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The Top 18 Must-See Historical Buildings in Hong Kong

The Top 18 Must-See Historical Buildings in Hong Kong  

| Last Updated: October 2023

While Hong Kong is usually known for its urban landscapes, a lot of people would be surprised to know that the city hidestreasure troves of historical and architectural marvels. 

From ancient temples to colonial-era landmarks, there are a lot of local structures that serve as a poignant reminder of Hong Kong’s past. 

Want to know more? Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore 18 must-see historical buildings in Hong Kong!

1. Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware

Website: https://hk.art.museum/en/web/ma/tea-ware.html

Address: 10號 Cotton Tree Dr, Central, Hong Kong

Contact details: +852 2869 0690

Operating hours:

  • Monday, Wednesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
  • Tuesday – closed

Price: Free

The Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware is a structure erected in 1846. It’s one of the few in Hong Kong that incorporates a Western-style design to its architecture. 

Previously home to the British commander of Hong Kong, it now exhibits a collection of interesting tea ware found throughout different time periods. 

Pro tip:

Before heading over to see the Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware’s permanent collection, we suggest checking out their website to see the special exhibits they have available. 

2. 1881 Heritage 

Website: https://www.1881heritage.com/about.php

Address: 2A Canton Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

Contact details: +852 2926 8000

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 12 AM

The 1881 Heritage is a famous spot for luxurious dining and shopping. However, this hasn’t always been the case. 

Before it was revamped to the hub for extravagant local experiences it is now, it used to be the Marine Police Headquarters. It has been around for about 130 years! 

Pro tip:

Aside from the exciting shops one can visit while they’re here, we recommend looking out for any special happenings at the 1881 Heritage. Sometimes they offer opportunities that will help you snag some discount vouchers. Check out their website to plan accordingly. 

3. Hung Shing Temple

Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/vSzYkKbYMxMjA3Rm7

Address: 129-131 Queen’s Rd E, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

Contact details: +852 2527 0804

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM 

Having been around since the 19th century, the Hung Shing Temple was created for the god of the sea, Hung Shing. Aside from him, deities Pau Kung, Shing Wong, and Madame Kam Fa are also worshipped here. 

It’s one of the simpler historical structures in Hong Kong because it’s just a building with one hall. The highlight, however, can be found in the roof, which is made with intricate granite columns. 

Moreover, there’s also a ceramic decoration on the roof that dates back to 1909.

Pro tip:

If you want to go to another local photo spot in the neighborhood, head over to Hopewell Centre, an iconic 222 meter-building. It’s just a quick walk from the Hung Shing Temple. 

4. Hong Kong City Hall

Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/Dsm4jjTMCsiK9H6n7

Address: Hong Kong, Central, Edinburgh Pl, 5號五號

Contact details: +852 2921 2840

Hong Kong City Hall is a building in the Edinburgh neighborhood that has been around since the 19th century. 

It’s quite known for its distinct geometric shapes put together by British architects. The building is made with various materials such as concrete, glass, and anodised aluminum.

Currently, the Hong Kong City Hall functions as a concert hall that has been a venue for over 400 events so far. These events include contemporary theatre shows and concerts by Hong Kong Sinfonietta. 

Pro tip:

There’s a reference library on the 10th and 11th floor that’s worth checking out if you’re a history buff. 

5. Blue House 

Website: https://goo.gl/maps/19SHhYn4ciKgK1Mf8

Address: Hong Kong, Wan Chai, Stone Nullah Ln, 72A 號街 4 號地舖地舖及慶雲

Contact details: +852 2833 4608

Operating hours:

  • Monday & Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
  • Wednesday- closed 

The Blue House is an eye-catching historical building in the colorful Wan Chai neighborhood known for its striking blue color, hence the name. 

It’s a 4-storey residential building that is considered a Grade I historical building because it’s one of the last remaining tong lau examples in Hong Kong. Tong Lau is what you call a tenement building from the 19th century, and most of these structures are gone now! 

Pro tip:

Check out the museum inside the building called Hong Kong House of Stories. They host interesting concerts, movies, exhibitions, and more. They even offer tours of the interesting spots to see in the Wan Chai neighborhood from time to time. 

6. Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre

Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/TsNH3XtR5ZZCFx2bA

Address: Haiphong Road Kowloon Park, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

Contact details: +852 2208 4488

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Wednesday, Friday – 10 AM to 6 PM
  • Thursday – closed
  • Saturday & Sunday – 10 AM to 7 PM 

Price: Free

Before Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre housed important exhibitions that display the local archeological history, it used to be a place where British troops stayed from 1910 to 1967. 

