Kennedy Town
Kennedy Town Neighbourhood Guide: Where Waterfront Grit Meets Urban Glow in Hong Kong’s Relaxed West
Kennedy Town, the waterfront westernmost edge of Hong Kong Island and effortlessly walkable, merges gritty harbourfront roots with a fresh wave of urban renewal. Its wide boulevards host traditional dai pai dongs and seafood wholesalers, while sleek cafés, craft beer bars, and expansive promenades mark a neighbourhood in stylish evolution. Kennedy Town attracts young professionals, expanding families, and waterfront lovers who value laid-back vibes with seamless city access.
Getting There & Around
Kennedy Town MTR Station (Island Line) serves as the primary hub—Exit A leads to Catchick Street, while Exit C connects directly to the waterfront promenade. The iconic trams (“ding dings”) run along Catchick Street and Des Voeux Road West. Taxis are readily available, and walking remains the best way to explore the flat, compact area.
History & Culture
Kennedy Town embodies old Hong Kong charm. Once a fishing village and industrial hub, it features historic lo paneer bakeries and seafood wholesalers along the Praya.
Key cultural landmarks:
- Kennedy Town Praya Promenade: A revitalized waterfront with benches, walking paths, and sweeping Victoria Harbour views.
- Street art in New Praya: Explore murals and installations along the seafront and side streets.
For deeper insights, wander the preserved shophouses and colonial-era buildings along Forbes Street.
Things to Do
- Kennedy Town Praya Promenade: Stroll with harbour views, picnic spots, and sunset watching.
- Street food exploration: Sample dai pai dongs on Forbes Street for congee, noodles, and grilled skewers.
- Heritage walks: Follow Catchick Street for markets, temples, and local bakeries.
- Hiking nearby: Access Mount Davis trails for WWII ruins, bunkers, and panoramic city vistas.
Housing & Accommodation
Kennedy Town offers a diverse residential mix, from restored tong lau (tenement buildings) to modern high-rises, ideal for professionals and small families. Rental yields remain strong due to proximity to Central and emerging waterfront lifestyle appeal.
Residential Highlights
- Catchick Street & Forbes Street: Characterful walk-ups and low-rise apartments with heritage charm. 1-bedrooms from HK$22,000/month; 2-bedrooms from HK$32,000/month.
- Newer developments:
– Manhattan Heights (28 New Praya): Modern apartments with efficient layouts and proximity to MTR.
– The Merton (38 New Praya): Premium residences featuring concierge, gym, and panoramic waterfront views.
– Cadogan (48 Cadogan Street): Boutique-style living with contemporary finishes and easy access to the promenade.
– The Belcher’s (89 Pok Fu Lam Road): Upscale apartments offering luxury amenities and vibrant seaside living.
Sale prices average HK$20,000–25,000 per sq ft in prime blocks. Jade Land Properties offers exclusive listings in spacious, light-filled executive residences with premium finishes and panoramic views.
School Network
Kennedy Town falls under School Net 11 (Central & Western District), one of Hong Kong’s most competitive nets with prestigious local and international options nearby.
Local Schools
- King’s College (Bonham Road): Top-tier boys’ secondary; Band 1.
- St. Paul’s Co-educational College (MacDonnell Road): Elite co-ed; direct subsidy scheme.
- Li Sing Primary School (Mid-Levels): Reputable feeder to Band 1 secondaries.
International Schools (within 15-min commute)
- ESF Kennedy School (Pok Fu Lam): Primary-focused ESF curriculum; convenient school bus service from Kennedy Town.
- West Island School (Victoria Road, Pok Fu Lam): ESF secondary with strong IB results; 8-minute school bus.
- Carmel School (Borrett Road, Mid-Levels): Jewish international primary and kindergarten; 12-minute drive.
- ESF Island School (Borrett Road, Mid-Levels): Full secondary and IB program; short MTR ride.
- Canadian International School (Wong Chuk Hang): Through-train IB curriculum from kindergarten to Grade 12; 10-minute drive or school bus.
Residents also benefit from immediate proximity to The University of Hong Kong (HKU), a world-leading university just minutes away by MTR or bus, ideal for families with tertiary-bound children.
Many families in Kennedy Town choose the area for its balance of school access, waterfront living, and urban convenience.
Discover Kennedy Town’s Essence
Kennedy Town captures Hong Kong’s soul—heritage, creativity, and connectivity in one vibrant waterfront district. Whether seeking a character-filled flat, a modern executive residence, or a cultural base, it delivers. Contact Jade Land Properties for personalized property viewings or investment advice.



