Planning a trip to Hong Kong in the coming months? This Black Friday and Cyber Monday, we’re serving up something extra delicious: a limited-time 20% discount on our small-group Foodie Tours and Tea Tasting & Brewing Experience.

If you’ve been thinking about exploring Hong Kong’s local, family-run eateries with a licensed local guide, now is the best time to book.

Black Friday & Cyber Monday Food Tour Offer

For a limited time, enjoy:

This special Black Friday and Cyber Monday promotion is the perfect chance to lock in your Hong Kong food experience at a great price.

Booking Window

Book between: 24 November 2025 – 2 December 2025, Hong Kong time

You must complete your booking within this period to enjoy the discount.

Travel Window

Tour dates between: 24 November 2025 – 31 July 2026

Whether you’re visiting Hong Kong this winter, during spring break, or in early summer, you can secure your spot now and enjoy savings on your future trip.

How to Redeem the blackfriday25 Promo Code

The discount will be applied automatically once the promo code is entered correctly during the booking process.

What’s Included in the Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deal?

This promotion applies to:

Small-group Foodie tours
Explore vibrant Hong Kong neighborhoods with a licensed local guide and discover family-run eateries, classic Hong Kong dishes, and stories behind the food and culture.

Tea Tasting & Brewing Experience
Deepen your understanding of Chinese tea, learn proper brewing techniques, and taste different varieties in an intimate, guided session.

These experiences are designed for curious travelers who want to go beyond the typical tourist trail and experience authentic Hong Kong food culture.

Why Book During Our Black Friday & Cyber Monday Sale?

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are some of the busiest travel planning days of the year. Many travelers are looking for meaningful experiences to add to their itineraries, and food tours are often at the top of the list.

By booking during this period, you can:

If Hong Kong is on your travel list between late November 2025 and July 2026, this is an ideal time to reserve your spot.

Important Terms & Conditions

To keep everything clear and simple, here are the key conditions of this Black Friday and Cyber Monday promotion:

The post Black Friday & Cyber Monday Sale: 20% Off Hong Kong Foodie Tours appeared first on Hong Kong Foodie.

Mark your calendars for our 11.11 Sale! For three days only, enjoy 15% off our newly-revamped Temple Street Night Foodie Tour. This is the perfect opportunity to experience Hong Kong’s vibrant night markets at a special price.

What’s New?

Our newly-revamped Temple Street Night Foodie Tour takes you deeper into the heart of Kowloon’s most vibrant night market scene. Starting from Sneakers Street, we’ll explore the bustling Ladies’ Market before making our way to the iconic Temple Street, covering Kowloon’s vibrant night markets in one unforgettable evening.

Experience Hong Kong after dark as the locals do, discovering favorite eateries and street food stalls along the way. Led by our passionate, licensed Hong Kong guides, you’ll uncover authentic flavors and hidden culinary gems while immersing yourself in the electric atmosphere of Kowloon’s night markets. From sizzling woks to traditional desserts, every bite tells a story of Hong Kong’s rich food culture.

Limited-Time 11.11 Sale

Save 15% when you book between November 10-12, 2025

• Promo Code: 111125
• Sale Period: November 10-12, 2025 only (don’t miss out!)
• Tour Period: Valid for tours taken on or before December 31, 2025

Why Book Now?

This is your chance to experience one of Hong Kong’s most iconic neighborhoods at a great price. Our small-group tours (maximum 8 guests) ensure an intimate experience where you can ask questions and interact with vendors as you discover Hong Kong’s night food scene.

Whether you’ve been curious about trying street food but hesitant to dive in on your own, or you want expert guidance on what to order and where to find the best bites, this tour takes the uncertainty out of exploring Kowloon’s culinary treasures.

How to Book

Visit our website at www.hongkongfoodietours.com and use promo code 111125 at checkout to claim your 15% discount. With the holiday season approaching and December tours filling up fast, we recommend booking early to secure your preferred date.

Have questions? Contact us at tickets@hongkongfoodietours.com or WhatsApp us at +852 9223 7466.

Don’t let this 11.11 sale pass you by! Join us for an unforgettable night of food, culture, and Hong Kong stories under the neon lights of Temple Street!

Terms and Conditions

1. This offer entitles customers to 15% discount on Temple Street Night Foodie Tours held on or before December 31st, 2025 (“Offer”).
2. The Offer is valid from 00:00 HKT on Monday, November 10th, 2025 to 23:59 HKT on Wednesday, November 12th, 2025 (“Promotional Period”).
3. Tickets to participating Foodie Tours must be purchased on www.hongkongfoodietours.com using promo code “111125”. Tickets purchased from other online sites or offline travel agents are not eligible for this Offer.
4. The Offer cannot be used in conjunction with other promotions or discounts and is not applicable to prior purchase.
5. The promo is not transferable, cannot be sold and has no cash value. It is not valid with any other promotions, vouchers or gift cards.
6. Tickets are subject to availability.
7. Foodie Tour tickets booked are non-refundable, non-exchangeable and non-replaceable.
8. Hong Kong Food Tours Limited reserves the right to amend or supplement these Terms and Conditions at any time without any prior notice. In the event of dispute regarding these Terms and Conditions, the decision of Hong Kong Food Tours Limited shall be final.

The post 11.11 Sale: 15% Off Our Newly-Revamped Temple Street Night Foodie Tour appeared first on Hong Kong Foodie.

