How to Build a Social Life as an Expat in Hong Kong

Written By Monica
Expat Making Friends in Hong Kong
 

A Practical Guide to Making Friends and Finding Community in One of Asia’s Busiest Cities

Moving to Hong Kong can feel like stepping into the future—skyscrapers that touch the clouds, buzzing wet markets, Michelin-star street food, and an express train that gets you from airport to city in under 25 minutes. But for many newcomers, the biggest challenge isn’t adapting to the pace—it’s building a social life in a transient, high-energy city.

Here’s a researched and updated 2025 guide on how to create a vibrant, meaningful social life in Hong Kong as an expat, whether you're here for a year or indefinitely.

1. Tap Into Hong Kong’s Thriving Expat Communities

With over 700,000 foreign residents, Hong Kong is home to one of the most diverse expat populations in Asia. National groups, professional associations, and lifestyle-based communities are constantly organizing events across the city.

Top Communities to Join in 2025:

Tip: Start by attending one general expat event a week to build momentum. Don’t underestimate how fast friendships can form in a transient city.

2. Join Sports Teams, Clubs, and Active Social Groups

Fitness and sports are some of the easiest ways to meet people consistently. The key is consistency—weekly activities quickly become a social anchor.

Where to Start:

  • Hong Kong Football Club & Sandy Bay Rugby Club: Competitive and social leagues open to newcomers.

  • Paddleboarding & dragon boat teams: Try Deep Water Bay, Stanley, or Sai Kung.

  • Social Hiking Groups: Join “Hong Kong Hiking Meetup” (over 20,000 members) or “Hong Kong Trail Running” on Strava or Meetup.

  • Amateur theatre groups like Aurora Theatre and Hong Kong Players often seek volunteers even if you don’t want to act.

Many of these groups welcome drop-ins, and most people are eager to meet others, especially after COVID years of isolation.

3. Leverage Coworking Spaces, Especially if You Work Remotely

For remote workers or entrepreneurs, coworking hubs double as social centres. Hong Kong’s leading coworking spaces don’t just offer desks—they offer community.

Recommended Spaces for 2025:

  • The Hive (Kennedy Town, Sheung Wan, Wan Chai): Creative professionals, regular mixers, rooftop events.

  • theDesk: Quiet, minimalist aesthetic with curated community lunches.

  • Garage Society: Great for startups and digital nomads; excellent calendar of panel talks and social nights.

  • Blueprint in Quarry Bay: East-side coworking hub with corporate/startup blend.

Tip: Some offer a “day pass” or free trial days—try a few before committing.

4. Take a Class or Workshop That Sparks Interaction

Enrol in something tactile or conversational where group interaction is built-in. This makes it easier to bond than simply showing up to a seminar.

Ideas to Try:

Proximity + shared challenge = friendship potential.

5. Volunteer Strategically

Volunteering offers more than feel-good moments. It’s a way to connect with people from outside your professional bubble.

NGOs & Charities with Expat-Friendly Opportunities:

Most groups need long-term and short-term help, so you can tailor your involvement to your availability.

6. Find a Spiritual or Cultural Anchor

Faith-based and mindfulness communities can offer meaningful support systems, especially during life transitions.

Popular Communities:

  • Union Church (Mid-Levels): International Christian community with strong support groups and family events.

  • Buddhist and meditation centers: Plum Village HK, Tergar Meditation Centre.

  • Jewish Community Centre (Robinson Road): Offers community dinners and religious services.

7. Use Apps—But Don’t Rely on Them Alone

Apps help you find events or people, but your social life will grow through repeated in-person connection.

2025’s Most Useful Apps:

  • Meetup: Still the best for niche hobby groups and one-off events.

  • Bumble BFF: Surprisingly good for new arrivals seeking genuine friendship.

  • Eventbrite Hong Kong: A good source of one-off workshops, music events, and talks.

  • Facebook Groups: Try "Hong Kong Expats 2025", "New to Hong Kong", or niche groups like “Hong Kong Vegan Group” or “Hong Kong Writers Circle”.

8. Create a Routine Around Community Spaces

Your “third place” (not home, not work) is where friendships can form naturally over time. Think neighborhood cafés, gyms, or parks.

Suggestions:

  • Fineprint (Soho, Tai Hang): Coffee shop that functions like a community hub.

  • Victoria Park (Causeway Bay): Fitness classes, tai chi, and running clubs meet here regularly.

  • Sai Kung & Lamma Island: Dog-friendly beaches and cafés where expats tend to linger and chat.

Final Thoughts: Give Yourself Time, But Be Proactive

Hong Kong can seem fast, expensive, and overwhelming—but it’s also one of the most open and transient cities in the world. Many expats arrive alone, and most are eager to make friends. Building a fulfilling social life requires showing up, following up, and saying yes—even when you’re tired. The connections you build here will shape your entire expat experience.

 
Monica
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