, the customs of worship and pin wheel buying at Man Mo Temple and Wong Tai Sin Temple, a moving model of the fifth generation of the Peak Tram funicular railway, views of Victoria Harbour complete with boats sailing and fireworks, and more.  Photograph: Courtesy Joyful Miniature Association The new miniatures at this show include the Kai Tak Sports Park, the legendary old Kowloon Walled City, night scenes of Temple Street, horse racing, aquatic animals on sale at one of the many shops along Goldfish Street, the cable car at Ngong Ping 360, and Hong Kong’s transhipment history at the Insta-famous Western District Pier. The JMA brings together over 100 Hong Kong artists who collectively integrate the traditionally European craft of miniatures with our distinctly local culture using cutting-edge technology. If there’s one way to stroll through the most iconic sights and experiences of Hong Kong in just a few steps, this exhibition is definitely it. ‘Hong Kong: Through the Looking Glass Miniature Exhibition’ will be on display at The Peak Tower from April 25 to June 23 – JMA’s longest exhibition in the city. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Hong Kong ranked as the 10th most walkable city in the world; 1st in East Asia Hong Kong Airport Express proposes fare increase of 9.4 percent The Cheung Chau Bun Festival is hosting a carnival this Sunday

We sit down with artist and designer Joe Foti before his new exhibition in Hong Kong

March in Hong Kong is not complete without a trip to the Wanchai Convention Centre to spend a day or two at Art Basel. This year’s fair gathers 240 global galleries, with large-scale installations, paintings, sculptures, digital art, live performances, video works, and more to see!

From a world without colours to her love of big city metros, we caught up with British artist Monster Chetwynd for a round of quick-fire questions while she's in town for her new installation at Pacific Place!