Ah, Hong Kong. A city like no other, where serene islands lie moments away from soaring skyscrapers, and ancient traditions thrive alongside modern landmarks. We know that this city can get overwhelming, so for those wondering where to begin their journey, this guide to 15 must-visit attractions in Hong Kong is your perfect starting point. Explore the best this city has to offer, from thrilling theme parks to cultural monuments and everything in between.

1. The Peak

As its name might suggest, The Peak is the tallest hill on Hong Kong Island, and one of Hong Kong’s must-visit attractions, welcoming millions of tourists every year. It’s easy to see why, given its panoramic views of the Hong Kong skyline, historical colonial buildings, and access to relaxing nature walks. Our favorite way to get to The Peak would be the Peak Tram, which travels between the city’s buildings and forests on a steep ascent to reach the top. Reopened in 2022 after renovations, the Peak Tram now features skylight ceilings and wider windows that offer near panoramic views, making the journey just as memorable as the destination. Cap it all off at Sky Terrace 428, the highest viewing platform in the city, with sweeping views that make the trip all the more worth it.

2. Madame Tussauds

Once you’re on The Peak, why not drop by Madame Tussauds? Located in the Peak Tower, the Hong Kong outpost of London’s famed wax museum features over 100 wax figures of celebrities and famous figures. Here, you’ll find doppelgängers of Asian celebrities such as K-Pop idol Suzy and Hong Kong legend Bruce Lee alongside world leaders and sports stars. Lovers of contemporary art will be thrilled to discover the Art Gallery, where you’ll find an immersive infinity room decked out with Yayoi Kusama’s iconic yellow polka dots, alongside a wax figure of the artist herself.

3. Ocean Park

If you think theme parks are only for kids, let Ocean Park prove you wrong. Hong Kong’s iconic amusement park is a dynamic mix of thrilling rides, fascinating marine life, and educational wildlife exhibits, making it one of the city’s top destinations for tourists and locals alike. Most recently, the park welcomed four adorable additions to their family of giant pandas in 2024 – twin cubs Jia Jia and De De, affectionately nicknamed Elder Sister and Little Brother, and 5-year-olds An An and Ke Ke from Sichuan. Whether you’re coming as a family, couple, or solo traveler, Ocean Park is a must-visit attraction that captivates every visitor’s heart.

4. Hong Kong Disneyland

If simply being in Hong Kong does not spark enough happiness in you, you’ll be glad to know that the happiest place on earth exists in Hong Kong as well. Though a bit more compact than its Shanghai counterpart, Hong Kong Disneyland delivers no shortage of charm and wonder. With attractions like the world’s first and largest “Frozen” themed land, World of Frozen, it’s a top contender among things to do with kids in Hong Kong. And let’s be honest, there isn’t a lot that can top catching the spellbinding fireworks show over Sleeping Beauty Castle after a magical day at Disneyland.

5. Ngong Ping 360 and The Big Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha)

A quintessential Hong Kong icon that comes with a workout, the awe-spiring Tian Tan Buddha sits atop 268 gruelling steps. Getting there is part of the adventure – Ngong Ping 360 offers a spectacular cable car ride that stretches 5.7 kilometers across forests, mountains, and water, giving riders a bird’s-eye view of Lantau’s natural beauty. Choose between a standard cabin or the glass-bottomed Crystal Cabin for an extra thrill. Alternatively, taxis or buses from Mui Wo or Tung Chung station also reach the site. After admiring the Big Buddha, head to the nearby Po Lin Monastery for a spiritual retreat with intricate architecture and incense-filled chambers. Together, this trio creates an extraordinary experience that blends natural beauty, culture, and a sense of peace, all on Lantau Island.

Planning on checking out the Peak Tram, Sky Terrace 428, Ocean Park, Ngong Ping 360, and more? Save up to 50% by getting a GoCity pass! Learn more here.

6. Tai Kwun

Once a colonial police station, prison, and magistracy, Tai Kwun has now been transformed into an arts and cultural hub right in the heart of Central. Its beautifully restored colonial architecture now houses art galleries, unique stores, vibrant restaurants, and more. The grounds play host to a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year, so visitors will always have something new to see. There are also multiple courtyards with plenty of seating and shade, making it a great spot to rest your legs during a long day of exploring the area.

Make your visit to Central even more memorable by joining our Central & Sheung Wan Foodie Tour! We’ll take you to our favorite family-run tasting locations while sharing interesting facts about the neighborhood.

7. Star Ferry

Hong Kong’s iconic Star Ferry isn’t only a mode of transport. It is a must-visit attraction that embodies the city’s rich maritime history. For over a century, this iconic ferry has linked Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, offering travelers stunning views of Victoria Harbour. Opt for an evening ride from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island for one of the best views of the city’s shimmering skyline. Affordable, charming, and steeped in nostalgia, the Star Ferry is an essential addition to any travel itinerary.

8. Avenue of Stars

A stroll along the Avenue of Stars is a must for anyone exploring Hong Kong’s cinematic heritage. Located along Victoria Harbour, the promenade features handprints of celebrated stars like Tony Leung and Michelle Yeoh, celebrating the city’s film industry while offering spectacular harbor views. Combine your visit with a ride on the Star Ferry for a complete waterfront experience. For even more pizazz, be there any evening at 8pm for the Symphony of Lights show, where skyscrapers erupt in colored lights and lasers to put on a performance synchronized to music.

