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Traditions and customs in Hong Kong

5 customs and traditions in Hong Kong — what they are, and how to take part without causing offence.

Last updated 2026-08-09

1. Yum cha

Yum cha
Photo: Paull Young · CC BY 2.0 · source

Morning tea with dim sum, trolleys in the older halls, and a stamped card at the table.

2. Cha chaan teng culture

Cha chaan teng culture
Photo: alanboar · CC BY 2.0 · source

Hong Kong-style diners serving milk tea, pineapple buns and macaroni soup at speed.

3. Dai pai dong

Dai pai dong
Photo: billygclarke · CC BY 2.0 · source

Open-air street kitchens, a licence type now nearly extinct — only about twenty remain.

4. Cantonese opera

Cantonese opera
Photo: InSapphoWeTrust · CC BY SA 2.0 · source

Performed at the Xiqu Centre and at bamboo-scaffold theatres built for temple festivals.

5. Horse racing at Happy Valley

Horse racing at Happy Valley
Photo: jonolist · CC BY SA 2.0 · source

Wednesday nights in the middle of the city, and a genuine local institution.

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