Kowloon

Kowloon, the peninsula north of Hong Kong Island, is an urban area with a rich past and cultural variety. You can explore the Kowloon Walled City Park, taste authentic Thai cuisine in the neighborhood known as Little Thailand, and watch the ongoing transformation of the former Kai Tak Airport site. Wander through calm green spaces like Kowloon Park, sample local street food in Mong Kok, and admire the mix of colonial and modern architecture throughout the district.

Exploring Kowloon's Districts

Kowloon comprises five main districts: Kowloon City, Kwun Tong, Sham Shui Po, Wong Tai Sin, and Yau Tsim Mong. Each area has its own character and points of interest. In Kowloon City, you'll find a variety of cuisines and cultural influences. Yau Tsim Mong draws shoppers with its active streets and markets, such as the popular Ladies' Market on Tung Choi Street.

Cultural Variety

Kowloon City has a significant Thai community, which has led to its nickname "Little Thailand." You can enjoy authentic Thai restaurants like Amporn Thai Food on South Wall Road, buy Southeast Asian ingredients at grocery stores, and find Thai products in local shops. The area also has a large Chiu Chow population, whose ancestors came from eastern Guangdong. This cultural mix has resulted in unique fusion cuisines, such as the Thai-Chinese dishes served at Tai Ping Koon Restaurant.

Culinary Adventures

Food is central to Kowloon's culture. In Mong Kok and Sham Shui Po, you can try local street food like fish balls from Tung Tat Food Shop, egg waffles from Lee Keung Kee North Point Egg Waffles, and stinky tofu from various vendors along Fuk Wa Street. For upscale dining, head to Tsim Sha Tsui, where you'll find international restaurants and Michelin-starred establishments such as T'ang Court at The Langham Hotel.

Green Spaces and Recreation

Despite its urban density, Kowloon has several parks and green spaces. Kowloon Park in Tsim Sha Tsui spans 13.3 hectares and includes gardens, sports facilities, and a swimming pool. You can watch flamingos at the park's lake or practice tai chi on the sculpture walk. The ongoing redevelopment of the former Kai Tak Airport site will add more recreational spaces to the area, including a 28-hectare sports park and a 11-kilometer waterfront promenade.

Urban Landscape and Architecture

Kowloon's skyline differs from Hong Kong Island's due to height restrictions imposed by the former Kai Tak Airport. This has resulted in a unique urban landscape with a mix of older, low-rise buildings and modern high-rises. You can see examples of colonial architecture in Tsim Sha Tsui, such as the Clock Tower and the Former Kowloon British School, while newer developments like the International Commerce Centre in West Kowloon showcase contemporary design.

Getting Around

You can easily navigate Kowloon using public transportation. The MTR (Mass Transit Railway) has several lines running through the area, including the Kwun Tong, Tsuen Wan, and East Rail lines. Buses and minibuses provide additional options for getting around. For a scenic journey, take the Star Ferry from Tsim Sha Tsui to Hong Kong Island, which offers views of Victoria Harbour during the 10-minute crossing.

The Legacy of Kowloon Walled City

The site of the former Kowloon Walled City now houses a park that opened in 1995. This 31,000 square meter green space resembles a Jiangnan garden from the early Qing dynasty. You can see remnants of the old walled city, including the restored yamen building and parts of the South Gate. The park's paths and pavilions bear names of streets and buildings from the demolished city, such as Lung Chun First Alley and Kung Yan School.