Hong Kong Island Archives

Villain Hitting Tour in Causeway Bay

Experience the Villain Hitting Tour!

Date: Contact us to arrange a private or group tour
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 Noon (2 hours)
Price:

Adults: HKD $388
Aged 5 – 17 years: HKD $288 (must be accompanied by an adult)

Embark on a unique adventure through the heart of Hong Kong, where tradition hides amongst the urban landscape! Our Villain Hitting Tour offers an immersive experience led by a licensed guide and the owner of the popular Instagram page @explore_hongkong. Discover the fascinating Villain-hitting tradition, celebrated for its cathartic release, and featured in TIME magazine as the “Best Way to Get It Off Your Chest” and our blog post for Off the Beaten Track Hong Kong.

What to Expect:

Learn about the history and significance of Villain hitting as we visit local grandmas in Causeway Bay.
Explore the 180-year-old Hung Shing Temple and other iconic sites like The Pawn, steeped in rich heritage.
Enjoy a hidden vantage point offering stunning panoramas of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon’s skyline.
This tour is accessible for everyone—just bring your curiosity!
Experience the century-old Noon Day Gun ceremony, a unique way to conclude our journey.

What’s Included?

Led by the fabulous owner of the 148K follower Instagram page @explore_hongkong who is also a licensed guide

What Do I Need?

•⁠ ⁠Octopus card: For public transportation

Price

Adults: HKD $388
Aged 5 – 17 years: HKD $288 (must be accompanied by an adult)

Transportation

A mix of walking and public transportation to soak in the local atmosphere.

Meeting / End point

Wan Chai MTR Station Exit A (inside the MTR station)

Language

English

View more local tours by Explore Hong Kong below – next trip to Aberdeen on 2nd November 2024

Aberdeen Sampan + Public Housing Estate Tour

Explore Hong Kong: Tam Kung Festival

Have you ever witnessed the mesmerizing spectacle of over 30 traditional Lion and Dragon dances performed consecutively? In May, Hong Kong celebrates the birthdays of multiple deities, making it one of the most vibrant and colorful months of the year! Join us on this small group tour to experience the Tam Kung Festival like a true local with Explore Hong Kong.

Immerse yourself in the ancient rituals as you marvel at the amazing Lion and Dragon dances, each movement steeped in centuries of cultural significance. Learn about the rich history and captivating stories behind this incredible festival, unveiling the deep-rooted traditions that have shaped Hong Kong’s identity.

The birthday of Tam Kung, the revered Taoist sea god, is celebrated annually on the 8th day of the 4th Lunar month. Delve into the fascinating history of Shau Kei Wan and discover how different deities have played pivotal roles in the lives of the people here, forming an intricate tapestry of beliefs and customs.

Join us in the grand Lion and Dragon dance parade, where you can capture unforgettable moments through your lens. Get ready to take stunning photos and captivating videos as the vibrant procession unfolds before your eyes (remember to tag us!). Let’s explore Hong Kong together!

Date

Monday 5th May (public holiday)

Price

HKD $298 per person

Transportation

Walking

Meeting / End point

Shau Kei Wan MTR station Exit B1

Time

10:00am to 12:30pm (2.5 hours)

Inclusions

Expertly led by the licensed guide and the owner of the 155K-instagram page @explore_hongkong. This is guided tour on everything you need to know about this Traditional Chinese Festival and we will be experiencing it like a local! Get Ready to take some really nice photos and videos on that day!

Exclusions

Public transportation and personal spending

Language

English

View more local tours by Explore Hong Kong below – next trip to Aberdeen on Saturday, 17th May 2025

Aberdeen Sampan + Public Housing Estate Tour

Tai Hang Fire Dragon Experience + Teacake Masterclass

When you hear “Tai Hang,” the first thing that comes to mind is the incredible fire dragon dance, a tradition that’s been going strong for a century. But there’s more to this spot than meets the eye – it used to be a bustling Hakka village, and now it’s a hub of cool shops and historical spots that everyone loves. That’s why it’s often called Causeway Bay’s backyard! Join us for this one-off tour of the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Heritage Centre in English, for behind the scenes access ahead of the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations.

