Hong Kong is known for many things - vibrancy, shopping, food, culture, and nightlife. Romance isn’t necessarily a word that comes to mind when one thinks about Hong Kong, but you’ll be surprised at how many romantic spots there are in the city and beyond. If ambient lighting isn’t your idea of a date night, there are plenty of options for a good time out with your favorite person in the world.
Here are some of the best spots in town.
Dining at The Peak
Photo: Tripadvisor
When you’re traveling, you’re excused for going to places that you’d otherwise find ‘cheesy.’ Dining at The Peak may seem a cliché for a local, but no one can deny the beauty of sharing a meal with a special one with sweeping views and gorgeous city lights. Wildfire is an Italian restaurant at The Peak that serves good pizzas, drinks, and let’s face it; you’re there for the view. Heading up to The Peak itself is also an experience in itself as you can take the tram and enjoy a walk around the park for an after-dinner stroll.
Take a walk along the Waterfront
The Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade is a must-do stroll with your date. If you’ve watched enough Hong Kong dramas and films, you’d know that plenty of make-believe characters have contemplated upon their love for each other along this stunning promenade. The Victoria harbor lights beautifully, forming the best backdrop you could wish for in a city. You can begin your walk from the Tsim Sha Tsui Station Exit E and walk towards the Star Ferry Pier, or better still, take the Star Ferry from Central for the complete experience. If you’d like some help with getting into the mood, here’s an aptly titled ‘Tsim Sha Tsui Stroll’ from the soundtrack of Wong Kar Wai’s ‘Lust, Caution’.
Get on the tram ride
If you like the idea of a nostalgic date reminiscent of an era gone by, get on board the tram. What makes the Hong Kong tram system special? Well, the city actually has one of the oldest working tram systems, unlike in many other cities where trams were taken down and replaced, before being reinstated again. The trams also go through the best parts of the city so you can sightsee from the middle of the road at a leisurely pace. Tram 120 is the oldest in the system that’s been running continuously from the 1950s untill today.
A Speakeasy Bar
Image Credit: Messynessychic
What do you after a tram ride amidst city lights? You head to a speakeasy bar for a great cocktail or whiskey. There are some really good ones in the city, and there’s nothing more mysterious than booking a table at a secret bar to surprise your date. Try bars like J.Boroski, Mizurana The Library, or top it up with live jazz at Foxglove.
Comedy Night
A couple that laughs together stays together. Stand-up comedies are getting increasingly popular in Hong Kong, which is great news if you’re in the mood for laughter and wit. There are a couple of comedy clubs in Hong Kong, and Take Out Comedy is probably the most established one. The mood is relaxed, intimate, and you can bring your own beer.
Get on board the Chinese Junk
Image Credit: Flickr
One of Hong Kong’s most emblematic sights is the ancient Chinese junk cruising on the harbor. What could be more romantic than sailing in an iconic ship that has been used throughout the centuries? The Aqua Luna is a popular option and you can choose to have a dinner on board while enjoying the Symphony of Lights.
Go on a night hike
You may have heard that Hong Kong offers great hiking options. But what about a night hike for an outdoorsy date? If you’re done with The Peak but still can’t get enough of views, then head to Braemar Hill for some of the most stunning sunsets over the Victoria Harbour. Bring some bubbly along for it’s not particularly strenuous and you deserve a champagne with that view. On the other hand, if you’re an adventurous pair with good hiking experience under your belt, you might want to head to the morbidly named “Suicide Cliff” for scarily good views and an adrenalin rush.