Jenny Leung

We all know how unpredictable the weather in Hong Kong can be – one minute it's the perfect beach day, and the next it's pelting down with rain. But don't let that stop you from having fun in the city. Whether you're trying to dodge the summer heat or escape a sudden rainstorm, Hong Kong has an incredible lineup of indoor venues and activities that promise just as much excitement as hitting up a hiking trail or exploring a country park. Here are all the best places to go when the weather won't cooperate, rain or shine. RECOMMENDED: 😍 65 things you need to do at least once in Hong Kong🎉 Free things to do in Hong Kong🛍️ Hong Kong shopping mall guide

If you’re looking for a fun and engaging way to stay active, pickleball might just be your new favourite sport. Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, this fast-paced racquet sport is perfect for players of all ages and skill levels. To help you get started into the sport, we had a chat with Albert, co-founder of Bay Pickle, a new indoor pickleball venue that’s bringing the game to Hong Kong. RECOMMENDED: 🎾 A beginner's guide to playing padel tennis 🏔 The 13 best hiking trails in Hong Kong 🏖 Beaches to visit in Hong Kong

From menu takeovers by renowned chefs to creative baked goodies and exclusive pop-ups, Hong Kong's food and drink scene is always hard at work to keep us happy, well-fed, and forever curious. If you're a bona fide foodie who's always on the lookout for the latest eats, turn your attention to these delicious happenings in the city right now. RECOMMENDED:  😋 New restaurants to check out in Hong Kong🍽️ 50 best restaurants in Hong Kong🍜 Unique Hong Kong dishes you need to try

Hong Kong might be known for its luxury malls, but the city's real magic lies in its bargain corners. Whether you're hunting for sneakers at half the usual price, vintage treasures, or electronics that won't break the bank, this city delivers – if you know where to look. Forget overpriced tourist traps; we're talking about places where thrifty locals actually go for steals on clothes, tech, home goods, and beauty finds. Check out these spots below to stretch your dollar further for your next shopping sesh.RECOMMENDED:  ✨ Free things to do in Hong Kong🛍️ A guide to Hong Kong shopping malls🎊 New shops and pop-ups in Hong Kong

Looking to make your weekend worthwhile? You've come to the right place. Whether you want to catch some live music, check out a new art exhibit, or just find a casual spot to relax with friends, there's plenty to choose from. Come rain or shine, day or night, here's everything you need to plan the perfect weekend.  RECOMMENDED:  📆 Hong Kong events in June🎡 Top attractions in Hong Kong🛍️ Your ultimate Hong Kong checklist 2025

Hong Kong packs a lot into a small space – skyscrapers, mountains, chaotic markets, and some of the best food you'll ever eat. Whether you're here for the skyline views from Victoria Peak, the surprisingly peaceful hikes that are minutes from the city, or just simply here for the egg tarts, there's something wonderful for everyone. From the obligatory Star Ferry ride to a historic underground reservoirs – plus a few local favourites– consider this your one-stop guide to Hong Kong's must-visit landmarks and attractions. RECOMMENDED: 😍 Things to do in Hong Kong ⛰️ Best hikes in Hong Kong🛍️ Hong Kong shopping mall guide

ฮ่องกงเป็นเมืองที่อัดแน่นไปด้วยสถานที่ท่องเที่ยว แลนด์มาร์ก และจุดชมวิวสุดตระการตามากมาย จนบางครั้งอาจทำให้คุณลังเลว่าจะเริ่มต้นจากที่ไหนก่อนดี ด้วยเหตุนี้ เราจึงได้คัดสรร 30 สถานที่ยอดฮิตที่คุณไม่ควรพลาด เพื่อให้ทริปของคุณเต็มไปด้วยความประทับใจและไม่น่าเบื่อ ตั้งแต่การชมเส้นขอบฟ้าอันเป็นเอกลักษณ์ของฮ่องกง ไปจนถึงการสำรวจสถานที่ทางประวัติศาสตร์และพิพิธภัณฑ์ชื่อดัง คู่มือฉบับนี้พร้อมพาคุณเปิดประสบการณ์ใหม่ๆ ที่จะทำให้คุณตกหลุมรักฮ่องกงได้อย่างแน่นอน