Fortunately, to enjoy this piece of local history, one can go explore the building for free. 

Pro tip:

We suggest allotting at least 2 hours when you visit the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre, especially if you want to fully appreciate it. 

7. The Court of Final Appeal Building 

Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/eFjyUfp4SSVQ9gPcA

Address: 8 Jackson Road, Central

The Court of FInal Appeal Building is a structure with neoclassical-style influences. A few highlights to the exterior of the building are the royal emblems, the motto of the sovereign, and the figure of mercy and truth. 

We find this to be one of the more fascinating historical buildings in Hong Kong, which is why we highly recommend giving it a visit, especially if you’re fan of the neoclassical era. 

Pro tip:

Since it will be a quick visit to The Court of Final Appeal Building, we suggest trying out the cafe nearby to make your trip more worthwhile! It’s called the iBakery Gallery Café and they have the best caramel lattes! 

8. PMQ

Website: https://www.pmq.org.hk

Address: 35 Aberdeen Street

PMQ used to be where the Hollywood Road Police Married Quarters stood. However, they eventually brought new life to it by transforming it to what the PMQ is now – a place where people interested in the local art scene can connect. 

Every month, they host events, free art programs, workshops, and more. And on normal days, it’s a place where you can check out local shops that sell art, food, jewelry and more. 

As for the architectural design, it’s beautiful to say the least. It’s one of the structures that really showcase the local style. 

Pro tip:

Don’t miss the opportunity to try a cup of coffee from Black Sugar Coffee! We love their flat white the most especially when paired with their homemade waffle with ice cream. 

9. Tin Hau Temple, Joss House Bay 

Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/zzDAdvuuRzwiCKyK9

Address: Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong

Contact details: +852 2719 9257

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 5 PM 

Considered the biggest and oldest Tin Hau Temple in Hong Kong, the temple in Joss House Bay is believed to have been erected way back in 1266. 

Another interesting find in the area is the nearby rock, which is said to have been carved in the year 1274. 

Pro tip:

During the 23rd third moon (based on the Chinese calendar), the temple celebrates Tin Hau’s birthday. Because of that, around 50,000 people attend the celebration at the temple. If you want to see an example of how locals hold their festivities, make sure to check out the Tin Hau Temple at Joss House Bay during this time of year. 

10. Man Mo Temple

Website: https://www.man-mo-temple.hk

Address: Man Mo Temple, Hollywood Rd, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong

Contact details: +852 2540 0350

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 6 PM 

The Man Mo Temple is the most famous local Man Mo temple. Built in 1893, it was originally made as a form of dedication to the gods Man Tai and Mo Tai. 

People go here to worship them, especially during times when they have exams they need to pass and such. 

Currently, there are 3 buildings here, each with different uses. The main one is of course, the Man Mo Temple itself. The other one is the Lit Shing Kung, made for the heavenly gods. 

Lastly, there’s Kung Sor where the townsfolk meet to discuss certain matters. 

Pro tip:

If you’re going to the Man Mo Temple, we suggest going here with an empty stomach. There are plenty of restaurant options nearby which you can go to after your visit like Kuro Shabu, Nhau (Vietnamese), and Taqueria Super Macho (Mexican).

11. Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Art

Website: https://www.taikwun.hk/en/

Address: 10 Hollywood Rd, Central, Hong Kong

Contact details: +852 3559 2600

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 11 PM 

Taking a trip to the Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Art is like traveling with a time machine to the late 19th century. 

In fact, since this building is so well-preserved, it earned an award of excellence in 2019 from the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation. 

Right now, it’s where people can enjoy the budding local art scene by enjoying the Hong Kong art shows. Other than that, there are also dining and shopping options. 

Pro tip:

We recommend spending a day at the Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Art to appreciate everything it has to offer! We find that spending 1 to 2 hours here is simply not enough to enjoy it to the fullest. 

12. Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Museum

Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/p1hj6YXUk1qCqjZP8

Address: Hong Kong, Mong Kok, Waterloo Rd, 25號號

Contact details: +852 2770 0867

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM 

In the 1900s, the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Museum used to be the Kwong Wah Hospital’s main hall building. It has a status of Grade 1 historic building because of the one building that has been preserved. 

It currently houses several relics from Tung Wah Group of Hospitals that dates back as early as 1884. There’s even a great suanzhi wood furniture you can view at the main hall. 

Pro tip:

One of the most famous shopping malls, Gala Place, is near this museum. We suggest checking it out to see local shopping and dining options. 

