10 cool photo spots in Hong Kong

As I mentioned in my first timer’s guide to Hong Kong, it has been a destination I had on my list for a long time. I knew that it is one of the most photogenic destinations and that I will be be able to discover many cool photo spots in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is a dream for street photographers, Instagrammers, and travelers who love to document their journeys through the lens. With its dramatic skyline, colorful neighborhoods, hidden alleyways, and stunning nature, this city blends old and new like nowhere else.

Whether you’re into urban chaos or peaceful temples, these 10 cool photo spots in Hong Kong will give you iconic backdrops, dynamic street scenes, and plenty of visual drama.

Here are my top 10 favourite photo spots in Hong Kong.

Dragon’s Back

Since I stayed in Hong Kong for over a week, I wanted to do some hiking and discover places outside the business of the city for the contrast.

Dragon’s Back is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. It is a scenic hike with panoramic views of Shek O, Tai Tam Bay, and the South China Sea. The undulating ridge resembles a dragon’s spine, hence the name.

The trail is relatively easy, making it accessible for most fitness levels, although, at the entrance to the trail, there was a warning that people with mobility issues shouldn’t go. After hiking it, it is steep with stones and slippery ground.

Top tip: Start your hike early in the morning to capture the soft, golden light over the coastline. The Shek O Peninsula Viewing Point provides a perfect spot for wide-angle shots.

How to get there: take the MTR to Shau Kei Wan Station (Island Line), exit A3, and then hop on bus number 9. Alight at the To Tei Wan stop, where the trail begins. You need Octopus Card to pay for the small bus. Be aware that it is a popular spot and the line for us was very long. The bus comes every 15-20 minutes and can only take 16 people at the time. There are also double decker buses (which we took on the way back) that depart from a different spot.

Arsenal Street

Located in Wan Chai, Arsenal Street offers a unique urban landscape with its mix of modern and traditional architecture. Go up to the footbridge over the street for an excellent vantage point for capturing the hustle and bustle below.

We stayed in a hotel just at the corner and for me, it was a perfect location in Hong Kong island.

Top Tip: Visit during the evening rush hour to photograph the dynamic movement of trams and taxis, with the city’s neon lights adding a vibrant backdrop.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Admiralty Station (Island Line), exit F, and walk towards Arsenal Street. The footbridge is located near the junction with Queensway.

The Monster Building

Officially known as the Yick Cheong Building, this residential complex in Quarry Bay has gained fame for its densely packed, symmetrical architecture. The courtyard offers a dramatic perspective, making it a popular spot for photographers.

There were many people taking pictures and there was a line to take the iconic photo on the stairs with the building behind.

There are signs saying that photography is not allowed, however, apparently, since it is a public space, it’s ok. Be mindful that this is a residential area, so it might be annoying for the people living there. There are some small shops inside, you can offer your support by purchasing something. They also have a nice souvenir shop with beautiful postcards and books.

Top Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the towering facades from the courtyard. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid crowds and harsh shadows. For me, it was quite difficult with my large lense and a mobile only.

How to tet There: Take the MTR to Quarry Bay Station (Island Line), exit A, and walk along King’s Road to reach the building. There are two courtyards.

The Peak

Victoria Peak offers an iconic view of Hong Kong’s skyline, Victoria Harbour, and the surrounding islands. The Sky Terrace 428 provides a panoramic platform for capturing the city’s grandeur, so I’d recommend purchasing combined ticket.

Top tip: Arrive before sunset to secure a good spot and capture the transition from day to night, as the city lights begin to sparkle. However, this is the most popular time and it will be crowded.

How to get there: Take the Peak Tram from the Lower Terminus on Garden Road, or bus number 15 from Central Pier. The line for the tram involved like a thousand people, so either prebook the tram ticket (you’ll wait less, but still you will have to wait) or walk up (a steep hill that will take you around an hour). We walked down to not waste the time in line for the tram. It was horrendous.

Choi Hung Estate basketball court

Choi Hung Estate is one of the coolest photo spots in Hong Kong an also frequented by photographers. This vibrant basketball court, surrounded by pastel-colored residential blocks, has become an Instagram sensation. The symmetry and colors provide a playful backdrop for creative shots.

