From glamorous rooftop bars to buzzing street markets, international festivals to serene local temples – Hong Kong is a city of fascinating contrasts to explore.
If you think you know Hong Kong, think again A direct flight from New Zealand will bring you right into the heart of this dynamic city that sparkles and glistens with its own unique energy on an island at the heart of more than 250 islands on the edge of the Pacific Ocean A city that thrums as an economic hub for companies from around the world that use it as a base where you’ll rub shoulders with executives entertaining clients at the finest restaurants and glamorous travellers who network at rooftop cocktail bars and discreet clubs where the interiors ooze opulence It s a city where you can jump on and off a ding-ding tram and find yourself in the heart of a bustling back street where people jostle at street stalls, slurping noodles and eating Cantonese favourites washed down with milky Hong Kong-style tea It s a city where towering skyscrapers dominate but much of the land is protected untouched nature It s a city where ships from around the globe create gentle wakes as they glide past traditional Chinese junks and fishing boats It is a city of contrasts yet nowhere is further than a 20-minute drive – and it s probably easier to walk It s a city that’s exciting and deserves far more than a couple of hours sitting in the airport in transit Hong Kong is for those who appreciate modern urban life at its best – diversity, energy, colour, flavours, passion and an environment to experiment experience and enjoy
A city for food lovers
Hong Kong s dining scene oozes glamour It boasts 78 Michelin-starred restaurants and 67 Bib Gourmand award highlights with top-tier restaurants that combine world-class cuisine in some truly remarkable settings Each dining experience from Cantonese classics to local street food elevated to fine dining, demonstrates the city s culinary prowess
On the 25th floor of the Mandarin Oriental, you will discover Man Wah a one-Michelin-star luxury Cantonese restaurant with breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour The menu merges traditional Cantonese flavours with modern flair and features the likes of Peking duck steamed crab and dim sum The elegant interior and impeccable service add to the sense of sophistication
It’s best to book well in advance to secure a table at chef Vicky Cheng s outstanding WING restaurant
which has earned a place at number 20 in The Worlds 50 Best Restaurants 2024 Vicky describes WING s offerings as blending boundaryless Chinese cuisine dried seafood culture and Hong Kong heritage” He has been recognised as Tatler Dining HK’s Chef of the Year this year recognised for his dazzling dishes that blend tradition with innovative flair, and his commitment to sustainability and community
Another must-visit is Forum in Causeway Bay This three-star Michelin destination is famed for its abalone The restaurant offers an upscale setting and serves meticulously crafted Cantonese dishes
For a more casual yet iconic taste of Hong Kong Kams Roast Goose is a Michelin-starred institution specialising in Cantonese roast meats Kams serves its signature succulent roast goose with perfectly crisp skin along with other classic dishes like roast pork and char siu rice The modest but lively ambience makes this a great place
You can t say you ’ ve truly experienced Hong Kong until youve followed the tantalising smells emanating from the dai pai dongs (open-air food stalls) or pulled up a stool in one of the bustling cha chaan tengs (Hong Kong-style cafes) and tucked in to everyday favourites such as hearty wonton noodles char siu rice (barbecued pork rice) and warm pineapple buns
Start at Kwan Kee Bamboo Noodles a Michelinrecommended eatery famed for its handmade noodles pressed with a bamboo pole a rare traditional method that results in uniquely chewy, springy noodles which are then paired with simple savoury toppings When it comes to fluffy, warm pineapple buns, Wing Wah Cafe Restaurant is famed for them Crumbly with a sweet crust, eat with a slab of butter For Hong Kong s street food favourite egg waffles head to Mammy Pancake while Tai Cheong Bakery is synonymous with the city s iconic egg tarts This buttery crumbly pastry filled with smooth egg custard is a must-try for anyone exploring Hong Kong s sweet treats
