HAPPY VALLEY RACECOURSE

Inaugurated in 1845, this magnificent and grandiose racecourse, located on a marshy plain reclaimed by the British, reflects the city's colonial heritage. Initially designed to entertain the expatriate community, it soon became a favorite haunt of Hong Kongers eager to place their bets. Surrounded by skyscrapers, the racecourse offers breathtaking views. The adjacent racing museum explores its rich past, while its Wednesday race nights attract crowds in an electric, festive atmosphere. Not to be missed!

Winning bet: the horseracing exception. In Hong Kong, gambling and casinos are largely forbidden, except for horse betting, which is supervised by the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC). This emblematic institution, founded in 1884, is the only one authorized to organize betting. At Happy Valley, every Wednesday, between ten and twelve races attract millions of punters, with stakes reaching almost HK$100 million per race, despite a minimum stake of HK$20.

The HKJC doesn't just organize nearly 700 races a year between Happy Valley and Sha Tin. This non-profit organization reinvests a large part of its revenues in community projects. It has financed the construction of iconic parks such as Ocean Park, as well as universities, museums and hospitals. These investments strengthen Hong Kong's social fabric, making the HKJC one of the region's largest philanthropic and fiscal contributors.