Tsim Sha Tsui: 8 unmissable experiences on the ‘other side’ of Hong Kong

Hong Kong is often likened to cities like London and New York, but once you step outside the central business district, the comparison fades.

A short trip across Victoria Harbour – the divide between Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula – reveals an entirely different side of the city.

Tsim Sha Tsui offers more than just upscale dining and glossy shopping malls. It's a treasure trove of captivating museums, towering bars, hidden gems, cozy neighborhoods, and tranquil parks, all waiting to be explored. Here are eight activities to check out:

1. Embark on a heritage cruise

Hong Kong’s beloved Star Ferry has been crossing the harbor since the late 1800s.

With its signature green and white design, these timeless vessels transport passengers back and forth to Tsim Sha Tsui throughout the day. The journey lasts just 10 minutes and costs a mere 25 cents.

Surrounded by towering skyscrapers, the view of the Hong Kong skyline from the ferry is simply awe-inspiring.

If you're craving a ride on a classic junk boat, famous for its dragon-inspired sails and teak hull, we recommend hopping aboard the Aqua Luna II.

Launched earlier this year, this ship was expertly crafted by a seasoned junk builder using time-honored techniques – and not a single nail was used.

The 45-minute evening Symphony of Light cruise offers free drinks and front row views of the city’s nightly light show, where lasers and spotlights swirl around the towering skyscrapers.

2. Discover something new

Along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, visitors can explore a collection of Hong Kong’s finest museums and performance venues.

The Hong Kong Cultural Centre boasts a 2,000-plus seat concert hall and a spacious theater, regularly hosting performances and exhibitions, from Cantonese opera to international orchestras.

Just nearby, the Hong Kong Museum of Art and the Space Museum will reopen in 2018 after extensive renovations.

Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Museum of History offers an immersive journey through the city's past, while the Hong Kong Science Museum features numerous interactive exhibits for hands-on exploration.

Hong Kong Museum of Art, 10 Salisbury Rd, Kowloon; +852 2721 0116

Hong Kong Cultural Centre, L5, Auditoria Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, 10 Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 2734 2009

Hong Kong Science Museum, 2 Science Museum Rd, at the intersection of Cheong Wan Rd. and Chatham Rd., Kowloon; 2732–3232

Hong Kong Museum of History, 100 Chatham Rd S, Kowloon; +852 2724 9042

3. Shop 'til you drop

Tsim Sha Tsui has become a shopping hotspot, and it's easy to see why.

Along Nathan Road, also known as the “Golden Mile,” visitors can’t miss retail landmarks like Harbour City. The largest shopping mall in the city greets you as you step off the Star Ferry Pier.

With two cinemas, 50 restaurants, and over 450 stores, the sprawling space seems endless.

Beyond the major malls, shopping enthusiasts will love K11 Art Mall’s curated boutiques and the hip micro malls tucked away on side streets off Granville Road.

For a unique experience, Rise Shopping Arcade, packed with Japanese and Korean treasures, is definitely worth a detour.

One of the best ways to discover Hong Kong’s fashion scene is through custom tailoring.

Tsim Sha Tsui is home to a multitude of tailor shops.

Some of the most renowned names include Sam’s Tailor (a favorite of Bill Clinton), Raja Fashions, and Empire Tailors.

Harbour City, 3-27 Canton Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 2118 8666

K11 Art Mall, 18 Hanoi Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 3118 8070

Rise Fashion Arcade, 5-11 Granville Circuit, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon

Sam’s Tailor, Burlington Arcade, 90-94C Nathan Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 367 9423

Raja Fashions, 34 Cameron Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 366 7624

Empire Tailors, Shop 6, G/F, 63 Mody Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 2723 2673

4. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea

With its stunning colonial-style architecture, The Peninsula Hong Kong, built in 1928, is the city’s oldest luxury hotel.

It’s also home to one of the city’s most iconic afternoon tea experiences. The grand lobby, with its towering ceilings and ornate pillars, provides the perfect setting.

This is the ultimate indulgence. Enjoy delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream, and silver tea pots – all accompanied by the soothing sounds of a string quartet.

If waiting in line at The Peninsula isn’t your style, there’s another great alternative nearby: Palm Court at The Langham hotel.

