Hong Kong is a treat if you have an eye for art. And we're not just talking about the beautiful murals. The West Kowloon District is a thriving cultural hub that blends traditional heritage with a dynamic contemporary art scene. From world-class museums, public art installations and creative spaces, this neighbourhood is a must-visit if you want to see a different side of Hong Kong. Here's a guide to all the places you must stop by on your tour.
This crown jewel of West Kowloon's thriving art scene is often compared to the Tate Modern in London or MoMA in New York. Open since 2021, M+ is Asia's Asia's first global museum of contemporary visual culture. The museum covers everything, from visual art and moving images to design and architecture. One of the highlights is the Sigg Collection, one of the world's largest and most comprehensive collections of Chinese contemporary art. The museum also features rotating exhibitions of works from all over the globe. The museum's cutting-edge architecture and large-scale public art installations around its grounds are also worth exploring.
Opening Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM (closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: HKD 120 (standard), with free access to some public spaces
If you are interested in traditional Chinese art and culture, the Hong Kong Palace Museum is an essential stop. Opened in 2022, this museum is the only one to present an impressive collection of artifacts from Beijing's Palace Museum, also known as the Forbidden City. This collaboration brings imperial treasures to Hong Kong, including ancient ceramics, paintings, and jade carvings that date back thousands of years.
The museum, spread across nine galleries, offers a journey through China's artistic and cultural history. Its stunning architecture is inspired by traditional Chinese designs while integrating modern elements, making it an artistic experience in itself.
Opening Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday; 10 AM - 8 PM on Friday and Saturday (closed on Tuesdays)
Entry Fee: HKD 50–120, depending on exhibitions
If you want to experience a more laid-back setting after visiting the two museums, head to West Kowloon Art Park. This expansive park stretches along the waterfront and provides a beautiful view of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island. Scattered throughout the park are various sculptures and art installations merging seamlessly with surrounding nature.
You can also catch a show at Freespace, a performing arts venue hosting experimental theatre, dance, and live music events. If you're lucky, you might stumble upon ongoing art workshops or live performances in the park.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (Freespace events vary)
Entry Fee: Free (some events at Freespace may have fees)
Watching the Cantonese Opera is a must when in Hong Kong. UNESCO has also recognised this ancient art form as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. The best place to immerse yourself in this fascinating art form is at the Xiqu Centre, which is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of traditional Chinese opera.
Its striking modern architecture draws inspiration from traditional Chinese motifs, and the centre offers regular performances of Cantonese opera, blending drama, music, and martial arts.
Beyond performances, art lovers can explore exhibitions on the history and evolution of Chinese opera or participate in workshops that offer insights into this rich cultural tradition.
Opening Hours: 10 AM – 10.30 PM
Entry Fee: Prices vary for performances, starting from HKD 100
Established in 1962, the HKMoA is a testament to the city’s rich East-meets-West cultural tapestry. Located along the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade, this public art museum houses over 18,800 exhibits spanning from Neolithic to contemporary art. After a significant renovation in 2019, HKMoA boasts an expansive five-storey layout featuring 12 galleries that enhance the viewing experience, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views of Victoria Harbour. Inspired by the surrounding waves, the museum's design integrates natural light, creating a harmonious connection between the art and its environment.
Its impressive collections are Modern and Hong Kong Art, Chinese Antiquities, and China Trade Art. Focusing on making art accessible and relevant, HKMoA invites visitors to explore the diverse narratives within its walls, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Admission to most exhibitions is free, fostering an inclusive cultural experience.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays); 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays)
Entry Fee: Free admission