Things To Do Indoors When It’s Raining In Hong Kong

Raining in Hong Kong? Here are the best things to do while staying dry, including indoor activities like museums, galleries, karaoke and more!

When it rains in Hong Kong, it really pours! If you were planning to spend the day at the beach, hiking or even hitting up a rooftop bar — you’re going to have to put a rain check on those plans. But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing left to do in the city! From museums to shopping, dining, photo walks, escape rooms and more, we’ve rounded up our favourite dry and indoor activities to do when the weather is bad in Hong Kong.

Read More: The Perfect Black Rain Day — Indoor Activity Inspiration

Editor’s Note: This list of dry, indoor activities is for gloomy rainy days — but not when there’s an active rainstorm or typhoon! Pay attention to bad weather announcements and take all the necessary precautions, like staying home and taking shelter. If you need more guidance, we’ve outlined everything to know here. 

Jump To:
Free Things To Do Indoors
Group Things To Do Indoors
Indulgent Things To Do Indoors

Read More: Hong Kong Typhoons – Your Ultimate Guide To Signals, Rain Warnings & More

Free Things To Do Indoors On A Rainy Day

Head To A Museum Or An Art Gallery

Museums offer gorgeous showcases on every topic under the sun, from natural science and Hong Kong history to arts, technology, cultural heritage, maritime and space (and even noodles!).  Should the weather disappoint, you’ll stay cool and dry — and it all comes at little to no cost. Note that not every single museum in Hong Kong is free, but here are a few you won’t have to pay for (especially on Wednesdays!):

• Hong Kong Heritage Museum — History, art and culture under one roof, housing five permanent and six thematic galleries. Closed on Tuesdays. www.heritagemuseum.gov.hk
• Hong Kong Museum of Art — Curated collections of ancient and contemporary works from local and international artists plus a selection of items decorated with fine art available to purchase. Closed on Thursdays. hk.art.museum
• Hong Kong Museum of History — Our city’s local folk culture, colonial past, Japanese occupation and more, plus cultural objects related to the archaeology and history of Hong Kong and Southern China. Closed on Tuesdays. hk.history.museum

Although admission is required for the following museums, these won’t disappoint:

• Hong Kong Palace Museum — Over 900 priceless treasures on display, many of which are on display in Hong Kong for the first time, while others have never been shown to the public before. The Palace Museum regularly presents special exhibitions featuring Chinese art and culture, as well as immersive digital experiences for all. Closed on Tuesdays. www.hkpm.org.hk
• M+ — A cultural hub housing 33 galleries, a stunning cinema, two art and design-based shops, and restaurants with truly unbeatable harbour views. Closed on Mondays. www.mplus.org.hk
• CUPNOODLES MUSEUM Hong Kong — Invigorating experiences with the museum’s three main attractions themed under “The Innovation Journey of Momofuku Ando” and three experiential workshops, offering personalised CUPNOODLE memorabilia. Closed on Wednesdays. www.cupnoodles-museum.com.hk
• Hong Kong Science Museum — Interactive and immersive exhibitions about science, technology and astronomy. The museum’s general admission is $20. Free admission to the permanent exhibition on Wednesdays. Closed on Thursdays. hk.science.museum
• Hong Kong Space Museum — $20 and free on Wednesdays. The first local planetarium and one of the most famous landmarks in Hong Kong. hk.space.museum

Read More: The Best Museums In Hong Kong

Take In A Cultural Landmark

Take in Hong Kong’s rich culture when you visit one of the city’s landmarks, including:

• Tian Tan Buddha— Nicknamed the Big Buddha, this temple is located on Lantau Island. This large bronze sculpture of Buddha, completed in 1993, is a marvel in Hong Kong. On rainy days, take a cable car from Tung Chung!  www.np360.com.hk
• Man Mo Temple – A 19th-century Tin Hau temple to worship the God of Literature and the God of War. Refer to their website for opening times. www.man-mo-temple.hk
• Tsz Shan Monastery — A Chinese Buddhist monastery with gorgeous architecture. Entrance is free but it’s recommended to book slots in advance. www.tszshan.org
• Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery — In Sha Tin, containing closer to 13,000 statues of the Buddha.

