Kowloon Tong Art Deco and Hidden Heritage in Hong Kong

Hong Kong , China

Kowloon Tong Art Deco and Hidden Heritage in Hong Kong

Active

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Kowloon Peninsula is a window onto Hong Kong’s architectural evolution. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll discover some of the most impressive yet overlooked Art Deco and Modernist structures near Hong Kong’s vibrant local markets. From villas commissioned by wealthy merchants to modernist apartment buildings, schools, and churches, you’ll see how avant-garde architectural trends reached this corner of the British Empire during a crucial period of its development in the 1900s. The tour starts at Mary Knoll Convent School on Waterloo Road, with its fascinating blend of Art Deco and Gothic Revival styles. You’ll weave past the startlingly modern St. Teresa’s and see what is perhaps Hong Kong’s finest Art Deco treasure on Prince Edward Road West. The tour ends at Mong Kok East MTR Station, where working-class hustle-and-bustle contrasts with the exclusive residences of Kadoorie Hill.

Available options

Kowloon Tong Art Deco and Hidden Heritage in Hong Kong

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

App for Android and iOS

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Walk past this striking educational building that showcases a fascinating blend of Art Deco and Gothic Revival architectural styles. Marvel at how European design traditions were adapted for Hong Kong's tropical climate during the colonial period.

Explore this remarkable Roman Catholic church that combines Romanesque architecture with distinctive Art Deco influences. Discover how religious architecture evolved in 1930s Hong Kong as international design movements reached this dynamic port city.

Stroll along this vibrant street lined with colourful blooms and traditional flower vendors. Experience a slice of authentic Hong Kong culture that has persisted despite the city's rapid modernisation.

Pass through this unique market where local songbird enthusiasts still gather to socialise and showcase their prized feathered companions. Enjoy this glimpse into a traditional Hong Kong pastime that continues to thrive in the modern city.

Ascend this exclusive residential enclave filled with luxurious Art Deco villas featuring wraparound balconies and curved edges. Admire the Streamlined Moderne styling with high ceilings, Crittall windows, and nautical motifs that wealthy merchants chose for their homes.

Walk through this bustling transport hub where working-class energy creates a striking contrast to the nearby exclusive residences. Experience the authentic hustle-and-bustle that defines this vibrant corner of Hong Kong.

Browse this colourful traditional market that offers a window into Hong Kong's enduring cultural traditions. Explore how local customs persist amid the city's constant urban development and modernisation.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Tour begins in front of Mary Knoll Convent School at #130 Waterloo Road. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a vibrant metropolis where modern skyscrapers coexist with ancient temples and lush nature. Known for its bustling streets, world-class cuisine, and stunning harbor views, it offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures.

Top Attractions

Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of Hong Kong. The Peak Tram is a historic funicular railway that takes visitors to the summit.

Nature 2-3 hours HKD 130-200 (Peak Tram and Sky Terrace)

Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade

This waterfront promenade offers stunning views of Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong skyline. It's a popular spot for the Symphony of Lights show.

Scenic 1-2 hours Free

Hong Kong Disneyland

A magical theme park offering classic Disney attractions, shows, and character meet-and-greets.

Entertainment Full day HKD 619-919 (depending on season and ticket type)

Lantau Island

Lantau Island offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural sites, including the Big Buddha and Tai O fishing village.

Nature/Cultural Full day HKD 110 (Ngong Ping 360), HKD 30 (Big Buddha entrance)

Temple Street Night Market

A bustling night market offering a variety of goods, from clothing to electronics, as well as street food and entertainment.

Shopping 2-3 hours Free to enter, prices vary

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dim Sum

A variety of small dishes served in bamboo steamers, including dumplings, buns, and rolls.

Breakfast/Brunch Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Roast Duck

Crispy-skinned duck roasted to perfection, often served with pancakes, hoisin sauce, and cucumber.

Lunch/Dinner Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Egg Waffles

Bubble-shaped waffles made from an egg-based batter, often served with ice cream or custard.

Dessert Vegetarian.

Mango Pudding

A creamy, gelatin-based dessert made with fresh mango puree.

Dessert Vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Rock climbing Spa treatments Yoga Beach lounging Temple visits Museum tours

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

18°C to 25°C 64°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Cantonese)
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken, especially in business and tourism

Currency

Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hong Kong is generally safe, with low crime rates and a well-developed infrastructure. However, petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis
• Be wary of strangers approaching you with petitions or games

Getting there

By air

Hong Kong International Airport • 34 km from city center

By train

Hung Hom Station, West Kowloon Station

By bus

China Travel Service Terminal, CITS Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The MTR is clean, efficient, and widely used. It's the best way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Central Kowloon Wan Chai Sheung Wan Mong Kok

Day trips

Macau

60 km • Full day

A former Portuguese colony with a rich history and a mix of European and Chinese architecture.

Lantau Island

20 km • Full day

A scenic island with a mix of natural beauty and cultural sites, including the Big Buddha and Tai O fishing village.

Shenzhen

30 km • Full day

A modern city with a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as historic sites.

Festivals

Chinese New Year • January/February (varies by lunar calendar) Tung Choi Wai Ching Chiu Festival • April (varies by lunar calendar) Dragon Boat Festival • June (5th day of the 5th lunar month)