
Hopewell Centre
Ride the iconic circular skyscraper's external glass elevator for free, breathtaking panoramic views of Hong Kong's skyline.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Hopewell Centre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride the iconic circular skyscraper's external glass elevator for free, breathtaking panoramic views of Hong Kong's skyline.
"The panoramic lift here offers breathtaking views of the HK skyline."

Check Lift Status First
The external glass lift is sometimes suspended. Confirm its operation before heading up. :informationdeskperson:
Accessing the Elevator
Head to the 17th floor and look for signs for The Grand Buffet to find the scenic lift. :elevator:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hopewell Centre Glass Elevator
External lift, access via 17th floor
Ride the iconic external glass lift for breathtaking, free panoramic views of Hong Kong's skyline.

56th Floor Observation Deck
Adjacent to The Grand Buffet
Even if the external lift is closed, enjoy stunning city vistas from the 56th floor.

Retail and Dining Options
Various levels
Explore shops and restaurants within the unique circular skyscraper, offering a break from the city bustle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Iconic Glass Lift
Navigating to Hopewell Centre
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Lift Status First
The external glass lift is sometimes suspended. Confirm its operation before heading up. :informationdeskperson:
Accessing the Elevator
Head to the 17th floor and look for signs for The Grand Buffet to find the scenic lift. :elevator:
Free City Views
Enjoy incredible Hong Kong skyline views for free from the upper floors. :cityscape:
MTR Directions
Take the MTR to Wan Chai Station, Exit D, then walk towards Lee Tung Avenue. :train2:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Lift Status First
The external glass lift is sometimes suspended. Confirm its operation before heading up. :informationdeskperson:
Accessing the Elevator
Head to the 17th floor and look for signs for The Grand Buffet to find the scenic lift. :elevator:
Free City Views
Enjoy incredible Hong Kong skyline views for free from the upper floors. :cityscape:
MTR Directions
Take the MTR to Wan Chai Station, Exit D, then walk towards Lee Tung Avenue. :train2:
Kid-Friendly Play Areas
The building offers play areas, making it a good spot for families. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Hopewell Centre for its iconic external glass elevator offering breathtaking, often free, panoramic views of Hong Kong. The convenience of its location and the availability of dining and shopping options are also highlighted. However, some guests have experienced issues with the elevator being closed or restricted to restaurant patrons, leading to disappointment.
"comfortable and convenient stay with excellent service!
Hopewell Hotel offers a wonderfully relaxing stay right in the heart of Hong Kong. The rooms are clean, spacious, and thoughtfully designed, with great views of the cityscape. The ambience is calm and welcoming, making it perfect for both business and leisure travelers.
The location is incredibly convenient — easy access to transport, restaurants, and key attractions. The staff are warm, helpful, and always attentive, ensuring a smooth and pleasant experience from check-in to checkout.
A great choice for a comfortable, hassle-free stay in Hong Kong. Highly recommended!"
Vijay Kumar
"The panoramic lift here offers breathtaking views of the HK skyline. Its officially only for the guests of the Grand Buffet, but there is nobody that would prevent you to ride it up and down. To access it, first go to the 17th floor where this lift starts, then find the signs for the Grand Buffet. The elevator will take you all the way up to the 55th floor"
Fekete Márk
"Unfortunately the outside lifts were closed on the day we came there, but we still enjoyed the view from the window on the 56th floor next to the buffet.
Also, the lifts that take you to that floor made me dizzy lol they were too fast!"
Ivnk Velociraptor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The closest MTR station is Wan Chai Station. Take Exit D and walk towards Lee Tung Avenue, then cross the road to reach Hopewell Centre. Some visitors suggest it's a bit of a walk, so wear comfortable shoes.
The address is 183 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong.
While it's a prominent circular building, navigating within the complex can be a bit tricky. Look for the lift lobby near McDonald's on Level 3 to start your ascent.
Taxis are generally available in Hong Kong, and you should be able to find one at the base of the building or nearby.
Yes, ride-sharing apps like Uber or local alternatives are a convenient way to reach Hopewell Centre, especially if you're coming from further afield.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the external glass lift and upper floors for views is often free, but it's primarily for guests of The Grand Buffet. Be prepared that it might be restricted or suspended.
The operating hours for the external glass lift are not consistently published and can vary. It's best to check on the day of your visit or inquire locally.
The observation deck on the 56th floor, adjacent to The Grand Buffet, is generally accessible without a separate fee, though the lift access might be tied to the restaurant.
Yes, you can typically book reservations for The Grand Buffet directly through their website or by contacting the restaurant.