Hong Kong s open-air markets are a must and a wonderful way to be involved in the communal vibe of this vibrant city Woosung Street Temporary
Cooked Food Hawker Bazaar is the perfect place to wander around and be tempted by all the local food stalls serving up cha chaan teng fare stir-fries and fresh seafood dishes While the bustling Temple Street Night Market comes alive after dark with stalls selling everything from curry fish balls and stinky tofu, right through to clothing and kitsch souvenirs to take home
Head to hip Sham Shui Po, one of Kowloons oldest and densest districts, for must-try food experiences
Known for its silky tofu pudding refreshing soy milk and tofu ice cream Kung Wo Beancurd Factory is a destination for soy-based delicacies that are healthy and delicious
Hop Yik Tai is known for its cheung fun (rice noodle rolls) – a staple of Hong Kong street food culture The restaurant s Michelin-recommended rice rolls are smooth and delicious served with sauces like sweet soy and sesame
Sun Hang Yuen is a go-to spot for hearty corned beef and egg sandwiches, paired with a steaming cup of Hong Kong milk tea Perfect for breakfast or a quick snack this is comfort eating Hong Kong-style
For a classic yum cha experience Luk Yu Tea House is one of Hong Kong s oldest tea houses Here dim sum dishes are served with tea in a traditional setting making it an ideal place to savour dumplings buns and more in a nostalgic atmosphere that celebrates Cantonese heritage And for another iconic dish head to Yat Lok for its award-winning roast goose – crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, you’ll be tucking in alongside locals and visitors
A city for art and heritage lovers
At the heart of the worlds most-loved cities you will find a vibrant art scene and Hong Kong delivers; indeed, it surpasses expectation Strong investment in arts and culture makes it easy to seek out stimulating and dynamic ways to experience and connect with the people The historical building Tai Kwun a former prison and police station has been reinvented into a cultural centre with everything from a constantly changing programme of festivals and theatre along
WING Restaurant s Drunken Sea Snails
Hong s Kong s Victoria Harbour
with galleries shops and eateries including the elegant Botanical Garden restaurant and the green glowing light-filled Dragonfly cocktail lounge The options here are endless
PMQ formerly the Police Married Quarters, was transformed 10 years ago into a multi-storied hub for more than 100 designers and artists Situated in the shady suburb of Central it makes for a cool respite and perfect place to discover creatives at work in their studios explore the small galleries or stores where you ll find everything from eyewear to toys fashion and ceramics Don t miss T/ea for a chic modern take on traditional tea drinking
M+ is another must-visit not only for its groundbreaking contemporary art collection but also its stunning architecture It is Asias first museum dedicated to visual culture and showcases a diverse range of works, from modern art to design and moving images with a focus on the regions unique cultural landscape Designed by Herzog & de Meuron the building is breathtaking
True art fans should plan their visit to the city at the end of March next year in time for Art Basel Hong Kong
– the premier fair that attracts international collectors artists and enthusiasts What truly sets this Art Basel apart from others around the world is its focus on the diversity of modern and contemporary Asia-Pacific art The fair s dynamic programming, including talks tours
and artist collaborations, creates an immersive, crosscultural art experience
A city for culture lovers
From the high energy of the Rugby Sevens and Dragon Boat Racing to the serenity of exploring temples this incredible city has it all with easy access from your hotel Hong Kong s cultural events offer vibrant glimpses into the city s rich heritage and communal spirit Hong Kong s Dragon Boat Festival takes place on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month each year (in late May or June) The racing is fast and furious as teams in colourful boats celebrate the ancient tradition and bring the waterfront to life
