The Hong Kong Palace Museum — Where Imperial Heritage Meets Modern Hong Kong

Rising on the edge of Victoria Harbour in the West Kowloon Cultural District, the Hong Kong Palace Museum bridges centuries of Chinese history with the city’s forward-looking creativity. Opened in July 2022 to mark the 25th anniversary of Hong Kong’s handover, this 30,500-square-metre architectural marvel—designed by Rocco Design Architects—reinterprets the grandeur of Beijing’s Forbidden City through a sleek, modern lens.

The building’s distinctive silhouette, inspired by ancient bronze ding cauldrons and sycee ingots, symbolizes prosperity and cultural legacy. Inside, nine themed galleries showcase treasures loaned from Beijing’s Palace Museum—some on display for the first time. Rotating exhibitions highlight centuries of Chinese artistry, from calligraphy and ceramics to imperial garments, while collaborations with global institutions foster a dialogue between East and West.

Beyond the exhibitions, visitors can enjoy a 400-seat theatre, educational workshops, and a rooftop restaurant overlooking Hong Kong’s skyline. The museum aims to be more than a showcase—it’s a cultural bridge, connecting Hong Kong’s cosmopolitan energy with China’s imperial legacy.

Despite its controversial beginnings—sparked by debates over public consultation—the Hong Kong Palace Museum has emerged as a symbol of cultural exchange, ambition, and reinvention. It’s a must-visit for anyone eager to see how tradition and innovation can coexist under one magnificent roof.