Tour includes:

Expertly led in-depth tour of the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Heritage Centre at 12 School Street, Tai Hang
Hakka Steamed Buns making workshop
A rendezvous with Fire Dragon itself
️Lunch at Hakka Ting
A visit to the unique Lin Fa Kung Temple
MTR travel

Workshop (Hakka Steamed Buns):

Next, prepare to tantalize your taste buds with an immersive Hakka Steamed Buns workshop. Learn the art of crafting these delightful delicacies under the guidance of experienced Hakka chefs. Unleash your creativity as you shape the buns, fill them with scrumptious ingredients, and embrace the culinary traditions of the Hakka people.

Fire Dragon Visit:

This one-off visit grants you access to the awe-inspiring Fire Dragon for the last time before the festivities begin. You will be able to see the scale and meticulous craftsmanship of the unique dragon sculpture which is adorned with countless incense sticks, later to be arefired up during the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations.

Lunch at Hakka Ting:

As the day unfolds, indulge in an exquisite lunch at Hakka Ting, a charming restaurant renowned for its delectable Hakka cuisine. Savor the authentic flavors of traditional dishes, elevating your culinary adventure to new heights. The rich heritage of Hakka food will be a perfect complement to the immersive experiences of the day.

Visit to the Lin Fa Kung Temple:

Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of the Lin Fa Kung Temple, a place steeped in history and spirituality, and unique lotus shaped architecture.

Meeting point: Tin Hau MTR

Date: Tuesday 12th March

Time: 9:30am – 2:30pm

Inclusions: Local cultural heritage guide, lunch, Hakka teacake workshop

Adult ticket: $318

Language: English

Tour code: CTIS-ICHKFIREDRAGON12

Dragon Boat Festival Tour

Join us on a group tour for this annual Cultural festival at the charming Aberdeen Harbour to experience the Dragon Boat Festival like a local! Aberdeen Dragon Boat Race is one the oldest and most traditional in Hong Kong, with more than a hundred year of history.

Learn about the history and traditions of the Dragon Boat Festival, watch the Dragon Boat Race ON A SAMPAN fishing boat, try the traditional Cantonese Rice dumplings prepared by a local auntie and MORE! Let’s explore Hong Kong like a local!

Secure your place by booking on or before 20th May!

Date: Monday, 10th June 2024

Price: HKD$ 530 (Adult)

HKD$ 380 (Children between 3 to 12 years old, must be accompanied by an adult)

Transportation: Walking and Sampan ride on Aberdeen Harbour

Meeting: Lei Tung MTR station, Exit A1

End Point: Ap Lei Chau Market

Time: 9:00am to 11:00pm and 12:30pm to 2:30pm (two sessions x 2 hours)

Inclusions: Expertly led by licensed guide and owner of the 131K-instagram page @explore_hongkong, the tour includes a Sampan ride on the Aberdeen Harbour and 1 food stop for traditional Dragon Boat Festival Rice Dumplings and drinks.

Exclusions: Public transportation

Language: English

Highlights

45-min Sampan ride on the Aberdeen Harbour with Captain Ten, a local fisherman in Hong Kong!
Story and traditions of the Dragon Boat Festival in Hong Kong
Visit the 250-year-old Hung Shing Temple, which has kept people living on boat safe for centuries!
The Shui Yuet Temple, Ap Lei Chau
History of Ap Lei Chau and Aberdeen, the birthplace of Hong Kong
Enjoy a Cantonese Rice dumplings made by local aunties!
We have prepared a Dragon Boat Festival souvenir for you!

Jewish Heritage of Hong Kong

Explore Hong Kong’s Jewish Heritage: Book a Private Tour and add these elements to your day

Hong Kong’s Jewish heritage is a captivating aspect of the city’s multicultural history. Despite a relatively small Jewish population of around 4,000 individuals residing in the city, their influence has been momentous. Our specialist Jewish guide to delve into this remarkable heritage.

