Golden Bauhinia Square
The symbol of Hong Kong and a mainstay on the tourist trail, Golden Bauhinia Square is forever immortalized as the location of the official handover ceremony between Britain and China on July 1st, 1997. The gilded bauhinia flower measures six metres and is placed on top of a granite plinth. Inside the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre next door there are a series of photographs showing scenes from the handover ceremony.
Wan Chai Heritage Trail
The Wan Chai Heritage Trail is a roughly two-hour walk through the district stopping at a total of 15 sites, including temples, markets, civil buildings and old housing which has been preserved in its former glory.
Tai Yuen Street Market
Tai Yuen Street Market is a fun alleyway of stalls selling children’s toys, clothes, accessories and cheap souvenirs. It is far from the best street market in Hong Kong, but if you are in the area and want to see the vibrancy of Hong Kong shopping, a stop here is an enjoyable way to spend an hour.
Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre is a highlight of the city. Its domed edifice of glass and steel is pushed out on reclaimed land and can be seen from anywhere along the waterfront and from across the bay on Kowloon. One of only two convention centres in Hong Kong, there are constant events and exhibitions held here, such as the world’s largest jewellery fair, the world’s largest electronics fair, and Asia’s largest toy fair.
Lockhart Road
Wan Chai is known as a commercial district by day, but at night it is known as a popular bar area, particularly around Lockhart Road thanks to the propensity of bars, many of which are known for naughty nightlife in Hong Kong. It is very safe to walk around the area, and there are plenty of more accessible bars and restaurants if you are not looking for anything other than a dinner and a couple of drinks.
Hong Kong Arts Centre
Hong Kong Arts Centre (HKAC) is the most prominent centre for promoting modern art to locals and visitors. Theatre, dance, film, photography and fine art is constantly on display at Hong Kong Arts Centre. This huge space has galleries, theatres, and rehearsal studios for the Hong Kong Art School who regularly display their work here. Most exhibits are free to enter, although larger productions may require an entry fee.
Pak Tai Temple
Built in the mid-19th century, Pak Tai Temple makes an interesting place to see how religion still plays a part in the everyday lives of local Hong Kongese. Pak Tai Temple was built by local residents in 1863 and is a listed building. The Taoist temple worships Pak Tai, known as Supreme Emperor of the Dark Heaven. Inside the temple, there is a three metre copper statue of Pak Tai dating back to the year 1604.