Lan Kwai Fong road sign in Hong Kong. (Source: Winhorse/Unsplash)
What you need to know about Lan Kwai Fong
Although the area today is thriving, with numerous establishments, it started as an area dominated by traditional matchmakers before the Second World War. These Mui Yan were responsible for arranging marriages between young people from two families and were predominantly women. Streets empty in Central, Hong Kong. (Source: Chunyip Wong/Unsplash)
The early 1900s saw the area transition towards hawking and street trading-oriented ventures. The opening of the "Disco Disco" club in 1978 sparked a revitalization of the area that eventually shaped Lan Kwai Fong as we know it today. It continued operation until 1986 and it hosted celebrities as well as local expats and contributed to making the area well-known all around the world. One of the people that can be credited with molding Lan Kwai Fong into what it is today is Allan Zeman, a businessman raised in Canada. In 1983, Zeman opened a restaurant in Lan Kwai Fong called "California", which soon became a rendezvous point for expats in the city. His pioneering restaurant earned him the alias "the father of Lan Kwai Fong". In 2011, he lived up to this moniker by embarking on a huge construction undertaking that would transform the face of the area.Lan Kwai Fong. (Source: Trip.com)
Because the area is very famous and small, it starts filling up quite early. If you would rather avoid the crowds, we recommend you make your way there long before 6pm, which is the time that crowds start gathering. It is advisable to visit Lan Kwai Fong in the evening as that is when the whole area comes alive, with performers and vendors all contributing to the lively atmosphere that the street is famous for😇. One of the things that set Lan Kwai Fong apart from other tourist areas is the fact that both locals and tourists can freely mingle on the streets🤩. The weekends, particularly Saturdays and Sundays, are the busiest days as hordes of revelers and tourists alike descend on the area🎊, patronizing the numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs that the strip has to offer. However, Friday is the busiest day of the week, with almost all establishments offering "happy hour" promotions, usually between 5-9pm, where generous discounts are offered on drinks and food👍.When it comes to pricing, the average tourist might find the cost of a night out in Lan Kwai Fong on the higher end of the spectrum😭. The area predominantly caters to white-collar workers, tourists, and foreigners and as such, the pricing scale is on the higher end😱. On average, a beer will set you back USD5-6.5, although this can be much lower if you take advantage of the happy hour promotions😈. In most cases, some extra charges like service fees as well as tips might drive the final price higher than this, so prepare accordingly👈. If beer isn't your thing, there is a wide range of cocktails available🥂, although they will leave an USD8-19 dent in your wallet. In addition, you should expect a cover charge for getting into most venues, especially on the weekend when it gets crowded. Most bars charge between USD19-50, 👉 so be mindful and remember to ask about the cover charge before you enter.👉 Because Lan Kwai Fong is in the heart of Hong Kong, it is very centrally located and easy to get to👍. There are several ways to get to Lan Kwai Fong including the Metro (MTR) and bus.
- If you prefer to travel by MTR, use Island Line or Tsuen Wan Line till the central station, and take the D1 exit, onto Pedder Street. From here, it is a short walk to Queen's Road Central from where you just must take a left turn onto D'Aguilar Street👍. However, the MTR only works until half past midnight, and therefore for those planning a late night out, you must use a taxi.
- Buses are also available to Lan Kwai Fong, with buses 12, 13, 40m, and 12m as options.
The Peak
👉 For those making their way from Victoria Peak, you can board the Peak Tram and transfer to bus number 15c.
