Hong Kong - the other city that never sleeps. Trying to find that writing oasis on your crumbling rooftop in Mongkok? Think again. Hong Kong is crammed full of idyllic lookouts and hidden cafe gems. Luckily for you we’ve pin pointed a couple of our favourites:
1. Eslite, 8-10/F Hysan Place, 500 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay
This massive bookstore is great for kicking writers block to the curb. Offering its own café and literally thousands of books, find respite inside with a cuppa and a big slice of cheesecake. Take a seat and let the words come to you.
2. Peak Café Bar, 9-13 Shelly Street, Central
Step into the heart of Soho and you will come across this classical yet romantic bistro. Take a well-deserved break, bring your favourite book and soak in the atmosphere. Writing ideas can come when you least expect them.
3. Kowloon Walled City Park, Tung Tsing Road, Kowloon City
Find some fresh air and fresh perspective as you amble through the scenic grounds of Kowloon Walled City Park. Built on the former site of the infamous Kowloon Walled City, this park is packed full of traditional Chinese architecture and flora. So take a stroll and soak in a part of our local history.
4. Coffee, Book & Co. 8-10 Park Road, Mid-Levels
Check out this cosy little nook. Perfect for whiling away that rainy Wednesday afternoon. Find a spot, make it yours, collect a book (or 5) and get stuck in. Just make sure you buy a coffee before settling in for the day…
5. Victoria Peak
Flirt with vertigo and take your writing to new heights. As the sun goes down, watch the world go by as Hong Kong transforms into a city of light. Who couldn’t find inspiration in the most vertical city in the world?
6. Kubrick, 3 Public Square Street, Yau Ma Tei
A great relaxing atmosphere, delicious chocolate mousses and gripping novels… What else could you need? Find motivation while surrounded by literary classics and unwind in this artisan book café.
7. Tai O Fishing Village, Lantau Island
Take a trip to Lantau Island and delve into the forgotten treasures that surround this idyllic fishing village. Visit stilt houses and taste delicious seafood cuisine from salted dry fish to “laopoh beng” pastries. Forget about deadlines and recharge your copywriting batteries.
8. Nan Lian Garden and Chin Lin Nunnery, 5 Chi Lin Drive, Diamond Hill, Kowloon
Get thee to a nunnery! Probably not the first place you’d look for writing inspiration, but you may surprise yourself... Sit down and bask in the hot summer glow, watch the goldfish making ripples in the lake and appreciate the beauty. Put pen to paper and see what comes.
9. Bookworm Café, 79 Yung Shue Wan Main St, Lamma Island
For all those vegetarian book lovers, this is the spot for you! With spicy falafels, outdoor seating and hipster novels, it’s the perfect little get away from all the background noise in Hong Kong.
10. Fringe Club, Wyndham Street, Central
Discover the Fringe club where live music, exhibitions and poetry readings thrive. It’s the place to be to seek out local and international talent - from budding artists to experienced writers and dramatists. Immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s finest local talent.