Hidden Gems in Hong Kong: 4 Underrated Neighborhoods You Shouldn’t Miss

When people think of Hong Kong, iconic images often come to mind—towering skyscrapers, vibrant shopping districts like Tsim Sha Tsui, or the beloved Disneyland parade. Beyond these mainstream attractions, there are hidden gems in Hong Kong that are quietly tucked away from the crowds. These lesser-known neighborhoods offer unique charm and fresh perspectives that most travelers miss.

If you’re looking to travel in Hong Kong with a fresh perspective, we’ve rounded up 4 lesser-known areas that Thai travelers might not be familiar with—but definitely should be. From scenic corners to local vibes, these spots offer a side of the city that’s full of surprises. Ready to uncover a different Hong Kong? Let’s get started.

If you’re looking to travel in Hong Kong beyond the usual tourist spots, Tai Hang is a must-visit. Tucked between the bustling districts of Causeway Bay and Tin Hau, this quiet neighborhood was once a small fishing village. Today, it has transformed into a trendy hideaway filled with fusion eateries, cozy cafés, and a warm, local vibe that’s hard to resist.
 

Why Tai Hang is One of the Best Hidden Gems in Hong Kong

Fire Dragon Dance Festival

Tai Hang is best known for its century-old Fire Dragon Dance, held during the Mid-Autumn Festival. This unique tradition began in 1880, when locals created a fire dragon to drive away misfortunes after a series of plagues. Today, the 67-meter dragon—crafted from straw, bamboo, and decorated with over 70,000 burning incense sticks—is paraded through the streets in a mesmerizing display. Recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, it’s a rare cultural experience you won’t find in guidebooks.

Stylish Cafés and Local Eateries

Today, Tai Hang is known for its cool café culture and unique dining experiences. Explore its small alleys to find hidden gems like:  
 

• ● Bing Kee Cha Dong (炳記茶檔): A humble local favorite serving minced pork noodles and authentic Hong Kong milk tea. This no-frills spot is loved by locals and best visited in the morning or late morning. Closed on Mondays; open 07:00–15:00.
• ● Chin Jor Fan Tong (前座飯堂): A noodle shop where you can fully customize your bowl—from broth to toppings and spice level. The exterior features classic Chinese decor, while the inside bursts with neon lights and pop-art vibes—perfect for snapping Instagram-worthy shots.
• ● Plumcot: A cozy French bakery started by a pair of French chefs who fell in love with Hong Kong. Their Kouign-Amann—a crispy, caramelized pastry from Brittany—is a rare find in the city. Don’t miss their croissants, breads, and cakes made from premium ingredients.
• ● Sonne CAD: A specialty coffee shop hidden in a two-story pre-war building. The space blends minimal design with a cozy atmosphere and offers a rotating selection of beans from Indonesia, Uganda, Guatemala, and beyond. Grab a seat at the bar for a coffee chat with the baristas, or head upstairs for a peaceful break from the buzz.

If you’re into raw, local vibes and want to travel in Hong Kong off the beaten path, Sham Shui Po is your spot. Located on the Kowloon side, this vibrant neighborhood is known for its affordable street food, sprawling craft markets, vintage finds, and indie cafés. It’s one of those hidden gems in Hong Kong that blends old-school charm with a creative spirit—without the tourist crowds or inflated prices.
 

Why Sham Shui Po is One of the Best Hidden Gems in Hong Kong

• ● Wai Kee Noodle Cafe: This local favorite is known for its pork liver and beef noodles served in rich, steaming broth. If you’re not a fan of liver, swap it for ham, egg, or sausage and pair it with your noodle of choice—macaroni, egg noodles, or vermicelli.
• ● Lau Sum Kee Noodle: A beloved old-school shop still making noodles the traditional way—by kneading the dough with bamboo poles. Try their dry noodles (Lo Mein) with aromatic dried shrimp roe for a nostalgic, savory kick.
• ● Tim Ho Wan: Known as the “world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant,” the Sham Shui Po branch usually has shorter queues than other locations—perfect for sampling high-quality dim sum on a budget.
• ● Kung Wo Beancurd Factory: Serving the neighborhood since 1960, this tofu shop makes everything fresh daily—from soy milk to deep-fried tofu and ultra-smooth tofu pudding with a rich, nutty taste.

• ● Apliu Street: An outdoor electronics market filled with gadgets, vintage cameras, audio gear, and secondhand treasures.
• ● Golden Computer Arcade: A go-to spot for computer parts, gaming accessories, and hard-to-find tech gear.
• ● Ki Lung Street: A paradise for DIY fashion lovers, lined with shops selling buttons, lace, beads, and fabric. Continue to Nam Cheong Street for ribbons and trim, or swing by Yu Chau Street for stylish textiles. It’s a one-stop creative zone.

Cool Cafés & Artsy Corners

In recent years, Sham Shui Po has evolved into a creative hub, attracting young designers and artists who have opened studios, cafés, and galleries. Here are a few must-visits:
 

• ● Cofflow Specialty Coffee: Housed in a former fabric shop, this retro café keeps old-school details like mosaic tiles and a classic iron gate, making it a favorite photo spot for café hoppers. 
• ● Colour Brown X GO.ON Space: A two-story industrial-style café with a signature green spiral staircase. Enjoy single-origin coffee from Ethiopia, Costa Rica, or Yunnan, plus signature red bean iced coffee and house-blend milk tea. Downstairs features rotating art exhibitions, while the upstairs GO.ON Space hosts community events and creative showcases.
• ● The Bridge+ Living Art Space: A warm and inviting café-gallery that regularly hosts art exhibits and community activities. If you’re near Apliu Street, stop by for a great cup of coffee and a dose of local creativity.
• ● Jockey Club Creative Arts Centre (JCCAC): A repurposed factory turned multi-floor art space, home to artist studios, exhibitions, and cultural events. Wander through industrial halls and get a behind-the-scenes look at artists at work.

