Hong Kong Gay Bars For Your Next Big City Adventure
By James of Designing Life
Hong Kong is a MEGA city. It's one of those places you must live in for years before you can really know the city. And like all big cities, they change often, and with the pandemic and all the changes that have happened since, it's only going to change faster.
So, here are a few gay bar options you should check out before they become something else.
A Little Gay History
First, let's head to Lan Kwai Fong (LKF).
Historically speaking, the opening of Disco Disco in the 1970s led to the emerging gay scene in this part of town. And even though today it's still considered a gay area, it is not exclusively gay, or really, not gay at all.
So where is the gay area if it's not LKF? Nowadays, the gay neighborhood is technically in Soho, or South of Hollywood Road, which includes LKW and Sheung Wan.
In the past, LKF was where every gay man went. It was the gay destination of the time. However, with time, all the gay bars have moved over to Sheung Wan. But Lan Kwai Fong is a fascinating neighborhood everyone should check out.
Lan Kwai Fong was built on a hill with winding streets, bustling crowds, and skyscrapers on every side of you. LKF has the quintessential modern city vibe with old charm.
With so many neighboring gay bars, you can come to LKF and venture to the gay bars when you're ready. So, come here, walk around the small streets, weave around the crowds, eat at one of the many restaurants, and then make it a night.
LKF is not to be missed, even today.
Okay, so now that you know the area and a little bit of history, which bars should you check out?
1) Wink
This is a great place if you like karaoke.
It is decorated with fun neon lights. The bar has a party atmosphere with good music that's loud but not over the top.
The bartenders are also skilled at making drinks. So don't be afraid to ask them to make you something custom. They'll surprise you.
2) Boo Bar
Kitschy, weird, cluttered, and colorful in the best possible way. This cute bar will make you feel like you've discovered a gem in this megalopolis.
3) Zoo Bar
Zoo Bar is great because it's on most tourists' radar, which means you can meet travelers like you and locals who enjoy hanging around them.
4) FLM Bar
FLM is a club for all queer folk. The guests are friendly, and the bartenders are friendlier.
Come here with friends or solo. If you're here by yourself, the bartenders will chat with you and make you feel at home.
However, this place starts late. Take a nap before making a night of it.
Hong Kong is for Travelers who Love a Big City
In a city with so much change, it's sometimes hard to write about bars, restaurants, and other venues because, chances are, they'll be open for a couple of years, maybe a few months, and then they're gone.
Each of these bars I mentioned is within walking distance of each other.
Turn this into your weekend adventure, and don't forget to venture to other neighborhoods.
Hong Kong's Central and Mid-Levels neighborhoods are fascinating. This city is big, fast, and massive. There is nothing like it in the US. And New York City, as much as I love it, doesn't compare.
And if you want more hustle and bustle, travel inland to Kowloon and, better yet, Mongkok.
If you happen to be traveling to Hong Kong in the near future, check out these gay bars, make some friends, and keep exploring everything this beautiful city has to offer. You won't regret it.