Jewish Traders in Hong Kong

In the mid-1800s, Jewish traders were among the pioneering foreign merchants to establish businesses in Hong Kong, Macau, and Canton, taking advantage of China’s opening to international trade. Their involvement played a pivotal role in the development of Hong Kong’s economy, positioning the city as a vital trading hub in the region.

Ohel Leah Synagogue

One of Hong Kong’s most significant Jewish heritage sites is the Ohel Leah Synagogue located in Midlevels. Constructed in 1902, the synagogue bears the name of Leah Sassoon, an esteemed member of Hong Kong’s Jewish community. With its striking blue and white façade and intricate interior, the synagogue stands as a testament to the community’s history and devotion.

Jewish Cemetery in Happy Valley

The Jewish Cemetery in Happy Valley serves as a poignant Jewish heritage site. It serves as the final resting place for numerous members of Hong Kong’s Jewish community, including the influential Sassoon family, who played a pivotal role in the city’s economic development. This serene and contemplative location provides an opportunity for visitors to pay their respects and delve into the history of the Jewish community in Hong Kong.

Peninsula Hotel and Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui

The Peninsula Hotel and Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui also hold great significance as Jewish heritage sites. Constructed in 1928 by the philanthropic and entrepreneurial Kadoorie family, the Peninsula Hotel showcases stunning colonial-era architecture and has welcomed numerous renowned guests throughout the years. Nathan Road, the thoroughfare that runs through the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, was named after Sir Matthew Nathan, a Jewish governor of Hong Kong in the early 1900s.

Diverse Roots of Hong Kong’s Jewish Population

Approximately half of Hong Kong’s Jewish population hails from overseas, representing countries such as the US, UK, France, Australia, South Africa, Israel, and Canada. This diversity contributes to the richness of Hong Kong’s Jewish heritage, underscoring the city’s role as a global center for trade, culture, and innovation.

Book a Customisable Tour

Embark on a journey to explore Hong Kong’s Jewish heritage, unravel the history and culture of the Jewish community, and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s global significance. Our customisable tours offer an immersive experience, inviting you to book a tour with us and discover all that this vibrant and dynamic city has to offer. Book a longer full-day car tour of Hong Kong and Kowloon and include the Jewish Heritage elements to your trip.

Aberdeen Sampan + Public Housing Estate Group Tour

This is a tour where you can appreciate the nature, learn about the history and culture of Hong Kong and experience the life of local fisherman all at once!

Join us on an inspirational group tour, exploring Aberdeen, the cultural birthplace of Hong Kong. This includes Ap Lei Chau, the fourth most densely populated island in the world. During the 3-hour tour, we will be on foot and take a traditional wooden sampan fishing boat, and dive into the harbour’s history.

Enjoy a bowl of boat noodles, traditionally prepared by local fisherman, whilst enjoying the beautiful view of the Aberdeen Harbour on a sampan. You would be able to take photos in front of the iconic Hong Kong Floating Restaurant.

We will then visit one of the oldest public housing estates in Hong Kong to learn about the history of public housing development and understand more about how one-third of Hong Kong population live their lives in this second most expensive city in the world. A small hike around the area allows us to see the hundred-year-old waterfall and the seashore shrine which houses thousands of statues of Gods and Goddess, guarding people in the area for decades.

Let’s explore Hong Kong with us like a local!

Price

HKD$ 580

Transportation

Walking and Sampan ride on Aberdeen Harbour

Meeting

Lei Tung MTR station, Exit A1

End Point

Aberdeen Bus Terminus, Aberdeen

Time

11:00am to 2:00pm

Inclusions

Expertly led by licensed guide and owner of the 116K-instagram page @explore_hongkong, the tour includes a 30-min Sampan ride on the Aberdeen Harbour and a bowl of traditional boat noodles* and local food in one of the oldest cafés in Hong Kong!