A more whimsical spectacle is the three-day Cheung Chau Bun Festival with its parades and Bun Scrambling Competition This unique event, held in May combines religious rituals with fun competitions While the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Festival held in autumn sees the streets transformed with flames and music and a massive dragon made of incense sticks is paraded through the neighbourhood
If you want to escape the bustling energy the city s temples and monasteries provide the perfect serene respite and the chance to explore the spiritual heritage
Take the metro and then a bus to Po Lin Monastery, located on Lantau Island Situated in the tranquil
gardens you will find the iconic Big Buddha – the 34-metre-tall bronze statue symbolising peace and enlightenment If you ’ re keen, climb the 268 steps for breathtaking views Back in the heart of the city, Man Mo Temple in Central captures the essence of Hong Kong s historical roots Dedicated to the gods of literature and war this charming temple is adorned with intricate wood carvings and hanging incense coils that add to the mystical atmosphere
The beauty of Hong Kong is that one minute you are being wowed by its modern sophistication the next you’ll come across people practising tai chi in a park
Traditions like this abound and are still a vital part of urban living bringing a sense of calmness to daily life
Spending time in a local apothecary or luxury spa is a wonderful chance to discover herbal medicines and the age-old remedies, holistic practices and traditional healing methods that continue to be used And while you might choose to drink cocktails on the rooftops you can also enjoy the sensory pleasure of a traditional tea ceremony with the finest of Chinese teas and discover the intricate rituals and health benefits of this beloved drink That s Hong Kong – a city of wonderful contrasts worth exploring
Feeling intrigued? Visit Discoverhongkong com/anz to help plan your trip
Getting there
Cathay Pacific flies direct to Hong Kong from Auckland daily and Christchurch seasonally four times a week from December 2 2024 to March 30
2025 Offering premium service delicious dishes and worldclass inflight entertainment your journey to Hong Kong and beyond will be elevated on a Cathay Pacific flight
For more information visit Cathaypacific com
The three-day Cheung Chau Bun Festival features parades and a Bun Scrambling Competition
Hong Kong has a vibrant street-art scene
Man Mo Temple in Central captures the essence of Hong Kong’s historical roots
Bing Kee Cha Dong eatery in Tai Hang
A CITY FOR THE SPORTS FAN
Dan Carter s affinity for Hong Kong runs deeper than one might expect from a seasoned rugby player known for his skill and speed on the field Over the years, the former All Black has grown fond of the city, not just for its role in hosting the world-famous Hong Kong Sevens but thanks to family living there and numerous visits for work and pleasure
From the moment you step into Hong Kong theres this unmistakable buzz he explains enthusiastically Dans involvement with the Hong Kong Sevens has always been from the sidelines but hes no passive observer
Working with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, he visits the Sevens to promote the city enjoying its dynamic energy and sharing his experiences with the fans To be honest I mostly go as a fan
Dan admits and it s one of the most electric atmospheres in rugby
The Hong Kong Sevens is one of the most iconic stops in the international rugby calendar renowned for its intensity and party-like atmosphere
The event is moving to the new state of the art Kai Tak Sports Park in 2025 for the first time, bringing fans from all over the world to cheer on teams in what Dan describes as a festival of rugby
He recalls his first visit to the Sevens as nothing short of awe-inspiring
It s a non-stop energy fest from the stands to the field he says Fans arrive dressed in costumes as early as seven in the morning amplifying the lively atmosphere People go all out in their outfits ” Dan laughs “it’s unlike any other rugby experience ” Dan enjoys the pace of rugby sevens for its sharpness and speed which makes for a fun day for fans Unlike the traditional 15-player game, rugby sevens is fast-paced with each half lasting only seven minutes Games move quickly with minimal stoppages and players often back up multiple matches in one day Sevens is a breeding ground for young talent he explains Some of the best All Blacks like Jonah Lomu and Christian Cullen started in sevens it’s a stepping stone ” Excitingly, 2025 will see both New Zealands men ’ s and womens teams arriving as defending champions for a second consecutive year