Not sure how to spend your free time this week? We've rounded up some of the best happenings across the city – from art exhibitions and food pop-ups to music nights and kid-friendly activities – so you don't have to go searching.  This week, don't miss out on Bar Leone's limited-time collab menu at LMO Freshly Baked featuring three exclusive dishes, or check out the annual SummerFest at Central Harbourfront, where you can take part in a whole bunch of free programmes like concerts, sports competitions, and workshops. And don't miss out on all the fabulous LGBTQ+ events happening during Pride Month! The list goes on, so we'll let you get to it. But if all else fails, you can always turn to one of Hong Kong's best restaurants, or cross things off our ultimate Hong Kong checklist. Whatever you decide, we've got you covered for the next seven days. RECOMMENDED:  🎨 Art exhibitions to check out right now📆 June events in Hong Kong🥹 Free things to do in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of six cities in the world to have a Disneyland to call its own. Whether you’re looking to book one of the lavish rooms at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel and spend a Mickey-approved holiday with the whole family, or you’re just itching for an afternoon seeking thrills on Hyperspace Mountain and other Disneyland rides, this park is a fun and magical escape from the hustle and bustle of the rest of Hong Kong. So, if you’re looking to pay the park a visit, here’s everything you need to know – from how to get the cheapest Hong Kong Disneyland tickets to information on opening hours, must-see attractions and seasonal events. RECOMMENDED: Looking for more fun? Don’t miss our definitive guide to the most incredible things to do in Hong Kong, as well as our recommendations for quirky and activities you can in town.

Planning for your next big adventure in Hong Kong? You'll be happy to know that there's a bunch of new exciting attractions and landmarks opening in the city this year. From the highly-anticipated Kai Tak Sports Park and Go Park Sai Sha to new shopping malls and hotels, read on for the best new attractions you can look forward to visiting in 2025. RECOMMENDED: 🎊 Biggest Hong Kong events to look forward to in 2025 📅 Public holiday guide in 2025 🌆 Free things to do in Hong Kong

Prepare for a feast like no other in Macau, where the city’s food scene is diverse and vibrant – from Michelin-starred establishments and restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs to local cha chaan tengs packed with locals. But the real adventure begins when you 'sweep the streets', a Cantonese term for snacking your way through the streets of the city. Follow our guide to discover where Macau's most delicious gems hide. RECOMMENDED:  👗 Macau Vintage shops to check out🍹 Best bars to visit in Macau☕️ Cafes and coffee shops in Macau

Tired of dining at your usual haunts? Thankfully, Hong Kong is never short of new restaurants – that’s why we’ve scoured the city to find you the hottest dining spots to try. This month, grab a bite at a duck-centric French eatery, a reopened ramen spot in Central, or the brand new location of an iconic Hong Kong tea house, now serving dim sum 24/7 in Tsim Sha Tsui. Bookmark this page to discover Hong Kong’s best new restaurants! Think we missed a new great dining place in Hong Kong? Shoot us an email at [email protected] so we can check it out!RECOMMENDED:  🍴 Hong Kong’s oldest restaurants you need to visit⭐️ The 50 best restaurants in Hong Kong

Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of colours and patterns as Finnish design powerhouse Marimekko brings its vibrant 'Field of Flowers' exhibition to the city from June 13 to 22. This marks the brand's first major showcase in Hong Kong, offering visitors a chance to experience the joyful essence of Marimekko's signature floral designs in a fresh new light. The exhibition features 25 bold new floral prints created by five next-generation designers, including Erja Hirvi, Masaru Suzuki, Aino-Maija Metsola, Antti Kekki, and Eija Vehviläinen, who each reinterpreted Marimekko's iconic floral motif through their unique creative lens. Held at The Mills, the exhibition creates a special dialogue between Finnish design and local creative culture. Visitors can explore the specially curated space from 10am to 7pm daily, with free admission to all. Lastly, don't miss the exclusive pop-up store offering limited-edition products featuring the new floral designs, including tote bags, purses, cushion covers, and collectable prints. These special items will only be available during the exhibition period.

