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Consider this your guide to experiencing 852 like a local! These Hong Kong attractions might not be the most popular tourist spots, but that’s why we love them…
Listen up, we’re about to spill the tea on where us locals hang when we’re not playing tour guide to our visiting friends. Don’t get me wrong, we love popular spots and hitting up the best bars in town, but they aren’t necessarily where we’d go ordinarily. So here’s Team Sassy’s unfiltered neighbourhood guide to living that real Hong Kong life — tourist traps not included!
Read More: Things To Do: Your Ultimate Hong Kong Bucket List
Open-Top Bus Tours Over The Peak Tram
Everyone thinks The Peak tram is the move, but hear us out — open-top bus tours are actually the superior way to see the city! Sure, it’s touristy as well, but there’s nothing like feeling that Hong Kong breeze while getting those unobstructed skyline views.
— Jesse, Editor
Sassy Tip: Go during golden hour and thank us later!
Read More: Your Guide To Essential Hong Kong Apps And Numbers
Lion Rock Trail Over Dragon’s Back Trail
Dragon’s Back is in every guidebook, but Lion Rock? That’s where you’ll find us. It may not be a beginner-friendly hike, but with the right shoes, a group of friends and that view of the city? Totally worth it. Plus, you’ll truly feel a sense of accomplishment after tackling such a challenging hike!
— Jesse, Editor
Read More: Explore The Hidden Island Of Po Toi — Hikes, Sights & Food
Chinese Herbal Tea Over Bubble Tea
Bubble tea is such a great afternoon pick-me-up, but have you tried traditional Chinese herbal tea? These local shops have been serving wellness in a cup way before detox became trendy. The aunties and uncles there are the real MVPs of Hong Kong’s tea culture!
— Jowell, Partnerships Manager
Tam Jai Yunnan Noodles Over Wonton Noodles
Hong Kongers don’t crave wonton noodles, they crave Tam Jai, an affordable and customisable noodle spot. Choose your soup base — whether it’s clean broth, spicy-numbing, or tomato — adjust the spice level and add as many toppings as you like! Pair your noodles with delicious side dishes (the TuFei Chicken Wings are a must!). It’s the kind of comfort food that hits the spot every time!
— Grace, Creative & Social Lead
Read More: The Best Solo Dining Restaurants In Hong Kong
Local Bakeries Over Bakehouse
If you’ve ever passed by Bakehouse, you know how crazy the line can get! That’s why we grab our delicious treats from local bakeries like Catherine Bakery. Their egg tarts come fresh out of the oven and their pineapple buns are simply irresistible! We are gatekeeping no longer!
— Grace, Creative & Social Lead
Read More: Your Guide To Lesser-Known Local Hong Kong Desserts
South Bay Over Repulse Bay
Avoid the Repulse Bay crowds and pretentiousness for the chilled vibes of South Bay. Same gorgeous water, but with fewer selfie sticks. It’s where I go when I want to escape the city without going very far at all. Sunset swims are the best here!
— Stef, Managing Editor
Read More: The Best Beaches In Hong Kong To Visit
Neighbourhood Bars Over Anything LKF
I’ve written a whole article on neighbourhood bars and local pubs, and trust me, I stand by it. I’d take a quiet spot to sip my drink over the sardine can that is LKF any day!
— Anna, Editor
Read More: The Top 15 Hong Kong Things That Give Us “The Ick”
Lo So Shing Beach Over Shek O Beach
This is my go-to summer activity that I believe beats the touristy stuff! Lo So Shing Beach on Lamma Island is my little slice of paradise. Forget Dragon’s Back to Shek O — this is where you’ll find pristine sand and crystal waters without the crowds!
— Megan, Digital Marketing Coordinator
Read More: Where To Buy Swimwear In Hong Kong
Citygate Outlet Over SOGO
While everyone elbows their way through the cramped spaces of Causeway Bay‘s SOGO, I’m taking my friend to score deals at The Citygate Outlet in Tung Chung! With designer brands like Coach discounted by 50 to 70% — and without the chaos — we’re all in!
— Megan, Digital Marketing Coordinator
Read More: Hong Kong Shopping Guide — Where Locals Shop For Affordable Beauty Products
All images courtesy of Sassy Media Team.
