City Guide
August 17, 2024
5 min read

Central vs. TST: The Ultimate Hong Kong Meetup Battle

Are you Team Hong Kong Island or Team Kowloon? This decision can make or break a meetup. Let's find the best spot for your crew.

By Midway@ Team

They stare at each other across Victoria Harbour, each packed with things to do. But they offer vastly different experiences. Here's how to choose.

🍽️📍Perfect Spot! ✨🍽️🛍️

The Vibe Check: Central

The financial heart of the city. Think skyscrapers, designer shops, and fancy dining. It's fast-paced, sophisticated, and home to the nightlife hub of Lan Kwai Fong.

  • Best for: After-work drinks, fine dining, art galleries, and exploring the trendy SoHo area.
  • Downside: Can be very expensive and crowded, especially during lunch hours and weekends.
  • Midway@ tip: Meet at the IFC mall. It's directly connected to the MTR/Airport Express and has a rooftop garden with amazing views.

The Vibe Check: Tsim Sha Tsui (TST)

A bustling hub of commerce, culture, and chaos. TST is where you'll find museums, malls, markets, and the iconic Avenue of Stars.

  • Best for: Iconic skyline views, museum hopping, shopping for everything from luxury to souvenirs, and diverse food options.
  • Downside: The main roads are packed with tourists. It can be intense and overwhelming.
  • Midway@ tip: Meet at K11 Musea. It's a stunning piece of architecture, full of art, shops, and restaurants, with a lovely promenade out back for harbour views.

The Verdict

For a more polished, high-end experience with great bars, Central is the winner. It's the classic choice for a reason.

For better value, more variety, and arguably the best view of Hong Kong's skyline, Tsim Sha Tsui takes the crown. It's a sensory feast.

Pro Tip: The easiest midway point is simply riding the Star Ferry between the two. It's a cheap and iconic experience in itself!