From now until August 3, basketball fans can immerse themselves in the world of the NBA as Cityplaza's 'Live The Game!' event brings player-inspired installations and interactive experiences that capture the excitement of the sport from every angle. The first phase (June 6-23) kicks off with six must-visit photo spots, including a dazzling display of over 100 official NBA basketballs at the entrance and a replica locker room of this year's Finals contenders, the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers. Relive iconic NBA moments on the giant LED screen, which will also broadcast live Finals games, or test your skills at the Basketball Hoop Challenge and Connect Four for a chance to win exclusive merch. Don't miss the NBA Exhibition Hall, where you can see rare memorabilia up close, including the legendary Larry O'Brien Championship Trophy. Phase two (June 28-August 3) turns up the energy with a mini basketball court and interactive carnival games. Cityplaza's Live+ members can also redeem limited-edition NBA basketball charms and shopping vouchers during the promotion. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking for some summer fun, this is your chance to experience the NBA like never before. 

Sweettooths are in for a treat as Japanese dessert brand Mr. Cheesecake is hosting a time-limited pop-up at IFC Mall from now to August 21. Apart from its signature Mr. Cheesecake classic box, known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavours, customers will also be able to try this season's newly launched Basque cheesecake, along with two Hong Kong-exclusive takes on the classic: Matcha, made with Yame Matcha from Yame City (Fukuoka prefecture, and milk tea, a combination of Uva tea and Yunnan tea. Be sure not to miss other hot-sellers like the Mr. Cheescake cream brew coffee, silky chocolate white tonka and black cacao, snowball vanilla tonka, and more. Online pre-orders are available for easy pick-up at the IFC pop-up on selected dates.  Where: Kiosk LA15, Podium Level 1, IFC Mall

From now to July 31, Rosewood Hong Kong's Butterfly Patisserie is bringing its highly sought-after Hokkaido custard flans to a limited-time pop-up at Lane Crawford in IFC. Made with premium Hokkaido milk, vanilla, and a deep amber caramel, the Hokkaido custard flan is available in two flavours: the original classic flavour ($98) and a new exclusive taro flavour ($108). Only 150 flans are available each day (100 taro and 50 classic), and each customer is limited to purchasing a maximum of two pieces. We heard the flans sold out in less than half an hour after opening, so get there early if you're looking to try one.

British designer Anya Hindmarch opens Hong Kong's first Anya Life pop-up at Lane Crawford in IFC. Open from now to July 30, the time-limited shop showcases a fun lifestyle collection featuring everything from ceramic items and travel accessories to candles, homeware, and other home essentials. Take home a set of cute linen pyjamas embossed with the beloved nylon 'eyes'; have a whiff of a soy sauce or ketchup candle; and get accessorising with cereal pouches, Fruit Pastilles keychain, and more. Products will be available online after a two-week exclusive in-store period.

Mark your calendars for June 6 to 8 as Japan's acclaimed Sake Jump festival makes its Hong Kong debut at the historic FWD 1881 in Tsim Sha Tsui.  Since its launch in 2007, Sake Jump has brought together young, innovative sake brewers from across Japan to showcase their craft. This year's event features over 20 rising brewers from 13 prefectures, presenting both traditional and creative sake varieties. Highlights include award-winning breweries like Hachinohe Shuzo (Mutsu Hassen; ranked number one in the 2021 World Sakagura Ranking), craft sake brands such as Ine to Agave, along with other noteworthy brands like Haccoba, Konohanano, Linne, Wakaze, and more.  Beyond tastings, Tokyo's acclaimed mixologists from Tokyo Confidential and Bar Wakabayashi – both featured on 50 Best Discovery – will shake things up with unique sake cocktails. Guests can also sign up for sake masterclasses and meet-the-brewer sessions.  Tickets cost $198 (six 'tasting coins'), $268 (10 'tasting coins' plus one sake glass), $388 (18 'tasting coins' plus one sake glass), or $988 (VIP tickets with 48 'tasting coins' and a special sake cup) available. A must-visit for sake lovers.