If the external lift is closed, you can still enjoy views from the 56th floor next to The Grand Buffet. Some visitors found the internal lifts to that floor to be quite fast!
🎫 🏙️ Onsite Experience
The external glass lift takes you up to the 56th floor, offering the most expansive panoramic views of Hong Kong.
Absolutely! The external glass lift provides a unique perspective for photos, and the 56th-floor view is spectacular, especially at sunset or night.
Yes, there are play areas for children within the building, making it a family-friendly destination.
Hopewell Centre has a mix of retail stores, though it's not a large shopping mall. You'll find various shops catering to different needs.
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours, primarily for the elevator ride and views. If you plan to dine or shop, you might extend your stay.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The most notable dining option is The Grand Buffet on the 56th floor, which offers great views. There are also other restaurants and cafes within the building.
As a buffet with panoramic views, The Grand Buffet is generally considered a mid-to-high-end dining option. Prices can vary based on the time of day and day of the week.
While The Grand Buffet is a highlight, you can find more casual dining or cafes within the building for more budget-friendly meals.
While the lift is for restaurant guests, some visitors have reported being able to access the 56th floor for views without dining, though this may not always be permitted.
The Grand Buffet typically offers a wide international selection. Other eateries within the centre may offer various Asian and international cuisines.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset and evening offer stunning city lights, while daytime provides clear views of the urban landscape and harbor.
Tripod policies can vary. It's advisable to check with building management or restaurant staff, especially if you plan to use one during peak hours.
Experiment with shooting through the glass as the elevator ascends or descends. Capturing the city unfolding below is a popular choice.
Generally, yes, but be mindful of other diners and avoid intrusive photography. Focus on the views and the ambiance.
Drone usage is highly restricted in Hong Kong, especially in urban areas like Wan Chai. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For dining, The Grand Buffet on the 56th floor offers a wide variety of food that can appeal to picky eaters, and the views are a bonus. Alternatively, explore other eateries within the centre for more casual options. The accessibility via MTR and the general convenience of the location make it a manageable outing for families exploring Wan Chai.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, focus on enjoying the views and perhaps a more affordable meal or snack from one of the centre's eateries rather than splurging on The Grand Buffet. The MTR access also keeps transportation costs low. It's a fantastic way to experience Hong Kong's impressive skyline without breaking the bank.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different focal lengths to capture both the grand scale of the skyline and the intricate details of the urban environment. While tripods might be restricted in certain areas, handheld shots can still yield excellent results, especially with good lighting. The unique circular architecture of the building itself can also be an interesting photographic element.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic External Glass Elevator
However, it's crucial to note that access to this elevator is often restricted to guests of The Grand Buffet restaurant located on the upper floors. Furthermore, the elevator's operation can be intermittent, with reports of it being suspended. It's advisable to confirm its availability before making a special trip, or to have a backup plan, such as enjoying the views from the 56th floor adjacent to the restaurant.
Despite potential access issues, the elevator remains a symbol of the Hopewell Centre's innovative design. For those who manage to ride it, the experience is often described as breathtaking and a must-do for its unique perspective on Hong Kong's iconic skyline.
Navigating Hopewell Centre and Wan Chai
Inside the building, finding the specific lift lobby for the scenic elevator can be a minor quest. Many guides suggest looking for the lift lobby near McDonald's on Level 3, and then taking a lift to the 17th floor. From there, you'll need to locate the signs for The Grand Buffet to access the external glass lift. This process can feel like a treasure hunt, adding to the adventure for some visitors.
Wan Chai itself is a dynamic district offering a mix of modern architecture, traditional street markets, and a lively atmosphere. Exploring the surrounding streets after your visit to Hopewell Centre can provide a deeper understanding of Hong Kong's urban fabric.
Family-Friendly Aspects
While the primary attraction is the elevator and views, the presence of these play areas can be a significant draw for parents looking for activities that cater to their children's needs. It allows for a more balanced itinerary, ensuring that both adults and kids have an enjoyable experience. The convenience of having dining options and shops within the same building also adds to its family-friendly appeal, reducing the need to travel between multiple locations for different needs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit