Authentic Kowloon boasts good eats, lively culture
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Kowloon is Hong Kong’s slightly grittier side, but its urban fabric is more authentically Chinese and original than its island-side counterpart.
Densely populated Kowloon peninsula is more vibrant in many ways, with new developments and redevelopments taking place there.
There is huge potential in East Kowloon, outside the busy center of Kowloon, with development in the neighborhood, the expansion of the Mass Transit Railway or MTR in the area and the opening of Kai Tak Cruise Terminal at the site of the city’s former airport. In 2014, there will be 10 to 14 cruise ships using the terminal.
Andy So, general manager of the newly opened Pentahotel Hong Kong, Kowloon, has observed business and cultural progress in the area. “Many old factory buildings have turned into businesses or residential buildings, while some are utilized for commercial use such as galleries, restaurants and even music shops and performance venues,” he said.
“Area development will only increase in the months and years ahead. We’re glad to be one of the Ôfirst on the ground’.”
What to see
Chi Lin Nunnery
Unknown to many, it is surprisingly one of the most beautiful, serene and arrestingly built environments in Hong Kong. Situated at Diamond Hill Kowloon, the large Buddhist temple complex covers a space of more than 33,000 square meters.
Founded in 1934 and rebuilt in the 1990s, the complex follows Tang Dynasty (AD 618-907) traditional architectural style, and the wood-frame buildings were built without the use of any iron nails.
Nan Lian Garden
Connected to Chi Lin Nunnery to its north, with a sprawling mountain range at its back, the 35,000-square-meter garden takes in the full view of southeast Kowloon. Similar to Chi Lin Nunnery, the garden also represents Tang Dynasty style. Its design is based on the Jiangshouju Garden of the Tang Dynasty, a traditional Chinese landscape garden in Shanxi Province with springs, hillocks, trees, flowers, pavilions, winding paths and bridges.
Where to stay
Pentahotel Hong Kong, Kowloon
The newly-opened Pentahotel Hong Kong, Kowloon, pulsating with a hip urban vibe, also puts its mark on the fast-emerging area and serves as a neighborhood hub for both local residents and independent-minded travelers eager to discover the colorful surrounding neighborhoods.
It is the first international brand hotel in the fast-emerging Kai Tak area and is designed as a gathering spot for the local community.
The 32-story Pentahotel Hong Kong, Kowloon is only a few minutes’ walk from the Diamond Hill MTR station and features 695 practical, New York loft-style inspired guestrooms.
The 230-seat eatstreet@pentalounge offers its authentic local dishes in a la carte dining, set lunches, breakfast and dinner buffets. Evening buffet diners are tempted by desserts created by local celebrity pastry chef Tony Wong.
What to eat
Chi Lin Vegetarian
For an unusual place in Hong Kong hidden inside the scenic Nan Lian Garden, find your way behind the cascades of water for a delicious meat-free set meal. The vegetarian restaurant is a favorite of many locals and visitors. The lunch set menu for one person costs only HK$105 (US$13.54) per person, which includes soup of the day, set of four vegetarian dishes and rice.
Kowloon City
The gourmet neighborhood is a must-go for tourists who yearn for authentic Cantonese, Thai, Chiu Chow and local desserts that are available in inexpensive and unpretentious family-run eateries.
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