Where to Take Family Photos in Hong Kong: 10 iconic locations for tourists
Updated: Sep 11
One of my favorite photoshoot categories to offer is “Explore the City.” I love these sessions because I get to show visiting families around Hong Kong while capturing candid moments of their journey. A photoshoot can be more than posing for a camera; it can be a real adventure: exploring hidden alleyways, riding transport, or stopping for local treats.
As a local, I know all the hidden gems and best neighborhood spots. Here are 10 iconic photo locations that best capture the uniqueness of Hong Kong for your family album:
1. West Kowloon Cultural District (for the Skyline View)
While Victoria Harbour views are a must-have, I usually suggest skipping the crowded Tsim Sha Tsui pier and heading to West Kowloon Park instead. Here, you can stroll along a long waterfront promenade with a full, frame-worthy shot of the Central skyline right across the water. Plus, there is plenty of green lawn for kids to run around on, relaxing sea breezes, and cool modern backdrops around the M+ Museum and Art Park.
2. Central Local Street Markets
If you want to experience authentic Hong Kong culture, I suggest walking through the open-air street markets. You will find vibrant fruit and flower stands, lively fish shops, and traditional butcher stalls. Every single stall has its own unique character.
3. Local Snack Stops: Hong Kong Milk Tea & Egg Tarts
Hong Kong has many signature foods, and I know the best spots to grab them! Stopping for freshly baked egg tarts, bubble waffles, Hong Kong-style milk tea, or a cold bottle of Vitasoy keeps the session fun and refreshing. I love taking candid shots of everyone’s expressions on their first bite.
4. Pottinger Street (Stone Slab Street)
Pottinger Street is paved with uneven granite slabs designed to help pedestrians navigate the steep slope. The street is also famous for its festive stalls selling costumes, lanterns, and party props. Kids love this spot because navigating the steps feels like a mini-climb. It is also the perfect place to capture sweet moments like a toddler holding onto a parent's finger as they walk up the stone stairs.
5. Tai Kwun
Formerly the Central Police Station compound, Tai Kwun features red-brick buildings, stone arches, and heritage courtyards. The open brick plazas are enclosed, safe, and great for interactive ice-breaker games to help everyone warm up. The contrast between red bricks, dark iron railings, and stonework provides a fantastic background.
6. Sheung Wan (Man Mo Temple & Cat Street)
Sheung Wan is a neighborhood right next to Central. It is filled with hidden gems like dried seafood shops, the historic Man Mo Temple, and the Museum of Medical Science. Nearby, Cat Street is a pedestrian-only zone lined with antique trinkets, vintage toys, and relaxed cafes. It allows for stress-free street portraits with no car traffic, though we can easily step onto the main road to catch a classic red Hong Kong taxi passing by!
7. The Star Ferry
Connecting Central and Tsim Sha Tsui, this short 8-minute ride across Victoria Harbour retains its classic vintage charm with green-and-white double-decker boats, wooden benches, and sailors hauling heavy dock ropes. I love taking photos of families sitting by the open windows and watching the waves and ships pass by.
8. The Hong Kong Tram (The "Ding Ding")
Running along Hong Kong Island, the double-decker "Ding Ding" is one of the most romantic ways to see the city. I always recommend that families sit on the top deck right at the front window. It feels like steering the vehicle! The tram offers a breezy, slow-paced ride that lets me capture natural laughter against rolling urban backdrops.
9. Central–Mid-Levels Escalator & Central Market
The Central-Mid Levels Escalator is the world's longest outdoor covered escalator system. It’s a unique elevated walkway through the Central neighborhood. Right at the base lies the newly renovated Central Market. The Central Market offers photogenic staircases and architectural details, making it a great indoor backup option for rainy days.
10. Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade & Clock Tower
While the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade can get crowded during afternoons and weekends, it offers iconic views of Victoria Harbour alongside historic landmarks like the colonial Clock Tower and the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. As an added bonus, the classic red-and-white ice cream trucks are usually parked right outside the pier.
Ready to Explore Hong Kong Together?
A family photoshoot can be a fun, relaxed exploration of the city. Looking back at these pictures will bring back all the wonderful memories of where you explored together.
If you would like to tailor a customized “Explore the City” route for your family's upcoming trip, I am more than happy to chat with you!
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