Hong Kong, the autonomous city located along China’s southern coast, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and earned a fifth-place ranking in the 2025 Global Cities Index behind Tokyo, Paris, London and New York, a ranking held since 2008. For visitors, the high-end shopping, exotic nightlife, diverse cuisine reflects the city’s position as a cultural melting pot for all those interested in experiencing something completely new. For women who plan on going to Hong Kong (especially solo travelers), it’s best to keep in mind some useful information on how to stay safe.
Although Hong Kong may be one of the most developed cities in the world, with every city there are rules. To stay safe and sane, it’s therefore helpful to research safety tips before visiting the city. The tips below are chosen with female travelers in mind.
Wardrobe
Hong Kong is a highly westernized city, but fashion trends for both men and women follow more conservative guidelines with cleanliness and modesty playing important roles. Though not explicitly frowned upon, revealing, low-cut tops will draw unwanted attention. Also, nude or topless sunbathing is strictly illegal.
Safe Transportation
Hong Kong has one of the most advanced public transit systems in the world that is utilized by 90% of daily commuters. The trains are designed with open-ended cars for commuters to move down the length of the train (which is important if you feel threatened at any point). Also, the city employs a state-of-the-art digital security system that monitors all transportation networks as well as all public spaces. As a result, the city’s public transit system is one of the safest in the world so don’t be afraid to use it.
Language Barrier
As a former British colony, the official languages of the city are English and Chinese. However, only a third of the population speaks English as a second language. You’re most likely to encounter communication difficulties with taxi drivers. To avoid confusion and to ensure you reach your destination safely, have your hotel concierge write down the destination in Chinese. Also, have your concierge to draw out a map or mark the destination on the map for you. As a point of interest, always use taxis that have a meter. If you are unsure on how to do this, you can perform research or again, ask your concierge to help you wave a taxi down.
The Nightlife
Hong Kong has a vibrant nightlife. Areas like Tsim Sha Tsui, Wan Chai and Central are likely to be just as bustling at midnight as they are around dinnertime. One thing to be aware of is the prevalence of prostitution. It’s legal in Hong Kong and most prostitutes look no different than any other woman out in public, so be mindful of the potential for unsolicited advances. In this case, stay alert and aware of the things that are going on around you and take note if anything or anyone is acting strange. It’s always good to have the number of the police (or other emergency numbers) on hand just in case things spiral downhill.
If you are heading into a bar or club, the same principals apply here; always cover your drink to avoid unwanted additives added in.
Pickpocketing
As with any densely populated city, pickpocketing is always a concern. The further away you are from the city center, the greater your chances of becoming a target. Drape your purse across the front of your body and if you’re carrying a backpack, do not use it to store valuable items when traveling in public.
Scams
Hong Kong is renowned for its designer boutiques, but its counterfeit market is also quite popular. The Hong Kong Police Department advises visitors to patronize shops displaying a Hong Kong Tourism Board membership sticker on its storefront because it’s illegal to buy counterfeit designer products. You won’t get arrested, but the merchandise will get confiscated.
Organized Crime
On the surface, Hong Kong is a safe city with low crime rate. However, organized crime has a strong presence behind the scenes. Prostitution, counterfeit goods, smuggling and control of non-official transportation services are all operations of organized crime units. For your safety, avoid any businesses that seem suspicious or illegitimate.
Hotel Choice
When booking your accommodations, choose a place close to most locations on your itinerary. For example, if you plan on exploring the entire city center has to offer, hotel Novotel Nathan Road is an idyllic choice as it is located on Nathan Road. As a four-star hotel, guests of the hotel have access to a fully equipped fitness center, the Web Corner cyber center that features iMac computers and a spa lounge offering hot stone massages. The services include currency exchange, courier services, and access to a boardroom and free Wi-Fi. It’s the perfect way to ensure you maximize your enjoyment without compromising your safety.
Even though Hong Kong is one of the safest destinations in the world, there’s no such thing as being too safe. Stay alert, stay smart and, most importantly, have fun.
