Cinematic Hong Kong: Iconic Film Locations and the Ultimate Travel Guide

Beating at the absolute center of Hong Kong Island, Causeway Bay and Wan Chai possess an undeniable theatrical energy. They are places of immense contrast—where corporate high-rises look down onto soulful, traditional communities. Consequently, they are just as famous for hosting gritty action sequences as they are for framing intimate urban love stories.

The Young and Dangerous Series

The line “There can only be one Ho-nam in Causeway Bay!” transformed these shopping streets into a legendary cinematic map. The iconic triad franchise captured the raw, electric energy of the district in the 1990s.

Thomson Road Alleys

The historic Yuet Heung Restaurant on Thomson Road served as the backdrop for Ugly Kwan’s mother’s birthday banquet—complete with a memorable undercover disguise by the character Pou-pan. Though the restaurant has since closed, the narrow alleys nearby still retain the moody atmosphere where Chan Ho-nam planned his counter-attack.

MTR: Wan Chai, Exit A5.

Lockhart Road (Causeway Bay Plaza II)

The unforgettable closing sequence of the first film shows the main characters walking triumphantly down the street, filmed outside Causeway Bay Plaza II. The timeless Tung Fong Hung signage remains a perfect landmark for a film-inspired photo.

MTR: Causeway Bay, Exit C.

Crossing Hennessy

Centred around Hennessy Road, this acclaimed romance beautifully tracks the lives of two single professionals navigating life and love in Wan Chai.

Lee Tung Avenue

The film captures Lee Tung Street during its 2009 reconstruction phase. Once known as “Wedding Card Street” due to its concentration of traditional print shops, it has now evolved into a bustling luxury lifestyle precinct, serving as a poignant cinematic record of Hong Kong’s architectural evolution.

MTR: Wan Chai, Exit D.

The Historic Tramways (The “Ding Ding”)

Watching the cityscape blur from inside a double-decker tram is a classic Hong Kong film trope. Following Tang Wei’s perspective in the movie, a journey on the historic “Ding Ding” lets you slow down and observe the textures of the city just as legendary directors have done for decades.

Route Tip: Catch an eastbound tram from O’Brien Road in Wan Chai to the Causeway Bay Terminus for the most scenic cinematic stretch.

Sitting alongside Wan Chai, Central seamlessly bridges the gap between commercial dynamism and silver-screen romance. Its steep hills and modern structures offer an unparalleled cinematic geography.

Chungking Express

Wong Kar-wai’s genius lay in turning everyday infrastructure into romantic poetry, a feat best witnessed at the Central Mid-Levels Escalator. The moving walkway frames the mesmerising, voyeuristic romance between Faye Wong and Tony Leung, perfectly mirroring the slow, drifting heartbeat of modern city life. It remains an absolute must-visit landmark for anyone looking to capture the moody essence of 1990s Hong Kong cinema.

Directions: Accessible via a 7-minute walk from Central MTR Station (Exit C) or a 5-minute walk from Hong Kong Station (Exit C).

Infernal Affairs & Beyond

Just a stone’s throw away lies Pottinger Street, famed for its beautifully weathered granite slabs. This historic lane provides an evocative canvas that has anchored some of the city’s greatest cinematic moments. Its dramatic slope and old-world charm have lent immense tension to the gritty action of Infernal Affairs, sophisticated glamour to Yesterday Once More, and a rich period atmosphere to Chasing the Dragon. It stands as a timeless, open-air gallery of Hong Kong’s storytelling soul.

Directions: Take Exit D2 from Central MTR Station and walk for 3 to 5 minutes along Queen’s Road Central.

Retreat to The Hari Hong Kong after a day spent wandering through the city’s legendary film locations. This sophisticated sanctuary brings the magic of the screen indoors, blending premium design and contemporary art in a way that echoes Hong Kong’s vibrant, East-meets-West cinematic heritage. With Wan Chai and Causeway Bay right on your doorstep, you remain entirely immersed in the city’s authentic urban pulse.

This sense of cinematic glamour comes alive through The Hari’s masterfully crafted beverage and dining offerings. Unwind at The Lounge or on the lush terrace at Zoku during Tipple Hour (available daily from 3pm to 8pm). The undisputed star of the menu is the Hari 75. Its name draws inspiration from the classic French 75 cocktail, originally named after the powerful recoil of a 75mm artillery gun. Reimagined with modern refinement, the Hari 75 swaps the traditional base for our award-winning Hari Gin. Its unique botanicals are paired with freshly squeezed Amalfi lemon and Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut Champagne for a bright, vibrant acidity, balanced by a touch of silky sugar syrup. The result is a perfect harmony of historic intensity and contemporary sophistication. Alternatively, explore Zoku’s innovative, Japanese-inspired fusion cocktails featuring shiso and yuzu, or savour timeless classics like a Bellini or Espresso Martini at The Lounge.

To elevate your evening further, indulge in An Evening Affair within the comforting, residential warmth of The Lounge. Designed for sharing with loved ones or close friends, this sophisticated pairing menu features half a dozen seasonal oysters or a luxurious caviar egg mousse, paired elegantly with Champagne or a barrel-aged Negroni. Available daily from 5pm to 8pm, it provides a tantalising prelude to an unforgettable night in the city.