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Everything You Need to Know about Kennedy Town in Hong Kong
- Where is Kennedy Town?
- What is the main street in Kennedy Town?
- How to get to Kennedy Town?
- What to Do and See in Kennedy Town
- Enjoy scenic views at Belcher Bay Promenade
- Take IG-worthy pics at Sai Wan Swimming Shed
- Check out Lo Pan Temple
- Bring the kiddos to Kennedy Town Swimming Pool
- Do volunteer work at Hong Kong Dog Rescue
- Where to Eat and Drink in Kennedy Town
- Sun Hing Restaurant
- 11 Westside
- Sheung Hei
- % Arabica
- Where to Shop in Kennedy Town
- Slowood
- Where to Stay in Kennedy Town
- Jen Hong Kong by Shangri-La
- FAQ
For a while, Kennedy Town was not even on Hongkonger’s radar. All that changed after the neighborhood became more accessible by having its own MTR station.
Nowadays, exploring Kennedy Town is a breeze, and it’s the perfect destination for foodies who wish to try local favorites and new finds.
Plus, even if the neighborhood has that cozy and laid-back feel, the area is definitely sprucing itself up. You can expect new things to discover every time you visit.
Where is Kennedy Town?
Kennedy Town is located at Saiwan’s northern end. This neighborhood is bounded by Belcher Bay to the north and Lung Fu Shan to the south. It’s bordered by the Sulphur Channel on the western side and Shek Tong Tsui on the eastern side.
What is the main street in Kennedy Town?
The best street to explore in Kennedy Town is Belcher’s Street. It connects to Victoria Road on the east and Queen’s Road West on the west, so it’s where all the action is. Whether you’re looking for great restaurants or must-see attractions, this street is a good place to start.
How to get to Kennedy Town?
Closest subway stop: From Central, hop on Central MTR Station, and you’ll be in Kennedy Town in about 10 minutes. Moreover, the neighborhood is accessible via Bus 5X, N8X, 18, and 18X.
What to Do and See in Kennedy Town
Enjoy scenic views at Belcher Bay Promenade
Media Credit: jsylee3388
Address: Shing Sai Road, Kennedy Town
Pricing: Free
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Belcher’s Bay Promenade is one of the significant developments towards Kennedy Town’s gentrification. This 5,900-square-meter harborfront is a hotspot for visitors who want to see unobstructed views of Victoria Harbour and spectacular sunsets.
During the weekend, the harborfront is also a popular hangout spot for skateboarders and those who enjoy dainty picnics. The promenade also has a playground for the kids and designated areas for people who enjoy doing yoga and tai chi.
Take IG-worthy pics at Sai Wan Swimming Shed
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Address: Victoria Rd, Mount Davis, Kennedy Town
Pricing: Free
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Sai Wan Swimming Shed is the only remaining swimming shed from the 1950s in Hong Kong. Not many people swim here nowadays because the current here is usually strong, and there are no lifeguards.
Nonetheless, it’s still a photographer’s paradise because it’s built along a secluded part of the shore and offers picturesque views. As the sun dips low, the shed transforms into a viewing platform where you can capture stunning scenery and sunset pictures.
To get here, just head down to Victoria Road and continue walking until you see a staircase with a green railing. Take the steep flight of stairs down, and you’ll be at the Sai Wan Swimming Shed in a flash.
Since this spot has become so popular, expect some crowds, especially on the weekends. You may have to queue and wait for a bit to snag some pics.
Check out Lo Pan Temple
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Address: 15 Ching Lin Terrace, Kennedy Town
Phone: +852 2802 2880
Pricing: Free
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 5 PM
What makes Lo Pan Temple different from the thousands of other temples in the city is that it’s the only one built to worship Lo Pan, the deity of Chinese builders, carpenters, and contractors.
This Grade I historic temple features a unique jagged roof and is known for showcasing the largest number of murals and paintings among the temples on Hong Kong Island. That’s why many people visit not just to worship but also to admire the different artworks found inside.
If you visit during Lo Pan’s birthdate (the 13th day of the 6th lunar month), you can witness a lively pilgrimage of local builders on Belcher’s Street. You can also enjoy some free meals offered at the temple.
Bring the kiddos to Kennedy Town Swimming Pool
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Address: Sai Cheung St, 北2號, Kennedy Town
Phone: +852 2817 7973
Pricing: $
Operating hours: Thursday to Tuesday – 6:30 AM to 12 PM, 1 PM to 5 PM, 6 PM to 10 PM, Wednesday – 6:30 AM to 10 AM, 6 PM to 10 PM
Beat the summer heat at Kennedy Town Swimming Pool! It’s the best public swimming pool in the neighborhood.
Why? Well, it features a jacuzzi, two 50-meter indoor pools, and a 25-meter training pool, perfect for practicing swimming with Victoria Harbour as your backdrop.
Besides that, the kiddos can have all the fun they want when you bring them along. This place has a children’s splash pool with a mini waterslide, so
Another thing we like about this spot is that even in winter, you can still enjoy swimming because the jacuzzi and indoor pools are heated and toasty warm.
