Immerse yourself in those memorable cinematic moments by exploring the locales from the finest works of Wong Kar-wai, To Kei-fung and even Bruce Lee

Best known for its dynamic blend of east and west cultures, glittering skyscrapers and iconic harbour, Hong Kong is often dubbed the “Hollywood of the East”, and has been a picture-perfect backdrop for a plethora of blockbusters.

Whether you’re a movie buff, or simply curious about Hong Kong’s ever-evolving landscape and culture, these spots are worth checking out for a unique cinematic journey—or—just for a dose of inspiration to brighten up your Instagram feed:

See also: Hong Kong's Most Luxurious Cinema Experiences

Mid-levels Escalator

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Photo 1 of 2 Photo: Tom Bonaventure via Getty Images
Photo 2 of 2 Chungking Express, 1994

The world's longest outdoor covered escalator system—the Mid-Levels escalator is internationally renowned for stretching 800 metres in distance and rising 135 metres through the buzzing streets in Central.

Not only does it transport people to some of the best bars and restaurants in SoHo, such as Iberico & Co. for unique cocktails and Fukuro for modern izakaya-style fare, it also serves as an iconic setting in Wong Kar-wai’s Chungking Express (1994) and Wayne Wang’s Chinese Box (1997).

Ride the escalator to follow in the footsteps of Faye Wong and Tony Leung Chiu-wai in Chungking Express as you glide above small shop spaces, street food vendors, residential buildings and bars bustling with a mix of locals and foreigners—the ride is filled with wonder and surprise as you move up to explore this lively neighbourhood.

Mid-levels Escalator, Connaught Road, Central and West District, Hong Kong

See also: Neighbourhood Guide: Where To Eat, Drink And Shop In Sheung Wan

China Cafe

Design lovers of all things conjuring the mood of old Hong Kong, this traditional cha chann teng (aka. teahouse in Cantonese) is a perfect place for you to appreciate local retro décor in a nostalgic setting. Key moments in To Kei-fung’s police noir—PTU (2003)—were shot in China Café, where the teahouse is portrayed as the officers’ go-to spot after work in the film.

Built with Insta-worthy tiled walls and floors, which serves up authentic local food such as classic milk tea, French toast and pineapple buns, this gem of Hong Kong’s cha chaan teng culture will make your visit worthwhile.

China Café, G/F, 1077A Canton Road, Mong Kok, Hong Kong, +852 2392 7825 

Jumbo Kingdom Floating Restaurant

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Photo 1 of 2 Photo: Courtesy of Jumbo Kingdom Floating Restaurant
Photo 2 of 2 Infernal Affairs, 2002

Established by Macau casino tycoon Stanley Ho in 1976, Jumbo Kingdom has long been a favourite fine-dining establishment and attraction among locals and tourists. Built with ancient imperial architectural style, this epic floating restaurant was featured in legendary movie Enter The Dragon (1973) produced by and starring Bruce Lee, and local film Infernal Affairs II (2003) directed by Andrew Lau.

Book yourself a table at this whimsical place, to enjoy a sumptuous spread of Chinese delicacies, or wander around to capture moments with a magnificent backdrop of dragon carvings and harbour views.

Jumbo, Shum Wan Pier Drive, Wong Chuk Hang, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, +852 2553-9111; jumbo.com.hk

Hollywood Road

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Photo 1 of 2 Photo: Getty Images
Photo 2 of 2 Rouge, 1987

Dubbed “the second oldest street in Hong Kong”, which was constructed at the founding of the colony back in 1841, Hollywood Road has always been a hub for collectables, antiques and artworks.

Starring two of Hong Kong’s legendary movie stars Leslie Cheung and Anita Mui, some scenes in Stanley Kwan’s classic film—Rouge (1987)—were shot on a part of Hollywood Road for the tragic love story: Anita returned to the living world as a ghost and searching for her lost love, who is played by Leslie.

Shout out to history fanatics and art lovers out there, this avenue in Central is nothing short of paradise. Embark on a tour of Hollywood Road across Central and Sheung Wan, where you’ll be amazed by an array of heritage buildings and street art around. Don’t forget to check out those stylish art galleries nearby, too!

See also: The Tatler Guide To Art Galleries In Sheung Wan

Mido Cafe

Mido Cafe is another one of the few remaining examples of old-style cha chaan teng, which has survived for decades amidst wonderful restaurant openings in Hong Kong’s dining scene since the 1950s.

Vintage tiled look, antique cashier machine and retro furnishings are some of the elements that make the cafe as a favourite setting for countless TV dramas and classic movies, such as Wong Kar-wai’s Days of Being Wild (1990), and Andrew Lau’s Goodbye Mr Cool (2001) from the Young and Dangerous film series.

Head up to the second floor and settle into a booth by the iron-framed window overlooking the Tin Hau Temple, so you can mimic the movie scenes in the most satisfying way with the cafe's signature pork rib baked rice and red bean with lotus seed ice.

Mido Cafe, G/F, 63 Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei, +852 2384 6402

See also: Get Fancy: 7 Luxe Instagram Hot Spots In Hong Kong

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