For centuries, Aberdeen has been a fishing and trading port. Here are some things to do next time you’re in Aberdeen, Hong Kong!
From the beautiful Chinese temples that line the streets to stunning hiking trails we flock to on the weekends and the glorious Hong Kong beaches that surround the city, we’re so lucky to live in such a dynamic place. Wanna continue exploring this beautiful city we call home? Venture further south to check out these things to do in Aberdeen.
Introducing Aberdeen, the “Little Hong Kong”
Long before the British sailed into Aberdeen Harbour, the locals called it Hong Kong, the “fragrant harbour” where precious woods were transported to the Mainland to be turned into graceful Ming-style furniture. The name was lost in translation – the British thought it was the name of the entire island – but even today, the locals call it “Little Hong Kong” (香港仔). It can be tricky to define the boundaries of Aberdeen, but it’s generally considered to be the area spanning across Wong Chuk Hang, Ap Lei Chau, Tin Wan, Wah Kwai, Wah Foo, and Ap Lei Chau.
Things to do in Aberdeen, Hong Kong
1. Explore the original Aberdeen
Much of the present-day town is built on reclaimed land. The Tin Hau Temple once overlooked the sea, as did the original village. The steep hike along the old village trail will take you past an array of small shrines housing the village guardians. The trail ends at The Warehouse, the Old Aberdeen Police Station that is now a youth club. Be sure to catch the spectacular graffiti there!
Find out where you can see more of the city’s colourful street art.
The Warehouse Teenage Club, 116 Aberdeen Main Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, p. 2873 2244
2. Discover porcelain beauties at Chinese temples
The Tin Hau Temple in Aberdeen and the Hung Shing Temple in Ap Lei Chau are some of the only temples in Hong Kong that boast Shiwan pottery figures along their roof ridges. Those at the Tin Hau Temple are all female, while those at the Hung Shing Temple portray a lively street scene with scholars, court ladies, and merchants all watching the life below their balconies. The marvellous architecture and craftsmanship of these temples alone are worth your visit.
Tin Hau Temple, 182 Aberdeen Main Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, p. 2552 6036
Hung Shing Temple, 1 Hung Shing Street, Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong, p. 2552 6884
3. Aberdeen Promenade
This beautiful promenade linking Wong Chuk Hang with the Aberdeen Fish Market is perfect for people-watching and taking in the views. While Chinese-tiled history information centres feature videos and art installations, Aberdeen Promenade simply makes for a great stroll along the boat-lined waterfront. The brisk walk is also a scenic route if you’re planning to catch a Kaito ferry from the landing step on the Promenade – it’s a fun mode of travel to Ap Lei Chau as the trip only takes four minutes and costs under $3!
Explore more promenades in Hong Kong.
4. Aberdeen Wholesale Fish Market
Looking for things to do in Aberdeen that involve your next meal? Grab some of the freshest daily catches in town at the Aberdeen Wholesale Fish Market – quite possibly the biggest seafood market you can find in Hong Kong! Just before dawn, fishermen would come back with their catch and begin trading here. With pretty much everything at a bargain, you’ll be spoiled for choice. If you’re hankering for a bite in between browsing, head to the Yee Hope Seafood Restaurant inside the market. But, make sure you’ve brushed up on your Canto, as no English is spoken there.
Aberdeen Wholesale Fish Market, 102 Shek Pai Wan Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, p. 2177 7872
5. Red Doors Studio
Looking to do some inner healing when exploring things to do in Aberdeen? At Red Doors Studio in Wong Chuk Hang, Founder Martha Collard has one of the largest collections of perfectly tuned gongs in Asia. Experience them during gong baths at the studio, where you’ll be immersed in sound as each note resonates within the spirit. Full moon and new moon gong baths are also offered, as well as all-night gong pujas, meditation, Kundalini yoga therapy, and other alternative healing practices.
Explore other modalities of alternative healing in Hong Kong.
Red Doors Studio, Flat A, 21/F, Lee Fund Centre, 31 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, p. 2110 0152
6. Deals on deals at Horizon Plaza
With floors upon floors of deals and outlet stores, Horizon Plaza is one of the best places to find discounted designer clothes in Hong Kong. From Lane Crawford Warehouse to Ralph Lauren Factory Outlet, you’re bound to score a steal when exploring the building from top to bottom. Looking to give your home a makeover as well? Horizon Plaza is also chock-full of amazing furniture and home goods stores that have amazing beds, couches, desks, and more at affordable prices.
Need help sprucing up your space? Check out our guides to furniture stores, beds and beddings, and interior designers in Hong Kong.
Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong, p. 2554 9089
7. Aberdeen Country Park
One of the oldest country parks in Hong Kong, Aberdeen Country Park is also the only country park on the Island with a picnic area for the physically disabled. If you’re feeling outdoorsy, this park is a great place for a not-so-challenging hike. You’ll be able to navigate to Stage Three and Four of the Hong Kong Trail, but if you feel that’s a bit much, you can simply walk from Aberdeen Reservoir Road to Aberdeen. Affectionately referred to as the city’s “back garden” due to its biodiversity, the park is home to the small but mighty Kingfisher and the majestic Black Kite, so make sure you have your cameras at the ready!
Throw down a blanket at these amazing picnic spots in Hong Kong.
Aberdeen Country Park, Aberdeen, Hong Kong
8. Watch the Dragon Boat Race
One of the most anticipated events in Hong Kong every year, the Dragon Boat Festival will definitely get your adrenaline pumping! Wildly popular dragon boat races are held across the city, and one of them is held right in Aberdeen, where you can hear the beat of the drums from the promenade or Aberdeen West Typhoon Shelter. What makes the Aberdeen Dragon Boat Races especially exciting is its use of long boats, which make a grand sight considering they’re almost double the size of the boats seen at other races. Don’t forget to stock up on rice dumplings before enjoying the spectacle!
Get the lowdown on this traditional celebration with our guides to Dragon Boat Festival and rice dumplings in Hong Kong.
9. Experience wildlife and thrills at Ocean Park
One of the top theme parks in Hong Kong, Ocean Park is truly special due to its many spectacular animal exhibits, in addition to classic amusement park rides. If you’re looking to take a break in between waiting for the thrilling Hair Raiser or the stomach-turning The Abyss, get a closer look at some wildlife friends at the Grand Aquarium, Giant Panda Adventure, North Pole Encounter, and more. Plus, the cable car is always a highlight for us when we’re at Ocean Park. Try hitching your ride during golden hour, as you’ll be able to witness a breathtaking sunset while travelling from the Summit back down to the Waterfront.
Here’s where you can find all the incredible indigenous wild animals in Hong Kong!
Ocean Park, 180 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, p. 3923 2323
[This article was originally published in June 2020 and updated in 2024 by Min Ji Park.]
