Hey everyone, Mark here! This December, I traded my usual backpacking trails for the dazzling Christmas lights of Hong Kong. As an American who loves exploring Asian cities, I’ve gotta say, Hong Kong’s festive spirit is unlike anything I've experienced before. This year, I explored over 10 locations, and I'm ready to share my festive journey with you! Merry Christmas!
From Central to the Seaside Charm of Repulse Bay
My Hong Kong Christmas adventure began in Central. I took the Central-Mid-Levels Escalator from Hong Kong Station, passing by the Central Market, and arrived at the historic Tai Kwun. This former Central Police Station, now a declared monument, provided a unique backdrop for a stunning Christmas tree. The classical architecture, especially at night, created a magical atmosphere. Tai Kwun also boasts various art exhibition halls – a perfect blend of history, art, and Christmas cheer.
Next, I hopped on a bus to Repulse Bay. The Christmas decorations at the Repulse Bay Shopping Arcade were incredible! They flawlessly combined a vintage British architectural style with a traditional Chinese garden. Catching the afternoon sun on the Christmas tree was a highlight! It was a true east-meets-west experience. Of course, no trip to Repulse Bay is complete without a stroll along the beach and a relaxing coffee break at a seaside café.
West Kowloon's Enchanting Christmas Town & Beyond
My journey continued to the West Kowloon Cultural District's Christmas Town. Arriving at sunset, the warm glow of the setting sun perfectly illuminated the festivities. This is my fourth year visiting this Christmas Town, and it never disappoints! Their massive Christmas tree is truly a sight to behold – easily one of the most beautiful in Hong Kong.
This year, they had a new projection show on the tree! Every 30 minutes, the lights dimmed, and a stunning light show would begin. The entire area felt even bigger than previous years, with ample photo opportunities. There were even Christmas markets and food stalls – I'm definitely coming back on Christmas Day!
From the West Kowloon Christmas Town, I ended up at the Elements shopping mall in Kowloon Station, which also had some beautiful Christmas decorations.
A Christmas Stroll Through Tsim Sha Tsui
My second day focused on Tsim Sha Tsui. I started at K11 MUSEA, marveling at the dazzling Dior Christmas tree—a spectacle whether viewed in the morning or at night. The festive window displays, particularly those at F&M (their cookies were delicious!), were also captivating.
Tsim Sha Tsui's waterfront area is a traditional spot for Christmas lights. I revisited Mody Road, this year's theme was pandas, which made it extra cute! A ride on an open-top bus through this area would be a fantastic experience.
From Tsim Sha Tsui East, I strolled towards the Peninsula Hotel, this year showcasing a Chanel collaboration. After passing through an underpass towards Tsim Sha Tsui, I reached 1881 Heritage. Their Christmas decorations, themed around European architecture, resembled a charming French street with many photo opportunities. The integration with the building’s architecture was seamless and festive.
The Harbour City's Christmas decorations always draw a crowd, and this year was no exception. The wintery Christmas theme, with its prime waterfront views, was a photographer's dream (though crowded!).
After exploring Tsim Sha Tsui, I visited a few more malls. The IFC Mall in Central had adorable decorations and a popular "meet Santa" event, while Pacific Place in Admiralty featured a magical Christmas village scattered throughout the mall. A giant, adorable creature knitting a Christmas stocking near Admiralty MTR station was a particular highlight. The largest display on Hong Kong Island, however, had to be at Lee Tung Avenue, with its street-length lights and occasional snow spray on weekends. For those in the New Territories West, the Christmas forest at Yoho Mall (I preferred the decorations at Yoho Mall II) was worth a visit.
Disneyland's Magical Finale
My trip ended with the magical Christmas at Disneyland! I caught the drone show and spent time in the Frozen area (the first Christmas event in the new area!), even wandering through the romantic, snow-filled Adelaide town. The "Momentous" fireworks display was the perfect grand finale!
My Hong Kong Christmas Lights Summary
| Location | Highlights | Transportation |
|---|---|---|
| Tai Kwun, Central | Historic building, Christmas tree, art exhibitions | Central-Mid-Levels Escalator |
| Repulse Bay | Seaside charm, Christmas tree, unique architecture | Bus |
| West Kowloon Xmas Town | Giant Christmas tree, light show, Christmas market | Bus 973 |
| K11 MUSEA, Tsim Sha Tsui | Dior Christmas tree, festive window displays | MTR |
| 1881 Heritage | European-themed decorations, photo opportunities | Walking |
| Harbour City | Waterfront views, wintery Christmas theme | Walking |
| IFC Mall, Central | Adorable decorations, "meet Santa" event | MTR |
| Pacific Place, Admiralty | Christmas village, giant knitting creature | MTR |
| Lee Tung Avenue | Street-length lights, snow spray (weekends) | MTR |
| Yoho Mall, Yuen Long | Christmas forest | MTR |
| Disneyland | Drone show, Frozen area, fireworks | MTR + Disney Transport |
I hope you enjoyed my festive adventure! Hong Kong truly knows how to celebrate Christmas. If you’re planning a trip to Asia, add Hong Kong to your list – especially during the Christmas season! Remember to check the event schedules for the specific timings and locations.