9. West Kowloon Cultural District

Immerse yourself in art and history at the West Kowloon Cultural District, where the M+ Museum showcases contemporary visual culture, and the Hong Kong Palace Museum presents exquisite Chinese artifacts. After a day at the museums, take a relaxing stroll along the waterfront promenade that offers one of the best views of the Hong Kong skyline, especially during sunset. The district also hosts numerous events throughout the year, from jazz performances to coffee festivals, making it a fantastic destination for any traveler.

10. Temple Street Night Market

After a day of exploring West Kowloon Cultural District and seeing Hong Kong from above at sky100, walk to the nearby Temple Street Night Market for a glimpse of Kowloon’s eclectic energy. A vibrant cultural hotspot that truly comes alive after sundown, the market is the perfect destination for souvenir shopping and savoring local eats like egg waffles and claypot rice. You’ll also encounter fortune tellers and street singers belting out classic Cantonese hits, giving the night market its signature charm. With its lively atmosphere and bustling stalls, Temple Street Night Market is among the must-visit attractions in Hong Kong, especially for those seeking a night out that offers a gritty, nostalgic feel of the city.

11. Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple

Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple, with its stunningly ornate architecture, is not only a visual delight but also a spiritual destination that unites Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. During major celebrations like Chinese New Year, the temple comes alive with vibrant worship and cultural festivities, making it a cornerstone of Hong Kong’s religious heritage. Those curious about their future can try their hand at “kau chim”, a fortune-telling ritual where you shake a cylinder of bamboo sticks until one falls out, revealing your destiny.

12. Nan Lian Garden and Chi Lin Nunnery

For a more serene spiritual experience, stroll to the nearby Nan Lian Garden and Chi Lin Nunnery. The two adjacent Tang dynasty-style complexes offer peace and respite, and their proximity to Wong Tai Sin Temple make them the perfect place for a relaxing break after the hustle of the temple. Wander along quaint footpaths and calming lotus ponds as you make your way towards the crowning site – the gleaming Pavilion of Absolute Perfection. After working up an appetite, stop for a bite at Chi Lin Vegetarian, where you’ll be treated to an array of meat-free Chinese dishes.

13. Aberdeen

A testament to Hong Kong’s maritime origins, Aberdeen is a historic fishing village where the city’s name and identity originated. A true hidden gem, we simply had to include it our list of must-visit attractions in Hong Kong. Once home to families living on houseboats in the typhoon shelter, it now offers a glimpse into Hong Kong’s seagoing past. For a unique experience, Aberdeen 1773 provides tours of the area aboard a traditional sampan, showcasing iconic landmarks and offering visitors a taste of the fishermen’s way of life with cultural exhibits and local delicacies.

14. Lamma Island

Lamma Island’s laid-back charm makes it a perfect retreat from the city’s hectic pace, just a short ferry ride away from Hong Kong Island. Known for its fishing heritage, the island offers tranquil beaches, scenic trails, and picturesque villages. Sok Kwu Wan and Yung Shue Wan’s waterfront streets are lined with shops selling fisherfolk crafts and restaurants serving fresh seafood dishes. Nature lovers can enjoy breathtaking views along the Lamma Island Family Walk, while history enthusiasts can delve into local culture at Lamma Fisherfolk’s Village.

15. Tai O

Also known as the “Venice of Hong Kong,” Tai O is an idyllic fishing village known for its unique stilt houses built above tidal flats. This peaceful destination is perfect for escaping the city’s fast pace, offering winding alleys, dried seafood, and relaxing ocean views. At Tai O Bakery, you’ll also find one of the best Chinese egg donuts (沙翁) in Hong Kong. Light, crispy, and fresh from the fryer, this donut alone earns Tai O’s place among the must-visit attractions in Hong Kong. For the most tranquil experience, try to visit on a weekday, as weekends tend to get quite busy and may feel less serene.

The post 15 Must-Visit Attractions in Hong Kong appeared first on Hong Kong Foodie.

(Originally published in August 2020, updated in June 2025)

Traditional Chinese Medicine stands by the practice of eating with the seasons. As the Chinese saying 不時不食 goes (pronounced “bud si bud sik” in Cantonese), foods that are not in season should not be eaten.

Eating foods that are in season have multiple benefits. Fruits and vegetables will taste better, grocery shopping will cost less, and the environment will fare better. Traditional Chinese medicine has its own arguments for eating with the seasons as well. Ancient Chinese medical practitioners found out that our dietary requirements change with the seasons, as our bodies have varying needs depending on the weather and climate.

With summer being hot in most countries, Chinese medical wisdom dictates that our diets should contain more fruits and vegetables at this time to cool our body down and provide enough fluids. If you’re wondering what to eat in summer according to traditional Chinese medicine, here are ten foods to get you started.

1. Cooling teas

Though technically a drink and not a food, cooling teas such as green tea or white tea help to cool your body down by warding off summer heat and detoxifying the body. Considered yin in nature, green tea also helps in alleviating summer ailments such as irritability. Visit our sister company, Pekoe&Petals, to buy some amazing tea for brewing at home. The tea professionals there can recommend different teas for different seasons.

Herbal tea, a drink popular in Southern China and Hong Kong, also helps to cool your body down in summer. The Chinese name for herbal tea 涼茶 (pronounced “leung cha” in Cantonese) literally means cool tea, so it’s pretty self explanatory what it does! Made by brewing herbs, plants, and fruits in water, herbal tea is traditionally served in rice bowls at stores, but can also be found bottled for customers to drink on the go.

