Where to Stay: Sheun Wan or Tsim Sha Tsui?

Question

First time traveler to Hong Kong - for 7 days in November. Everyone says first timers should stay in Kowloon for more chinese experience or on Hong Kong Island for the high end skyscrapers. I prefer to stay in areas where there are more locals and more authenticity, less sterile and glossy. For example, in NYC I would prefer staying in the West Village versus Times Square. I prefer really great small off the beaten path restaurants that locals love, versus Michelin star or tourist trap places. I think I have narrowed it to Sheun Wan on HK Island (99 Bonham, JEN, or The Figo) or Tsim Sha Tsui (Mondrian or Royal Garden). Thoughts???

Answer

Given your preference for staying in areas that feel authentic, with local charm and off-the-beaten-path dining, the choice between Sheung Wan and Tsim Sha Tsui depends on the type of experience you want in Hong Kong. Both have advantages, but they offer very different vibes.

Sheung Wan (Hong Kong Island)

Sheung Wan is part of the western side of Hong Kong Island, known for its historic streets, traditional shops, and local eateries. It is less polished than Central but still convenient, giving a good balance of accessibility and local character.

Streets lined with dried seafood shops, tea shops, herbal medicine stores, and small local restaurants.
Close to Central and Soho for nightlife, coffee shops, and trendy cafes, yet quieter and more authentic than the tourist-heavy districts.
Good public transport access via MTR, trams, and buses, making it easy to explore both Hong Kong Island and Kowloon.
Hotel options like 99 Bonham, JEN, or The Figo are modern yet integrated into the local neighborhood vibe.
Easy access to Mid-Levels escalator area, Man Mo Temple, and Hollywood Road for antique shops and galleries.

Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon)

Tsim Sha Tsui is much more commercial and tourist-oriented. It’s the main shopping and skyline-viewing hub on the Kowloon side, with proximity to Victoria Harbour.

Iconic waterfront promenade with stunning views of Hong Kong Island skyscrapers.
Shopping mecca with malls, designer stores, and night markets like the Temple Street Night Market.
Hotels like Mondrian or Royal Garden are stylish but feel more international and polished, less embedded in the local community.
Restaurants here are a mix of international and local cuisine, but truly hidden gems are fewer compared to Sheung Wan.
Excellent transport links via MTR and buses, convenient if you plan to take day trips or cross over to Hong Kong Island frequently.

Summary Advice:

If your priority is experiencing authentic Hong Kong daily life, discovering local restaurants, and being in a neighborhood with character, Sheung Wan is the better choice.
If you prefer being in a vibrant, tourist-accessible hub with easy access to shopping, iconic views, and nightlife, Tsim Sha Tsui will suit you more.
For a first-time traveler who wants both convenience and authenticity, Sheung Wan is often preferred by those who enjoy exploring local streets, markets, and hidden cafes, while still being able to reach major attractions easily.

Since your emphasis is on local, off-the-beaten-path dining and authentic experiences rather than gloss and tourist crowds, Sheung Wan aligns better with your travel style. You’ll be able to explore historic streets, small family-run restaurants, and charming alleyways while still having easy transport access to other parts of the city.