Things to do in Lan Kwai Fong
For any first-time visitor to Lan Kwai Fong, it is easy to be overwhelmed by all the bright lights 🎇and countless attractions the area has to offer. No matter how long you plan to stay, there are a few attractions you simply cannot afford to miss💗. 1. The Iron Fairies:
- Address: LG Floor, 1-13 Hollywood Road Central, Hong Kong
- Bookings anf enquiries: +852 6202-0000
This is one of the most iconic and eye-catching bars in the area😊. Just like the name suggests, the interior is predominantly furnished using iron, which gives it a distinct identity👍. Hanging from the ceiling in the center of the establishment is a centerpiece made up of 10,000 butterflies. This beautiful installation blends perfectly with the iron surrounding to create a beautiful ambiance and is a must-see for anyone visiting the area. Amazing food in Lan Kwai Fong. (Source: Trip.com)
The premises are part of a trifecta of establishments, two of which are in Tokyo and Bangkok opened by Ashley Sutton🥳. Revelers will be glad to know that the doors are open every day from 6pm and the last call comes at 2am, ample time for customers to have a good time. Although the price is bound to differ, depending on what you order, the average price is between USD25 to USD50. In addition to amazing drinks, the Iron Fairies also offers live jazz music🎶 and exquisite food, and all served in an iron-infused backdrop.2. Hong Kong Art Tour:
A visit to Lan Kwai Fong is never complete without taking a stroll through the iconic art-laden streets😱, which have so much to offer for art lovers. The central part of the city is rich with famous art and graffiti, some of which can be casually observed👀. These tours are available in both Chinese and English, taking you to the various renowned galleries in the city. In addition to getting access to exhibitions, you would get to appreciate a spectrum of both Chinese and foreign artworks and installations👍. There are different options available, whether you prefer a private tour or with a group, both with different prices. Art exhibition in Lan Kwai Fong. (Source: Trip.com)
The price for the street art walking tour starts from USD27 and on average will last about an hour💰. The tour is an opportunity to get off the beaten path that is frequented by most tourists and get to see the hidden gems of the city. In addition, you get to hear the back story of the art piece, the artist, the inspiration, and many more details that most people can only dream of👍. To ensure authenticity, the tour is conducted by a local who has expert knowledge of the city and the various artworks. Because the commentary is available in multiple languages, a headset is included in the overall cost of the tour, so you won't miss a single word.3. Lan Kwai Fong bar crawl
For every nightlife connoisseur, a bar crawl is always one of the first things to do when visiting a new city😍. If you fit this description, then you will want to try the famous Lan Kwai Fong bar crawl which takes you to different bars on the strip🥂. The cost of admission for this activity is USD12 which is a bargain since you get to sample numerous bars in the area. The whole activity is usually scheduled to last 3 hours though this is not set in stone and can vary depending on how intoxicated you get. Lan Kwai Fong bar crawl / Source: Trip.com
The whole tour involves free entry to three bars and one club, each of which will have a welcome shot of alcohol waiting for you🥂. In addition, you get access to discounted drinks, an exclusive photographer as well as a guide to chaperone you around, a true VIP experience🔥. However, it is important to note that the official legal age for drinking on the island is 18 and therefore this activity is purely reserved for adults. Some bars also enforce a strict dress code, therefore, patrons should avoid wearing flip-flops or sleeveless tops in the case of men.Cheers Celebration toast with Pints of beer. (Source: Coldsnowstorm/Unsplash)
4. Kwun Yam Temple:
Located in the Tin Hau district of the island, the Kwun Yam Temple is one of the most popular religious and historic sites in the city. Named after a Goddess with the same name, the temple is a pilgrimage site for Chinese Buddhists and is a monument that espouses the Goddess's virtues of compassion and mercy.Kwun Yam Temple / Source: Trip.com
Built in the 1870s, it has over time come to be one of the cultural symbols of the city. It has undergone several remodeling works over the years and remains a famous tourist attraction for both visitors and locals alike.Inside, visitors can view and pray to the statue of the goddess herself, as well as light incense and offer prayers.Kwun Yam Shrine at Repulse Bay Beach Hong Kong. (Source: gionnixxx/Unsplash)
The gates of the temple are open daily to people from all walks of life and admission, which is free of charge, starts from 8am to 6pm. However, visitors are expected to dress respectfully and remove their shoes before entering the main hall. Although the area has built a reputation as a party hub for night owls, sites like this temple are a chance for more culturally oriented visitors to experience a different side of Lan Kwai Fong.5. Sense of Touch Spa:
The Sense of Touch Spa in Lan Kwai Fong is just one of a chain of luxury spas run by the company throughout Hong Kong😍. A visit to the spa would be a welcome breath of relaxation either after a long night out bar crawling or after a long walking tour to explore the island😆.It offers a quiet pocket of tranquility, nestled in the heart of the busy bustling streets of Lan Kwai Fong. The spa offers a wide range of treatments, including massages, facials, body wraps, and more, with the goal of relaxing and rejuvenating weary clients in a comfortable and serene environment😘.Young woman relaxing during back massage at the spa. (Source: BraunS/Unsplash)
The Sense of Touch Spa in Lan Kwai Fong is open every day from 10am to 10pm. However, these operating hours may vary on various factors like public holidays, so it's advisable to check their website or call ahead to confirm🙏. The safest option is to simply call and make an appointment as this eliminates the likelihood of disappointment.The Sense of Touch Spa in Lan Kwai Fong offers a variety of services tailored to meet the specific needs of their clients. They also offer spa packages and gift certificates, making it an ideal gift for loved ones or a special occasion. The spa's professional and knowledgeable staff is dedicated to ensuring that each client has a relaxing and enjoyable experience.👉 Overall, the Sense of Touch Spa in Lan Kwai Fong is an excellent choice to wind down the day in a peaceful and calming environment👍. And for those getting ready for an epic night out, it would also be a great way to start the festivities in a luxurious and peaceful setting.