Top tip: Visit during the golden hour for soft lighting that enhances the pastel hues. Weekday mornings are less crowded, allowing for uninterrupted shooting. Once you are in the area, make sure to visit the local market to witness the bustle of locals’ daily life.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Choi Hung Station (Kwun Tong Line), exit C4, and follow the signs to the estate.

Po Lin monastery

Situated on Lantau Island, Po Lin Monastery is home to the majestic Tian Tan Buddha. The serene environment and intricate architecture offer a peaceful setting for photography.

Top tip: Capture the Buddha from the base of the staircase to emphasize its grandeur. The monastery’s courtyard also provides opportunities for detailed shots of traditional Chinese architecture. The monastery was peaceful without crowds, unlike the Buddha.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Tung Chung Station (Tung Chung Line), exit B, and then ride the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car to Ngong Ping Village. I recommend prebooking it to stay less in line as it was significantly quicker with the ticket. I booked a crystal cabin with a f=glass floor for cool views.

Nathan Road

Nathan Road is a cool photo spot in Hong Kong. I walked the street many times and took many pictures (I liked the vintage vibe of a blurry photo of this busy street just before darkness). Known as the “Golden Mile,” Nathan Road is a bustling street lined with shops, neon signs, and a constant flow of people and vehicles. It’s a quintessential Hong Kong experience.

Top tip: Use a tripod to capture long-exposure shots of the vibrant lights and moving traffic at night (which I didn’t have). The intersection near Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Station offers particularly dynamic scenes.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui Station (Tsuen Wan Line), exit B1, and walk along Nathan Road.

Streets of Mong Kok

Mong Kok is a sensory overload with its dense markets, street food stalls, and vibrant street life. It’s a paradise for street photographers seeking candid moments.

Top tip: Explore the area during the evening when the neon signs illuminate the streets. Don’t hesitate to venture into the side alleys for unique perspectives.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Mong Kok Station (Tsuen Wan Line), exits B2 or E2, and immerse yourself in the surrounding streets. I stayed there for a couple of days and recommend this hotel, just at the MTR station and withing a few-minute walk to all the markets.

Victoria Harbour

Victoria Harbour offers stunning views of Hong Kong’s skyline, especially during the Symphony of Lights show. The Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade provides a prime location for capturing the city’s illuminated skyline.

You can also take a boat tour to see both fronts from a different perspective.

Top tip: Arrive early to set up your tripod and secure a good spot along the promenade. The blue hour, just after sunset, offers the best lighting conditions. In my opinion though, any time of the day is good for the photos, even on a hazy day that creates nostalgic atmosphere.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui Station (Tsuen Wan Line), exit E, and walk towards the waterfront.

Temple Street

Temple Street Night Market in Yau Ma Tei is a bustling hub of activity, especially after dark. Lined with fortune tellers, street performers, sizzling food stalls, and vendors selling everything from electronics to vintage trinkets, it’s the kind of place where Hong Kong’s gritty charm really shines. The glowing neon signs and crowded alleyways offer a rich canvas for street photography, full of movement and character.

Top Tip: Arrive just after dusk when the market comes alive and the lights are at their most vibrant. Use a fast lens to capture low-light scenes and candid portraits.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Jordan Station (Tsuen Wan Line), exit A, then walk along Temple Street towards the heart of the market near Yau Ma Tei.

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See also:

Use my favourite travel resources to plan your dream trips

Booking.com for searching best prices on accommodation.
Travel Payouts is my favourite platform for monetizing the blog.
Discover Cars is a great website as they search both local and international car hire services, so you can choose the best deal for yourself. Make sure though, that the company has a good reputation and reviews.
Get Your Guide is my place to go for searching and booking tours and excursions, especially when I travel solo.
World Nomads and EKTA travel insurance. I like them because they have quite extensive coverage of different activities.
Go City is a perfect site for booking bucket list experiences and attractions all in one to avoid paying for multiple tickets. Easy and saves money. You can even save 50%.
Trip Advisor– amazing for good quality recommendations.
Skyscanner is a perfect website for searching flight routes and comparing prices.