From the Victoria Harbour skyline to the iconic Tian Tan Buddha, Hong Kong is filled with interesting sights to snap. When it comes to Instagram, however, photographers have looked to residential buildings and street art for their shots. Some such locations have become so well-known that they could even be considered attractions in their own right. If you haven’t taken one of these “must have” photos, now’s your chance!
Graham Street, Central
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Take a walk through SoHo and, at any moment of the day, you’ll find gaggles of tourists and locals alike vying for a spot in front of this mural to take a selfie. Douglas Young, co-founder of G.O.D., decided to commission some art from local street artist Alex Croft for the side of G.O.D.’s Hollywood Road branch. Croft took inspiration from Kowloon Walled City and Yau Ma Tei’s tenement buildings to create the colorful, graphic piece. That was in 2013. Then South Korean actor Ji Chang-wook did a photoshoot in front of the mural, which saw its popularity take off among Korean tourists. Tour groups began incorporating it into their itineraries, it began gaining traction on social media, and the rest is history.
Choi Hung Estate, Choi Hung
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There are countless public housing estates across Hong Kong, but few have been photographed quite as much as this one. Instagram loves color, which is why Choi Hung Estate — which translates to “rainbow estate” — is so popular. Its eye-catching, color-blocked facade definitely makes for a striking shot, and the basketball court perched atop one of the estate car parks provides the perfect vantage point to shoot from. First built in 1962, the estate is one of the oldest of its kind in the city.
Tank Lane, Sheung Wan
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In addition to quirky antique shops, art galleries, and hipster cafes, Sheung Wan is also filled with fascinating street art, including pieces by the likes of famous graffiti artists Xeva and Hopare. This geometric, multi-colored work by Russian Street artist Pasha Wais, which covers Rich View Terrace at the corner of Tank Lane and Square Street, is a particular favorite.
Yik Cheong Building, Quarry Bay
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Hong Kong is famed for its urban density, and there’s nowhere this is more evident than in Quarry Bay, which is filled with tightly stacked residential complexes that have served as inspiration for movies such as Blade Runner and more. This building in particular, nicknamed the “Monster Building”, rose to fame after being featured in Ghost in the Shell and Transformers: Age of Extinction. Respect the residents while doing your shoot, though; a sign requests that visitors seek permission before taking any photos.
Western District Public Cargo Working Area, Sai Wan
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Spectacular sunset views, shipping crates and cargo containers, and a mirror effect where the sky is reflected in the sea all make this pier a much sought-after photo op indeed, earning it the nickname “Instagram Pier”. Such is its popularity that the Hong Kong government had to scale back plans for building a community garden in the location after community backlash.
Lok Wah South Estate, Ngau Tau Kok
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This housing estate’s appeal lies in an architectural feature in one of its children’s playgrounds: a pastel blue series of walls with circular windows that create an infinite effect. Take the position of the sun into account when you visit, since the shadows from the bars above change throughout the day, too.