To celebrate the ongoing football frenzy in the city, Times Square is collaborating with Supremem FC to host the 'Matchlegacy: Shirts that defined the game' exhibition from now until June 15. Footie fans will have a ball checking out the range of match-worn shirts and gear from renowned Manchester United players. Additionally, a limited-time pop-up store will be offering various exclusive items signed by current Manchester United players. Stock is very limited though, so act fast!

As part of LMO Freshly Baked's Tastemaker series, Asia's Best Bar(2024) Bar Leone is stepping in for the month of June with three exclusive dishes that bring a taste of Roman flair to the menu. Approachable, playful, yet refined, the time-limited menu includes a spinach ricotta pie (vegetarian option), Italian chicken salad with Bar Leone's famous smoked olives, and the tramezzini tonno e pomodoro sandwich. For every item sold, $10 will be donated to registered charity Mindset to raise awareness and support mental health initiatives as well as community care in Hong Kong.

The Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races are back. Taking place on June 7 and 8, the two-day event will feature a total of 19 races with over 190 teams from 12 different countries and regions. The races start from 8am on both days, and if you want to see the adrenaline-pumping action on the waters, be sure to head to areas stretching from the Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade (outside the Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong) to the Bruce Lee Statue located on the Avenue of Stars. Seating with shade will also be provided. Don't forget to grab yourself a cold one from the Beer Garden at the Urban Centenary Garden in TST East, where a dedicated zone will be screening live broadcasts of the races. There are four refreshing varieties available, and you can even get a draught beer on the house by redeeming a beer voucher at from the HKTB Visitor Centres at the Hong Kong International Airport, TST Star Ferry Pier, and Hong Kong West Kowloon Stations, or the beer voucher collection station on the East TST Promenade. Vouchers are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, so don't miss out! To get everyone into the festive spirit, a Dragon Boat Food Lane will take over the Avenue of Stars from May 31 to June 8, featuring 10 food stalls offering bites like traditional rice dumplings, dragon boat-themed street snacks, and refreshing summer drinks. Ocean Park Hong Kong's adorable Panda Friends will also be making an appearance by the waterfront, along with a special pop-up store with a s

From now to June 6, Hong Kong designer label Cafuné brings its understated sophistication to IFC Mall (Shop LA2, Level 1) with a special pop-up highlighting their new bag charm collection, inviting shoppers to explore miniature leather accessories all crafted from premium Italian leather. As a pop-up exclusive, Cafuné will also be offering complimentary on-site personalisation by a local illustrator on select dates (May 14, 25, and June 1), transforming each charm into a one-of-a-kind accessory. Don't miss Cafuné's SS25 collection featuring refreshed classics like the Mini Egg Bucket and Small Asra Boston Bag, along with exclusive discounts on in-store purchases and a free tote with any purchase.

Head to Hysan Place between now and July 14 to check out the Anteprima Wirebag Summer Market. Taking you to a cheerful summer market on Capri Island in Italy, the pop-up offers an array of rainbow-hued wirebags, the Twist Wirebag in mini size (available in 11 summer colours and pre-launching at the pop-up for two weeks), and an array of cute sparkly bag charms.

Gelato Messina and Lee Kum Kee have teamed up for two bold new flavours. The 'spicy coconut lime' flavour brings Southeast Asian zest with coconut-lime leaf gelato topped with chilli oil peanut crunch, while the 'soy sweet' flavour reimagines Hong Kong flavours with silky tofu gelato swirled with soy sauce brownie bits and chewy mochi. Available at $70 per scoop and $85 for two scoops, both flavours can be found at Messina's Central and The Peak locations from now until June 20.

