Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences
Explore Hong Kong's medical past in a stunning 1906 Edwardian building, featuring traditional remedies and epidemic history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Hong Kong's medical past in a stunning 1906 Edwardian building, featuring traditional remedies and epidemic history.
"A fascinating dive into medical history within a beautifully preserved Edwardian gem."
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! Give yourself at least 1-2 hours to absorb the detailed exhibits and historical context.
🚶♀️ Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking and standing to explore the museum's collections.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Edwardian Architecture
Exterior and interior of the museum
Step back in time in this beautifully preserved 1906 Edwardian building, a historical gem in itself.
1894 Hong Kong Plague Exhibit
Basement level
A chilling yet informative look at a significant historical epidemic that shaped public health in Hong Kong.
Traditional Medical Devices
Various exhibit halls
Discover an array of fascinating traditional Chinese and Western medical instruments and tools from bygone eras.
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the Museum
Navigating the Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! Give yourself at least 1-2 hours to absorb the detailed exhibits and historical context.
🚶♀️ Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking and standing to explore the museum's collections.
📸 Capture the history
The museum's architecture is stunning. Remember your camera or phone for photos! 
🥶 Basement chill
Be prepared for a cooler temperature in the basement exhibits, especially the plague section.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! Give yourself at least 1-2 hours to absorb the detailed exhibits and historical context.
🚶♀️ Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking and standing to explore the museum's collections.
📸 Capture the history
The museum's architecture is stunning. Remember your camera or phone for photos!
🥶 Basement chill
Be prepared for a cooler temperature in the basement exhibits, especially the plague section.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences for its fascinating historical exhibits and the stunning Edwardian architecture of the building. The detailed displays on traditional medicine and past epidemics are particularly noted as informative. Some find the basement exhibits a bit chilling, but overall, it's considered a worthwhile and educational visit for those interested in medical history.
"This building was nice.
But I will not recommend it if you do not plan to go around this area. In this building are mostly displayed old-time medical items or machines. You also can find and see the Chinese medicinal materials.
This museum also has some fun interactive games to play. One of the corners has a small table; you can collect the special stamp for this museum. (This posting was additional charge, not cheap. You also can find skills without spending money. Because I saw someone did it )
If you are a flower lover. Please don't forget to walk around outside this building. They have a small medicinal flower garden, and mostly they have put the name beside the plant.
1 pax = around Hong Kong $20? (Foreigner)"
Millie L
"Really nice heritage building that is rated antique monument. The exhibits are relatively simple, and the key takeaway is the development of medicine and medical institutions in Hong Kong after the bubonic plague of 1894. The other exhibitions have less everyday relevance so it just takes about 45 minutes to tour, including watching the educational video. The ambience is excellent, steeped in historic vibes. The way to go is to head up the Central escalators to Caine Road, then head toward the Sheung Wan direction and descend a flight of stairs to Caine Ln. Walking up from Sheung Wan MTR would be quite a climb."
Helen Yu (Chestnut Journal)
"- To reach the museum, you have to walk past the Man Po Temple and climb THREE flights of stairs.
- I thought this place would be bigger, like a whole village lol
But actually, it's just one building. The building consists of 3 stories (including the basement).
- Admission is 20 HKD (about 3 USD)
- The ground floor consists of a room exhibiting acupuncture, a room for the history of medicinal use in Hong Kong and another room for gynecology; then there's a hallway that displays viruses and then there's a room that displays internal organs,
- the second/top floor has a room, kinda like a makeshift movie theatre, that shows a documentary of the history of medical science in Hong Kong.
- the second story also has a room with different tools and materials that people used back in the day. There's also two mannequins doing a rat dissection--not creepy at all lol
- The basement (of course) had an exhibition for autopsies, surgeries and a variety of microscopes throughout the years. (There's even a closed-off room that is furnished to be an autopsy room! Not eerie at all!)
- The basement also has a room for Chinese medicine, with the tree roots and all that good stuff. It's neatly decorated with wooden everything--wooden chairs, tables, cabinets to really make it feel like a real Chinese medicine shop.
Overall, I was a little disillusioned. If you're interested in medical tools and stuff, or want to be informed about things like gynecology and the history of how western medicine reached Hong Kong, then this place will do the job."
Emily
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is accessible via public transport. You can take the MTR to Sheung Wan Station and then enjoy a short walk or a taxi ride. Buses also serve the area. Check local transport apps for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.
Parking in this area of Hong Kong can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transportation to reach the museum.
From Central, you can take a short taxi ride or hop on a bus heading towards Sheung Wan. The MTR is also an efficient option; take the Island Line to Sheung Wan Station.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from the Central Ferry Piers to the museum, taking approximately 15-20 minutes. You'll pass through interesting streets.
