Tai Ping Shan: LUC8K mixing it up in Hong Kong’s Coolest ‘hood

We love travel and adventure, and as such, Tai Ping Shan, nestled within the vibrant streets of Sheung Wan in Hong Kong, is right up our street.

It clinched the seventh spot in Time Out World’s Coolest Streets ranking, and this micro-neighbourhood, rich in history and teeming with contemporary flair, has captured the hearts of locals and travelers alike with its eclectic mix of culture, cuisine, and community spirit.

Each year, Time Out invites thousands of urban dwellers worldwide to participate in the Time Out Index survey, a testament to the evolving landscape of urban coolness. Tai Ping Shan emerged as a standout destination, reflecting the collective sentiment of 20,000 respondents who celebrated its unique charm and infectious energy.

While global heavyweights like Rue Wellington in Montreal and Gertrude Street in Melbourne secured the top spots, Tai Ping Shan proudly represents Asia alongside Yongkang Street in Taipei and Yaowarat Road in Bangkok. This recognition underscores the street’s significance not only as a cultural hub but also as a symbol of resilience during the pandemic era.

Historically, Tai Ping Shan traces its roots to the 19th century, when it served as a Chinese settlement marred by the bubonic plague in 1894. Despite its tumultuous past, the street has undergone a remarkable transformation, blending historical landmarks like the Pak Sing Ancestral Hall with contemporary establishments ranging from trendy cafes to art galleries. This juxtaposition of old and new infuses Tai Ping Shan with an irresistible allure, drawing visitors into its tapestry of past and present.

For gastronomic adventurers, Tai Ping Shan offers a plethora of culinary delights, from traditional cha chaan teng fare at Yuk Kin Fast Food to innovative Nordic cuisine at Embla. Coffee enthusiasts will find solace in the numerous cafes dotted along the street, where they can savor expertly brewed beverages amidst a relaxed ambiance.

We love people watching, and this is the perfect place to sit back, chill, and marvel at the eclectic mix of locals and travellers going about their everyday business, browsing funky shops, and strutting their own bespoke styles on the hot, dusty streets.

Beyond its culinary offerings, Tai Ping Shan boasts a diverse array of independent shops, including crystal stores, street apparel boutiques, and hidden bookstores. For those seeking libations, Craftissimo and Mixo provide the perfect venues to indulge in craft beers and cocktails, while late-night revelers can explore Asia’s top bars just a stone's throw away.

Locals LOVE their dogs too, and you can’t walk 2 mins without passing a grooming shop for pampered pooches. Don’t be surprised to see a dog or two being pushed in a baby stroller – yep, it’s a big thing out here! The cutest, furriest babies you’ll ever see…

Art lovers can immerse themselves in street-wide exhibitions showcasing works by local artists. These events promise to captivate visitors with a diverse range of artistic expressions, from photography to really cool graffiti from artists from all over the world.

As visitors wander through Tai Ping Shan, they are encouraged to explore the wider Sheung Wan district, where a treasure trove of hidden gems awaits. From gallery-hopping in Wong Chuk Hang to scenic strolls along the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade, Sheung Wan invites exploration and discovery at every turn.

In a city renowned for its dynamic urban landscape, Tai Ping Shan stands out as a beacon of creativity, community, and coolness. As travelers and locals alike flock to its streets, they are greeted not only by its historical charm but also by the vibrant tapestry of cultures and cuisines that define modern-day Hong Kong.

We sent one of our intrepid local explorers Miss Shen to Sheung Wan (she only lives a short tram ride away!) armed with a bespoke LUC8K ESSA 2022 bag, an open mind, and a spring in her step.

She can confirm what Time Out and countless visitors to this amazing gem of a place already know; Tai Ping Shan is the place to be, the place to be seen, and a new bucket list destination for anyone in search of hidden treasures in the heart of a concrete jungle.