Kowloon

The basics

There are as many ways to explore Kowloon as there are things to do there. The night markets of the Kowloon Peninsula are famous for their street food, making a Cantonese food tour an appealing option, and most city sightseeing tours include stops in Kowloon, including the blue route of the hop-on, hop-off bus. Explore the museums of Tsim Sha Tsui, view the impressive Hong Kong skyline from the waterfront, visit old Buddhist temples, or indulge in some retail therapy in the collection of shops and businesses along Nathan Road’s Golden Mile.

Things to know before you go

• A visit to Kowloon is essential for understanding Hong Kong.

• Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do quite a bit of walking.

• Demystify the tightly packed maze of streets with a guided Kowloon tour.

• It’s a good idea to carry a small umbrella, as sudden rainfall is frequent in Hong Kong.

How to get there

Several MTR lines can take you to Kowloon, including the red line that crosses beneath Victoria Harbour from Hong Kong Island. A more scenic way to reach Kowloon from Hong Kong Island, especially for first-time visitors, is to ride the Star Ferry across.

When to get there

Kowloon looks completely different in the daytime than after dark, so try to visit during both times of day to get a complete picture. The area is famous for its night markets, particularly Temple Street in Jordan and the Ladies Market in Mong Kok.

Specialized markets of Kowloon

Aside from the usual street markets selling clothes and souvenirs, Kowloon is home to some fairly specific markets as well. The Jade Market comprises some 400 vendors selling jewelry and trinkets made from China’s beloved green stone, while the fragrant Flower Market caters to the city’s wholesale and retail flower trade. Goldfish Street does indeed sell goldfish, as well as a whole menagerie of reptiles and exotic critters.

Can you visit Kowloon Walled City?

Yes and no: The walled garrison, Kowloon Walled City, which became infamous as one of the world's densest urban settlements, was demolished in 1994. However, Kowloon Walled City Park—a beautiful traditional Chinese garden—was erected in its place. You can visit this must-see Hong Kong attraction in Kowloon.

Is visiting Kowloon worth it?

Yes, Kowloon is worth visiting when visiting Hong Kong. Many visitors stay in Kowloon as it has a good range of affordable accommodations, plus a vibrant dining and nightlife scene. It’s also home to several top museums, and the waterfront offers great views of the Hong Kong Island skyline.

What is the best time of day to visit Kowloon?

Many visitors to Hong Kong stay in Kowloon and all times of day are ideal. The dining and nightlife in Kowloon are lively and varied, and the views of Hong Kong Island are fantastic at any time of day, especially after dark. Kowloon also houses some good museums that are a reason to visit during the day.

What is the best time of year to visit Kowloon?

Kowloon is a year-round destination. Summers (May through September) tend to be hot and humid, but winters are mild. Spring and fall are warm and considered the most pleasant times to visit. Major holidays such as the Lunar New Year (February) and Christmas (December) are fun but busy.

Are there restrooms in Kowloon?

Yes, there are plenty of public restrooms in Kowloon, particularly at tourist sites and shopping malls. It’s a good idea to use the facilities in hotels, restaurants, and malls when you have the chance as these tend to be the most sanitary. Other public toilets vary widely in their level of cleanliness.

How long does it take to tour Kowloon?

Kowloon is a large and densely packed area of Hong Kong, so you could spend many days exploring it. Reserve at least one day to visit if you’re not staying there. The Hong Kong Museum of Art, the Hong Kong Palace Museum, and the Hong Kong Science Museum are all worth visiting, depending on your interests.