Kowloon City is an area in Kowloon, Hong Kong. The district is renowned for the Kowloon Walled City Park, a verdant garden built on the location where the famous Kowloon Walled City once stood before its demolition in 1993.
However, the remnants of the maze-like Walled City isn’t the only thing you can see or do in Kowloon City, as it now has been transformed into a modern area with shops and restaurants selling authentic Cantonese delicacies and even Southeast Asian dishes, like Vietnamese, Thai, and Indonesian Food.
In fact, you might find many Thai restaurants and shops here, along with residents who can speak Thai, which makes Kowloon City dubbed “Hong Kong’s Little Thailand”.
Kowloon City is also home to other landmarks like the Kowloon City Plaza shopping mall, where you can shop or dine after exploring the Kowloon Walled City Park, the green and historic Sung Wong Toi Garden, as well as the Hau Wong Temple.
With its history, culture, and modernity, Kowloon City offers a dynamic and immersive experience for tourists seeking to explore the distinct character of this vibrant urban enclave.
In Kowloon City there is no metro running. Instead, you can use the buses that run around Kowloon City. Many buses pass through tourist attractions. You can see information about bus routes via the KMB (Kowloon Motor Bus) website.
When utilizing buses in Kowloon City, it's essential to streamline your journey by having the exact fare ready, as bus drivers may not accept large bills. Anticipate potential delays, especially during peak hours when buses tend to be crowded. Prior knowledge of your destination and the relevant bus stop is advisable; this proactive approach ensures a smoother experience and minimizes the risk of getting lost.
Kowloon City offers unique attractions for travelers to explore and enjoy. You can immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by exploring bustling markets, savoring diverse culinary offerings, and engaging the locals. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of local eateries, tasting traditional Cantonese delicacies and global flavors along vibrant streets.
You can also discover the rich history by visiting Kowloon City’s historical sites, where ancient remnants of the Walled City transform into a green, serene garden, offering a glimpse into the city's past. Don’t miss out on Kowloon City’s contemporary attractions as well, such as shopping malls and modern landmarks to experience the dynamic side of this urban enclave.
Kowloon City is the right place to take a peaceful and picturesque stroll because there is the Kowloon Walled City Park, where the famous Kowloon Walled City once stood. Featuring a circular moon gate, bonsai trees, and intricate pavilions, this Chinese garden designed in the Jiangnan style presents a stark contrast to the chaotic military fortress turned walled city that served as the inspiration for Christopher Nolan's depiction of The Narrows in The Dark Knight trilogy.
You can also see a Cantonese opera performance at the Ko Shan Theatre. Cantonese opera showcases grand historical narratives conveyed through song, martial arts, and acrobatics. In addition to hosting regular opera shows, Ko Shan Theater is the residence of the Cantonese Opera Education and Information Centre, providing a comprehensive overview of this art form and its historical roots.
Apart from that, you can visit the Kowloon City Marked Cooked Food Center to taste delicious snacks and food in this city. There's nothing wrong with eating food at Hong Kong's Little Thailand.
Kowloon City is a hidden gem for delicious culinary experiences. Begin your journey by savoring egg tarts, boasting a delightful buttery taste and flakey texture, and explore various delectable cakes and biscuits, including sponge cake and red bean biscuits.
For a heartier meal, try a hot pot soup, known for its umami flavor. Conclude your culinary adventure with a taste of Hong Kong-style desserts, ranging from pomelo sago soup to Teowchew sweet soups, tofu pudding, and black sesame glutinous rice balls.
Dubbed as Hong Kong's Little Thailand, Kowloon City also offers a diverse option of Thai delights. Dive into Thai cuisine and snacks, with options like pineapple fried rice, pad Thai, and shrimp sashimi, adding an international flair to your gastronomic exploration.
Kowloon City was once known as a pearl producer during the Qin Dynasty (221 BCE–206 BCE). In the past, Kowloon City was also known as the Kowloon Walled City area which was originally built as an Imperial Chinese military fort.
However, Kowloon Walled City was demolished in 1993.The growing gap in living conditions between the Walled City and other areas in Hong Kong prompted a decision to demolish it.
After the demolition, the Kowloon Walled City Park was established on part of the site to preserve some of its historical features, providing a more controlled and organized environment.
Kowloon City is the kind of urban enclave that offers a delightful experience regardless of the time of year. The best time to visit Kowloon City are March to April and October to November. Summers in Kowloon City are generally hot and humid, while winters bring cooler and drier weather.
Spring (March–April) offers cool, pleasant evenings, making it perfect for exploring iconic landmarks, enjoying amusement parks, or relaxing in the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade or Kowloon Park.
Travel Tips for Kowloon City
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