Kowloon is one of Hong Kong`s most atmospheric and multifaceted districts, where modern skyscrapers stand alongside traditional markets, and bustling shopping streets coexist with tranquil temples. This is where visitors can experience the authentic spirit of the city, sample local cuisine, and see iconic landmarks.
History of Kowloon District
Kowloon represents the only part of modern Hong Kong that originally belonged to China but became British territory through a series of colonial treaties. Its history is directly tied to Hong Kong`s fate and explains why Britain ultimately returned the entire city to China in 1997.
After the Second Opium War, the 1860 Convention of Peking permanently ceded southern Kowloon (south of Boundary Street) to Britain, creating a border between "British" Kowloon and Chinese lands. In 1898, Britain leased for 99 years:
- Northern Kowloon (north of Boundary Street)
- All New Territories plus 260 islands (including Lantau)
This was done to protect Hong Kong from French expansion in Asia.
By 1984, China refused to extend the lease. Britain couldn`t retain just southern Hong Kong (Hong Kong Island + southern Kowloon) as the city would be unsustainable without the New Territories. The Sino-British Joint Declaration was signed, returning all of Hong Kong to China on July 1, 1997.
Today:
- The former leased lands (New Territories) remain Hong Kong`s greenest and least populated areas
- Boundary Street (the 1860 border) is now just a street in Prince Edward district
- China maintained British systems - hence Kowloon still has red London taxis and pubs
What to See in Kowloon?
1. Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
- Marvel at Hong Kong Island`s skyline, especially stunning at night
- Arrive by 8pm for the "Symphony of Lights" show featuring 40+ buildings
- Visit the Avenue of Stars (Bruce Lee statue, handprints of Asian cinema legends)
2. Wong Tai Sin Temple - Wish-Fulfilling Shrine
- Seek blessings from Taoist deities, try bamboo stick fortune telling
- Best visited mornings to avoid crowds
3. Temple Street Night Market
- What to buy: Electronics, souvenirs, brand knockoffs
- What to eat: Street food like crab sticks, fried squid, tofu
- Tip: Bargain hard! Prices are inflated for tourists
4. Hong Kong Museum of History
- Interactive exhibits on colonial past, wars, and local culture
- Admission: ~HK$10 (free on Wednesdays)
5. Harbour City Mall
- 450+ stores (from Zara to Louis Vuitton), restaurants, cinemas
- Don`t miss LCX section featuring trendy Asian brands
Where to Eat in Kowloon?
1. Harbor View Restaurants
- Aqua (Peking One): Italian-Japanese fusion with panoramic windows
- Hutong: Northern Chinese cuisine in old Beijing atmosphere
2. Street Food
- Baked oysters with cheese (find stalls on Temple Street)
- Egg waffles at Lee Keung Kee North Point Egg Waffles
3. Dim Sum & Cha Chaan Tengs
- Tim Ho Wan: World`s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant (Kowloon branch)
- Australia Dairy Company: Legendary egg toast and milk tea
Why Visit Kowloon?
This district perfectly blends old and new Hong Kong. Here you can:
- Enjoy the best harbor views
- Immerse in night market culture
- Taste authentic dim sum
- Find bargain souvenirs
