Looking for fun things to do in Hong Kong at night? Start your after dark plans by reading this list.
If you’ve visited these popular tourist attractions, Chinese temples, and gorgeous islands around Hong Kong, it’s time to experience the 852 after the sun goes down. Known as the city that never sleeps, there are loads of interesting things you can do in Hong Kong after dark. Here is our guide on what to do in Hong Kong at night. Have fun!
What to do in Hong Kong at night
1. Get spellbound by A Symphony of Lights
A spectacular multimedia show that takes place at Victoria Harbour every night at 8pm, A Symphony of Lights has been the signature attraction in Hong Kong since 2004. Make sure to arrive early to secure a prime viewing spot on the Avenue of Stars in Tsim Sha Tsui before the crowd starts whipping out their cameras. Or, hop aboard Aqualuna, the historic junk boat, to enjoy the light show in relative privacy. For those on a budget, the Star Ferry is the ideal alternative, as you’ll also gain great views of both sides of the harbour.
All the many promenades in Hong Kong are prime spots to view the Symphony of Lights.
A Symphony of Lights, Avenue of Stars, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
2. Spend your night at these rooftop bars
Hong Kong is known for having an amazingly diverse mix of bars and restaurants. If you want to sip a couple of cocktails while taking in the panoramic views of the city skyline, then you should definitely check out some of the town’s most beloved rooftop bars. Popular names include Kaboom, Cardinal Point, Skye, and many more.
Check out the best rooftop bars in Hong Kong.
3. Jog along the Victoria Harbour
Whichever side of the Victoria Harbour you’re on, there are numerous promenades for you to jog on while having the city’s gorgeous skyline as your backdrop. Quarry Bay Promenade is one of our faves since it has a dog park, so you can even bring your pooch along for your evening exercise. Kwun Tong Promenade is another great option, since it’s conveniently connected to nearby shopping malls and transportation systems. Need extra motivation? Join a running club in Hong Kong!
4. Explore the Temple Street Night Market
Thinking about what to do in Hong Kong at night? Opening after dark, the iconic Temple Street Night Market in Yau Ma Tei is where you can find an array of cool knick knacks, clothing, and more. It’s always packed with local street food vendors, fortune tellers, and exciting busking performances, making it an extraordinary experience just by walking through the crowds. You might even spot some people doing street karaoke!
Find out more about Hong Kong markets.
Temple Street Night Market, Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong
5. Feast on late-night snacks in Mong Kok
If you are busy with work during the day, you might want to reward yourself with some heavenly delicious night snacks. Like Soho, Mong Kok is another neighbourhood that remains lively at night. You never have to worry about restaurants and stalls being closed as a lot of them are open until late. While late-night snacks aren’t the healthiest food around, the mental satisfaction we gain from eating them more than makes up for it!
Know what you’re looking for with our full guide to street food in Hong Kong.
6. Catch a horse race in Happy Valley
Organised by the Hong Kong Jockey Club, horse racing is one of Hong Kong’s most popular night events. You can catch the races in Happy Valley on most Wednesday evenings and in Sha Tin on most Saturday afternoons from September to June. Prepare to witness some of the world’s best horses and jockeys racing for the top spot. Join in with the crowd as they get excited for the live musical acts. Just remember to place your bets before you start drinking!
Hong Kong Jockey Club has racecourses in Happy Valley and Sha Tin.
7. Ride the Peak Tram
Running until 10pm, if you can’t bring yourself to hike to the top of The Peak on Hong Kong Island, then get aboard the Peak Tram. While it’s not the kind of thing you’re going to find yourself doing on a regular basis, this quirky tourist attraction in Hong Kong gives you stunning views as you climb at a pretty steep vantage through the surrounding green area. Once you reach the top, you can enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants or head to the SkyDeck for a photo sesh.
Find out more about the Peak Tram online.
8. Book a night junk
Who says you have to stay on land at night? There are a number of companies offering late-night junk boat rental and yacht charter in Hong Kong. Whether you want to go squid fishing, or throw an evening soiree, your dream voyage is just a call away. Psst – make sure to get your night fuel with junk catering services!
9. Party it up at Lan Kwai Fong
You can’t talk about what to do in Hong Kong at night without mentioning Lan Kwai Fong in Central. As Hong Kong’s hottest nightlife spot, Lan Kwai Fong is home to around 100 restaurants and bars. Parties, clubs, gay bars, jello shots, shisha… You name it, you find it.
Lan Kwai Fong, Central, Hong Kong
10. Go play pool and beer pong
It’s always nice to have some friendly competition, like beating your friends in beer pong and pool! There are a number of restaurants and bars in Hong Kong that offer pool tables and billiards, as well as serving delicious snacks and drinks. The perfect way to relax after a day of exploring the city.
Find out where to play pool in Hong Kong.
11. Live music and stand-up comedy shows
There are plenty of live music venues and galleries that offer live jazz sessions and stand-up comedy in Hong Kong. If you want to stay away from the hustle and bustle and simply sit down to catch some nice music, we recommend checking out these hidden gems in Hong Kong Island, such as Salon 10, Foxglove, and Social Room.
12. Sing karaoke with your friends
No one can say no to a good karaoke experience on a Thursday night! Tired of social interactions at bars? Bring your friends to these private karaoke bars to enjoy some games, food and drinks, and unleash your inner rock star.
Check out these karaoke bars in Hong Kong.
13. Hang out at the beach
Hong Kong is famously full of beaches that many flock to during sunny days. How about heading over at night? The main beaches like Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach are popular choices, but you can try trekking to a hidden beach for more privacy. See the moon reflect off the water as you lounge on the cool sand. You can even go for a little night swim, though be wary of not swimming out too far in the dark!
14. Go on a night hike
Hiking is often a classic, sun-filled daytime activity, but Hong Kong has its fair share of beautiful night hike trails as well. You can see spectacular views of the Hong Kong skyline all lit up at night from The Peak on Lugard Road. Are you an experienced hiker who wants to get that perfect Instagram photo? Try the Suicide Cliff via Kowloon Peak hike for a once-in-a-lifetime picture overlooking Hong Kong.
Check out the best night hikes in Hong Kong.
15. Try your hand at night photography
In the city that truly never sleeps, you can always spot some interesting things at night. Next time you’re feeling like a night owl, bring out your camera and snap some shots. Want a classic Hong Kong night shot? Try heading over to Mong Kok to capture the iconic neon signs that are scattered across the neighbourhood.
Head over to these Instagram hotspots in Hong Kong.
16. Watch a late movie showing
In the mood for a thrilling action number or a heartwarming rom-com? Skip being a couch potato and hit the cinemas after dark. With usually discounted tickets and empty theatres, a late-night screening is one of the best things to do at night in Hong Kong.
17. Take a night bus tour
Who said you can’t be a tourist in your own city? The Big Bus Tours’ open-top buses you see roaming on the streets during the day actually run far into the night as well. Simply purchase a pass to hop on and off any bus whilst you’re guided through Hong Kong in style.
Learn more about Big Bus Hong Kong online.
18. Hop on the Observation Wheel
Did you know we have a Hong Kong version of the London Eye? You’re bound to have spotted the flashy Hong Kong Observation Wheel planted right at the edge of Victoria Harbour. If you’re not a huge fan of hiking (especially in this heat), taking a ride up in a cool cabin is definitely a good way to admire the city from above. Add this activity to your date night itinerary, too!
Hong Kong Observation Wheel, 33 Man Kwong Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2339 0777
[This article was originally published in September 2019 and updated in 2024 by Min Ji Park.]
