The history of horse racing in Hong Kong dates back to the mid-19th century, shortly after the British arrived, bringing with them their love of the sport of kings. Although in the early days it was only accessible to the rich and powerful, over the decades it became less exclusive and was enthusiastically adopted by the local population.Happy Valley during the racing season (September to July) is a great place to spend some time in the lively company of thousands of cheering punters, in complete contrast to the more serious atmosphere of American or British racecourses. Here there are no high fashion dress codes or corporate hospitality, and the focus is very much on having fun. Most of the races are held at night, with the bright lights creating a dramatic setting and trackside beer tents and food stalls adding to the excitement. In between races, the party continues with live music and entertainment to enhance the betting frenzy. The levels of betting range from quick flutters to some serious professional gambling. The Hong Kong Jockey Club website contains some helpful information on the different kinds of bets and how to place them, so check before your visit if in doubt.Several prestigious events are held throughout the season, such as the Hong Kong Derby, the Queen Elizabeth II Cup and the Hong Kong International Races, where the competition is more intense and the cosmopolitan crowd is glamorous and well-heeled. But at a regular meeting, you can enjoy a fun night out with the local crowd at a fraction of the price. You can also take a free walk around the grounds during the day to enjoy the views.Happy Valley is on northern Hong Kong Island and the closest MTR station is Causeway Bay. If you’re not in a hurry and want to save your pennies for the tote, take the scenic route by tram instead.
Happy Valley
Popular places to visit
Ocean Park
Make friends with giant pandas and alligators and check out the thrilling rides at this award-winning Hong Kong favourite.
Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
Jutting into busy Victoria Harbour, this modern facility looks like a winged creature ready to take flight. It hosts over five million event visitors annually.
Hong Kong - Macau Ferry Terminal
Filled with shops and restaurants, this busy terminal provides opportunities to explore the intriguing islets adorning the bays of southern China.
Lan Kwai Fong
Party with the in-crowd in Hong Kong’s favourite hotspot.
Pacific Place
Don’t forget your credit card when you visit one of Hong Kong’s most tempting retail and culinary hotspots.
Soho
Ride the covered escalators to reach one of Hong Kong’s hippest shopping and entertainment districts.
Things to do
Private colonial Cemeteries tour
Half-day Hiking Tour in The Green to Lion Rock in Hong Kong
4-Hour Private Hong Kong Layover Tour
Top hotels in Happy Valley
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Other neighbourhoods around Happy Valley
Wan Chai
Wan Chai is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Wan Chai Road and Tai Yuen Street Toy Market. See more of Hong Kong by jumping on the metro at Fleming Road Tram Stop or Burrows Street Tram Stop.
Tin Hau
You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Tin Hau. Spend some time visiting top spots like Victoria Park, and catch the metro at Lau Sin Street Tram Stop or Hong Kong Tin Hau Station to see more of the area.
Causeway Bay
Causeway Bay is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Victoria Park and Hong Kong Central Library. See more of Hong Kong by jumping on the metro at Wing Hing Street Tram Stop or Lau Li Street Tram Station.
Fortress Hill
While there might not be top attractions in Fortress Hill, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Chun Yeung Street Market and North Point Ferry Pier.
Admiralty
The island views, captivating waterfront views, and popular shops are notable features of Admiralty. Make a stop by Central Government Office or Pacific Place while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Cotton Tree Drive Tram Stop to get around town.
The Peak
Well-liked for its waterfront and architecture, The Peak is worth a visit. Check out the variety of things to see and do like Peak Tower and Madame Tussauds, and jump on the metro at The Peak Station to get around the city.
- Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital
- YY9 Gallery
- Hong Kong Disneyland® Resort
- Ocean Park
- Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Victoria Harbour
- Hong Kong - Macau Ferry Terminal
- Lan Kwai Fong
- Harbour City
- AsiaWorld-Expo
- Nathan Road Shopping District
- Soho
- Temple Street Night Market
- K11 Art Mall
- Ngong Ping 360
- The Peak Tram
- Central Plaza
- Happy Valley Race Course
- Kwun Tong Promenade