Top 10 Things to Do in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong

It’s not as big as the other Times Square, or as famous, but it’s a sight you should not skip when exploring Hong Kong’s Causeway Bay. The square wasn’t previously part of Causeway Bay, but due to some moving of notional borders, most guidebooks now agree that it’s part of the area, if not one of its prime attractions. Why go at night? Because the glass-walled malls and high-rises filled with shops look so much prettier lit up. Plus, where else are you going to find shops that welcome you until well after midnight?

For many, Causeway Bay represents one thing, and one thing only: shopping. From gigantic shopping malls to local retailers, and from high-end fashion to affordable high-street offerings, Causeway Bay has it all. Visit SOGO, Hong Kong’s largest Japanese-style department store, or check out some local designers at Fashion Walk. It’s not just about clothes either; those on the lookout for electronics or household items are sure to find their fix, too.

A stone’s throw away from Houston Street is one of Hong Kong’s more peculiar tourist attractions. Every day at noon, a small crowd gathers to watch an employee of multinational company Jardine Matheson fire a three-pounder naval gun. Historians can’t quite agree on what started the tradition, but you can still witness it in action. As they only fire the gun once, the whole ceremony doesn’t take up much time, leaving you with plenty of time to take photos of the harbour views. You won’t stumble across the gun by accident, as you have to walk through a tunnel to get there; you can find the entrance underneath the World Trade Centre.

Why not try something truly out of the ordinary? If you are in Causeway Bay and need to get something off your chest, consider visiting the city’s local villain-hitters, who will help dispel any bad vibes or even curse your enemies by beating their shoes – yes, really.

The practice, known locally as da siu yan (‘petty person beating’) is a sorcery that involves local women, mostly retirees, beating away bad vibes; they can even curse your enemies by whacking paper effigies with their shoes. Popular with both locals and tourists, it’s a fascinating practice and one of those local traditions that gives Hong Kong its unique character. Typically, the villain-hitters charge HK$50 (£5) for the service. Clients come to see these hitwomen to help shake all kinds of ill fortune, but most are looking to combat unfaithful partners, love rivals or work troubles.

Lovers of literature should flock to this building. Featuring an innovative overhead book carousel that automatically catalogues hundreds of books and transports them to their rightful sections, the establishment redefines libraries, using technological advancements to appeal to the younger generation. There’s a designated area where children can come to read and enter a fantasy world of castles, faraway lands and mythical creatures.

Named after the former British queen, Victoria Park is the largest public park on Hong Kong Island. It features a fountain, some ponds, large grassy areas and plenty of benches dotted along its winding paths. Depending on the time of day, and of course the weather, you’ll find people having a picnic, practising tai chi or doing a lap on the dedicated jogging trail. It won’t top any lists of the world’s most beautiful parks, but it’s a welcome bit of green in the middle of Hong Kong.
This article is an updated version of a story created by Laura Fransen.