Most Instagrammable Urban Architecture Spots in Hong Kong

Most Instagrammable urban architecture spots in Hong Kong. Hong Kong is certainly a photographer’s paradise. Layers upon layers of buildings have sprung up rapidly over the years. They clash completely but somehow also work together. The unique architectural styles of this incredibly densely populated city have resulted in a number of well-known photo spots for budding photographers and professionals alike. Some have even featured in Hollywood films. Read on for a few of my top architecture photo spots to visit in Hong Kong.

1) Choi Hung “Rainbow” Estate, Kowloon (1964)

A visit to the Choi Hung Estate is sure to lift your spirits. The name Choi Hung means “rainbow” in Cantonese—and it lives up to it. This colourful public housing estate, built in the 1960s, has become one of the most Instagrammed spots in Hong Kong. The star of the show is the basketball court, perched on top of a car park. It’s framed by pastel buildings painted in a soft rainbow gradient.

This rooftop location isn’t just pretty—it’s practical. Being slightly elevated means it catches the breeze, making it cooler than the surrounding streets. It’s a nice escape from the city’s heavy humidity. The space is open and airy, with a laid-back feel. That said, it’s no secret—the court can get busy, especially on weekends. If you’re after a clean shot, head there early in the morning or on a weekday. But even when it’s packed, it’s still fun. I ended up chatting with other photographers and travellers, all drawn in by the same dreamy backdrop.

2) Lai Tak Tsuen Estate, Hong Kong Island (1975)

Lai Tak Tsuen is one of Hong Kong’s most visually fascinating public housing estates. And it almost feels surreal, even when you see it in person. Built in 1975 and located in Tai Hang on Hong Kong Island, the estate is instantly recognisable for its distinctive cylindrical design, which spirals upwards in a series of curved walkways and balconies. I felt a bit dizzy after climbing up all the stairs! But it’s worth it for the hypnotic, architectural symmetry and unique perspective looking down through the building’s hollow core. In fact, you might recognise it from scenes in Ghost in the Shell. Its futuristic look added to the film’s atmospheric cityscapes.

What makes Lai Tak Tsuen especially interesting is that it’s not just a striking location—it’s also incredibly liveable. On the rooftop, you’ll find a community seating area and open-air gym. Residents gather here to catch a breeze and escape the dense humidity of the streets below. In a city where rooftop spaces are often reclaimed as communal areas, Lai Tak Tsuen reflects the creativity and adaptability of Hong Kong’s vertical living. It’s a must-see spot for architecture lovers, urban explorers, and anyone looking to capture one of the city’s most unusual residential designs.

Read: Visiting the Lai Tak Tsuen Cylindrical Building, Hong Kong

3) Yik Cheong “Monster” Building, Hong Kong Island (1960s)

One of the most iconic urban photography spots in Hong Kong, the Yik Cheong Building—often referred to as the “Monster Building”—is a jaw-dropping example of high-density living. Built in the 1960s, this sprawling residential complex is actually a fusion of five interconnected buildings. Yik Cheong, Yik Fat, Montane Mansion, Oceanic Mansion, and Fook Cheong. Over the years, the Yik Cheong Building gained global fame thanks to blockbuster films like Transformers: Age of Extinction and Ghost in the Shell. Its tightly packed, cascading balconies became a symbol of the city’s cyberpunk aesthetic.

The central courtyard is where you’ll capture that famous shot. Towering walls of apartments are seemingly stacked to the sky, creating a surreal, geometric frame that captivates photographers. But don’t miss the curved exterior of the complex, especially along King’s Road, where Hong Kong’s classic trams rumble by—adding a nostalgic charm to an otherwise futuristic scene. With nearly 10,000 residents calling this complex home, it’s a living, breathing monument to Hong Kong’s unique architectural heritage and intense urban density. Just remember to be respectful when visiting, as this is very much a functioning residential area.

Read: Visiting the Yik Cheong “Monster” Building, Hong Kong

4) Lok Wah South Estate Car Park

A hidden gem for photographers and urban explorers alike. Lok Wah South Estate Car Park offers one of the most visually striking backdrops in Hong Kong. Best visited around midday, this unique rooftop location is famous for its bold blue circular structures, which create dramatic striped shadows as the sun filters through the overhead beams. The result is a surreal, futuristic atmosphere that feels like it belongs in a sci-fi movie. The stark concrete contrasts beautifully with the bright blue accents, making it a dream setting for Instagram shots, fashion editorials, or minimalist photography. Whether you’re capturing symmetry, playing with shadows, or simply hunting for one of Hong Kong’s coolest photo spots, this car park delivers a surprisingly creative canvas high above the city streets.

Read: Lok Wah South Estate Car Park: Hong Kong’s Hidden Gem for Urban Photography

On my list for next time…

Ping Shek Estate: Looking up from the inner courtyard the sky will be in the shape of an absolutely perfect square. It’s very futuristic looking.

What Else to do in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is an incredible city, and you won’t run out of things to do. Here are some example activities to round out your Hong Kong itinerary:

Victoria Peak and Sky Terrace 428: Take the Peak Tram and enjoy sweeping views of the skyline from Hong Kong’s highest observation deck.
👉 Victoria Peak Tram and Sky Terrace 428 Admission

Aqua Luna Sunset Cruise in Victoria Harbour: Hop aboard a traditional red-sail junk boat for a romantic cruise through the harbour—an iconic Hong Kong experience.
👉 Aqua Luna: Evening Cruise at Victoria Harbour

Hong Kong Food Tour: Discover the best street food, dim sum, and hidden gems with a local expert. These tours are a great way to explore culture through cuisine.
👉 Small-Group Hong Kong Island Food Tour

P.S. Looking for more unique photo spots around Asia? Be sure to check out my full guides to How to Visit the Wat Sam Phran Dragon Temple in Bangkok and Your Guide to Visiting Patrika Gate in Jaipur, Rajasthan—perfect for creative travellers and content creators.

Practical Guidance for Hong Kong

Hopefully you have found this guide on Most Instagrammable Urban Architecture Spots in Hong Kong useful. I have also included some practical guidance below so that you can get the boring stuff sorted and make the most of your trip!

Transport in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a very easy city to get around. I highly recommend using the MTR (metro / subway system) as it’s clean and efficient. Most of the signs are in both Chinese and English. You’re best off buying a Octopus card that you can then top up as much as you need. I purchased mine at the airport subway station before getting the train into the city. It is also possible to buy single journey tickets but this will end up more expensive and time consuming.

Withdrawing Cash in Hong Kong in Hong Kong Dollars (HKD)

To withdraw cash at the best rates, I highly recommend getting a WISE card before you go. This allows you to convert money into Hong Kong Dollars (or any other currency!) at the best rates and then withdraw cash in Hong Kong without hidden fees. Wise is a UK-based financial services company (available in most countries worldwide) and is highly regulated in the various regions it operates in (in the UK it is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority).

Get your WISE card here.

Travel Insurance

Make sure that you have travel insurance to cover you for your trip. I can highly recommend Heymondo. I use them to cover me for all my trips and their app is very easy to use.

Purchase Heymondo travel insurance with a 5% discount here.

Plan Your Trip to Hong Kong: Useful Travel Resource Links

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Have you been to Hong Kong? What was your favourite spot? Anything you’d like me to add to this Guide to the Most Instagrammable Urban Architecture Spots in Hong Kong? Let me know in the comments!