5 Places You Must Visit in Sai Wan/ Sai Ying Pun Hong Kong
Situated on the western part of Hong Kong Island, Sai Wan is a popular historical landmark. Not only was it a hub for settling Chinese immigrants during the early days, but it was also a British military base. Sai Wan has now evolved into a quaint neighbourhood for hipster cafes and contemporary street art. Follow our local travel guide to discover the top sunset spots to visit and things to do in Sai Ying Pun.
Things To Do in Sai Ying Pun/ Sai Wan
1. Artlane
Artlane is no question a top Instagrammable spot in Sai Wan! More than just one street, it is made up of Chung Ching Street, Ki Ling Lane, and Shek Chan Lane in Sai Ying Pun. As part of an urban renewal project, it is lined with refurbished old buildings that were painted with murals, transforming the historic district into an art destination. Traverse these streets adorned with modern street art, and behold the dynamic artwork on the building walls drawn by 17 local and international artists. Kick-off at the junction of Ki Ling Lane and Des Voeux Road West with a colourful mural of an urban jungle. Venture out towards the kaleidoscopic mural tunnel by Pantone C, featuring music and dance motifs. Continue your tour to admire the very poetic Little girl watering plants mural and all the way to the famous Rainbow Staircase, designed by the duet of artists Blessy Man and Henry Lau. Different spaces in the community, such as walls, streets, and even the stairs, are transformed into canvases, making Artlane a well-known mural village in Hong Kong.
2. Sai Ying Pun Community Complex
Since Sai Wan was already home to Chinese communities in early Hong Kong, it is a treasure trove of historical landmarks. If you want to take gorgeous snapshots or simply treat yourself to a picturesque local travel experience, pay a visit to the Sai Ying Pun Community Complex. Its unique Baroque architectural style and exceptional granite facade have attracted the attention of film producers and tourists. It was constructed as a mental hospital and a day treatment centre for psychiatric outpatients, and later served as an execution hall during the Japanese Occupation. Tales of ghostly sightings have spread since it was abandoned in the 1970s, and it gradually fell into disrepair and was badly ruined by two fires believed to have been started inadvertently by trespassers. Except for the old granite facade, the rest of the mental hospital was demolished and redeveloped into the Sai Ying Pun Community Complex. It was declared a monument in 2015 while still being one of the best photo spots in Hong Kong.
3. Cafe Hopping
Venture out towards Sai Ying Pun's Second Street, Third Street, and High Street, which are lined with cosy cafes, coffee shops, restaurants, and bars. Spend a caffeinated afternoon at Coffee by Zion, serving a tantalising menu of coffee and tea as well as a range of cold brews, refreshing cocktails, and beers. While away an afternoon in its outdoor seats while indulging in hearty bagels, all-day breakfasts, and American classic croffles. Another popular stomping ground for coffee lovers, NOC Coffee Co, has a clean and natural palette design that brings a modern harmony to the café interior. Grab your cup of brew and healthy salads, fruit bowls, and pastries for a chill-out lunch. If you want to recharge yourself after exploring numerous landmarks, the cafes in Sai Ying Pun offer a comfortable distance away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
4. Belcher Bay Promenade
If you are looking to capture breathtaking sunset scenes, Belcher Bay Park, located in Sai Wan, is an Instagram-worthy spot. It offers spectacular vistas of Victoria Harbour and sunsets in Hong Kong. This promenade also provides pet-friendly areas, multi-purpose spaces, community gardens, and public washrooms. It is an impeccable place to slow down, sip a cup of coffee, and marvel at the scenic beauty.
5. Sun Yat Sun Memorial Park
Located on the waterfront of Sai Ying Pun, the Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park can be reached through the Belcher Bay Harbourfront Promenade. Stroll along the waterfront park to catch the unobstructed sunset views of Hong Kong's skyline. Have a picnic or grab some food from Sai Wan's restaurants to enjoy your afternoon on the grassy lawn. Meanwhile, there are top-notch facilities such as basketball courts, a football pitch, a swimming pool complex, and more.
Immerse Yourself in Endless Sea Views at Oasis aurum 181
The long paved Sai Ying Pun waterfront stretches down to Sheung Wan and Central districts. Book a stay at the Oasis aurum 181 and serviced residences. Most of them offer a 180-degree view of the jaw-dropping Victoria Harbour in Sai Wan. Let’s make a cup of coffee and immerse yourself into the magical hour of the stunning sunset.
To experience a moment of tranquillity in the inner city, we welcome you to reside in our Harbour Suite. Through the floor-to-ceiling windows, you can immerse yourself in panoramic seascapes and stunning sunsets while luxuriating in first-class amenities and services. Stay updated with more local travel guides and things to do in other hidden spots in Hong Kong.
FAQ: Exploring Sai Wan/Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong
Are the photography spots in Sai Wan/Sai Ying Pun suitable for mobile photography?
Absolutely. The charm of Sai Ying Pun and Sai Wan lies in the intricate details of its backstreets and alleys. Whether it’s the vibrant, New York SoHo-style murals of Artlane or the visually striking steep slopes of Centre Street, the layers of light and colour are incredibly rich. You don’t need to carry heavy photography equipment; a smartphone is all you need to capture high-quality, artsy-style shots, thanks to the unique interplay of natural sunlight and the texture of the heritage buildings.
Can I visit all the top spots in Sai Wan in a single day?
Yes, it makes for a perfect one-day local travel itinerary in "slow living" style. The attractions in the Western District are quite concentrated and within a reasonable walking distance of each other. You can kick off from Sai Ying Pun by exploring the mural art at Artlane, stroll along High Street to admire century-old monuments, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon at a nearby cafe. As evening approaches, take a walk toward Kennedy Town and the waterfront. There’s no need to rush; the pace is just right to savour the blend of old and new that defines the district's charm.
Where are the best places in Sai Wan to capture sunsets and sea views?
The Sai Wan Swimming Shed is undoubtedly the most iconic landmark. With its wooden pier extending into the sea, crashing waves, and the boundless horizon, it offers a cinematic, ethereal vibe under the glow of the setting sun—a true pilgrimage site for photography enthusiasts.
Additionally, Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park boasts a vast green lawn with sweeping views of Victoria Harbour. Here, you can feel the sea breeze while capturing the skyline as the sun dips below the horizon. The atmosphere is both cosy and romantic, offering a rare breathing space within the city.
Sai Ying Pun Waterfront Park is the district's newest highlight, which connects the promenade and features an observation deck and "sunset slides." It’s a vibrant, modern space perfect for capturing panoramic harbor views in a fresh setting.
Which area is most convenient for a stay when planning a Sai Wan/Sai Ying Pun itinerary?
To truly immerse yourself in the day and night of the Western District, Sai Ying Pun is undoubtedly the best place to settle in. Situated in the heart of Western Hong Kong Island, the area features a comprehensive transport network and is close to the MTR station. It offers the best of both worlds: instant connectivity to the bustle of Central and the tranquil heritage of an old community. By choosing to stay at the premium Oasis Aurum 181, you gain more than just a convenient location—you get to live the unique, laid-back lifestyle that Sai Ying Pun is famous for from dawn till dusk.