2. Sugarcane juice

Another drink that will keep your body cool this summer is sugarcane juice. Deliciously sweet and refreshing with a slightly grassy aftertaste, sugarcane juice is adored by kids and adults alike in Hong Kong. Stalks of sugarcane are fed into an extractor, which presses the sugarcane between two steel rollers to extract the green nectar. The juice is then served in glasses for customers to drink on the spot, or bottled for later consumption. According to traditional Chinese medicine, sugarcane juice is considered yin and helps remove excessive heat and humidity in the body. Research has also shown that sugarcane juice is rich in antioxidants, iron, magnesium and electrolytes. If you’re wondering what to drink in summer, this is it!

Want to try sugarcane juice yourself? Join our Central & Sheung Wan Foodie Tour, where we’ll take you to a decades-old, family-run sugarcane juice store in Hong Kong!

3. Watermelon

A list of what to eat in summer wouldn’t be complete without the most summery fruit of all– watermelon. The sweltering heat and stifling humidity of summer disturbs the balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body. Watermelon helps your body restore this balance with its nourishing and cooling effects. It has even been said to have calming effects, easing frustration, restlessness and worry!

The red flesh of the fruit is what we’re used to eating, but the white part of the rind actually contains the most potent properties. A mild diuretic, the white part promotes urination– an effective strategy to clear that summer heat from your body.

Few people know this, but even the seeds can be used as medicine. Boil dried watermelon seeds in water to make a tea that promotes urination and lowers high blood pressure. Using all parts of a watermelon is a fantastic way to get started on your zero waste journey for sure!

4. Cucumber

Cucumbers are at their best during their peak season, which spans the summer months of May through August. Besides tasting their best in summer, another reason to eat cucumbers over these months is that they clear summer heat and eliminate toxins according to traditional Chinese medicine. Being 95% water, eating cucumbers also replenishes our bodies with the water we’ve lost in the dehydrating heat of summer.

5. Bitter melon

You might be noticing a pattern– melons make up a large share of what to eat in summer. This is because melons come into peak season in the summer. The third melon on our list is bitter melon, also known as bitter gourd or goya. Its unique bitterness makes it quite a polarizing vegetable– you either love it or hate it. The bitterness comes from a substance called momordicin, which promotes appetite while protecting the lining of our stomach and intestines. Viewed as a cooling food in traditional Chinese medicine, bitter melons help to expel summer heat, reduce inflammation, and sharpen vision. They are also rich in vitamin C, iron, and fiber.

There are two ways to reduce the bitterness of bitter melon. One way is to rub slices of the melon with salt and let them sit for 20 minutes, which draws out its bitter juices. You can then get rid of the excess salt by rinsing and draining the slices. Another way is to parboil the bitter melon by dropping pieces or slices of it into a pot of boiling water for 5 minutes, then rinsing them in cold water to prevent them from getting too soft.

6. Winter melon

The last melon on our list, winter melon is actually commonly eaten in summer despite its name. This massive melon can grow up to 15 inches in diameter and weigh over 30 pounds! Since it is so big, it is usually sold in slices at markets in Hong Kong. Winter melon is rarely eaten raw, and often used in nourishing soups. When cooked, it becomes soft and translucent, with a mild, refreshing flavor. The cooling nature of winter melon makes it a soothing remedy for the summer heat from a Chinese medical perspective.

Read more about winter melons and how they’re served at restaurants in our blog!

7. Mung beans

If you’re wondering what else to eat in summer, mung beans are a great choice. These tiny green-colored beans are small but mighty, packing a ton of benefits ranging from cooling and detoxifying the body to relieving rashes. While not a common ingredient in western cuisines, mung beans are often found in Chinese foods, from zong zi– sticky rice dumplings eaten on Tuen Ng Festival, to mung bean sweet soup– an old-school Cantonese dessert. You can grow your own bean sprouts from them with only a damp towel and a container, or add them to stews or curries like you would with other beans.

8. Job’s Tears

Also known as Chinese pearl barley and coix seed, Job’s Tears is a nutty, earthy, slightly chewy grain commonly used in soups and drinks in many Asian countries. In traditional Chinese medicine, Job’s Tears is thought to have cooling and diuretic properties, helping to reduce inflammation and heat in the body, which often accumulates over the summer.

Job’s Tears tends to be hard to come by in western countries, but Bon Appétit magazine has reported that Job’s Tears are actually picking up steam across the United States lately, with a few discerning cooks adding these seemingly-obscure grains to their menus.

9. Lotus root

Depending on how it is prepared, lotus root can offer different health benefits. When eaten raw, such as in salads or pressed into juice, lotus root is considered cooling and helps to get rid of excess heat in the body. When cooked, the root becomes warm in nature, and strengthens the spleen and the stomach. This is especially helpful since people tend to eat lots of icy food in the summer, which can weaken the spleen and the stomach.

10. Tomato

Rounding off our list of what to eat in summer is the mighty tomato. Chock-full of antioxidants, vitamin C and potassium, this miracle fruit is also highly regarded in traditional Chinese medicine. Tomatoes are considered cooling in nature, helping to repel summer heat in the body, while aiding digestion and detoxification. What’s more is that tomatoes are at their peak in summer, meaning that you will be getting the most flavor and nutrition out of them.