Beyond the stadium and the sport
Dan loves Hong Kong s vibrant city life – from the incredible shopping to the food scene and exploring beyond the high-rises Theres another side to Hong Kong that most people don t realise he says A short drive from the busy city centre and you ’ re surrounded by beaches hiking trails and mountains ”
One of his favourite activities is a sunrise hike up The Peak Hong Kong s famous mountaintop with breathtaking views of the city and coastline “The incline is no joke ” he laughs recalling his attempt to run to the top, “but it’s worth it when you see that sunrise over the skyline ” For a more relaxing trip to The Peak, visitors can also catch the Peak Tram The Peak Tram Lower Terminus is easily reachable on foot from the MTR
Food is another passion that ties Dan to Hong Kong The culinary scene here is unmatched he says with a smile Hes ventured beyond traditional Chinese dishes exploring fusion eateries like Ho Lee Fook known for its creative twist on Cantonese cuisine served in an eclectic, retro-inspired space Another of Dans favourites is the beloved Little Bao famous for its steamed pork buns
They re the best I ve had in Hong Kong he claims admitting he often finds himself craving them Cafe Match Box known for its local breakfast soups offers another experience he treasures
It s a spot popular with both locals and tourists and the retro décor adds to the whole vibe ” he says Hong Kong’s famed shopping scene is also something Dan has enjoyed since his early days as a rugby player
From luxury boutiques to bustling street markets, he finds Hong Kong s diversity in shopping options both exciting and nostalgic I bought my first Christian Dior shirt here back in 2006 he remembers It felt like a huge deal at the time a real investment Hes quick to point out that Hong Kong’s shopping offers something for everyone from luxury brands to unique finds that make for memorable souvenirs
For getting around Central on Hong Kong Island, Dan recommends the iconic ding-ding trams, which are a nostalgic way to explore its bustling streets I finally hopped on one earlier this year he says They are a great way to sightsee while resting your legs
Hong Kong is also known for its nightlife and Dan has had his fair share of evenings out with friends who live and work there “Theres a great food scene and rooftop bars are a big thing,” he says While he admits his days of staying out all night are mostly behind him, he appreciates the vibrant nightlife that gives Hong Kong a unique dynamic edge The combination of flavours styles and sounds that the city offers from world-class restaurants to streetlevel food stalls and eclectic late-night spots continues to impress him
As Dan counts down to the upcoming Hong Kong Sevens in 2025 set to take place in the city’s new Kai Tak Sports Park, he’s excited to see if the new venue can match the legendary energy of the current stadium
Hong Kong has a way of exceeding expectations he reflects Every time I leave I m already thinking about when I can come back For Dan Hong Kong isn t just another stop on the rugby circuit it s a second home filled with unforgettable memories sights and friendships
To find out more about the Hong Kong Sevens, visit Hksevens com
Dan Carter at the Hong Kong Sevens
Food & Drink
T Kong
When planning a trip to Hong Kong one of the first questions is where and what to eat With its proximity in the heart of Asia, history as a trading hub, and the cosmopolitan nature of the city, Hong Kong’s food and drink
offering is a treasure trove of cuisines and delicacies
not very common these days Waiter Yip Chung Tim (pictured above serving Ziyi tea) loves the beef balls “They’re the best ”
Its staff are on-site by 6 30am, at 7am doors open to patrons starting their day with hot tea and a bite to eat It’s normal to come in alone, particularly in the morning Luk Yu is popular with families too; many young Hong Kongers come with their parents