Read More: Your Guide To Yuen Long: Attractions, Restaurants & More

Explore A Historic Revitalised Building — PMQ, Tai Kwun, Central Market

Without a doubt, touring the city’s historic buildings and sites must be on your Hong Kong bucket list! These beautiful old structures have come back to life to become host to fine dining establishments, exhibition spaces, shopping destinations, cultural hubs and more. Some of our favourites include:

• Tai Kwun —  A cultural and shopping destination, with immersive art showcases, frequent pop-ups and an exquisite selection of bars and dining. www.taikwun.hk
• Blue House — A typical Lingnan-style house built in 1922 with (of course) a blue exterior. Its tenants once included kung fu studios, Chinese clinics and a free school. Located near a small hub of bustling restaurants and bars, this historical site now houses second-hand clothing stores and vintage shopping.
• Central Market — The very first wet market in the city, Central Market boasts numerous pop-ups and stalls, exhibition spaces, and an interior food hall. www.centralmarket.hk
• PMQ — Refurbished and renovated in 2014, turning its residential units into small exhibition spaces, studios, shops and offices. www.pmq.org.hk
• The Mills — One of Hong Kong’s most beloved dog-friendly malls, the Nan Fung Textiles’ former cotton spinning mills are now a beautiful space dedicated to sustainability, artistry and the local community. www.themills.com.hk

Read More: Your Ultimate Guide To Tai Kwun — Restaurants, Shops & More

Spend The Day At A Public Library

Did you know there are actually 70 static and 12 mobile public libraries in Hong Kong? We may steer you towards the Hong Kong Central Library in Causeway Bay — the city’s largest, where you can browse an extensive collection of books, audiovisual materials and more — but each library is worth a visit!

Read More: The Best Hong Kong Public Libraries To Visit

Group Things To Do Indoors On A Rainy Day

Delight In Dim Sum

Yum Cha is a definite crowd-pleaser, with a range of dishes to suit various palates and tastes. Take shelter early in the morning and head to one of our favourite joints with a group. Indulge in Cantonese classics and ceaseless pots of tea await. We’ve already rounded up our favourite Yum Cha spots, but here are a few special mentions to get you started:

• • Dim Sum Library – Best for a modern take on classic dim sum. dimsumlibrary.com.hk
  • Dimdimsum – Quality dim sum at affordable prices. www.dimdimsum.hk
  • Lock Cha – Best for vegetarian dim sum. www.lockcha.com
  • Sun Hing – Best for late-night dim sum, open daily from 3am to 4pm! sunhingrestaurant.shop
  • Tim Ho Wan – The World’s Cheapest Michelin-star restaurant – but be prepared to queue! www.timhowan.com.hk

Read More: Mastering Dim Sum: Your Guide To Eating Like A Pro

Challenge Yourself With An Escape Room or Some Virtual Reality!

Distract from the rain and the city with this indoor adventure. We love a good escape room — especially with a decent-sized group! Put your intelligence, physical strength, wit and maybe even your friendships (you’ll need patience and communication!) to the test when you pick up a mysterious challenge and attempt to break from your space:

• LOST Hong Kong — Numerous storylines and rooms to choose from across four locations. losthk.com
• Fox in a Box – Immersive rooms with detailed sets, challenging puzzles and various zombie and murder themes. foxinaboxhongkong.com
• Sandbox VR — An escape room with a futuristic virtual reality twist. sandboxvr.com/hongkong

Read More: Inclusive Spaces & Communities In Hong Kong

Show Off Your Vocals At Karaoke — Music Box Karaoke, Neway Karaoke Box HK, Red MR, Blackroom

Perhaps the ultimate indoor activity in Hong Kong, karaoke is beloved by Hong Kongers and Team Sassy! Belt out the classics at the top of your lungs, with little to no organisational effort. Simply book a room for your group and you’re good to go! We love these karaoke places when it’s raining in Hong Kong:

• Mei KTV – The first flagship of this mainland Chinese chain in Hong Kong is situated in the vibrant heart of Lan Kwai Fong. It provides immersive experiences featuring AI-powered sound enhancements and expansive displays in its luxurious rooms. www.meiktv.com
• Neway Karaoke Box HK — Plenty of brand-new Korean tracks, Cantopop and Taiwanese hits, with an extensive menu of snacks and drinks. www.newaykb.com
• Red MR — Plenty of English songs plus Japanese, Korean, Chinese and other language hits. www.redmr.com
• Blackroom — Karaoke plus board games, video games and ping pong tables! www.blackroomhk.com
• Music Box Karaoke — Japanese-style karaoke, with more than 240,000 songs in Japanese, English, Korean and Chinese. By reservation only! musicbox-hk.com