Have more ideas on what to eat in summer? Let us know by leaving a comment below!

Featured image by kian2018 from Pixabay.

The post What to Eat in Summer According to Traditional Chinese Medicine appeared first on Hong Kong Foodie.

Hong Kong Foodie’s Cyber Monday sale is back!! Don’t miss this chance to save on small-group Foodie Tours!

Celebrate the holiday season with the ultimate foodie adventure in Hong Kong! For a limited time, enjoy 20% off our five-starred Central & Sheung Wan Foodie Tour and Sham Shui Po Foodie Tour during our  Cyber Monday Sale. This promotion ends on Tuesday night, so don’t wait—secure your spot now!

What to Expect

Whether you are traveling to Hong Kong by yourself, meeting a group of friends, or if you are expats welcoming family visiting over the holidays, Hong Kong Foodie’s tasting tours offer a fun way to embark on a journey through Hong Kong’s vibrant neighborhoods, sampling authentic local flavors and uncovering culinary traditions. Whether exploring the bustling streets of Central & Sheung Wan or diving into the foodie paradise of Sham Shui Po, our tours promise a delicious adventure off the beaten path, packed with culture and history.

How to Book

Use discount code “CM2024” on our website to claim your 20% discount.

Perfect for family, friends, or even solo travelers, our foodie tours are the ideal activity to make your holiday season unforgettable. Offer ends Tuesday night—don’t miss out!

Terms and Conditions:

1. This offer entitles customers to 20% discount on Central & Sheung Wan Foodie Tours and Sham Shui Po Foodie Tours held from December 2nd, 2024 to July 31st, 2025. (“Offer”).

2. The Offer is valid from 00:00 HKT on Monday, December 2nd, 2024 to 23:59 HKT on Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024 (“Promotional Period”).

3. Tickets to participating Foodie Tours must be purchased on www.hongkongfoodietours.com using promo code “CM2024”. Tickets purchased from other online sites or offline travel agents are not eligible for this Offer.

4. The Offer cannot be used in conjunction with other promotions or discounts and is not applicable to prior purchase.

5. The promo is not transferable, cannot be sold and has no cash value. It is not valid with any other promotions, vouchers or gift cards.

6. Tickets are subject to availability.

7. Foodie Tour tickets booked are non-refundable, non-exchangeable and non-replaceable.

8. Hong Kong Food Tours Limited reserves the right to amend or supplement these Terms and Conditions at any time without any prior notice. In the event of dispute regarding these Terms and Conditions, the decision of Hong Kong Food Tours Limited shall be final.

The post Hong Kong Foodie Cyber Monday Sale 2024 appeared first on Hong Kong Foodie.

by Rachel Au

(Originally published September 24, 2020, updated on September 15, 2024)

An interesting sight appears every August in Hong Kong. Mooncake advertisements begin to line wall after wall at any given MTR train station, starring celebrities ranging from veteran comedian Eric Tsang to Japanese actress Alice Hirose. Such is the result of aggressive marketing campaigns by various Hong Kong bakeries, hoping to capture maximum market share during the sliver of time mooncakes are consumed – the Mid Autumn Festival. But what is the Mid Autumn Festival? Why do Chinese communities across the globe celebrate it with such enthusiasm? Here, we explore what the festival is and the legends behind it, each a story that has been passed down for generations.

What is the Mid Autumn Festival?

The Mid Autumn Festival is an ancient Chinese celebration of the full moon, family, and harvest. It falls on the 15th day of the eighth month in the lunar calendar, which is when the moon is at its biggest and brightest. On this day, families gather to feast on mooncakes, hang up lanterns, and admire the fullest moon of the year.

The History of the Mid Autumn Festival

The Mid Autumn Festival became an official celebration during the Tang Dynasty (618 – 907 CE). However, nobody knows for sure how and when it came about. Having said that, records show that Chinese communities have celebrated the harvest during the autumn full moon since the Shang dynasty (c. 1600 – 1046 BCE). Despite the festival’s origins in celebrating the autumn harvest, contemporary society places more emphasis on gathering and returning home, as the full moon symbolizes reunion in Chinese culture.

The Mid Autumn Festival in Hong Kong

In Hong Kong, employees tend to get off work earlier on that day. This is such that they can head home and prepare for the evening feast. A typical Hong Kong Mid Autumn Festival celebration begins at dinnertime, when extended families gather under one roof and dine together. After dinner, families head to lantern carnivals at parks across the city for a light-filled moon-gazing session. Victoria Park is home to Hong Kong’s most popular Mid Autumn Lantern Carnival, welcoming massive camera-touting crowds every year.

Another Mid Autumn Festival tradition is the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance. Unique to Hong Kong, it began in the 19th century when Tai Hang villagers held the event to drive away bad luck. It has since made its way onto the national list of intangible cultural heritage. This year’s Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance will take place on September 16th to 18th. Learn more about the Fire Dragon Dance to prepare yourself for this exciting and unique celebration and see where to go for the best vantage point.

Stories behind the Mid Autumn Festival

Chang’e Flying to the Moon

The most widely-told Mid Autumn Festival story features Chang’e, the moon goddess. While Chang’e is associated with a number of varying myths, she is best known for stealing the elixir of immortality.