Longstanding neighbourhood eateries continue “old Hong Kong” traditions like dim sum and dai pai dong, sitting shoulder to shoulder with fine-dining establishments
Navigating such a dizzying array of eateries benefits from local knowledge: the nuances of dining conventions, advice on what to order and where does it best
Here’s what we recommend
For a cinematic culinary experience:
Luk Yu Tea House
A local institution that’s been in business for 92 years, it doesn’t get more classic than this Walking through the doors transports you back in time, and the same diners and staff have been under this roof for years
Two decades is the average tenure for their employees, says manager Mr Ng, who has been there 20 years himself “It’s culture It’s tradition, eating dim sum, ” he tells us His favourite is pig liver shu mei,
For this institution beloved by locals and a destination for tourists, you’ll want to book a couple of days ahead About 150 customers pass through in the morning and up to 300 in the afternoon, all for dim sum, while the dinner service of Cantonese-style dishes draws around 70-60 people
Lawyer Jeffry Wong is there three to four times a week He works at a firm 10 minutes’ walk away and has been coming to Luk Yu for 60 years “I love the feelings, I love the food,” he tells me “It’s like coming home to eat ”
Visit Luk Yu Tea House at G/F-3/F, 24 Stanley St, Central
For traditional toss noodles:
Kwan Kee Bamboo Noodle
Recognised by Michelin’s Bib Gourmand for its quality and price, this small, simple spot has been dishing up “toss noodles” for 13 years Their signature dish combines
ting your way through ma Gleason
there’s art on the walls too seascapes by photographer Hiroshi Sugimoto when we visit that changes every six months
Ornate tequila bottles are on display too Agave spirits are a pillar of the drinks menu, as is Champagne, and sake of course
Visit Udatsu Sushi at House 1881, FWD, The Stable, 2A Canton Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui Udatsu-sushi com hk
For a great G&T: Ping Pong 129
Step through a taxi-red door on a steep side street of Sai Ying Pun and you’ll find a surprisingly cavernous gin bar
Patronage is broad older couples, hip young things, white-collar workers “We have a really eclectic clientele,” co-owner Juan Martínez Gregorio tells us as he sits at our table in the corner after rustling up a round of gorgeous drinks
Ping Pong 129 throws art and music nights as well as private events they’ve even hosted weddings for couples who met at the bar When we walk in they’re in the midst of a fundraiser for Valencia’s devastating floods Juan is from Spain he moved to Hong Kong in 2008 which shows in the menu, tapas, and provenance of many of its gins
His favourite is the herbaceous Xoriguer Mahon from the Balearic Islands It’s “ a real craft gin” and one of the few in the world with a protected geographic origin
Visit Ping Pong 129 at 129 Second St L/G Nam Cheong House, Sai Ying Pun Pingpong129 com
egg noodles, made by hand on a bamboo pole in the traditional style, with dry shrimp roe (which they also sell by the jar) in an array of charmingly named iterations including the Boss Lady’s Choice (and mine) which comes with prawn balls, shrimp dumpling and crab roe wontons Al dente noodles, fishy roe and an array of condiments make this a flavourful pit stop for a quick, cheap lunch
Visit Kwan Kee Bamboo Noodles at 1E Wing Lung St, Cheung Sha Wan
For artful Japanese:
Udatsu Sushi
Located in a historic Tsim Sha Tsui precinct that dates back to the late 1800s, with its hushed elegance and modernity Udatsu Sushi channels zen from the moment you walk into the intimate space
Opened in August 2024, chef Hisashi Udatsu’s new restaurant joins his Michelinstarred original Udatsu Sushi Tokyo
The inventive omakase menu is revised on the first of every month, reflecting seasonal change with its produce and fish, so while we had Spanish mackerel in early November, there may be a different offering by the time you ’ re reading this story.
The seasonal herb maki rests on a darling Murano glass dish by Ercole Moretti, and
For artful fusion: Andō
Tucked away in an unassuming building, an elevator takes you up to chef Agustin Balbi’s visionary restaurant, where he melds Argentinian food with that of Japan somewhere he worked for a long time.