6. Hong Kong walking tours
Hong Kong is one of the most famous cities in not just Asia, but the entire world. This status is well deserved as the city has an abundance of sights and sounds to offer😊. It is because of this that most visitors to the city opt for walking tours to get a fully immersive experience of the city. Walking tours are a great way to explore the city's unique culture, history, and architecture🥰. More comprehensive than the art tours, the walking tours look at Hong Kong's most iconic landmarks and hidden gems while allowing visitors to experience the city from a local's perspective. Whether you're interested in exploring the bustling streets of Central, sampling authentic Hong Kong cuisine, or discovering the city's rich history, there's a walking tour for everyone.Hollywood Road near Lan Kwai Fong / Source: Trip.com
Most walking tours in the city operate daily and mostly offer packages with options for both group and individual tours😳. The duration and cost of the tours vary depending on the itinerary and the tour operator, but most tours last a duration of 2 to 4 hours. However, some tours may require you to make your booking in advance, so it's best to check with the operator before arriving in order to ensure that your preferred tour itinerary is not sold out❗️❗️.In addition to the popular tourist attractions, walking tours offer an opportunity to explore the local neighborhoods with a local guide who understands the area😆. In addition, participants get to experience as well as participate in Hong Kong's vibrant culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and smells of traditional street markets, with the opportunity to sample local delicacies and learn about the city's fascinating history from knowledgeable guides👍. Because there is so much to see and explore in the city, one can easily get overwhelmed. That is why a walking tour is an excellent way to discover the real Hong Kong and make the most of your visit😍.Central and Sheung Wan Walk / Source: Trip.com
There are many different walking tour operators in Hong Kong, each offering a unique perspective on the city. Some of the most popular walking tours include the Central and Sheung Wan Walk, which takes visitors through the heart of Hong Kong's financial district. For the food fanatics out there, the Hong Kong Foodie Tour, which showcases the city's diverse culinary scene, is one to look out for. Other popular tours include the Hong Kong Island Half-Day Tour, which takes you through the best of what the island of Hong Kong has to offer, and the Kowloon Markets Walk, which explores the vibrant street markets of Kowloon.Walking tours in Hong Kong can offer great value for money, with prices for the various packages starting at around USD38 per person for a 2-hour tour. Private tours can be more expensive but offer a more personalized experience and the flexibility to customize the itinerary.Hotels around Lan Kwai Fong
Because Lan Kwai Fong is in the heart of Hong Kong, it is surrounded by the best hotels on the islands. For anyone planning to visit this vibrant area, we have compiled a list of some of the best accommodation options in the area.1. The Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong
If you are a creature of comfort and don't want to compromise luxury when you travel, then the Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong is the place for you. Centrally located in the heart of the city, specifically in the Central District, it brings together both convenience and comfort. The Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong - Outdoor Swimming Pool
The Hotel boasts 399 rooms, 54 of which are suites, and is capable of handling huge groups with ease. It is equipped with various dining options, serving a wide array of continental and local dishes, including Michelin-starred restaurants such as Lung King Heen and Caprice.Newly Renovated Premier Harbour-View Suite
The hotel has a spa, fitness center, indoor infinity pool, and outdoor heated pool.It also has other amenities like meeting and event spaces available for business or social functions, concierge services, 24-hour room service, laundry, and valet parking.