Legend has it that there used to be ten suns in the sky, which would scorch the earth and make lives insufferable. One day, a talented archer named Hou Yi decided he’d had enough. He shot down nine suns, leaving only one in the sky. As a reward, the goddess Xiwangmu presented Hou Yi with the elixir of immortality.

However, there was only enough elixir for one person, and Hou Yi did not want to become immortal if his wife, Chang’e, could not live with him for eternity. Because of this, Hou Yi chose to remain mortal and hid the elixir under his bed.

On the other hand, Chang’e had her eyes set on the elixir. That very night, she found her husband’s reward and drank every last drop. This caused her to drift towards the moon, where she finally settled. If you look hard enough, you might just be able to spot Chang’e’s likeness on the moon!

This tale is so well-known that China’s missions within its Lunar Exploration Program were named after the goddess, with the names Chang’e 1, 2, 3, and 4.

The Jade Rabbit

Another Mid Autumn Festival story starring a figure said to appear on the moon is the jade rabbit legend. The story begins with three immortals, who had disguised themselves as beggars. They were walking through a forest and begged a fox, a monkey, and a rabbit for food.

The fox and the monkey both went off to search for food and offered the immortals what they collected. However, the rabbit only knew how to gather grass. Having decided to offer itself instead, the rabbit jumped into a fire the immortals had prepared. The immortals were so touched by this gesture that they turned the rabbit into an immortal jade rabbit, and sent it to live on the moon.

The tale goes on to say that Chang’e liked the rabbit at first sight, and the two became inseparable friends. Upon hearing Chang’e’s story, the rabbit felt sympathetic and started making a potion that would help Chang’e return to earth. People say that the rabbit can still be seen on the moon’s surface, constantly pounding ingredients for the potion.

Zhu Yuanzhang and the Mooncake Uprising

This Mid Autumn Festival story is said to be why we eat mooncakes during the festival today.

In the late Yuan Dynasty (1271 – 1368 CE), the harsh rule of the Mongolian overlords prompted a nationwide rebellion. Zhu Yuanzhang, a rebel leader, wanted to launch an uprising on the night of the Mid Autumn Festival. However, it was very difficult to pass orders to fellow Chinese compatriots as government raids were intense.

To get past the government, Zhu’s advisor Liu Bowen came up with a plan. First, they would spread a rumor that a deadly plague was spreading, and the only way to be safe from it was to eat mooncakes on Mid Autumn Festival. Then they hid notes inside mooncakes that said “on mid autumn night, kill the rulers”, and distributed them to resistant forces.

The ploy was a success. Rebels killed the Mongol rulers and took over the Yuan capital – now known as Beijing – and that was the start of the Ming Dynasty.

Mooncakes have come a long way from being an instrument of revolt. Besides the traditional lotus seed paste and salted egg variety, bakeries have now created mooncakes with contemporary fillings ranging from ice cream to molten custard. Want to find out how mooncakes are made in an old-school Hong Kong bakery? Check out our blog post on that here!

Happy Mid Autumn Festival!

The post What is the Mid Autumn Festival? Here’s the story. appeared first on Hong Kong Foodie.

(Originally published in 2020, updated in September 2024)

Aside from being Hong Kong’s cradle for countless culinary ventures, Tai Hang is also home to one of the city’s most spectacular festivities– the annual Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance. This Mid-Autumn Festival, treat yourself to a dazzling display of fire and fury, where around 300 people parade a 67-meter-long dragon lined with sticks of incense from head to tail, enshrouding the neighborhood in a warm, smoky glow.

How the fire dragon dance began

Legend has it that this 138-year-old tradition began when Tai Hang was struck with three consecutive disasters a few days before the Mid-Autumn Festival in the 19th century. Still a small Hakka village at the time, Tai Hang was hit by a typhoon, which swept away everything in its path. A plague then followed, taking with it many lives. After that, the ill-fated villagers were put to the test again when a python made a foray into the village, guzzling much of the villagers’ livestock.

A village elder proclaimed that the only way to stop this misfortune was to perform a fire dragon dance around the village for three days and three nights, as revealed to him by the Buddha in a dream. The villagers did what they were told and miraculously, the plague disappeared. The plague may be long gone (thankfully!), but the ritual is kept alive by Tai Hang’s residents every year without fail.

“Fire dragons sound cool, but I’m hungry.” Check out how mooncakes are made at a traditional 52-year-old bakery.

About the fire dragon

The legendary fire dragon is a majestic beast, 67 meters long and inserted with over 20 thousand incandescent incense sticks. The body consists of a hemp rope spine wrapped with pearl straw, while the 70-kg head is made by coiling pearl straw around a rattan frame. Two flashlights form the creature’s eyes while sheets of metal make up its teeth and tongue.

The dragon is led by two orbs of light called “dragon pearls”– two pomelos inserted with many sticks of incense, spun with vigor to create a brilliant display of twirling radiance.

Quick fact: The Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance has been listed as a national Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2011.

What to expect

Lots and lots of people. The Fire Dragon Dance brings thousands of eager spectators to the narrow alleys of Tai Hang, so be warned that you’ll be squashed between sweaty skin and very energetic children.

The fire dragon dance will bring a frenetic buzz to the area. Tendrils of smoke wafting through the streets, sparks flying everywhere like fairy dust, blessing everything they land on with their magic. Besides the fire dragon dance, you’ll also be treated to marching bands and parades with adorable children dressed in traditional costumes.