Do volunteer work at Hong Kong Dog Rescue
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Address: Brilliant Court, Sai Hong Lane, 28 Praya, Kennedy Town, Kennedy Town
Phone: +852 3480 0061
Pricing: Free
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
If you’re an animal lover, volunteering at Hong Kong Dog Rescue can be a fun time for you. This animal shelter has been saving pups and strays since 2003, and now, it has several branches across the city.
This branch in Kennedy Town is a homing center for small dogs and puppies. It’s a “no-kill organization,” meaning no dog under its care will be euthanized unless it’s the only humane option.
If you volunteer here, you can feed, play, and foster cute doggos. Just note that you have to be at least 18 years old before you can register, undergo training, and volunteer.
Where to Eat and Drink in Kennedy Town
Sun Hing Restaurant
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Address: Shop C, G/F, 8 Smithfield Road, Kennedy Town
Phone: +852 2816 0616
Pricing: $
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 3 AM to 4 PM
Good to know: Best dim sum varieties
Sun Hing Restaurant is the spot for early risers and night owls because where else can you get piping hot dim sums and handmade char siu baos at 3 AM?
Even before the sun rises, this small dim sum joint is packed with customers, so it can be hard to snag seats. Be prepared to share a table with strangers.
Since it’s a self-service restaurant, you can just choose from the stacks of bamboo baskets on the steam trolleys. Each bamboo basket can contain a variety of dim sums, siu mai, and more. Our top picks here are their Har Gow, Custard Bun, and Chee Cheong Fun!
11 Westside
Media Credit: 11westside
Address: 1/f, The Hudson, 11 Davis St, Kennedy Town
Phone: +852 9300 8068
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 12 PM to 11 PM, Saturday to Sunday -11 AM to 11 PM
Good to know: Best taco varieties
To get a taste of Mexican grub, just drop by 11 Westside. It’s headed by Chef Esdras Ochoa, who was featured on Netflix’s The Final Table, so many people come here to try the chef’s specialties.
Speaking of specialties, this restaurant is known for its guacamole, which is prepared with a side of chips and salsa. This dish is made tableside, so everything’s adjusted to fit your taste.
You also shouldn’t miss out on their other specialties, like the Taco de Lengua, Pollo Asado Taco, and Carne de Asada Fries.
Sheung Hei
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Address: 25號 North St, Kennedy Town
Phone: +852 2819 6190
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 10 PM
Good to know: Excellent clay pot rice
Sheung Hei is arguably the most famous clay pot rice restaurant in Kennedy Town. This decade-old eatery reflects the neighborhood’s old-world charm because it still uses charcoal stoves for all its dishes until now.
Sheung Hei might look like a shabby hole-in-the-wall restaurant at first. Still, once you try the dishes on their huge menu, you’ll understand why people keep coming back here.
If it’s your first time checking out this eatery, we suggest you go for local favorites. Get the Chinese Sausage Claypot Rice, Doot Doot Chicken Claypot Rice, or Steamed Eel Claypot Rice.
% Arabica
Media Credit: arabicahk
Address: Shop 4, Grand Fortune Mansion, No. 1 Davis St, Kennedy Town
Phone: +852 2326 4578
Pricing: $
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 7 PM, Saturday to Sunday – 8:30 AM to 8 PM
Good to know: Scenic waterfront location
Can’t function or start your day without your daily caffeine fix? % Arabica can be your go-to place.
Before exploring Kennedy Town, visit this two-story coffee shop and grab a cup of freshly roasted, grounded, and prepared latte or cappuccino. If you want to rest for a bit, the shop is also a nice spot. It’s right by the sea, so you can enjoy your coffee while watching ships sail by.
And guess what? If you end up loving the coffee here, you can directly buy the beans from the shop. Some of the beans worth trying are their % Arabica Blend, % Ninety Plus – Hachira, and % Ethiopia Yirgacheffe Adado.
Where to Shop in Kennedy Town
Slowood
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Address: Shop 2-3, G/F, The Hudson, 11 Davis Street, Kennedy Town
Phone: +852 6468 6128
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Slowood is a zero-waste store, so we love shopping here. This well-lit minimalist shop features a wide array of bulk-buy food, plastic-free household and beauty items, and organic pantry staples.
It’s a nice shop to visit if you wish to give something eco-friendly to your loved ones or close friends. Just make sure to bring your own container and shopping bag to help reduce waste and get a discount!
Where to Stay in Kennedy Town
Jen Hong Kong by Shangri-La
Media Credit: jenhongkong
Address: 508號 Queen’s Rd W, Sai Wan
Phone: +852 2974 1234
Pricing: $$
Jen Hong Kong is just four minutes away from Kennedy Town’s center, so it’s a good place to stay if you plan to explore the neighborhood. It offers modern and wood-paneled rooms furnished with workstations and window seats overlooking the harbor.
If you prefer a larger room, you can opt for the suites. They are equipped with separate living rooms, kitchenettes, and walk-in closets.
Now, when it comes to amenities, this hotel has a rooftop pool and a well-equipped fitness center that guests can access for free.