Exclusions

Public transportation

Highlights

Explore Aberdeen, the birthplace of Hong Kong. Learn about Aberdeen’s earliest role as a vital port of trade, incense manufacturing and fishing.
Explore Ap Lei Chau, the fourth most densely populated island in the world, including the culturally significant Hung Shing Temple and Shui Yuet Temple
Continue the journey on a Sampan and take photos in front of the iconic Hong Kong Floating Restaurant.
*Enjoying a bowl of traditional boat noodles on a Sampan
Learn how important the God and Goddess of the Sea are to fishermen in Hong Kong
Visit one of the oldest public housing estates and understand about how one-third of Hong Kong population live their lives in this second most expensive city in the world.
A small hike to see the hundred-year-old waterfall and the seashore shrine which houses thousands of statues of Gods and Goddess, guarding people in the area for decades.
Visit one of the oldest Hong Kong cafés for local snacks and drinks

*tasting might change due to availability

We also provide this tour virtually if you are unable to join in person. Check it out here.

Car Tour of Hong Kong & Kowloon

Discover the Best of Hong Kong and Kowloon: Private Car Tour

Make the most of your visit to Hong Kong and Kowloon by embarking on a private car tour. With your own driver guide, experience the comfort and convenience of exploring the city’s top attractions at your own pace. Our door-to-door service ensures a stress-free experience, collecting you from your hotel, airport, or even the notoriously difficult-to-reach Kai Tak cruise terminal.

Why a car tour?

1. Comfort and Convenience:
Travel in ultimate comfort and convenience as you explore Hong Kong and Kowloon in a private car. Say goodbye to the hassle of public transportation and the constraints of fixed schedules. Sit back, relax, and let us take care of the logistics while you enjoy the journey.

2. Expert Guide:
Our knowledgeable and friendly guides are fluent in English and passionate about showcasing the best of Hong Kong and Kowloon. They will provide insightful commentary and ensure you have a memorable experience.

3. Cruise Ship Pick Up from Kai Tak Cruise Terminal:
We understand that transportation can be challenging at the Kai Tak cruise terminal. That’s why we offer pick-up services from this notoriously difficult location, ensuring you have a seamless and convenient start to your tour.

Cruise ships we receive booking for 2023-24: Celebrity Solstice, Westerdam, Costa Delizoiza, Costa Serena, Celebrity Millennium, Diamond Princess, Queen Mary II, Serenade of the Seas, Mein Schiff 6, Insignia, Royal Princess, MSC Bellissima, Norwegian Spirit, Quantum of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas, Coral Princess, Seabourn Encore, Seabourn Sojourn, Seven Seas Explorer, Silver Muse, Silver Nova, Viking Orion

Car Options

We offer two car options to suit your preferences and group size:

1. Premium Option (Up to five passengers in a Toyota Alphard):
Indulge in a premium experience with our Toyota Alphard, accommodating up to five passengers. Enjoy a comfortable and luxurious journey as you explore the city.

2. Luxury Option (Up to six passengers in a Mercedes V-Class):
Experience the epitome of luxury with our Mercedes V-Class, accommodating up to six passengers. Travel in style and elegance while discovering the wonders of Hong Kong and Kowloon.

Tour Itineraries

1. Classic Hong Kong and Kowloon Highlights Tour

Embark on our classic Hong Kong Highlights tour, which covers the must-see attractions of the city. Visit iconic landmarks, immerse yourself in the vibrant street markets, and enjoy breathtaking views from panoramic viewpoints. This itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors to Hong Kong. Scroll down for the options available.

2. Explore the New Territories Tour

For a unique and off-the-beaten-track experience, opt for our Explore the New Territories tour. Venture into lesser-known areas of Hong Kong that are not easily accessible by public transportation. Discover hidden gems, cultural landmarks, and picturesque landscapes that showcase a different side of Hong Kong. Click here for our New Territories car tour options.