You’ll eat everything from an expansive sashimi medley spanning the five elemental flavours and ingredients like amaebi (sweet shrimp) and Japanese sea bream, to the sumptuously rich “Sin Lola”
That’s the restaurant’s signature dish, inspired by the traditional Spanish arroz caldoso (brothy rice) that Agustin’s grandmother would make
Nearly everyone who comes to Andō orders it and we ’ re no exception During our springtime visit it’s a marriage of three stocks chicken, crab and lobster each cooked for a full day before being combined with Spanish prawn and Hong Kong rice
The beef is Argentinian Angus (it’s beautiful) and is served with mushrooms from Yunnan A sparkling cacao-husk drink is brewed locally from coffee beans
This goes very well with dessert, an innovative creation by patisserie chef Stella that magics together cognac jelly, smoked chocolate mousse, buttermilk icing and Chantilly cream in a textural extravaganza. Visit Andō at 1F Somptueux Central 52, Wellington St, Central. Andohk.com
Yip Chung Tim serves tea for model Ziying at the beloved Luk Yu Tea House Ziying wears Kate Sylvester skirt set and Gucci pearl
choker Photo / Babiche Martens
For spice with a side of fabulosity:
Grand Majestic Sichuan
Inspired by Hong Kong’s swanky supper clubs of the 1960s, with its glossy fit-out and suggestion of possibility, Grand Majestic Sichuan is pure glamor
It opened in 2022 and the kitchen is helmed by head chef Theign Phan, who joined last year Food skews traditional and the à la carte menu is changed quarterly, aligning with the Sichuan seasons
It’s autumn when we visit, and the restaurant’s famous Shui Zhu Yu (Fish Sea of Chillies) is top of our list, an ocean of rich red soup loaded with Sichuan pepper
Tempering the heat is a delicate and very lovely potato and lotus root dish We also devour the zesty tangerine peel beef, dan dan noodles assembled tableside, and an incredible iteration of sweet and sour pork
Signature dishes include flaming mao tai chicken; a tea-smoked duck that comes with steamed buns; and wok-fried whole crab with Sichuan chillies and peppercorns
The drinks list is extensive and aligned with the Chinese Zodiac A sprawling wine selection spans old-world (Loire Valley and Burgundy) and new, with Aotearoa strongly represented thanks to bottles from Greystone, Black Barn, Zephyr, Gillman Vineyard, Mt Difficulty and Pegasus Bay
Visit Grand Majestic Sichuan at Alexandra House, Shop 301, 3rd Floor, 18 Chater Rd, Central, Hong Kong. Grandmajesticsichuan.com
For a good flat white or long black:
Winston’s Coffee
Popular with locals, with its corner spot and
locally roasted beans, this relaxed cafe is a good place to refuel, and the intersection site was a relaxed entrée to the dynamics of the city Winston’s Coffee is located in an old neighbourhood, Dai Hain; it’s full of walk-up apartments, longstanding businesses and young creatives, many of whom frequent the business Once you ’ re fully caffeinated, don’t leave without grabbing a bag of their house-blend coffee or some cool merch to take home
Visit Winston’s Coffee at Shop 4, G/F Rich Court, 213 Queen’s Rd W, Sai Ying Pun Winstonscoffee com
For a century of dim sum knowledge:
Luk On Kui
Another Hong Kong institution, the Luk On Kui brand has been around for more than 100 years, and it’s been in the current Des Voeux Rd West location for over 20
Steaming carts are shuttled between busy tables manager Mr Chow says they serve over 1000 people a day
Lift a basket lid and you might find pillowy bae clouds or morsels of shu mei If you spot sha yung (sugar-coated egg puffs that taste like choux-pastry doughnuts) get some; we ordered three rounds
There’s some amazing goose, rich meat and crispy skin tempered by plum sauce, and the succulent crispy pork Wash it all down with a pot of dark, strong pu ’ er tea
Communal tables are common here, and we shared ours with Mrs Chang and her husband, who visit every couple of weeks
She loves the pig liver and the taro cake, but the pork buns are her favourite “That’s how you can tell if a place is good or not.”
