Dark Side of Hong Kong - Kowloon Caged Homes Walking Tour

Hong Kong , China

Dark Side of Hong Kong - Kowloon Caged Homes Walking Tour

Active

(398 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

While Hong Kong is known as a thriving international finance center, visitors are often only shown the bright side of the city, with popular attractions like The Peak, Victoria Harbour, and Big Buddha taking center stage. But what about the 1.5 million people living in poverty, making Hong Kong one of the most unequal places on earth?

Our tour delves into the heart of Hong Kong’s capitalist system, giving you a first-hand look at the grim reality many of its citizens face. You’ll visit a subdivided unit in one of the city’s poorest districts - Sham Shui Po, providing a stark contrast to the economic prosperity that seems so abundant.

Join us on a journey to see Hong Kong in a more realistic light and gain a deeper understanding of the true stories of its people. Sign up now for a thought-provoking and eye-opening tour.

Available options

Dark Side of Hong Kong - Kowloon Caged Homes Walking Tour

What's included

Local guide

Detailed itinerary

Uncover why Hong Kong is ranked the world's #1 least affordable city and see how a typical 500 sq ft apartment is subdivided into five 100 sq ft units.

Explore how post-war population growth, a low-tax capitalistic economic model, and scarce land supply created a perfect storm for Hong Kong's housing crisis.

Step inside a 100 sq ft subdivided flat where the kitchen, bed, and living space for a minimum-wage family, and see a caged home designed for a single resident.

Hear our guide's firsthand account of navigating housing in the world's toughest property market.

Glimpse the hidden underworld in Sham Shui Po’s backstreets and learn about the illicit ties between the drug and sex trades.

Witness the stark contrast of new USD$ 1.5 million apartments standing side-by-side with a dense cluster of subdivided units and caged homes.

Ascend to a rooftop in central Sham Shui Po to explore the hidden slums and witness the Hong Kong they don't put on postcards.

Visit SoCo, a charity with 50 years of history advocating for the marginalized, and discuss solutions for the city’s future.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN YUE EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

62 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

336 reviews

5★

303

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Prince Edward MTR Station Exit D - Concourse Level (INSIDE the station)

About Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a vibrant metropolis where modern skyscrapers coexist with ancient temples and lush nature. Known for its bustling streets, world-class cuisine, and stunning harbor views, it offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures.

Top Attractions

Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of Hong Kong. The Peak Tram is a historic funicular railway that takes visitors to the summit.

Nature 2-3 hours HKD 130-200 (Peak Tram and Sky Terrace)

Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade

This waterfront promenade offers stunning views of Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong skyline. It's a popular spot for the Symphony of Lights show.

Scenic 1-2 hours Free

Hong Kong Disneyland

A magical theme park offering classic Disney attractions, shows, and character meet-and-greets.

Entertainment Full day HKD 619-919 (depending on season and ticket type)

Lantau Island

Lantau Island offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural sites, including the Big Buddha and Tai O fishing village.

Nature/Cultural Full day HKD 110 (Ngong Ping 360), HKD 30 (Big Buddha entrance)

Temple Street Night Market

A bustling night market offering a variety of goods, from clothing to electronics, as well as street food and entertainment.

Shopping 2-3 hours Free to enter, prices vary

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dim Sum

A variety of small dishes served in bamboo steamers, including dumplings, buns, and rolls.

Breakfast/Brunch Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Roast Duck

Crispy-skinned duck roasted to perfection, often served with pancakes, hoisin sauce, and cucumber.

Lunch/Dinner Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Egg Waffles

Bubble-shaped waffles made from an egg-based batter, often served with ice cream or custard.

Dessert Vegetarian.

Mango Pudding

A creamy, gelatin-based dessert made with fresh mango puree.

Dessert Vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Rock climbing Spa treatments Yoga Beach lounging Temple visits Museum tours

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

18°C to 25°C 64°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Cantonese)
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken, especially in business and tourism

Currency

Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hong Kong is generally safe, with low crime rates and a well-developed infrastructure. However, petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis
• Be wary of strangers approaching you with petitions or games

Getting there

By air

Hong Kong International Airport • 34 km from city center

By train

Hung Hom Station, West Kowloon Station

By bus

China Travel Service Terminal, CITS Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The MTR is clean, efficient, and widely used. It's the best way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Central Kowloon Wan Chai Sheung Wan Mong Kok

Day trips

Macau

60 km • Full day

A former Portuguese colony with a rich history and a mix of European and Chinese architecture.

Lantau Island

20 km • Full day

A scenic island with a mix of natural beauty and cultural sites, including the Big Buddha and Tai O fishing village.

Shenzhen

30 km • Full day

A modern city with a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as historic sites.

Festivals

Chinese New Year • January/February (varies by lunar calendar) Tung Choi Wai Ching Chiu Festival • April (varies by lunar calendar) Dragon Boat Festival • June (5th day of the 5th lunar month)