The best things to do in Old Town Central

Boasting a history of more than 170 years, the former Central Police Station Compound has been preserved and transformed into a massive, all-encompassing arts and culture hub after extensive conservation efforts. Comprising of 16 heritage buildings and two newly built ones to house contemporary art gallery spaces, visit Tai Kwun to marvel at the beautiful Neoclassical architecture, as well as original structures that have been repurposed into retail shops and various bars and restaurants. Tai Kwun also hosts curated art exhibitions, performances, workshops, film screenings and guided tours, so be sure to check ahead for schedules and details.

Here’s where you can find zen in the heart of this bustling neighbourhood of Old Town Central. Estimated to have been built more than 150 years ago, Man Mo Temple is a well-preserved, stunning complex that pays tribute to the God of Literature and the God of War. There are fantastic historical nuggets dotted throughout the temples, including a bronze bell dating back to 1847, a sedan chair from 1862 and ancient mural paintings. From spiralling incense dangling from the ceilings to the smokey atmosphere inside, the temple is a stunning sight to behold. Come and pray for good fortune while you’re there. 

The renowned Central to Mid-Levels escalator is a must-visit for many travellers, as well as a daily commute for many Hongkongers. But to help brighten up the famous attraction, Japanese celebrity Shingo Katori has created a vibrant, red piece of street art underneath one section of the escalator on Shelley Street (Intersection of Hollywood Rd and Shelley St). The choice of colour, the Bauhinia motifs and the miniature skyline are all in tribute to Hong Kong. Take a step back and you’ll find that together, these elements form an image of a dragon. 

Shingo’s eye-catching artwork is only one of many street art pieces that are peppered along the streets of Old Town Central. There are other works that are unmissable, such as Danish artist Christian Storm’s colourful mural of two giant koi fish swimming. Some pieces are hidden in unassuming alleyways and staircases, including the mosaic-style mural of Bruce Lee by Korean graffiti artist Xeva, and Dan Kitchener’s romantic depiction of a rainy New York evening, which is tucked in between two buildings. You never know what masterpieces you’ll discover as you stroll along this neighbourhood. So if you’re crazy for it, here’s more. 

There’s no local snack more iconic than the piping hot, silky egg tart. And to sample one of the best in town, make a beeline for Tai Cheong Bakery, a time-tested shop that used to be a favourite of Hong Kong’s last colonial governor, Chris Patten. Although the bakery now has branches all across the city, the original location on Lyndhurst Terrace remains the top dog. 

Dim sum in Hong Kong is the stuff of legend. But this Michelin-starred restaurant takes it to the next level by marrying art and fine dining in their menu. On top of its exquisite dim sum,  Duddell’s offers modern takes on traditional Cantonese cuisine with signatures such as barbecued iberico pork with honey glaze and supreme lobster noodles. Why not enjoy innovative, Asian-inspired cocktails at the spacious terrace while you’re there? 

Ranked tenth by the World 50 Best Bars awards, The Old Man is undoubtedly one of the finest spots for a drink in the whole of Hong Kong. There’s impeccable attention to detail here, as demonstrated by the L-shaped bar, which has a cooling strip running down the middle to keep drinks chilled. Expect excellent and elegant cocktails – many of which take inspiration from the words and stories of esteemed American novelist, Ernest Hemingway.

Salivating for more local flavours and fantastic cocktails? Satisfy your inner foodie with this guide to all the best restaurants and bars in Old Town Central, from traditional dim sum to swanky rooftop bars. 

Step into the past and reminisce about the good old days with a visit to this blue-clad vintage store on Tai Ping Shan Street, the backbone of a bohemian neighbourhood of galleries, teahouses and design studios known as Poho. The store houses a dizzying collection of vintage goods, ranging from decanters and old-school film posters to vinyl records and lapel pins. InBetween is also an advocate for local creatives and stocks a range of Hong Kong designer products too. 

As the name suggests, this quaint shop houses a plethora of refined products and carefully curated collection of trendy clothes, accessories and lifestyle brands from every corner of the globe. Be amused by wacky phone cases and accessories like giant banana earrings and animal-shaped speakers, as well as limited-edition beauty items you won’t find anywhere else in the city. You’ll definitely stand out from the crowd with any purchase from this shop. 

Become a bona fide treasure hunter and discover rare finds with this guide to the eclectic mix of boutique and vintages shops in Old Town Central.