It’s that time of the year again, when we sip and stumble our way across the city to find you the best drinking dens in Hong Kong – we’re back with the 2025 edition of the annual Time Out Bar Guide! From sophisticated wine bars and venues that specialise in your favourite spirits to secret spots hidden down dark alleyways, this nifty guide will help you discover all the best places for a perfect sip, no matter the occasion.   Photograph: Joshua Lin This year, we’ve picked out 50 of the best bars in Hong Kong that are worthy of your attention, along with a handful of venues over in Macau for your next weekend trip. We also took the chance to speak with the city’s rising bar stars and put together a list of the latest bar openings in town (yes, we’ve crammed a lot in there). The 2025 Time Out Hong Kong Bar Guide is now available for free starting June 10 at the listed venues below. Limited copies are available, so do ask each venue for more info.  Time Out Hong Kong 2025 Bar Guide free pick-up: Bars00125:00ApothecaryAqua SpiritArgoArtifact BarAvocaBar LeoneBourke’sBlue SupremeBrut!Call Me AlCaprice BarCardinal PointCoaCourtroomDarkSideDead PoetsDraft LandDragonflyFoxgloveGishiki LoungeGokanHonky Tonks TavernHouse Welley BarJames Suckling Wine CentralKinsmanLa Cabane Wine BistroLockdownMizunara: The LibraryMostly HarmlessOn The Hill Coffee BarOrchardPenicillinPing Pong 129 GintoneriaQuinaryQura BarSocioTell CamelliaTerrible BabyThe AubreyThe Blind SpotThe DispensaryThe Diploma

After eight years of waiting, the Nintendo Switch 2 is finally coming out. Here's a complete breakdown for Hong Kong gamers looking to get their hands on the brand-new console, from pre-ordering details to specs and games. When is Nintendo Switch 2 released in Hong Kong? The official launch date for Nintendo Switch 2 in Hong Kong is June 5, but you can already pre-order the console online. The first round of deliveries begins on June 9. How much will Nintendo Switch 2 cost in Hong Kong? The Nintendo Switch 2 will set you back $3,450 for the standard edition, or $3,750 if you're getting the Mario Kart World bundle. Other accessories like the Joy-Con and game controllers cost around $389 to $548.  Photograph: Courtesy Nintendo Nintendo Switch 2 specs: what's new? The new Nintendo Switch is packing some serious upgrades compared to the first generation Switch, covering every aspect from the display to the controllers: Bigger, sharper screen: 7.9-inch 1080p LCD (vs original 6.2-inch 720p) with 120Hz and HDR support Magnetic Joy-Con 2: New snap-on design with precision controls Performance boost: Faster CPU/GPU with 4K docked output and 256GB storage Enhanced social features: 12-player voice chat with video sharing Photograph: Courtesy Nintendo What games will launch with Nintendo Switch 2? The Nintendo Switch 2 will launch with exciting new titles while also supporting backwards compatibility with most first-generation Switch games. Here are the confirmed launch titles and

Hong Kong is famous for many things, and when it comes to jaw-dropping skylines, we're always up there in the ranks. Well, now it's official: our city's famous shimmering skyline has been crowned the seventh most iconic in the world, according to a recent study done by the team at Slingo.  Their study ranked cities based on their overall skyline appeal by analysing social media posts, the number of skyscrapers, and how closely they match the 'golden ratio', a mathematical formula (approximately 1.618) celebrated as "the secret to aesthetic harmony, found in art, design and even nature". And the results? Hong Kong managed to score a solid 7.27 out of 10 thanks to its impressive collection of towering structures and undeniable appeal to photographers from all around the world. Photograph: Jenny Leung So what makes us stand out? Let's start with the numbers pulled by Slingo. Hong Kong is home to a staggering 558 buildings taller than 150 metres, 97 of which soar over 200 metres. Landmarks like the International Commerce Centre (ICC), which stands as the tallest building in Hong Kong, and the iconic Bank of China Tower are just a couple of the many vertical estates in this concrete jungle. Photograph: Jenny Leung Hong Kong's skyline also offers a mesmerising blend of fascinating architecture, lush green mountains, and of course, the Victoria Harbour. Whether you're gazing out from the Avenue of Stars or taking in the bird's eye view from The Peak, it's a scene that's hard to