When and where

We are so excited that Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance will once again be held in Hong Kong this year. For three evenings, starting from Monday, September 16th, the Fire Dragon Dance will commence at Wun Sha Street at around 7:30 pm, lasting till 10:30 pm for the first and last (September 18th) evening. On the night of Mid-Autumn Festival itself, September 17th, the Fire Dragon Dance will also start at 7:30 pm but at 10:30 pm, it will move to Victoria Park, continuing on for another hour till 11:30 pm. The festivities will extend to Tung Lo Wan Road this year. With lots to see, do expect a big crowd and plan to get there early to save a spot. The routes are different on each night but the best vantage point is on Wun Sha Street. If you cannot make it there in person, or just wanted to sit in the comfort of your own home without having to fight the crowds, there will also be live broadcast from Victoria Park. For more detailed information about this year’s Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance, please check out Hong Kong Tourism Board’s website.

Featured image courtesy of Hong Kong Tourism Board, image 1, 2 and 3 courtesy of Lin IVY Chan via Wikimedia Commons.

The post The Fire Dragon Dance: Tai Hang’s Mid-Autumn Spectacle appeared first on Hong Kong Foodie.

Many of our Foodie participants absolutely love the barbecued pork (char siu) tasting on our Central & Sheung Wan Foodie Tour. Some even ask us how to make them at home. We published the home-made recipe below during COVID when we could not go out to dine much. We are re-publishing it now. Reading this already makes us salivate. Try it and let us know how it compares to the ones you tried on our food tour.

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Marinate Time: overnight

Ingredients

600 gm / 21 oz / 1 catty Boston Butt/Pork Shoulder/梅頭

Marinade:
70 gm / 2.5 oz Maltose / 麥芽糖 （or replace with honey but best to use maltose)
60 ml / 2 oz Light Soy Sauce / 生抽
30 gm / 1 oz Oyster Sauce / 蠔油 (or replace with dark soy sauce and sugar)
30 gm / 1 oz Sugar / 糖
20 ml / 0.7 oz Rice Wine / 米酒 or Rose Wine / 玫瑰露酒
2 slices/片 Ginger/ 薑
2 cloves/瓣 Garlic / 蒜頭
White pepper / 白糊椒粉

Glaze:
30 gm / 1 oz Honey
30 gm / 1 oz Water
Can prepare more if you’d like. Just 1:1 Honey:Water

1. Rinse and dry the piece of pork. Rub some white pepper all over the piece of pork.

2. Double boil the maltose to melt it. To double boil, spoon out the maltose into a bowl and place the bowl in a pot of boiling water. You can turn off the heat on the stove and let it melt slowly. If you need more heat, turn heat to low for a few minutes. The maltose is ready when it’s softened and can easily be stirred.

3. Mix the light soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, rice wine or rose wine with the maltose. Stir until the ingredients are combined. If the mixture is still hot, cool by putting the bowl of mixture in an ice bath until it’s cooler.

4. Put the piece of pork in a ziplock bag. Pour the marinade into the bag together with the ginger and garlic. Let it sit in the fridge overnight or at least 8 hours.

5. Preheat the oven to 200C or 400F, preferably with the fan function if available for your often.

6. Prepare your baking tray. Line it with aluminum foil or add some water to help you clean more easily afterwards. Put a meat rack on the baking tray and lay the piece of pork on the rack.

7. Glaze your pork with the honey and water mixture.

8. Roast the pork for 30 minutes. After every 10 minutes, add more glaze.

9. Turn on the grill function for the five more minutes. Grill each side for 2.5 minutes to slightly sear the BBQ pork.

10. Let the barbecued pork cool for 5-10 minutes before cutting and serving.

The post Hong Kong Styled Barbecued Pork Recipe (叉燒) appeared first on Hong Kong Foodie.

Learn how to make moon cakes with Hong Kong Foodie! Let us bring you into the kitchen of a 58-year-old Chinese bakery in Sham Shui Po. The pastry chefs here are ramping up the production of moon cakes for the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival. If you are visiting in September, be sure to join us on our Sham Shui Po Foodie Tour for our annual moon cake tasting. You might even have a chance to experience the behind-the-scenes of moon cake making at this legendary Chinese bakery on our Foodie Tour! Here’s a sneak peek of what they do in their kitchen:

Prepare the moon cake crust

In this traditional Chinese bakery, the moon cake production is done by four chefs. The chef on the right in the back is preparing the dough for the crust. Traditional moon cake crust dough ingredients include all-purpose flour, butter, golden syrup and alkaline water.

Get the salted egg yolks ready

You do not have to dry and preserve your own salted egg yolks. You can easily buy them at local Chinese grocery stores. Salted egg yolks are the key ingredient in traditional moon cakes as they symbolize the full moon on the Mid-Autumn Festival evening.

Make your own lotus seed paste

Finding good quality lotus seeds is extremely important to the making of good moon cakes. As you can see in the picture, that mountain of lotus seed paste requires thousands of lotus seeds. After washing and cleaning the lotus seeds, a key step is to remove the stem in the heart of the lotus seeds as it would make the lotus seed bitter. Once you have that removed, you can go on to grind them into a paste and add sugar to it.