13. Murray House

Direction: https://goo.gl/maps/WxCwWx2kGHjA53a98

Address: Murray House, 96 Stanley Main St, Stanley, Hong Kong

The highlight of the Murray House is design that can transport you back to the Victorian era. In fact, it’s considered one of the oldest public buildings in Hong Kong, which would excite any history buff out there. 

Here are what we think you shouldn’t forget to spot while visiting the Murray House: Ionic and Doric columns, stone walls, and the verandas. 

Other than being a historical building, the Murray House is one of the iconic local landmarks that is quite popular among locals. 

Pro tip:

A lot of the visitors who go here also go to see the scenery of the nearby beach. We suggest allotting time to explore the neighborhood as well as to appreciate the local views. 

14. St. John’s Cathedral

Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/cWG2kumf4nYJdup79

Address: S.k.h. St. John’s Cathedral, 4 Garden Rd, Central, Hong Kong

Contact details: +852 2523 4157

Opening hours:

  • Monday & Tuesday, Thursday & Friday, Sunday – 7 AM to 6 PM
  • Wednesday – 7 AM to 6:30 PM 
  • Saturday – 7 AM to 7:30 PM 

St. John’s Cathedral is a Catholic church that has one of the most beautiful architectural designs out of all historical buildings in Hong Kong. It’s really a sight to behold, which is why we recommend it to most visitors who ask us about beautiful local attractions. 

It’s been around since 1849. During that time, the English and decorated gothic architecture from the 13th century was quite popular, so the design you’ll see now is reminiscent of it.  

Pro tip:

The surrounding areas are quite serene, much like the church itself, which is why we find it a perfect place for some meditation or contemplation. 

15. Western Market, Sheung Wan

Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/XXsjx8HYGXXghKW76

Address: 323 Des Voeux Rd Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong

Contact details: +852 6029 2675

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 12 AM 

The Western market in Sheung Wan is an interesting local market that boasts Edwardian-style structure. In fact, it’s considered one of the oldest buildings in Sheung Wan! 

Businesses which are currently thriving in this market are bakeries, dessert shops, curio shops, cafes, fabric merchants, and more. 

Pro tip:

This is one of the popular places to get Chinese silk because it’s priced just right. If you’re in the hunt for some, might as well grab one here! 

16. Tung Lin Kok Yuen

Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/6wZM4nTfw95bMbsr8

Address: 15 Shan Kwong Rd, Happy Valley, Hong Kong

Contact details: +852 2572 2437

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 4 PM 

Tung Lin Kok Yuen is one of the more unique historical structures that we can’t help but appreciate every time we pass by its street. 

It’s a Buddhist nunnery founded in 1935 that’s designed with a traditional Chinese architectural style. What’s amazing about it is that it survived the Japanese occupation, especially the furniture and religious objects. 

That’s why inside, they showcase a wonderful collection of calligraphy and other important pieces of local history. 

Pro tip:

While this historical building is located in a more residential part of Hong Kong, there is still plenty of stuff to experience around the neighborhood. Surprisingly, there’s even a hip club nearby called The Hilltop in the Valley – definitely worth checking out! 

17. Bishop’s House 

Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/DeZ5XwC2pTVwwDqPA

Address: 1 Lower Albert Rd, Central, Hong Kong

Located in a very popular tourist destination, Bishop’s House should be on every visitor’s list (especially if they like architecture and history). 

It used to be a local school in 1843, but it’s now where the Hong Kong Archbishop resides, hence the name. 

Though the building is relatively simple when compared to the other structures in Hong Kong, it has an old-world charm. 

Pro tip:

Located in Sheung Wan, there’s an infinite number of things to do in the neighborhood. Which is why if you want to see the Bishop’s House for yourself, we suggest planning around it and making a day out of exploring the neighborhood. 

18. Law Uk Folk Museum

Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/sY7414mfJZ9MaDyz6

Address:  Kut Shing St, Chai Wan, Hong Kong

Contact details: +852 2896 7006

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Wednesday, Friday & Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
  • Thursday – closed 

Law Uk Folk Museum is an interesting museum that will tell you about the previous local settlers of Hong Kong and their way of life. 

In the 18th century, or Qing Dynasty in China, this building used to be a Hakka village house. That means it must have been built around the 1750s.  

Fortunately, it’s now open to the public who wish to enjoy and know more about what a typical Hakka house looks like! 

Pro tip:

There’s a beautiful garden in the back we find worth checking out, especially if you’re looking for a short escape before going back into the bustling Hong Kong streets. Spend a few minutes here to unwind, think about where to go next, or appreciate the stillness of this quiet part of Hong Kong.

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