Hong Kong is a city of contrasts. On one side, hypermodern skyscrapers and luxury boutiques, on the other, old markets, chaotic alleys and history breathing from every corner. But if you look closely, you will see something else – streets that have been transformed into an open-air gallery.
Street art in Hong Kong has become a phenomenon in recent years, and today the city is one of the most vibrant street art destinations in Asia. You can find giant colorful murals, delicate calligraphy strokes, but also provocative political works that reflect the city’s turbulent history and present. If you like art outside the galleries, come with me to explore the best street art spots in Hong Kong.
SHEUNG WAN:
THE LARGEST CONCENTRATION OF MURALS
If you want to see Hong Kong street art at its best, start in Sheung Wan. This area is full of narrow alleys, hipster cafes, old temples and, most importantly, great murals.
The most famous piece? “Old Town Central” on Graham Street. It’s a giant painting of traditional Hong Kong houses in bright colors by artist Alex Croft, which has become one of the most photographed spots in the city. If you decide to search for street art in Hong Kong on Instagram, you’ve probably already come across it.
But don’t be fooled, this is just the beginning. Just turn into any side street and you will discover more gems: surreal portraits, playful animal drawings or delicate traditional Chinese motifs. Artists like Bao Ho or Caratoes have left their mark here, giving new life to the concrete walls.
Address: 46-54 Graham Street, Central, Hong Kong
MADERA HOLLYWOOD HOTEL
This dazzling mural has become another popular photo spot. Set against the stunning Hong Kong skyline, it depicts iconic figures such as cultural icon Marilyn Monroe, legendary actress Audrey Hepburn, comedian Charlie Chaplin and pop musician Frank Sinatra, in a pop art style.
Address:Hotel Madera Hollywood, 53 Hollywood Rd
UMA NOTA
This vibrant façade of Uma Nota restaurant is a masterpiece by Hong Kong-based French artist Elsa Jeandedieu. She brilliantly combines patterns and realism in a feel-good explosion of color. The owners dreamed of a joyful piece of art that combines Brazilian and Japanese culture, and Elsa has made it happen. I love how this exhibition mural practically pops out of the wall. Photos don’t do it justice – you have to see it in person for its brilliance.
Uma Nota also made our list of the best lunch spots in Central, so after taking a picture, be sure to peek in the restaurant’s door and have a delicious Brazilian-Japanese fusion meal!
Address: Upper G/F, 38 Peel St, Central, Hongkong
SHAW DAAN:
BLOSSOM & BEYOND
Another well-known artist is Shaw Daan, who hails from Guangzhou. She has combined her long-term study of traditional Chinese painting with her experience in graffiti to create her own unique style. Recently, she has been experimenting with Chinese painting, using brush strokes between virtuality and reality to depict various shapes and express personal subtle emotions and thoughts.
Address: Blossom & Beyond (60 Lyndhurst Terrace)
LEE TUNG AVENUE:
VICTORIANO TXAPARTEGI
On Lee Tung Avenue, I came across the footsteps of Spanish artist Victoriano Txapartegi, who was participating in the HKwall Street Art and Mural Festival. At this festival, he presented a gigantic mural inspired by his daughter Coco. You may remember some of his works, as Victoriano has collaborated with world-famous brands such as Louis Vuitton, DKNY and Google. Among his major collaborations is the one with the Saudi royal family.
PMQ A ART LANE:
OFFICIAL STREET ART SCENE
If you want to see street art at its most sophisticated, head to PMQ (Police Married Quarters) or Art Lane in Sai Ying Pun.
PMQ is a former police complex transformed into an art centre where street art mixes with galleries, design shops and cafes. Art Lane, on the other hand, is a regulated project where artists from all over the world have been able to hang out on the facades of buildings.
Unlike spontaneous street art in other parts of the city, these works are officially permitted and supported, which takes away from their rebellious energy, but they are well maintained and aesthetically perfect.
The murals in this district are inspired by street art in major cities, which can be found on the streets of New York or London’s SoHo district.
Most of these artworks can be found on Ki Ling Lane and Chung Ching Street. The bright colours and bold characters make them hard to miss. Be sure to take the time to explore not only the area’s shop fronts, but also its back alleys!
Address: Take the MTR Island Line to Sai Ying Pun station and exit from exit B3.
MONG KOK:
CHAOS, MARKETS AND HIDDEN GEMS
Mong Kok is known for its incredible chaos – night markets, neon signs, crowds of people. But if you stop for a moment and look around, you’ll see that street art has found its place here too.
In the streets around Argyle Street and Bute Street you’ll find great black and white drawings by local artist King of Kowloon, whose calligraphic lettering covered Hong Kong in the 1990s. His works now have iconic status and recall a time when street art was not art but rather an act of rebellion.
In addition, Mong Kok occasionally hosts street art happenings – if you’re lucky, you can see the artists in action, spray painting a new work right in front of your eyes.
SHAM SHUI PO:
UNDERGROUND SCENE AND POLITICAL MESSAGES
If you’re looking for something grittier, head to Sham Shui Po – an industrial district that has become a haven for independent artists in recent years.
While in Sheung Wan you will find more aesthetically beautiful murals, in Sham Shui Po the art often touches on politics and social issues. Following the 2019 protests, many works reflecting Hong Kong’s struggle for democracy were created here – some are still on display, others have been painted over or removed.
Street art is not just about colours, but also about the message. On the walls you can find messages about freedom, justice and Hong Kong’s identity, hidden symbols and messages that only locals can understand.
CULTURE THAT BREATHES WITH THE CITY
Street art in Hong Kong is not just about paint and spray cans. It’s the way the city tells its story. From traditional motifs to modern expression, from beautiful murals to political messages. Each drawing on the walls has its own meaning.
If you love street art, take your own journey of discovery through the streets of Hong Kong. Keep your eyes open and you might just discover an art treasure in the most unexpected corner that will tell you more about Hong Kong than any guidebook.
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