Hong Kong's iconic Lin Heung Tea House (Lin Heung Lau) opens its first-ever branch outside Central, bringing its beloved pushcart dim sum service to the bustling hub of Tsim Sha Tsui (TST). Photograph; Ann Chiu The new TST branch occupies a 9,000sq ft space across two floors along Kimberley Road in the Cheung Lee Commercial Building (next to the steep slope that leads to Knustford Terrace – the 'LKF' of Kowloon) and will operate around the clock – nothing like a bit of midnight dim sum to soak up the alcohol.     Photograph: Ann Chiu Photograph: Ann Chiu The new Tsim Sha Tsui branch is also staying true to its heritage by offering traditional teaware, classic dim sum items, dim sum trolleys, and other features that make this place the legendary establishment that we all know and love. Photograph: Ann Chiu After its closure in 2022, the Wellington Street flagship reopened under new management in April 2024. The return of veteran staff, signature dim sum cart service, and the added new element of bubble tea and hand-shaken drinks were welcomed with open arms by both patrons and curious new diners alike. For this new location, Lin Heung Lau is switching things up by hosting a live DJ station where classic tunes will be spun on dedicated 'nostalgic nights'.  Lin Heung Tea House Tsim Sha Tsui Address: 1-2/F, Cheung Lee Commercial Building, 25 Kimberley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, strai

We all have our favourite neighbourhoods in Hong Kong for food, drink, and things to do – but whether they're suitable for living in is an entirely different question. Well, now there are some official numbers to back things up. According to a survey done by language learning platform Preply, which used official and public data from a range of sources, the study examined all of Hong Kong's 18 districts across multiple factors that impact everyday living, such as population density, real estate costs, safety, retail and dining options, connectivity, and environmental factors like air and water quality and noise levels. Yuen Long claimed the top spot as Hong Kong's most liveable area, offering a combination of affordable housing at $9,476 per square foot, abundant green spaces with 188 parks and playgrounds, and excellent transportation connectivity with the most bus stops in the territory. The North District followed closely in second place, while Sha Tin and the Eastern District took third and fourth place, respectively. The survey also revealed that safety played a major part in determining the most desirable places to live. Yau Tsim Mong, which consists of Yau Ma Tei, Tsim Sha Tsui, and Mong Kok, topped the charts with a staggering 8,883 reported crimes between January and October 2024. On the other hand, the North District emerged as the safest with just 586 reported crimes. Hong Kong districts with the highest cost per square foot were also listed, with Central and Wester

The annual SummerFest is back at Central Harbourfront for its ninth year, offering city dwellers a series of free events ranging from cool bamboo art to music, dance, and sports activities. Here's what you need to know: How long is SummerFest 2025 open for? SummerFest 2025 will go on for 66 days straight, from May 30 to August 3 at the Central Harbourfront Event space. It's open 3pm to 9pm on weekdays, and 1pm to 9pm on weekends and holidays. Photograph: Courtesy SummerFest What is the theme of SummerFest 2025? This year's theme is Bambooscape, which celebrates one of Hong Kong's most unique cultural treasures – bamboo scaffolding. Architects from Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Japan, along with local craftsmen, will create six impressive installations that mix old-school techniques with new ideas. Free guided tours are also available for those who want to learn more about each piece, or you can get hands-on by taking part in workshops to learn everything from bamboo weaving to making bamboo mats. Photograph: Courtesy SummerFest What are the free events at SummerFest 2025? The SummerFest programme schedule is jam-packed this year, filled with events that have been split into four categories: sports, music, dance, and culture. Highlights include the WanderFest outdoor markets (June 21-22) featuring local designs, live music, and more, and the Mermazing Summer Splash (June 28-29), where there'll be water-themed activities, music and dance performances, and colourful bubbles. Only J

