Tsuen Wan has a long history with its roots firmly implanted in the textiles and manufacturing industry, but in recent years, it’s reemerged with new restaurants, cafes, bars and things to do for both locals and visitors alike. Whether it’s your first time in the area or not, here are some of our favourite things worth trying — and we bet you’ll love them too:
Celebrating Tsuen Wan’s history in textile manufacturing, The Mills is a remarkable transformation project. Once a cotton mill, it’s now a vibrant ‘techstyle’ art and culture centre that supports the local community and creative talent. Opened in 2018, this all-in-one destination serves as an incubator for start-ups, a shopping hub and a cultural hotspot. It also gives home to CHAT (Centre for Heritage, Arts and Textile), a non-profit art and cultural centre that regularly hosts textiles-related exhibitions and programmes. Take a stroll around the revitalised buildings to view local artists’ outdoor murals, join guided tours and hands-on workshops, and enjoy plenty of shopping and dining options.
Translating to ‘Dragon Steam Village’, this quaint Hakka village is nestled beside a meandering stream, enveloped by nature. It’s an idyllic destination for all, especially families seeking a leisurely walk with the kids or elderly. The village is renowned for its charming teahouses; Choi Lung Restaurant, for example, is a popular choice among visitors for its authentic, no-frills traditional dim sum experience.
Hong Kong boasts a fascinating aviation history that stretches beyond the renowned Kai Tak Airport, famous for its notoriously challenging runway prior to its closure. The Airport Core Programme Exhibition commemorates the evolution of its successor, Hong Kong International Airport, by showcasing photographs and models that illustrate its construction process. Housed within the historic Homi Villa on Castle Peak Road, this exhibition centre stands as a neo-classical marvel, featuring a veranda and a gracefully curved flight of steps at its entrance. Visitors can also relish panoramic vistas of the Tsing Ma Bridge from the rooftop viewing platform and explore the garden surrounding the centre.
Who doesn’t love a spectacular sunset spot — or two? Tsuen Wan offers numerous exceptional vantage points for such captivating scenes. One of them is Ting Kau Bridge, a majestic cable-stayed bridge that treats you to unparalleled vistas of the sun, sea and mountains. Another remarkable location is the recently revamped Tsuen Wan Promenade, now featuring an open concept dubbed ‘The Retreat’. As you leisurely stroll along the promenade towards the west, you’ll find yourself immersed in a tunnel of ‘toriis’, reminiscent of the renowned Senbon Torii in Kyoto. These torii-like structures actually serve as noise barriers for the highway, but their unique design and bright colour have made it a popular photo spot.
Tsuen Wan is a great starting point for some of Hong Kong’s most incredible hikes. To reach the city’s highest peak, Tai Mo Shan, kick off your journey from Nina Mall near MTR Tsuen Wan West Station and take bus 51 to Tai Mo Shan Country Park. The scenic hike promises not only breathtaking vistas at the summit but also a vibrant display of cherry blossoms (from February to March) and an abundance of natural beauty along the trail. Another popular path begins in Tsuen Wan and leads to the scenic Shing Mun Reservoir. This trail is not only steeped in historical remnants but also offers breathtaking scenery and opportunities to encounter wildlife such as butterflies, monkeys and boars.
With a history spanning over six decades, Yue Kee Roasted Goose Restaurant remains a beloved choice for both locals and visitors. Recognised by Michelin’s Bib Gourmand for its combination of quality and value, this third-generation family establishment presents a range of delectable options centred around the famed Guangdong bird. Among the offerings, their signature charcoal-roasted goose takes the spotlight, alongside soy-braised web and wine-infused goose liver. The menu also extends to include an assortment of seafood and stir-fry delights.
Indulge in authentic cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style cafe) pleasures at Gala Cafe, a reliable haven in Tsuen Wan that has been serving the community since 1978. Arrive with an appetite, as the dishes are known for their hearty portions, particularly the egg sandwich, which has more egg than bread. Noteworthy options include Swiss-style chicken wings, pineapple bun, and French toast coated with a buttery layer and drizzled with condensed milk — all are must-try classic Hong Kong dishes.
For years, Tsuen Hing Path has remained one of Hong Kong’s cherished hidden treasures, known primarily to long-time residents of the neighbourhood. This is where you’ll find a range of local street snacks and beverages, from siu mai to tofu pudding to bubble tea. A great starting point could be Wing On, a Michelin-recognised street food store with over 30 years of history. This quaint spot dishes out cart noodles and homemade marinated chicken rings at affordable prices. Another authentic option is Sun Kee Cafe, which has perfected the cha chaan teng experience over two decades in the business. Don’t miss crowd favourites like dry noodles with cheese and fried macaroni with tomato and cheese sauce. For dessert, head to Yuk Tofu Fa or Zan Wo Bean Products, where the tradition of Hong Kong-style sweet soup lives on. Both shops are known for their tofu puddings, but you can also enjoy local desserts like green bean soup, sesame soup and put chai ko (sweet rice pudding).
Nestled within the Ocean Love Shopping Centre, Peko Peko Eatery has a chic Japanese-style ambience and soothing sea views. This unique cafe concept marries Japanese and Western culinary influences in dishes like the 63C Carbonara with an onsen egg and the Roasted Spring Chicken with Mixed Herbs. Not feeling like a full meal? They also serve up snacks and refreshments such as fries, yogurt smoothies, coffee or tea affogato, as well as a selection of tea concoctions.
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