3. Lantau Island for the Big Buddha, Po Lin Monastery and Tai O Fishing Village

One of the exclusive advantages of our private car tours is that we hold the necessary license to access the restricted zone of Lantau Island. This means that we can take our guests directly to some of the island’s most iconic and culturally significant attractions, including the renowned Big Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, and the charming fishing village of Tai O. By having this special permission, we save you valuable time and offer you the comfort and accessibility that a walking tour would not be able to do.

Unlock the treasures of Hong Kong and Kowloon on a private car tour. Enjoy the freedom, flexibility, and personalized attention provided by our driver guide. Book a tour with us and create lasting memories as you explore the best that Hong Kong and Kowloon have to offer. Whether you’re staying in a hotel, arriving at the airport, or docking at the Kai Tak cruise terminal, we’ve got you covered with our convenient pick-up service.

The VIP Hong Kong Experience

Embark on an unforgettable VIP experience as we pick you up from your hotel and take you on a mesmerising 18-minute helicopter ride above the world-famous Victoria Harbour skyline, granting you panoramic views of the picturesque beaches and bays of South Hong Kong Island.

Next, we’ll journey to the majestic and vibrant Wong Tai Sin Temple. A place where you can connect with the divine and make offerings to fulfil your heart’s desires. You’ll even have the opportunity to have your palm read by skilled fortune-tellers, adding an intriguing twist to your day.

For lunch, we’ve secured a table at a two-Michelin star restaurant, three options available subject to availability.

Our adventure continues as we ride in the private cabin of the Ngong Ping cable car, treating you to breathtaking panoramic views of the countryside and the bustling Hong Kong International Airport. The journey leads us to the serene Po Lin Monastery and the iconic Big Buddha, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquility and grandeur of this sacred site.

As the day gently transitions into evening, we’ll make our way back to Hong Kong Island for an enchanting sunset cruise on a private cruiser. Savor your preferred beverages as you bask in the breathtaking panorama of Victoria Harbour, where the city’s towering skyscrapers come to life against the canvas of the setting sun. This exquisite experience serves as the perfect crescendo to a day brimming with extraordinary moments.

Please note that this tour is completely bespoke and above is a sample of what we can do during your VIP experience in Hong Kong. Feel free to customise this tour with additional elements, including the Jewish Heritage of Hong Kong.

Shore Excursions

While your ship is in port, make the most of your visit by taking a private car shore excursion around Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula with your very own driver guide. We take all the stress out of your visit with our door-to-door service, collecting you from and returning you to your cruise ship terminal.

As well as offering comfort and convenience, we are one of the few tour companies licensed to access the restricted access zone of Lantau Island by car. Our knowledgeable and friendly guides all speak excellent English and will ensure you make the most of your time in Hong Kong.

We have a number of shore excursion car itineraries. The first is a classic Hong Kong Highlights tour taking in several better-known destinations. We often recommend this to first time visitors as it takes in many of Hong Kong’s best known and most iconic spots.

However, if you would prefer to go further off the beaten track to see another side of Hong Kong, we would recommend our Explore the New Territories tour. There are plenty of fascinating spots that are difficult to access by public transport and also tend to be a little less crowded.

Listed below are some of the options we could include in your itinerary depending on your interests and time constraints. Your itinerary is completely flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs. If you have a destination in mind that is not listed, please enquire and we will accommodate your request if possible.

Hong Kong Highlights Shore Excursion

Hong Kong Island:

Victoria Peak
Man Mo Temple
Stanley Market
Aberdeen

Kowloon:

Wong Tai Sin Temple – Make a wish at Hong Kong’s most vibrant temple
Nan Lian Garden and Chi Lin Nunnery – Enjoy a beautiful garden and tranquil retreat
Mongkok’s Markets: Bird Garden, Flower Market, Goldfish Market, Ladies Market

You can view our tour booking page here for a shore excursion of Hong Kong and Kowloon

Lantau Island for Big Buddha & Tai O Shore Excursion

Lantau Island:

The Big Buddha
Po Lin Monastery
Tai O Fishing Village
HKZM Bridge

You can view our tour booking page here for a shore excursion of Lantau Island for Big Buddha and Tai O