Read More: https://www.sassyhongkong.com/eat-drink-best-lgbtqi-gay-bars-clubs-guide/

Get Competitive At A Board Game Cafe

Hands up – who loves a good board game? There are a couple of board game cafés dotted around the city, with most serving up a selection of snacks and coffees alongside an abundance of games. Expect to pay a small minimum fee for hours of competitive fun. Some of our favourites for rainy days include:

• Painkiller Boardgame — Located in Tsim Sha Tsui, this cafe aims to promote logical and strategic thinking with board games. Train your brain and relieve your pressure now! shop.painkillerbg.com
• 808 Board Game — Located in Mong Kok, book now for three hours of playtime. Guests are invited to bring their own food and beverages, but the café also offers a selection of light refreshments. 808 Board Game

Read More: 10 Unique And Unusual Things To Do In Hong Kong

Say “Hello” To Some Furry Friends

For those who aren’t quite ready for their own companion, or are simply feline-obsessed, a cosy cat café is the purr-fect place to relax on a rainy afternoon. Hong Kong is home to several delightful spots where you can sip on coffee and enjoy a variety of snacks while cuddling with adorable cats.

• Cats Tea Room — Expect happy and well-taken care of kitties here! Many of the cats (if not all!) are adopted and just want a bit of loving. The cafe also hosts an online list of kitties looking for a home. Various locations across Hong Kong. catstearoom.com
• Meowtini — Gorgeous cats in a super welcoming and comfortable space. No entrance fee or time limit, simply pay for food and drinks! meowtini_hk
• URBAN CAFE — Delicious food and equally delightful company! Kitties here are super friendly and might even jump onto your lap! urban.cafe.hk

Read More: Cat Street Treasures: Antiques, Coffee & More

Try An Indoor Sport: Laser Tag, Bubble Soccer, Roller Skating & More

While we do love the city’s outdoor sports (from hiking to water sports and more!), Hong Kong actually has a surprising amount of unique, indoor activities to try — which is perfect for rainy, stormy weather. Laser tag arenas, bubble soccer places, indoor trampoline parks, roller skating rinks and more. Don’t know where to start? Here are a few indoor sports arenas and places you can visit:

• Crossfire Arena — Combat archery, bubble soccer, dodgeball, laser tag, neon sabres and nerf wars! crossfire.hk
• Impact Force CQB — Indoor battleground with battle games (mystery puzzles, role-playing and jelly gun fight), laser tag, mazes and more. www.impactforcecqb.com
• Resalaser — Laser tag at a 10,000 sqft venue. www.resalaserhk.com
• Ryze — Over 7,000 sqft of connected trampolines and aerial silks suspended high above a foam pit. www.ryzehongkong.com
• Bun’s 2020 — Rollerskating under neon lights in Quarry Bay. buns2020.com.hk

Read More: Water Sports In Hong Kong: SUP, Kayaking, Wakeboarding, Scuba Diving & More

Go Back In Time At An Arcade

Old school! IG-worthy and a whole lot of fun, a great way to spend a rainy day is heading to one of Hong Kong’s arcades. You’ll find plenty on Hong Kong Island and in Kowloon, particularly in basements or hidden amongst the bustling streets of Mong Kok.

• Retrocity —Nostalgic arcade games and vintage video games to enjoy with friends. Don’t forget to purchase your favourites so you can enjoy them at home!
• Game Zone — Show off your dance moves solo or challenge friends with Danz Base and Dance Evolution Arcade, offering a full-body dance experience similar to Just Dance.
• Silvercord Amusement & Games — a great selection of two-player games and virtual racing simulations.

