Hong Kong Book Fair

About

The Hong Kong Book Fair is Asia's largest book fair and a literary wonderland that captivates children with storytelling sessions, character meet-and-greets, and interactive reading zones. This massive annual event transforms the Convention Centre into a book lover's paradise, featuring dedicated children's sections with local and international publishers showcasing everything from picture books to young adult novels. It's an incredible opportunity to expose kids to bilingual literature, Chinese culture, and foster a lifelong love of reading in a vibrant, festival-like atmosphere.

What to Expect

Families will find sprawling exhibition halls filled with hundreds of booths selling books in Chinese, English, and other languages, with significant discounts throughout the fair. The Children's Paradise section features storytelling sessions, author signings, craft workshops, and character appearances that keep kids engaged. Expect large crowds, especially on weekends, with a bustling atmosphere that can be overwhelming but exciting. Many publishers offer hands-on activities, reading corners, and special promotions on popular children's series. English-language books are available from international publishers, though the majority of content is in Chinese.

Highlights for Kids

• Children's Paradise section with dedicated storytelling sessions in multiple languages and interactive reading zones
• Character meet-and-greets featuring popular book characters, especially from Chinese and international children's series
• Hands-on craft workshops and book-making activities hosted by publishers and authors
• Significant discounts on English and Chinese children's books (often 20-40% off retail prices)
• Cultural seminars and performances that introduce kids to Chinese literature and storytelling traditions

Pro Tips for Families

1. Purchase tickets online in advance to skip long queuing lines, and arrive right when doors open (typically 10am on weekdays) to avoid the heaviest crowds and secure spots in popular workshops
2. Bring a wheeled shopping cart or sturdy tote bag as books become heavy quickly—many locals come prepared with rolling carts for their purchases
3. Download the official app before visiting to plan your route, locate English-language publishers, and register for children's activities which often require advance sign-up
4. Visit on weekdays if possible, as weekends and public holidays see overwhelming crowds that make navigating with children quite challenging

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (10am-12pm) offer the most comfortable experience with manageable crowds and fresh, energetic kids ready for activities. The first few days of the fair also tend to be less crowded than the final weekend. Avoid late afternoons and weekends when local families flood the venue. If you must visit on weekends, arrive exactly at opening time to maximize your window before peak crowds hit around lunchtime.

Food & Drinks

The Convention Centre has multiple food outlets including McDonald's, Cafe Landmark, and various Asian fast-food options that are kid-friendly. However, food inside can be expensive and crowded during peak hours, so many families eat before arriving or bring snacks and water bottles (permitted inside). The surrounding Wan Chai area offers excellent dining options within a short walk, including child-friendly restaurants in nearby malls. Plan for meal breaks outside the exhibition halls to give kids a proper rest from the stimulating environment.

Parking & Access

The venue is exceptionally accessible via MTR—exit at Wan Chai Station (5-minute walk) via the elevated walkway system. Parking at the Convention Centre car park is available but expensive (HK$30-40 per hour) and fills quickly during the fair. Strollers are permitted but can be challenging to maneuver through crowded aisles; baby carriers are recommended for younger children. Taxis and Uber are readily available, and the airport express connects easily to nearby MTR stations. The venue is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible with elevators and ramps throughout.