Where can I find a pickup game of basketball in Hong Kong?

If there’s one thing Hongkongers love, it’s basketball.

Every neighbourhood has at least one court and, just like in the streetball culture of New York City, many come with the chance for you and your friends to challenge the locals.

Here is a guide to the best places to play pickup across the city and what to expect.

Hong Kong Island

Victoria Park

Across the street from the Tin Hau MTR station, Victoria Park has perhaps the busiest courts in Hong Kong.

If you are looking for a wide range of competition, Victoria Park will not disappoint, with a constant stream of people flowing in and out of its four full courts, meaning there is a game for every skill level.

The concrete is as well maintained as it is busy and it is close to many restaurants.

In addition to its people, Victoria Park’s painted concrete is well maintained and a fall or two won’t hurt too much. After games, you can also find good food around the corner on the streets of Causeway Bay.

Southorn Playground

Adjacent to the Wan Chai MTR station, Southorn Playground has been the neighbourhood’s main recreational area since the 1930s. Just like Victoria Park, you are bound to see a crowd around the four full courts.

Southorn Playground has very nicely maintained rims and backboards, and a clean court surface.

Tournaments are often held during holidays where even people who don’t hoop gather around to watch the generations battle it out.

You might see grandads making it rain on the kids.

Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park

For those who live near the western side of Hong Kong Island, Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park is the perfect place for a good game. 

A mere six-minute walk from the A2 exit of the Sai Ying Pun MTR station, the two full courts enjoy the beautiful backdrop of the park and harbour.

Competition kicks up after 6pm on the well-maintained courts.

Kowloon

Nathan Road Cage

Reminiscent of the streetball courts known as “The Cage” in New York City, Nathan Road Cage is two blocks away from exit C of the Yau Ma Tei MTR station.

While it only has one full court, playing surrounded by high rises means sunlight doesn’t hit the court and it is comfortable to play earlier in the day.

On top of that, playing at night with glowing neon signs on buildings surrounding the court is a special feeling.

The well-maintained court attracts players from around the Tsim Sha Tsui area, and you can expect to find a younger crowd there with several schools nearby.

Perth Street Sports Ground

While Perth Street Sports Ground is a 16-minute ride on the No 17 bus from the Ho Man Tin MTR station, the two full courts located on Shek Ku street are still among the busiest in Hong Kong.

As for the crowd at Perth Street Sports Ground, you can always count on finding students from nearby schools and estates.

Just like most courts in the city, it is paved with smooth concrete and also has well-maintained hoops.

Kai Yip Recreation Centre

Dubbed the “Golden Cage” since its opening in 1981, the covered playground of Kai Yip has seen a revitalisation in recent years.

Kai Yip has the only covered outdoor basketball courts in Hong Kong.

The crowd at Kai Yip is younger and it is relatively less busy, but there is still friendly competition across all levels.

The court is harder to access, being 15 minutes away from the Choi Hung MTR station.