Explore the New Territories on a Shore Excursion

Sai Kung for the National Park or the seafood promenade.
Tai Po District: Wet market, floating fishing village in Sam Mun Tsai, Tsz Shan Monastery* and Guan Yin Statue.
Kadoorie Farm.
Abandoned villages and fortified walled communities in Sha Tin.
The 10, 000 Buddhas Monastery in Shatin.
Monkey Mountain the native (and very tame) Macaques monkeys. *Please do not feed the monkeys under any circumstances.
Jat’s Incline: An amazing panoramic view.
Shopping at Sum Ngai Brass Factory or Yuet Tung China Works

*A visit to the Tsz Shan Monastery must be booked at least four weeks in advance.

You can view our tour booking page here for a shore excursion of the New Territories

Night Tour of Hong Kong

Want to wake up in the city that never sleeps? You’ve come to the right place! In our humble opinion, Hong Kong really comes alive after 6pm – and with this fully customisable night tour, we’ll show you exactly what makes this city quite so special after-hours.

Hong Kong is home to one of the world’s most iconic skylines – and trust us, it only gets better after darkness falls! Our exhilarating night tour delivers a thrilling mix of mesmerising sights and incredible experiences on both sides of the harbour, with highlights including:

A chance to soak up the city’s glittering skyline on the Star Ferry
Watch the spectacular Symphony Of Lights show
A visit to buzzing Ladies’ Market, with bargain opportunities galore
Curse your enemies in Causeway Bay or have your fortune told in Temple Street
Have a flutter on a horse race at Happy Valley Racecourse (Wednesday only)
Enjoy a tipple at an exclusive rooftop bar or eat at a delicious novelty cafe
Absorb the atmosphere whilst travelling along the longest outdoor escalator
Relax with a cosy foot massage
Feast on freshly-made local eats at an outdoor cooked food market

As your go-to friend in Hong Kong, our qualified guides aka “Greeters” are passionate about Hong Kong and its culture, and are delighted to share their knowledge with our guests. Please note that all food and drink, alongside additional costs like foot massages or admission to Happy Valley Racecourse, are at the visitors’ own expense.

If you thought New York was the city that never sleeps, you ain’t seen nothing yet! This fully customisable private tour offers guests the chance to explore Hong Kong by night; get ready for a veritable feast for the senses, where you can immerse yourself in some of the city’s most iconic sights and mesmerising experiences – essentially, the best kind of night on the town, done in quintessential Hong Kong style.

Whilst your exact itinerary is up to you, top of our must-do list is seeing Hong Kong’s unforgettable skyline after darkness falls, where the city’s dizzying array of towering skyscrapers and neon lights are set to dazzle. We’ll take a night trip on the classic Star Ferry so you can soak up this glittering view from the water, before catching the spectacular Symphony Of Lights show once we’ve crossed the harbour to Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade… and make sure you have your cameras ready, as this is one magical cityscape shot you won’t want to miss!

This tour is totally tailor-made to your preferences, so simply let us know how you’d best like to spend your evening. Whether it’s haggling for bargains at Mong Kok’s lively Ladies’ Market, having a flutter on a horse race at Happy Valley Racecourse or visiting the fortune tellers to see what the universe has in-store for you (and even putting a curse on your enemies!), we can make it happen.

We’ll ensure you’re fuelled up for the night’s fun with feasting galore – whether it’s savouring street food aplenty as we enjoy a leisurely stroll around the neighbourhood, chilling out with late-night snacks like French toast, pineapple buns and milk tea at a local cha chaan teng café, or settling down to a raucous meal of freshly-made Cantonese delicacies at an outdoor cooked food market.

And what better way to finish the night than by putting your feet up (literally!) with a relaxing foot massage, or enjoying a tipple or two at an exclusive rooftop bar to drink in more of those sensational views?

Whatever you decide, we’re certain that this is one evening adventure you’ll never forget – so buckle up, because it’s going to be a brilliant night!