40-50 Des Voeux Rd W, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
For an inventive cocktail:
The Aubrey
This ritzy bar and restaurant can be found on the 25th floor of the Mandarin Oriental, slinging conceptual drinks and specialty spirits that have earned it the number 10 spot on this year ’ s Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards
Billed as “ an eccentric Japanese izakaya experience”, when we visit they’re offering a special menu dedicated to Kagoshima, a prefecture in the south of Japan famous for its Shochu, a distinctive distilled spirit traditionally made from the likes of rice or sweet potato
The Aubrey is so committed to the liquor that beverage manager Devender Sehgal has been made an official ambassador for Kagoshima Shochu, recently honoured with a visit by the prefecture’s governor
Devender loves Japanese spirits and it shows in what’s on offer, with the Signature Cocktail Menu the most popular is the negroniinspired Nobleman and Seasonal Cocktails
If a classic cocktail is more your thing, The Aubrey’s staff can also whip up off-menu drinks
Enjoy them all in the bar’s many booths, nooks and intimate spaces; there’s also the omakasefocused Ukiyo Dining room for private parties
Make sure to try the bar snacks while you ’ re there head chef Arlan Rivera’s sandos are quite something
With an ornate interior (and many nooks), it’s a sumptuous spot to while away the evening Things get very lively on Friday nights when the bar hosts The Aubrey After Dark from 10pm until the wee hours, and for those really looking to celebrate there are Festive, Christmas and New Year menus on offer until January 5 Level 25, Mandarin Oriental, Connaught Rd, Central
Model Ziying enjoys a long lunch in Grand Majestic Sichuan wearing Zambesi dress and Nicole Rebstock heels.
Photo / Babiche Martens. Fashion director / Dan Ahwa Hair and make-up / Krystina Te Kanawa
A fresh, spicy Imo Shochu-based drink with gin, ginger and citrus from The Aubrey’s latest Kaizen cocktail menu.
Forall of Hong Kong’s glitz, glamourandhedonism, sinkdeeperinto its streets andyou’ll find galleries and museums dedicatedto documenting its pastand celebrating its future,writes DanAhwa
1Liang Yi Museum
The past is not a dusty memory here, but an immersive homage to the centuries-old power of human design There’s a concept from Peter Fung, the ardent Chinese antique collector who founded the unassuming Liang Yi Museum in Sheung Wan, that encourages people to touch and hold its impressive collection of antiques because the belief is, the more it’s touched, the brighter it shines
Here inside the hushed halls of Asia’s largest private museum/events space, Chinese antique furniture from the Ming Dynasty holds equal value to a bejewelled Boucheron minaudière from the 1960s
The four-storey museum is home to one of the world’s largest and best-curated collections of Chinese antique furniture, along with a unique collection of bejewelled clutches, compacts and powder boxes from the late 1880s through to the 2000s from some of the world’s most prestigious jewellery brands, including Cartier, Boucheron and Van Cleef & Arpels
A table laid out with European silverware also demonstrates the uniqueness of this private collection, where you can pick up an ornate French silver gilt trophy with both hands and marvel at the craftsmanship of a bygone age; while Japanese decorative works of art also feature in the expansive collection including a collection of rare silk tobacco and cosmetics cases
But it’s the story behind the pair of 17thcentury Chinese cabinets decorated with marble slabs featuring illustrated vignettes that charmed me the most
Made from yellow rosewood, the cabinet harks back to the Ming dynasty and was used by the owner ’ s great-grandson as a TV cabinet, with holes drilled into the back for the TV cable to connect to the electrical outlet.
Another impressive piece that commands attention is the rare inclusion of a shrine from the golden age of the Qing dynasty that warrants its own room
As our personal guide explains, the collection has been a passion project for Peter, who has passed on his love of antiques to his daughter Lynn Fung, the former Tatler editor who now serves as the director of the museum Plan your visit:
The beauty of Liang Yi is that it is by appointment only Open between 10am-6pm Monday to Friday, the museum ’ s guided tour is the perfect way to enter a portal back in time, perfectly located in the heart of Hollywood Rd in Sheung Wan, the capital of Hong Kong’s antique community Be sure to take a form of identification or your passport with you for registration at reception
Guided tours cost HK$200 (about $44) and on Wednesdays, they are open free of charge to full-time students with prior arrangement Children under the age of 12 are not permitted 181, 199 Hollywood Rd, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Liangyimuseum com
Above: Model Ziying Zhao from Quest Models photographed on the Aqua Luna boat along Victoria Harbour at sunset. Rory William Docherty shirt and skirt. Yim Tom Jewels jade earrings from The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong. Photo / Babiche Martens Left the facade of
