Hong Kong in 48 Hours
A sustainable journey packed with culinary delights, art discoveries, and urban exploration
Words & Photos: Chutima Limpasurat
Granted a brief break from the office, I found myself embarking on a solo 48-hour trip to Hong Kong with sustainable travel in mind recently. While the timeframe seemed short, the city’s dynamic blend of old-world charm and modern allure guaranteed that every moment was packed with fun and discovery. Hong Kong’s accessibility, courtesy of its world-renowned airport and efficient transport system, makes it an ideal destination for a short but immersive journey.
The trip kicked off on the Kowloon side, where the Airport Express whisked me from Hong Kong International Airport to Kowloon station. With belly growling, I headed first to Yung Kee Roasted Goose restaurant on Kimberly Road. The roasted goose, infused with tangerine peel, offered a unique and delightful flavour profile, perfectly complemented by a steaming cup of traditional Hong Kong-style milk tea.
Having indulged my tastebuds, I turned my attention to Hong Kong’s burgeoning art scene, which has evolved significantly post-COVID. The M+ museum, situated in the West Kowloon Cultural District, beckoned with 20 storeys dedicated to visual culture. Accessible on foot from Tsim Sha Tsui or a short MTR ride, the museum showcases a captivating array of artworks, design, both indoors and out, also provided breath-taking views of the harbour from the café and terrace.
Eager to resume my gastronomic journey, I made my way to Lock Road for a visit to Mak’s Noodles, a culinary institution since 1920. The texture of egg noodles here was nothing short of exceptional, and I savoured signature dishes like Wonton Noodles, Stirred Noodles with Prawns & Dried Shrimp Roe, and Mushroom and Chicken Congee. Hong Kong’s culinary scene may be famous for its divine offerings, but it consistently delivered experiences that surpassed my expectations.
Belly satisfied, I took a leisurely stroll from Lock Road to Canton Road and the iconic Star Ferry. The scenic walk took me past renowned department stores like Gateway, Harbour City, and Ocean Terminal Desk while offering unparalleled views of the harbour. Continuing along Victoria Harbour walkway, I reached K11 MUSEA , where I soaked up the arty vibe over a cup of Arabica coffee from Victoria Dockside.
Having explored Kowloon to my heart’s content, I hopped over to Hong Kong Island on the Star Ferry, enjoying the iconic charm of the harbour-crossing. Alighting at Central pier, I followed signs to Queen’s Road, heading for the captivating Man Mo Temple on Hollywood Road in Sheung Wan. This historic temple, dating back to the 1800s, stands as a testament to tradition amid the surrounding skyscrapers, offering a serene counterpoint to the city bustle.
Meandering through the streets, I stumbled upon For Kee, a hidden culinary gem renowned for its porkchop rice. The flavour of old Hong Kong is even stronger on cobbled Pottinger Street, which is lined with local shops offering dried foods and goods from mainland China. Continuing along Queen’s Road, I discovered St. Francis Yard, where a cup of Blue Bottle coffee provided a timely energy boost opposite another city icon, the Monocle Shop. Perfect for people-watching, this spot flows with an eclectic mix of young professionals, expatriates, and pet lovers.
Recharged by caffeine and guided by Google Maps, I set off to explore the bustling district of Wan Chai. Here, Ki’s Roasted Goose Restaurant left a lasting impression with its glistening speciality served on rice. Swapping tired feet for steel wheels, I hopped aboard a Hong Kong tram for a tour of vibrant streets lit up by big-brand logos and promotions that make this city a photographer’s delight.
A commercial district by day, Wan Chai transforms into a lively nightlife zone when the sun goes down. The buzz is loudest in Lockhart Road, where local food shops and fresh markets jostle for space with modern skyscrapers, creating a charming blend of old and new. Amid the myriad accommodation options in Wan Chai, I would recommend The Flemming Hotel, for a stylish urban boutique stay in the neighbourhood’s heart. With 66 thoughtfully designed guestrooms inspired by Hong Kong’s iconic cross-harbour ferries, this hotel provided a cosy retreat with a unique touch.
With my brief but action-packed two days almost up, I bade farewell to the vibrant city and made my way to the airport. A short taxi ride from the hotel to Hong Kong station and the Airport Express ensured a stress-free journey of barely 24 minutes. Check-in and immigration at Hong Kong International Airport for Thai travellers proved remarkably friendly and efficient, granting me ample time to explore the world-class facilities before my flight back to Bangkok.
I couldn’t resist a final stop at the eye-catching Blue Bottle coffee pop-up, housed in a distinctive blue box. With a last cup of coffee in hand, I boarded my flight, cherishing memories of a whirlwind 48 hours in this enchanting city. The seamless blend of culinary delights, art discoveries, and urban wonders made this short trip an unforgettable experience.