The Hari Hong Kong: Where Luxury Meets Local Character

When describing Hong Kong, I often tell people it is a city that makes you feel like you are at the centre of the world. Go for an evening stroll along Tsim Sha Tsui and take in the iconic skyline above Victoria Harbour, where you can see a vibrant mix of people and cultures from every corner of the world. And yet, somehow, it all still feels distinctly Hong Kong. Cantonese culture and language are deeply rooted in the city, but British customs and traditions remain an important part of everyday life. Both cultures have fused in ways that are visible in local cuisine, architecture, language, mannerisms, and so much more. This special East-meets-West dynamic, combined with an international feel, makes Hong Kong unlike any other global city. 

ABOVE: The Hari is located in the heart of Wan Chai and Causeway Bay.

Arrival & Atmosphere

Located in the heart of Wan Chai, The Hari reflects the city’s exceptional spirit. The five-star boutique hotel first opened its doors in 2020 as the official sister location to The Hari London. It is the second property of The Hari Hotels, owned by the Harilela Family and imagined by Dr. Aron Harilela. When designing the property, his goal was to create a space that provides guests with a luxurious, zen-like experience while still feeling connected to the city’s bustling nature. He enlisted the help of Tara Bernerd & Partners, a highly sought-after interior architect and designer who also helped bring the Hari London to life. 

ABOVE: Situated on Lockhart Road, The Hari is conveniently near the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and the Happy Valley Racecourse.

The Lobby & Lounge 

The hotel lobby on the ground floor is designed to be more of a welcome area than a social space. It has floor-to-ceiling wood panelling with built-in bookshelves that are modern yet subtly nod to an old-English feel. The colour palettes and soft lighting have been carefully selected to make guests feel relaxed the moment they walk in. And of course, the staff are extremely welcoming. 

The large second-floor Lounge is where The Hari’s personality fully comes to life. It has a contemporary, mid-century yet elegant design, blending British tweed with the textures of velvet and linen, and rich colour pops that pair well with Hong Kong’s bustling streets. The many seating options are arranged to break up the space, making it feel intimate even when many guests are enjoying it. 

Clockwise: The Hari’s second floor Lounge. Lucciola Restaurant & Bar offers authentic Italian fare. View of Wan Chai from Zoku. The modern Zoku Restaurant, designed with luxurious finishes.

The Lounge leads to two of the hotel’s four dining options: Zoku Restaurant for Japanese and Lucciola Restaurant & Bar. Both feature refined bars for unwinding. I highly recommend cocktails at Zoku while enjoying panoramic views of Wan Chai, then making your way to Lucciola, which offers an extensive selection of classic Italian dishes. For something light, choose the fresh shucked oysters and scallops — the seafood is so fresh and packed with flavour.

Afterwards, wander through the Lounge and check out works by emerging local artists. The Hari Art Prize, the hotel’s annual initiative, has turned its public space into a living gallery.

The Rooms

Above: A Balcony Suite at The Hari, and on the right, a King Room.

The Hari’s four room options and three suite options are all crafted to feel like a luxury home away from home. Tara Bernerd’s open-concept designs make the most of every inch of space in Hong Kong’s densely packed environment. The result: when you return to your room, it truly feels like your own little oasis. The bathrooms are decked out in marble and feature walk-in showers and cozy towel robes. There are also comfy seating areas to relax, read a book, or enjoy a morning coffee. 

Exploring the Neighbourhood

Staying in Wan Chai is the perfect way to experience all sides of Hong Kong.

For a classic Hong Kong outing, take the MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui and stroll along the waterfront to take in the skyline. Afterwards, return across the harbour on the Star Ferry to Wan Chai Pier, then walk back to the hotel. It is a simple way to experience the city from both sides of the water.

Closer to the hotel, explore Wan Chai on foot. Head along Lockhart Road and stop at a Cha Chaan Teng, one of Hong Kong’s traditional cafés, for milk tea, a pineapple bun, or an egg tart. These everyday establishments offer a glimpse of local life beyond the city’s luxury hotels and shopping malls.

When you’re ready to shop, Causeway Bay is just a short walk away. The area ranges from major shopping centres such as Times Square and SOGO to smaller boutiques tucked along the side streets. You can also find traditional Chinese medicine shops selling dried seafood, herbs, and familiar household remedies. Even if you’re not buying anything, stepping inside offers a glimpse of a longstanding part of local commerce. I always make a point of picking up some Tiger Balm while I’m there.

A Stay in the Heart of Hong Kong

The Hari is the perfect base to experience the hustle and bustle of daily life without sacrificing comfort. Spend the day exploring Hong Kong’s streets, food, and culture, then return to a place that feels removed from the bustle yet mere steps away. In a city where so many different worlds meet, that balance feels especially fitting.

For more information or to book a stay at The Hari, visit Causeway Bay & Wan Chai Luxury Hotel | The Hari Hong Kong

Photos: All The Hari Hong Kong photos courtesy The Hari. Photos of Wan Chai and Causeway Bay by Haley Donovan