The museum is located in the Sai Ying Pun and Sheung Wan areas, which are rich in history and culture. You can explore nearby temples, antique shops, and local eateries.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are generally affordable. It's best to check the museum's official website for the most current ticket prices and any potential discounts for students or seniors.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially during weekends or public holidays, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
Opening hours can vary, so it's crucial to consult the museum's official website before your visit. They typically have set hours on weekdays and weekends.
The museum strives to be accessible. Information regarding accessibility features, such as ramps or elevators, can usually be found on their website or by contacting them directly.
Guided tours may be offered at specific times. Inquire at the information desk upon arrival or check the museum's schedule online for availability and details.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The museum showcases the history of Chinese and Western medicine in Hong Kong, featuring traditional medical devices, historical artifacts, and exhibits on past epidemics like the 1894 plague.
Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours exploring the exhibits thoroughly. This allows time to read the information panels and appreciate the displays.
While educational, some exhibits, particularly those detailing historical diseases, might be intense for very young children. It's more suited for older children and adults interested in history and science.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the artifacts. Always check for signage or ask museum staff.
The museum maintains a comfortable climate, though the basement area, which houses exhibits on historical epidemics, can feel cooler.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences typically does not have an on-site restaurant or cafe. However, the surrounding Sheung Wan and Sai Ying Pun areas offer a wide variety of local eateries and cafes.
You'll find a fantastic array of Hong Kong cuisine, from traditional dim sum and noodle shops to trendy cafes and international restaurants in the vicinity. +1
It's generally not permitted to consume food or drinks inside the exhibition halls to preserve the artifacts. There might be designated areas for this.
The Sheung Wan and Sai Ying Pun districts are known for excellent dim sum restaurants. Ask locals for their favorite spots or check online reviews for highly-rated establishments.
Yes, Hong Kong has a growing number of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants, especially in more cosmopolitan areas like Sheung Wan. You should be able to find suitable options.
📸 📸 Photography
The museum's Edwardian architecture is a major draw for photographers. The grand staircase, the exterior facade, and the detailed exhibits offer many picturesque opportunities.
Absolutely! Modern smartphone cameras are excellent for capturing the museum's details and ambiance.
While personal photography is usually allowed, always look for signs indicating areas where photography is prohibited, especially near sensitive exhibits. Flash photography is often discouraged.
The museum has a mix of natural light from windows and artificial lighting. The lighting is generally good for photography, but some areas might be dimmer.
The historical medical instruments and the detailed displays on past epidemics offer unique and thought-provoking subjects for photography, capturing the essence of medical history.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the architectural aspects of the building and the displays of traditional medical tools, which can be visually interesting. It's a good idea to prepare children beforehand about the nature of the exhibits to manage expectations. For a more family-friendly outing in the vicinity, exploring the vibrant streets of Sheung Wan and Sai Ying Pun, with their unique shops and local eateries, might offer broader appeal.
🤓 History Buffs & Curious Minds
+1 The beautifully preserved Edwardian building itself is a historical artifact, adding to the immersive experience. History enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to examine traditional medical devices and understand the challenges faced by healthcare professionals in earlier eras. The museum provides a unique lens through which to view Hong Kong's development and its resilience in overcoming health crises.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Medical History
The museum also dedicates significant space to understanding past public health crises. A particularly impactful exhibit focuses on the devastating 1894 Hong Kong plague, detailing its origins, spread, and the public health measures implemented at the time. This section offers a sobering yet crucial insight into how the city has historically combatted infectious diseases.
The basement level, where this exhibit is often located, is noted by visitors to be a bit cooler, adding to the atmospheric experience. Exploring these exhibits provides not only historical knowledge but also an appreciation for the advancements in modern medicine. It’s a place where history buffs and the medically curious can find a wealth of information presented in an engaging manner. The architectural beauty of the building itself adds another layer of enjoyment to the visit, making it a well-rounded cultural experience.
Navigating the Edwardian Gem
When planning your visit, consider that the museum is located in the vibrant Sai Ying Pun/Sheung Wan area. This district is easily accessible by public transport, with Sheung Wan MTR station being a convenient hub. While parking is scarce, the ease of public transit makes it a straightforward destination.
To make the most of your time, allocate at least one to two hours for your visit. This will allow you to delve into the detailed exhibits without feeling rushed. While the museum is educational for all ages, the historical context of some exhibits, particularly those concerning past epidemics, might be more suited for older children and adults.
Remember to check the museum's official website for the most current opening hours and admission fees before you go. 
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