7 Tips for Living in Sheung Wan
Summary: Advice for people moving to Sheung Wan or thinking about moving there.
This is a must read if you're moving to Sheung Wan or thinking about moving there.
Sheung Wan, a vibrant neighborhood in Hong Kong, is a popular destination for expats and digital nomads. With its unique blend of traditional and modern culture, it offers a rich and diverse lifestyle. Here are seven key tips to help you make the most of your time in Sheung Wan.
1. Explore the Neighborhood
Sheung Wan is a neighborhood that's full of character. It's a place where you'll find traditional Chinese medicine shops next to trendy cafes and boutiques. Take the time to explore the area and get to know its unique charm. Visit the Man Mo Temple, one of the oldest temples in Hong Kong, or take a stroll down Cat Street, known for its antique shops. Don't forget to check out the PMQ, a creative hub that houses local designers and artists.
2. Try Local Cuisine
Sheung Wan is a foodie's paradise. From traditional dim sum to modern fusion cuisine, there's something for everyone. Visit Lin Heung Tea House, one of the oldest tea houses in Hong Kong, for an authentic dim sum experience. For a taste of local seafood, head to Sing Kee Seafood Restaurant. If you're looking for something more contemporary, try Yardbird, a modern izakaya-style restaurant.
3. Learn the Language
While English is widely spoken in Hong Kong, learning a bit of Cantonese can go a long way in helping you connect with locals. It can also make your daily life easier, from ordering food to asking for directions. There are many language schools in the city where you can take classes, or you can use language learning apps to practice on your own.
4. Use Public Transportation
Sheung Wan is well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to get around. The MTR (Mass Transit Railway) is the most efficient way to travel, and the Sheung Wan station is on the Island Line, which connects to many other parts of Hong Kong. There are also numerous bus and tram routes that pass through the area. Don't forget to get an Octopus card, a rechargeable smart card that can be used to pay for public transport, as well as at convenience stores and restaurants.
5. Enjoy the Nightlife
Sheung Wan has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from. For a relaxed evening, head to The Old Man, a Hemingway-inspired cocktail bar, or Ping Pong 129, a gin bar housed in a former ping pong hall. If you're looking for something more lively, check out the clubs in nearby Lan Kwai Fong.
6. Stay Active
Staying active is important, especially when you're living in a bustling city like Hong Kong. Sheung Wan has several parks where you can go for a run or practice yoga. Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park, with its waterfront location and stunning views of the skyline, is a popular choice. There are also several gyms in the area, as well as hiking trails in the nearby hills.
7. Get Involved in the Community
Getting involved in the local community can make your experience in Sheung Wan even more rewarding. There are many opportunities to volunteer, depending on your interests. Whether it's helping out at a local charity, joining a sports club, or participating in community events, there are plenty of ways to meet new people and feel more connected to the city. Do some research to find a group or activity that aligns with your interests.
Living in Sheung Wan, as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and enriching experience. By exploring the neighborhood, trying local cuisine, learning the language, using public transportation, enjoying the nightlife, staying active, and getting involved in the community, you can truly immerse yourself in the local culture and make the most of your time in this vibrant city.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.