【Longines Hong Kong Cup】Happy Valley Racecourse History, Transportation, and Opening Hours Guide

The Origins and Development of the Racecourse

Happy Valley Racecourse, located in Happy Valley, Wan Chai District on Hong Kong Island, was originally known as Wong Nai Chung. In 1846, the British colonial government converted this rural marshland and British military encampment into a racecourse. That same December, it hosted Hong Kong’s first official horse racing event, marking the birth of horse racing in Hong Kong.

In 1884, the Hong Kong Jockey Club was established, gradually popularizing horse racing within the Chinese community. By the early 20th century, the number of races increased, attracting jockeys from coastal Chinese cities such as Shanghai, Tianjin, and Fuzhou. In 1931, the first two three-story permanent grandstands were constructed at the racecourse, enhancing the spectator experience. During the Japanese occupation, racing was temporarily suspended, but resumed swiftly after the war with ongoing modernization upgrades.

Happy Valley Racecourse is not only the birthplace of horse racing in Hong Kong but also a witness to nearly a century of social transformation and entertainment culture development in the city.

Key Milestones

• 1846: First horse racing event held at Happy Valley
• 1884: The Hong Kong Jockey Club is established
• 1931: The first permanent grandstands are completed
• 1969: The racecourse expands to accommodate more spectators
• 1995: A comprehensive redevelopment transforms it into a world-class all-turf racecourse

Public Admission

• The public may purchase tickets to enter the public stands at Happy Valley Racecourse at affordable prices.
• Visitors to Hong Kong holding valid travel documents or passports may enter the public stands free of charge (applicable during specific periods).
• Admission requires being at least 18 years of age; minors are not permitted in betting areas.

Members and Privileged Customers

• Jockey Club members may access the Members’ Stand and exclusive facilities.
• Privilege Black and Gold Card holders enjoy exclusive dining, box seating, and betting experiences.

Racecourse Dining & Facilities

Multiple restaurants operate within the racecourse, including Grand View, Racing, Grand View Lounge, Grand Slam, Luk Yee Café, Moon Bay, Grand View, and Wing Sing Café, offering Chinese and Western cuisine alongside race viewing. Minimum spending requirements apply at various restaurants and private boxes. Advance reservations are recommended.

The Hari Hong Kong is ideally situated on Lockhart Road in Wan Chai, just steps away from Causeway Bay and the Happy Valley Racecourse. Designed by internationally renowned architects Tara Bernerd & Partners, the hotel seamlessly blends British chic with contemporary elegance, offering guests a distinctive and sophisticated stay. Whether attending horse racing events, traveling for business, or exploring Hong Kong’s urban charm, The Hari is the ideal choice for rest and accommodation.

Each guest room emphasizes detail and style, with select room types offering panoramic views of Hong Kong’s bustling cityscape or the magnificent Victoria Harbour. This creates a warm and tranquil atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy moments of peace amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. Staying at The Hari not only immerses you in a space brimming with design flair but also offers access to diverse facilities. The hotel features upscale restaurants and bars like Lucciola and Zoku, providing perfect venues for post-race gatherings with friends, savoring exquisite cuisine, or simply enjoying a drink.

The Hari boasts exceptional accessibility, just a 7-10 minute walk from MTR Wan Chai Station. Guests can also reach it easily on foot or via Hong Kong’s iconic tram from Causeway Bay Station. Situated near popular tourist attractions and shopping hotspots, it serves as the ideal base for attending race days at Happy Valley Racecourse, seamlessly blending horse racing with your stay.