Assemble everything

To assemble the different ingredients together, first, you need to use a rolling pin to roll the crust dough such that it is thin and yet enough to hold all the filling. A good moon cake must be “crust thin filling good”, as the Chinese say. Secondly, you stuff one salted egg yolk in the lotus seed paste. In order to make sure each dough of the filling has the right amount, you need to measure on a scale and scrape off the excess lotus seed paste. Then use your fingers on both hands, skilfully press and turn the dough such that the crust can wrap around all the filling. Once you have the dough, put it in a moon cake mold and press it out. It is then ready to be baked! After baking for a few minutes, take them out and put a layer of egg wash such that the crust will have a golden brown color. Bake them a few more minutes and then it’s ready to be devoured!

Besides learning how to make moon cakes, are you interested in knowing the meaning of moon cakes behind Mid-Autumn Festival? Revisit our blog post to read more.

Moon Cake Tasting on Sham Shui Po Foodie Tour

Join us on our Sham Shui Po Foodie Tour between now and September 17th, 2024, for the moon cake tasting. The special tour held on the actual Mid-Autumn Festival day on Tuesday, September 17th, will be the highlight as you will experience locals going to the markets early and preparing for the family dinner in the evening to celebrate the festival. Book yourself and your friends and family on this Sham Shui Po Foodie Tour now!

To check out the festivities in Hong Kong during the Mid-Autumn Festival, visit Hong Kong Tourism Board’s website.

Happy Mid-Autumn Festival!

The post Learn how to make moon cakes appeared first on Hong Kong Foodie.

1. XO Sauce

We are foodies at heart. When we think of Hong Kong souvenirs, of course, many of them are food-related. One of Hong Kong’s most beloved culinary creations, XO sauce is a spicy and savory seafood condiment that tantalizes taste buds. Bringing home a jar of authentic XO sauce allows you to add a touch of Hong Kong’s unique flavor to your own dishes, whether it’s drizzling it over noodles or using it as a dipping sauce. Make sure you wrap them in a ziplock bag in your suitcase though.

2. Chinese Tea

This is not exactly food-related but many foodies love to take a piece of traditional Chinese culture home by purchasing some high-quality Chinese tea. Whether it’s green tea, oolong, or Pu-erh, Hong Kong boasts specialty tea shops where you can discover a wide selection of flavors. Be sure to try some samples before selecting your favorite, and don’t forget to pick up a decorative tea set to brew your tea in style. Pekoe&Petals offers a wide variety of premium tea packed in uniquely designed cans. Book a tea tasting at their Tea Space in Wanchai to try out which teas you’d like to share with your loved ones back home.

3. Mahjong Set

Mahjong, a classic Chinese tile-based game, is deeply ingrained in Hong Kong’s culture and social life. Bring home a mahjong set, and you can enjoy this traditional game with friends and family. Many sets come with beautifully designed tiles and an instruction booklet to help you master the game. For those who wish to splurge and appreciate the beauty of intricate craftsmanship, consider buying a hand-carved mahjong set. These sets are meticulously crafted with intricate designs, making them a stunning addition to your home decor or a treasured heirloom and most definitely, a very welcomed souvenir from Hong Kong.

4. Hong Kong Foodie Postcards

You may not be able to bring food back to your destination, whether it be customs-related issues or luggage limits. You can still share the experience of the city’s diverse culinary scene through a set of our own Hong Kong Foodie postcards. These postcards showcase the mouthwatering delicacies found in the city’s vibrant street food stalls and renowned restaurants. Each postcard features a delectable dish, allowing you to reminisce about the flavors and aromas of Hong Kong’s gastronomic delights. You can buy just one set or or all four at a discount. See our website for more information.

5. Hong Kong Minibus Signs

Bring home a unique piece of Hong Kong’s transportation culture with authentic Hong Kong Minibus Signs. These iconic signs, often seen on the front of minibuses, add a touch of local charm to your home decor. They serve as a tangible reminder of the city’s bustling streets and efficient public transportation system.

6. Unique Hong Kong Art

Embrace the artistic spirit of Hong Kong by acquiring a unique piece of art from the talented local artist, Alvin CK Lam. His artwork beautifully captures the essence of the city’s urban landscapes and cultural nuances. Whether it’s a mesmerizing painting, a thought-provoking sculpture, or a limited-edition print, Alvin CK Lam’s art will infuse your home with the energy and creativity of Hong Kong. Check out Alvin’s website and see what you will find.

7. Hong Kong Puzzles

Challenge your mind and bring home the essence of Hong Kong with a selection of puzzles from Lion Rock Press. These puzzles feature iconic Hong Kong landmarks, vibrant cityscapes, and breathtaking views, making them a great gift for kids or anyone who enjoys a fun and educational activity. www.thelionrockpress.com

8. Cufflinks

Add a touch of elegance to your souvenir collection with exquisite cufflinks from Patinova. These finely crafted accessories showcase the artistic flair and craftsmanship of Hong Kong’s local designers. Whether you opt for a modern or traditional design, these cufflinks will serve as a timeless reminder of your visit to the city.

Whether you are a visitor seeking souvenirs or an expat looking for thoughtful parting gifts, these eight Hong Kong gift ideas will help you capture the essence of Hong Kong and carry a piece of this extraordinary city with you. From the creative works of Alvin CK Lam to the iconic Hong Kong Minibus Signs and delicious XO sauce, each item serves as a reminder of the unique charm and cultural tapestry that Hong Kong offers. So, as you traverse the bustling streets and immerse yourself in the diverse experiences this city has to offer, be sure to explore these must-have souvenirs and parting gifts to create lasting connections to Hong Kong. Happy shopping and fond farewells!

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