Read More: A Beginner’s Guide To DON DON DONKI

Get Creative With A Cooking Class

Rainy days call for rainy day snacks, and what better way to escape the torrential downpour than creating the ultimate rainy-day snack – cakes! Check out some options below:

• BakeBe — Learn how to bake Insta-worthy sweet treats, with tutorials created by pastry chefs and high-quality kitchen utensils at this baking studio. Various locations across Hong Kong. bakebe.com
• The Mixing Bowl — Perfect for a team full of sweet tooths, with plenty of pastry-making fun. www.themixingbowlhk.com
• ABC Cooking Studio — Originating from Japan, this studio offers classes in cooking, cakes, bread and wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets). Classes are conducted in small groups of up to four students. Multiple locations across Hong Kong.
  abc-cooking.com.hk 

Read More: The Best Bakeries In Hong Kong: Where To Buy Bread, Pastries & More

Unleash Your Artistic Spirit With An Art Session

Use the imminent rainy days as the perfect excuse to check out creative classes like art jamming, pottery, calligraphy or even glass blowing. Hong Kong has plenty of options available:

• artjamming — Proving that painting can be relaxing and calming, and a whole lot of fun! www.artjamming.com
• QQ Wonderland — Grab a tufting gun and get to work making a cute new rug for your home, styled after your favourite characters, colours or pets! www.qqwonderland.hk
• Choco L’ART Studio — An art jamming space, with blank canvases and plenty of paint. You can also try your hand at handicrafts, with leather workshops, tie-dye classes and soap-making on offer.  www.chocolart.com.hk
  
• Studio 83 — Oil painting, acrylic, sketching, watercolour and fun options like alcohol ink, lucky cat doll painting and more! studio83.com.hk

Read More: Unconventional Creative Classes In Hong Kong: Embroidery, Tufting, Calligraphy Workshops & More

Watch A Movie!

Whether you’re looking to catch an independent art house release or the latest blockbuster, there’s really nothing better than heading to a movie theatre, grabbing some popcorn and settling down to watch a film. Sure, we love staying in and streaming the latest shows but our city is home to plenty of cinema chains (like Broadway Circuit and MCL Cinemas) and exclusive movie theatres (like M+ Cinema and K11 Art House), plus film festivals, that are worth visiting in person.

Read More: Hong Kong Film Starter Pack: Classics & Cult Favourites You Need To Watch

Take Advantage Of Happy Hour

If all else fails, you can always find a bar and make the most of the city’s best happy hours. With offers available everywhere from Causeway Bay to Central, it’s not hard to pop into a bar and find a good drinks deal wherever you are. Check out our neighbourhood guides for the best places to drink by district.

Read More: The Best New Bars & Drinks Menus In Hong Kong This July

Indulgent Things To Do Indoors

Go For a Boozy Brunch With Plenty Of Free Flow Drinks

Come rain or shine, brunch is always a good choice. And we definitely don’t need reminding that there are countless restaurants offering up incredible and indulgent brunch menus all over the city. When the rain won’t stop, we recommend going for the free-flow options — what better way to spend a dreary afternoon than by dousing yourself in Veuve Clicquot?

Read More: The Best Brunch Places In Hong Kong — Free-Flow Drinks, Hotel Buffets & More

Treat Yourself To Afternoon Tea

Pause your day of shopping and museum hopping for a sophisticated afternoon tea. The perfect rainy day antidote, gather some friends and enjoy a relaxed afternoon indulging in pastries, cakes, finger sandwiches and a couple of glasses of bubbly. With plenty of high-end hotels in Hong Kong, there’s an endless list to choose from to suit a range of budgets. Not sure where to start? Check out our ultimate guide to afternoon tea here.

Read More: Afternoon Tea In Hong Kong — Where To Go For High Tea

Indulge In A Luxurious Spa Treatment

And whilst you’re treating yourself — why not go all out with a spa day? Again, many of the hotels all over the city have incredible spa facilities so whether you’re going for a facial or a massage, there are plenty of options to choose from. You could also go for a more budget-friendly option by heading to a nail salon or going for a foot massage.

Read More: The Best Spas In Hong Kong – Massage, Facials And More

Go Shopping!

You’re not going to want to brave the Ladies Market or other outdoor markets but Hong Kong has plenty of malls to duck inside when it’s raining!

Read More: Your Guide To Outlet Malls In Hong Kong

Editor’s Note: “Your Guide For What To Do When It’s Raining In Hong Kong” was originally published by Annie Simpson and most recently updated in June 2025 by Team Sassy. With thanks to Sakina Abidi for her contribution.