Culture & Traditions

Hong Kong is defined by its unique Western culture influences adopted during British rule, fused with the dominant impact of Eastern China. There also continues to be a large expat population living and working in Hong Kong, leading to a greater influence from foreigners.

Hongkongers celebrate diverse festivals, including the Chinese New Year, Lantern Festival, and Dragon Boat Festival. These events broadly attended and encompass parades, dragon dances, and fireworks. Plan your trip according to these festivals so that you can experience another wonderful side of Hong Kong culture. Hongkongers respect their customs and etiquette. When visiting Hong Kong, one thing you must remember is not to be rude, even if you are infuriated at the moment, as it is not respected.

What is the visiting etiquette in Hong Kong?

When visiting someone's home, send a quick text to notify the guest about your impending arrival. Hongkongers appreciate the heads up. Do bring a small gift upon arrival, wrapped in gold or red foil, and present it with two hands. Just do not bring any red or white flowers, or an odd number of anything! Hongkongers are heavily influenced by British culture, and have adopted the Western handshake when greeting someone. Handshakes are typically lighter, but should be accompanied by a nod and direct eye contact. If you are in a small group, typically the host will introduce you to others in attendance. You’ll likely be introduced with someone's family name, followed by their first names. If they also tell you an adopted English name, it is appropriate for you to call them by that.

What is Hong Kong best known for?

After more than a century under British colonial rule, Hong Kong was handed back to China as a Special Administration Area in 1997. This history led to a unique blend of Eastern and Western culture, still prevalent in the architecture, where precolonial Chinese and old colonial buildings are in juxtaposition to the modern high-rise skyscrapers. Now one of the most recognizable skylines in the world, viewing Hong Kong from the Victoria Peak vantage point is breathtaking. Whether day or night, traveling up the Tram for the panoramic views is an excursion worth the time.  

Whether seeking out large malls or browsing the markets in different neighbourhoods, Hong Kong is famous for shopping. In Yau Ma Tei, the Temple Street Night Market draws travellers looking to browse or find souvenirs, whereas more clothing and accessories can be found at Ladies Market on Mongkok Street. Venture south to visit Stanley Market and wander the maze of alleyways featuring stalls with food, art, and clothing. Deals can be sought at the Apliu Street Flea Market, which draws shoppers looking for electronics such as photography equipment or power tools. If you are up for it, it's acceptable to try your hand bargaining at the markets too.

What are some Hong Kong traditions?

Stroll through one of many public green spaces on a trip to Hong Kong, and you might encounter locals practicing Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese martial art meditative exercise. It uses slow, graceful movements that are designed to connect the mind, body and soul. It is suitable for any age, but commonly elderly people do it to maintain balance, cardiovascular health, and allegedly extend longevity. Join in on the tradition, there are lots of publicly available classes if you want to try your hand at Tai Chi!

The ancient Chinese practice of Feng Shui, observing the relationship between buildings, houses, and workplaces to landscape, geography, and direction, continues to be tradition in Hong Kong. In Feng Shui, the Chinese characters meaning wind and water, buildings in Hong Kong have been built in harmony with nature in effort to bring good fortune. There is belief that good Feng Shui affects well-being and wards off bad luck, hence why Feng Shui masters are consulted during construction processes. Check out the HSBC building, placed with a fully clear view of Victoria Harbour and an open floor atrium where positive qi can travel. To ward off evil spirits that supposedly travel in straight lines, the escalators are built at an angle.

What are Hong Kong people like socially?

The demeanour of Hongkongers is generally more reserved and modest. Overall a softer tone of voice is used when in public, along with quieter laughter. Hongkongers may speak to one another in close proximity, but unsolicited social touching is not welcome.

Small chat is uncommon, and you may notice shopkeepers not engage when you are browsing, nor making a purchase. Common courtesy behaviors are evident in Hong Kong, such as respectful queuing and no blocking of walkways. There is significant reverence placed on elders in Hong Kong culture. It is respectful to give up your seat on transit for an elder. Refrain from pointing with an index finger if asking for directions. Always use an open hand.

Hongkongers socially recognize the concept of face, or miànzi, which is a cultural understanding of honour, dignity, and respect. Giving someone compliments and showing them respect is the act of giving face, while doing something disrespectful would cause someone to lose face. This is a good notion to remember in meeting, interacting and building friendships with Hongkongers.

What language is spoken in Hong Kong?

The official languages of Kong Kong are English and Chinese, with the dialect of Cantonese being most common. Travellers are often surprised to find almost 50% of locals speak some English, which is primarily a result of Hong Kong’s British colonial history. Street signage is also indicated in both Chinese and English. Learn a few basic words like nei hou (Hello) and doh jeh (Thank You), which will help you to connect with the locals.