Just when you think the ‘pandamania’ is slowly calming down in the city, Ocean Park is ramping up the excitement once again with an announcement of the official names for Hong Kong’s beloved panda twin cubs! Here’s what you need to know about the newly named pair. What are the names of the giant panda twins in Hong Kong? On August 15, 2024, the city’s beloved giant panda Ying Ying became the oldest first-time giant panda mum on record, having given birth to two twin panda cubs – affectionately nicknamed ‘Elder Sister’ and ‘Little Brother’ just a day before her 19th birthday. ‘Elder sister’ is now named Jia Jia, while De De is the official name for ‘Little Brother’!  Photograph: Courtesy Ocean Park Hong Kong The meaning of Jia Jia and De De Jia Jia (加加) uses the Chinese character '加' to convey the message of support, like the common Chinglish phrase 'add oil' (加油). The word 'jia' is also a homophone for the Chinese characters '家', meaning home, and '嘉', meaning auspices, in both Cantonese and Putonghua. 'Jia' also features an element of family, embodying the prosperity of families as well as the happiness of the people. Meanwhile, De De (得得) means 'to succeed', symbolising that the city will be successful in everything we do. 'De' is also a homophone for the Chinese character for 'virtue' (德) in Cantonese and Putonghua, suggesting that the giant pandas, our national treasures, possess the virtues cherished by Chinese folks. How were the names Jia Jia and De De chosen? Out of

The Hong Kong Photo Contest 2024, presented by Wheelock Properties and organised by National Geographic Magazine, is an annual competition that celebrates the best of photography while highlighting the city’s unique charm. This year's competition saw an astounding 8,788 entries across six categories: Landscape, Wildlife, City, People, Sports, and Mobile Photography, with a special Travelers Award encouraging tourists to share their Hong Kong experiences. A new addition this year, the Sports category proved particularly exciting, with the winning shot freezing a dramatic mid-fall moment during a roller skating competition. Meanwhile, the Mobile Photography entries impressed judges with their creativity and technical skill, proving that great shots don’t always require the most professional gear. Here are the winning works of each category: Photograph: Courtesy National Geographic Category: LandscapeWinner: Zhang Bin LangTitle: Sea of Clouds at the Giant Buddha   Photograph: Courtesy National Geographic   Category: WildlifeWinner: Leung Chun PongTitle: Gliding Over the Water Photograph: Courtesy National Geographic Category: CityWinner: Wong Chun TinTitle: A Celebration for All Photograph: Courtesy National Geographic Category: PeopleWinner: Chan Suk HanTitle: Performer Photograph: Courtesy National Geographic Category: SportsWinner: Poon Wai KeungTitle: Fall and Rise Again Photograph: Courtesy National Geographic Category: Mobile PhotographWinner: Cheung Shun Y

Hong Kong's 2026 public holiday calendar is officially out, and with some clever planning, you can turn those 17 days off into some well-deserved vacation time – so we've done the math for you. This guide will show you exactly which days to take off, so you can enjoy a longer break while using fewer leave days. Whether you're planning a long Christmas vacation or simply want to squeeze out every possible long weekend, here's how you can make the most of every upcoming holiday in 2026. Christmas & New Year 2025/26  Public holidays: Dec 25-26 & Jan 1 Take leave on: Dec 29-31 & Jan 2 (four days) Total days off: 11 days (Dec 25-Jan 4) Chinese New Year 2026  Public holidays: Feb 16-18 Take leave on: Feb 16 & 20 (two days) Total days off: 9 days (Feb 14-22) Easter & Ching Ming Festival 2026 Public holidays: April 3-6 Take leave on: April 8-10 (three days) Total days off: 10 days (April 3-12) Labour Day 2026  Public holidays: May 1 Take leave on: April 27-30 (four days) Total days off: 9 days (April 25-May 3) Buddha's Birthday 2026  Public holidays: May 25 Take leave on: May 26-29 (four days) Total days off: 9 days (May 23-31) Dragon Boat Festival 2026  Public holidays: June 19 Take leave on: June 15-18 (four days) Total days off: 9 days (June 13-21)  HKSAR Establishment Day 2026  Public holidays: July 1 Take leave on: July 2-3 (two days) Total days off: 5 days (July 1-5)  Mid-Autumn Festival & National Day 2026  Public holidays: Sept 28 & Oct 1 Take leave on: Se