If you’re looking to travel in Hong Kong beyond the usual tourist spots, Kennedy Town—affectionately known as “K-Town” by locals—is one of the most refreshing hidden gems in Hong Kong. Located at the western end of Hong Kong Island, this laid-back neighborhood blends old-world charm with a modern lifestyle. Since the MTR extension reached the area in 2014, Kennedy Town has quietly transformed into a trendy hangout for creatives, expats, and those looking for something a little off the radar.
 

Why Kennedy Town is One of the Best Hidden Gems in Hong Kong

• ● % Arabica: This globally loved coffee brand from Kyoto chose Kennedy Town as one of its prime waterfront locations in Hong Kong. The clean white interior, strong espresso, and perfectly crafted latte art make it a favorite for both coffee lovers and Instagrammers.
• ● Winstons Coffee: A cozy Australian-style café serving excellent flat whites and buttery croissants. Don’t miss a photo with its retro cinema-style sign–it’s a local favorite.
• ● Sheung Hei (尚囍): A beloved local spot known for its traditional clay pot rice, complete with crispy golden edges. The menu also features a variety of classic dim sum and Cantonese dishes, making it ideal for anyone looking to taste real Hong Kong flavors.
• ● Breeze Bistro: A seaside restaurant with an open-air terrace and full view of Victoria Harbour. The menu combines European and Asian flavors, with standout dishes like seafood pasta, grilled fish, and lobster salad—perfect for a breezy weekend brunch or a romantic evening meal.

Belcher Bay Park – Your Go-To Waterfront Chill Spot

For a relaxing break, Belcher Bay Park is the place to be. Locals come here to jog, do yoga, or simply unwind by the water. In the evening, as the sun sets and golden light reflects off the harbor, the park becomes a peaceful escape from the city buzz.

History Meets Architecture

Kennedy Town still holds onto its historical roots. Don’t miss:

• ● Lo Pan Temple: A small temple dedicated to Lo Pan, the Chinese patron saint of carpenters and architects.
• ● Tung Wah Group of Hospitals (Western District Branch): Dating back to the 1880s, this building beautifully blends Chinese and Western architectural styles—perfect for urban explorers and photo enthusiasts alike.

If you’re looking to travel in Hong Kong and experience a quieter, more authentic side of the city, Lei Yue Mun is a hidden treasure worth exploring. Located at the eastern tip of Kowloon, just a stone’s throw from the busy streets of Kwun Tong, this tranquil fishing village feels like stepping into another world—calm, simple, and steeped in tradition. It’s one of the few remaining hidden gems in Hong Kong where local life unfolds at a slower pace.
 

Why Lei Yue Mun is One of the Best Hidden Gems in Hong Kong

• ● Browse the seafood stalls and choose your favorites (haggling is acceptable).
• ● Receive an itemized receipt from the vendor.
• ● Bring it to your chosen restaurant.
• ● Select how you’d like it prepared and order additional sides or drinks.
• ● Sit back and enjoy ultra-fresh seafood in a truly local setting.

Cultural Spots with a View

Take a stroll to the Tin Hau Temple, dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea and beloved by generations of local fishermen. Then head uphill to the historic Lei Yue Mun Lighthouse, built in 1912. The walk is short and the views over Victoria Harbour are more than worth the climb—especially around sunset.

Sam Ka Tsuen Village – A Step Back in Time

Part of Lei Yue Mun, Sam Ka Tsuen Village offers a rare glimpse into old Hong Kong. Wooden houses on stilts line the shore, fishing nets hang to dry, and fishermen go about their daily routines. It’s a peaceful place that captures a way of life slowly disappearing from the city.

Lei Yue Mun Park & Holiday Village

If you’re in the mood for nature and quiet reflection, Lei Yue Mun Park is the perfect escape. The park features walking trails, botanical gardens, and plenty of scenic corners for photography or simply taking in the view. The nearby Holiday Village also offers relaxed accommodations and outdoor activities, making it a great spot for a laid-back retreat.

How to Get to Lei Yue Mun

Take the MTR Kwun Tong Line (Green Line) to Yau Tong Station, then walk about 10–15 minutes to the waterfront. If you prefer to skip the walk, take a quick taxi ride from the station will get you there just as easily.

While Hong Kong is known for its dazzling lights and vibrant city life, there’s another side waiting to be explored. Beyond the skyscrapers and shopping streets lie hidden gems in Hong Kong—quiet neighborhoods filled with local charm and timeless traditions. From peaceful seaside villages and cozy hipster hangouts to craft-filled local markets and historic fishing communities, these spots offer a refreshing escape from the city’s fast pace.

If you’re ready to see a different side of the city, these lesser-known neighborhoods will show you a Hong Kong that’s warm, welcoming, and unforgettable—just as memorable as any iconic landmark.

Ready to experience these hidden spots for yourself? Book your flights, stays, and local activities with Gother, and make your next travel to Hong Kong journey smoother, more exciting, and absolutely worth it.