This recently renovated venue offers an elegant setting, Wedgwood tea sets, and homemade delicacies – not to mention quick access to the sleek Artesian Bar, perfect for transitioning from afternoon tea to evening cocktails.

The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 2920 2888

Palm Court, The Langham, 8 Peking Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 2132 7898

5. Sip in elegance

For a serene garden vibe, head to Vibes lounge at The Mira, a stylish design hotel. Surrounded by frangipani trees and cozy outdoor seating, it’s the perfect spot to relax with mezze platters.

For panoramic views of Hong Kong Island, the stunning Felix bar at The Peninsula Hong Kong offers an unmatched experience.

Created by Philippe Starck, the 28th-floor restaurant and bar comes with its own private elevator. Once you ascend, a spiraling staircase leads you to the bar where expertly crafted cocktails await.

Another favorite is Aqua Spirit, located on the 30th floor of the One Peking Road tower, offering stunning penthouse views.

With its chic design and sweeping views, Aqua Spirit is a perfect spot for creative cocktails like the Matcha Colada, a piña colada twist.

For a more laid-back vibe, Castro’s dive bar offers a casual setting with affordable beers and tasty bar snacks.

Vibes, located on the 5th floor of The Mira, Mira Place, 118 Nathan Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 2315 5599

Felix, located on the 28th floor of The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 2696 6778

Aqua, located on the 30th floor of One Peking Road Building, 1 Peking Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 3427 2288

Castro’s, located at 16 Ashley Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 2957 8041

6. Dine like a star

Tsim Sha Tsui is home to some of the city’s most renowned dining destinations, from celebrity chef restaurants to authentic Cantonese fine dining.

Top restaurants such as Nobu and Rech by Alain Ducasse stand out at the InterContinental Hong Kong, where impeccable service and breathtaking harbor views elevate the experience.

In another part of Tsim Sha Tsui, FINDS delights with its exquisite Scandinavian offerings by chef Jaakko Sorsa.

The menu spans the Nordic countries, with dishes from Finland, Iceland, Norway, Denmark, and Sweden, featuring surprises like wild game pâté and traditional Danish open-faced sandwiches.

Naturally, while in Hong Kong, you’ll want to savor authentic local fare.

Lucky you! Tsim Sha Tsui is a paradise for lovers of Cantonese cuisine, and the three-Michelin-starred T’sang Court at The Langham stands out as the crème de la crème.

Nobu, InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 2721 1211

Rech, InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 2721 1211

T’sang Court, The Langham, 8 Peking Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 2132 7898

FINDS, The Luxe Manor, 39 Kimberley Rd., Kowloon; +852 2522 9318

7. Discover the park

Located in the northwestern corner of Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Park is one of the city's largest urban green spaces.

Once a British Army base, this 33-acre park now offers a swimming pool, aviary, soccer fields, winding bamboo paths, and a meticulously groomed maze garden.

On Sundays, enjoy a free lion dance performance and martial arts shows near the park’s Sculpture Walk.

Located just outside the southeastern edge of the park is the stunning Kowloon Masjid and Islamic Centre (Kowloon Mosque). Established in 1896, it is the largest mosque in Hong Kong.

Kowloon Park, 22 Austin Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, +852 2724 3344

Kowloon Mosque, 105 Nathan Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 2724 0095

8. Savor casual bites

Though high-end restaurants are plentiful, you don’t have to break the bank to eat well.

Tsim Sha Tsui is packed with casual eateries, tiny hole-in-the-wall spots, and even whole buildings dedicated to food.

A stroll down Kimberly Road offers a sneak peek at the diverse food scene in this vibrant area.

From Korean BBQ to Taiwanese noodle stalls, sushi bars, and creamy soft serve – you’ll never leave Tsim Sha Tsui hungry.

For even more global flavors, head to one of Hong Kong’s most iconic landmarks: Chungking Mansions.

Once infamous for drug smuggling and counterfeit goods, this tower is now known for money exchanges, secondhand phones, and mouthwatering food.

The 17-story structure is made up of various blocks, many of which house popular Indian, Pakistani, Nepali, and African eateries, including favorites like Khyber Pass and The Delhi Club.

The Delhi Club, Room 3, 3/F, Block C, Chungking Mansion, 38-44 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 2368 1682

Khyber Pass, Flat E2, 7/F, Block E, Chungking Mansion, 36-44 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon: +852 2721 2786