Who says Lego is only for kids? From now to May 18, immerse yourself in floral splendour as Hong Kong's first-ever Lego botanical garden opens at Pacific Place. From bold roses to elegant orchids, visitors will be taken on a journey that celebrates the many shapes and forms of blooming flowers. Explore five different theme zones with Lego installations and displays crafted by Andy Hung, the first Lego-certified professional in China and the only one in Hong Kong, as well as Kirk Cheng, a floral artisan known for his large-scale floral artworks across Asia.   Photograph: Jenny Leung Start your journey at The Florishing Arch, adorned with established foliage and Lego flowers, before reaching The Rose Reverie, an impressive Lego structure designed by Hung. Made from over 120,000 bricks, the display stands at four metres tall and took over 840 hours to make. Over at The Dazzling Pavilion is a colourful Lego flower wall with a mirror setup that's perfect for photos, while adjacent floral displays featuring real tree branches showcase Cheng's creativity and craftsmanship.   Photograph: Jenny Leung     Don't forget to stop by the Brick to Bloom Fleuriste, where you can learn about the unique features and language behind 'fresh' Lego flowers. On designated days, you can also redeem a Lego flower gift by signing up as an 'above' member and spending $1,500 or more at Pacific Place and Starstreet Precinct. For a limited time, there's also a chance to redeem free Lego botanical serie

Chicago's legendary craft brewery Goose Island has landed in Hong Kong with its first Asian taproom. The craft beer pioneer, known for its award-winning IPAs, has set up shop on Lyndhurst Terrace in Central – and it's ready to pour some seriously good brews. Photograph: Courtesy Goose Island Taproom Photograph: Courtesy Goose Island Taproom Bringing over a dozen of its best craft beers to Hong Kong, the taproom showcases Goose Island's most celebrated creations alongside monthly rotating specials. Beer enthusiasts can savour the six-time Great American Beer Festival champion Goose IPA, or the newly crowned 2024 World Beer Awards China Gold winner Thirsty Goose lager. Not sure what to try? Go for their Brewmaster's Choice Flight, offering 12 150ml pours of different house beers for $298. Photograph: Courtesy Goose Island Taproom Imbibers will also be able to enjoy some hearty American pub grub to go with their drinks. Think beer-battered fish and chips made with Goose 312 wheat ale, stacked burgers, and loaded nachos with a signature Goose IPA cheese sauce. Fun fact: The brewery got its name from a little manmade island on the Chicago River, where legend has it that flocks of geese used to stop there during their migration flights. Photograph: Courtesy Goose Island Taproom Goose Island Taproom is now open daily from noon until midnight (extending to 2am on Fridays and Saturdays) at Shop 1, G/F, 8 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central. For reservations and updates, call 6800 6634

It's about to get steamy in Macau as Australia’s Thunder From Down Under is bringing its raunchy show back to Macau this June! Coming straight from Las Vegas, this world-famous male revue is set to perform in Macau for three nights only, serving up a night of hot dance moves with a side of muscles. Tickets are selling fast, so here’s everything you need to know before booking.   Photograph: Courtesy Thunder From Down Under   Dates and showtimes of Thunder From Down Under in Macau This sellout show is taking place for three nights, with six performances in total: June 27 (Friday): 8pm June 28 (Saturday): 3pm, 6pm, and 9pm June 29 (Sunday): 3pm and 6pm   Ticket prices of Thunder From Down Under in Macau Tickets start at $300 (MOP or HKD), with different tiers and perks available. Here’s the breakdown: Standard seating: $300 Mid-tier seats: $470  VIP: $700 (with a complimentary glass of Champagne and premium seats) Extra tip: Present your ticket or ticket stub on the day of the show to get 15 percent off at designated restaurants.  How to buy tickets to see Thunder From Down Under in Macau There are several ticketing platforms where you can get tickets, these include: Galaxy Ticketing (get tickets here) Daimai (Chinese only – get tickets here) Macau Ticket (get tickets here) Trip.com (get tickets here) K11 (get tickets here)   Photograph: Courtesy Thunder From Down Under     Thunder From Down Under Macau venue  For the first time, the Thunder From Down Under show wi