If you're visiting Causeway Bay and want to experience Hong Kong's horse racing culture, you might assume there's a racecourse in this area—but the honest truth is, Causeway Bay itself has no racing facilities. Hong Kong's actual racecourses are concentrated in only two locations: Sha Tin and Happy Valley. The good news is that the nearest racecourse to Causeway Bay is only two MTR stops away in Happy Valley, making it the most convenient racing experience for visitors staying in Causeway Bay. This guide will take you from Causeway Bay and quickly help you master the essentials of watching a race.
The Happy Valley Racecourse, officially named "Happy Valley Racecourse," was established in 1846 and is Hong Kong's oldest racetrack, having witnessed over a century and a half of racing history. While smaller than the Sha Tin Racecourse, the atmosphere here is far more intimate and vibrant—the stands can accommodate approximately 20,000 spectators, and during races, the cheers and shouts can practically lift the roof off. For first-time racegoers, this up-close, electrifying experience is actually far more exhilarating.
How to Get There
Getting from Causeway Bay to Happy Valley Racecourse is straightforward: take the Island Line towards Chai Wan, board at Causeway Bay station, and just one stop later you'll arrive at Happy Valley station. Alternatively, you can walk from the Times Square area in about fifteen minutes. The racecourse entrance has dedicated access points, and on race days, clear signage guides visitors, so getting lost is virtually impossible. Another option is to exit from Tin Hau station (Exit B) and walk approximately ten minutes via the East Rail Line footbridge. This route is less crowded, and the Tin Hau area is home to many local cha chaan tengs (Hong Kong-style diners)—perfect for grabbing a local Hong Kong breakfast before heading to the races.
Race Schedule and Ticket Prices
Happy Valley Racecourse primarily hosts evening races, typically on Wednesday nights (evening races), with the racing season running from September through July each year. Admission is HK$10 for the public stands. For a more comfortable experience, VIP seating is available ranging from HK$50 to HK$200, depending on seat category and the significance of the race. Spring and summer seasons feature more race meetings, and the cooler weather makes for the most enjoyable spectating experience.
Recommended Nearby Attractions
After the thrilling races, Causeway Bay and its surroundings offer plenty of other attractions worth exploring. Near Happy Valley station stands the renowned Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital, which was the first hospital in Hong Kong to introduce the artificial heart-lung machine. The building's architectural style is elegant and historically significant. Heading up Wong Nai Chung Gap Road towards the hills, you'll pass the entrance to the Aberdeen Tunnel. This area boasts a tranquil environment, a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Causeway Bay. For those craving local cuisine, the food court beneath Times Square offers diverse options—from wonton noodles to BBQ pork rice—priced between HK$40 and HK$80, sure to satisfy any palate.
Travel Tips
Race days can get quite crowded, so it's advisable to arrive at least thirty minutes early—especially for Wednesday evening races when the atmosphere is most electric and seats often fill up quickly. If you want to capture great photos, never use flash, as it can startle the horses. The betting counters have English-speaking staff who can explain the rules to visitors unfamiliar with horse racing. Basic betting options include "win," "place," and "quinella," with minimum bets starting at just HK$10.
One final reminder: Hong Kong horse racing is a legal gambling activity, so please gamble responsibly and view this experience as a unique opportunity to immerse in local culture rather than as an investment opportunity. Starting from Causeway Bay, with just a HK$10 admission ticket, you can witness this over century-old national sport of Hong Kong up close—an exceptionally high-value local experience.
