Experience Hong Kong’s East-meets-West heritage in one day

11am: sightseeing in Central District

Aside from being known as the financial heart of Hong Kong, Central district is home to plenty of fascinating historical landmarks. From Western Market, take public transportation or a 20-minute stroll — where you’re sure to come across even more fascinating sights — to The Foreign Correspondents’ Club in the Old Dairy Farm Depot. Although the club is open to members only, you can still admire the neoclassical-influenced architecture, which features a unique “bandaged brickwork” design. 

Next, head to the Former French Mission Building, which was originally constructed by the French Society of Foreign Missions and opened in 1917. The building has served a multitude of purposes throughout the years but remains best known for its ornate neoclassical design, which includes a red-brick exterior, rounded dome, vaulted ceilings and inner courtyard. Finally, be sure to visit the Court of Final Appeal, which sits right in the heart of Central. A reminder of the colonial-era architecture that defined Hong Kong’s landscape before the rise of towering skyscrapers, this iconic monument boasts many fascinating features, including a statue depicting the Greek Goddess of Justice.

12 Noon: witness the Noon Day Gun ceremony

From Central, hop on the MTR or any other form of public transportation to Causeway Bay to experience the Noon Day Gun ceremony. Started at multinational company Jardine Matheson in the 1860s, this daily ritual involves a one-shot gun salute fired from Causeway Bay’s waterfront at 12 noon. It’s a unique local tradition that’s also become a popular tourist attraction.

1pm: sightsee, shop and lunch in Tsim Sha Tsui

A picturesque (and incredibly affordable) ride on the Star Ferry from the Wan Chai ferry pier takes you across the harbour to Tsim Sha Tsui, where you’ll be greeted by the Former Kowloon-Canton Railway Clock Tower. Built in 1915, this 44-metre tall Declared Monument is the only still-standing reminder of the original Kowloon Station, and remains a beloved historical monument in what has since become a bustling shopping district. In fact, the tower is located close to several popular retail complexes, including 1881 Heritage . Formerly the Marine Police Headquarters, this landmark, which is over 130 years old, has been revitalised in recent years and now houses high-end shops, an exhibition hall and a heritage hotel with several restaurants where you can enjoy a light lunch. Much of the Victorian-era architecture has been preserved in structures such as the Time Ball Tower and Main Building — both of which are Declared Monuments as well as popular selfie spots.

3pm: treat yourself to afternoon tea

Get a taste of one of the most popular British traditions in Hong Kong with the afternoon tea experience at The Peninsula. Served daily at The Lobby, this lavish midday meal consists of tiers of scones, finger sandwiches and homemade cakes designed to be enjoyed over cups of tea — or champagne if you’re feeling extra special — as you’re serenaded by a string quartet in the hotel’s sumptuous surrounds. This delicious treat is extremely popular so advanced booking is recommended.