When the weather is nice in Hong Kong (fingers crossed!), there is nothing better than having our kids spend time outdoors playing sports. If it isn’t as pleasant,  indoor sports like gymnastics, fencing, table tennis and squash are great alternatives, which requires getting the right sports gear – from uniforms to play kits, shoes and specialised sports equipment. Here’s our list of Hong Kong’s best sports stores for kids.

Jump ahead to:
Sports Apparel And Accessories Stores
Multi-Sports Equipment Stores
Specialised Sports Equipment Stores

Read more: Sports Classes For Kids In Hong Kong

Gym Elite Sportswear (GES) – Sports apparel designed by a gymnast for budding champions

Have a child who’s always climbing up and bouncing off the walls? You may have a future gymnast at home! Before signing your kids up for classes, make sure they are kitted out with the best gym wear for kids! Gym Elite Sportswear (GES), founded by former national-level gymnast Cecile, offers quality gymnastics apparel and equipment tailored for young athletes. You’ll find functional leotards, leggings and shorts that don’t compromise on style, along with gym equipment like handguards, gymnastics ribbons, wristbands and more. GES is widely used by international schools in Hong Kong for their students’ gymnastics classes and competition uniforms. GES gymastics apparel and gear is available in Hong Kong, Singapore and Italy.

Sassy Mama Tip: Become part of the GES community when you shop online. All new customers enjoy 10% off their first purchase.

Sassy Mama readers get a further 5% off with the code SASSYGESPROMO when purchasing a minimum of one leotard from the collection. This one-time code is valid till 30 November 2024 per person.

Gym Elite Sportswear (GES), support@gymelitesportswear.com, www.gymelitesportswear.com

Read More: Hong Kong Gymnastics – Baby Gym, Recreational And Competitive Gymnastics Classes For Kids

Kukri – Sports store for sports uniforms and kits in Hong Kong

The Kukri name is so  synonymous with rugby in Hong Kong that some may even forget that the brand also offers kits and uniforms for competitive lacrosse, netball, cricket and other sports. Check out their partner shops or school sports stores to get your child’s sports kits.

Kukri, www.kukrisports.com/hk

Sneakers Street – The outdoor sports “shop” for all types of sports shoes

The amazing street shops in Hong Kong are another great resource! Here’s where you’ll find one of the largest collections of all sports shoes (though you will also finds bags, sports gear and more) in Hong Kong! Sneakers Street in Mong Kok is the go-to for all big-name brands, such as Skechers, Nike and Adidas. Fa Yuen Street is also popular for bargain shopping.

Sneakers Street, Fa Yuen Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Read more: Where To Buy Kids’ Shoes In Hong Kong – From School Shoes to Party Wear

Decathlon – Multi-sport apparel and gear in Causeway Bay, Central, Kowloon Bay, Tuen Mun and more, stocking in-house brands

The French megastore stocks equipment for more than 70 types of indoor and outdoor activities, and talk about deals! For just $24, you can grab a backpack, tents for under $200, kids’ football shoes for under $150 and junior tennis racquets for $179 and up. While you’re at it, women’s swimwear starts at just $59!

Head to Decathlon for: Almost anything sports related. Almost any type of sports gear and sportswear, from snowboards to skis, ski boots, helmets, bikes, scooters, skates, hats, goggles, socks, thermal wear, jackets, skateboards, backpacks, tents, swimwear, balls, apparel, yoga wear, yoga gear, muscle massaging tools and more. Be sure to check online for availability to see which outlet stocks your preferred items, or opt for home delivery (usually prompt all over the city).

Decathlon, various locations across Hong Kong, www.decathlon.com.hk

Read More: Family Support And Being A ‘Good’ Sports Parent To Kids With Sporting Talent

Sports Direct – Well-established sports store with apparel and equipment for many popular and niche sports

Established in 1997, Sports Direct started as a sports equipment trading business and now covers the sporting needs of individuals and large projects, such as equipment for stadiums and sporting tours. You can find anything from football shoes to badminton racquets, and even lifter apparel for those into weightlifting!

Head to Sports Direct for: Sports equipment and apparel for a range of sports. This sports store promises that if they don’t have the sports equipment you’re looking for, they will know how to put you in touch with the right sports supplier for your needs.

Sports Direct, 12C, Kim Tak Building, 328-342 Nathan Road, Jordan, Kowloon, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 9502 2116, www.sports-direct.com.hk

Marathon Sports – Wide network of sports stores with football boots, tennis shoes and basic gear

With 87 stores scattered all over Hong Kong in almost every mall, Marathon Sports has a bit of everything – perfect for anyone dabbling in athletics or full-fledged gym bunnies. Its kids’ sports selection isn’t large but it carries some brands that are difficult to find (Heelys, for example) and the accessibility makes it a favourite with mamas. Marathon Sports is well-stocked when it comes to wearables, accessories and all things sports tech.

Head to Marathon Sports for: Running gear, bags, backpacks, apparel, shoes, jackets, tech, clothing and shoes.

Marathon Sports, various locations across Hong Kong, www.marathonsports.hkstore.com

Sportshouse – Well-stocked sports shop with the latest On running shoes

This sports store is very popular with mums in Kowloon and the New Territories (it also has outlets in Causeway Bay). It has a great collection of shoes, apparel and equipment, and… (drum roll, please!) the newly launched On shoes that proudly claim to be designed with Swiss precision. If you aren’t yet aware of this, mention this to your kids who aspire to be Roger Federer (or are fans of Zendaya) and wait for their mad dash to this sports store to get their own pair of shoes!

Sportshouse, various locations across Hong Kong, www.sportshouse.com

Escapade Sports – Sports stores in Central, Repulse Bay and Causeway Bay, stocking well-known sports brands

Runners and hikers are familiar with this sports store on Hong Kong Island. It offers a full gait analysis to help find your perfect pair of shoes for running, climbing, tennis, football and more. Escapade Sports stocks known brands such as Asics and Garmin and other products fit for professional athletes and serious sports lovers. It also stocks a huge variety of sports bras in various sizes. Escapade Sports also offers racquet stringing services and specialises in nutritional and hydration products. 

Head to Escapade Sports for: Sports apparel, equipment and accessories for running, swimming, racquet sports and team sports. Also, tech gear (Fitbits, GoPros, cameras, GPS, watches), nutrition bars and powders, picnic blankets, skincare (anti-blister, anti-chafe and sun protection), etc.

Escapade Sports, various locations across Hong Kong, www.escapade.com.hk

Giga Sports – 10 sports stores across the city, stocking kids sports shoes, apparel and equipment from Adidas & Nike

Giga Sports, like Marathon Sports, focuses on sports shoes (also offering a 3D scan of your feet to get the right fit) and apparel, along with swimwear. It has a reasonable selection of kids’ sports apparel as well, but for specific  equipment, you may need to head to a specialist sport store.

Head to Giga Sports for: shoes, swim wear, running gear, sports wearables and basic sports equipment

GigaSports, various locations across Hong Kong, www.gigasports.com.hk

Other multi-sports stores in Hong Kong for tennis shoes, football shoes, racquets and more

• Golden Sports – Sports store in Tsim Sha Tsui with sportswear and equipment for football, tennis, hockey, badminton, golf and rugby, with a particularly good collection of cricket equipment. www.goldensports.com.hk
• Mister Keen Sports Goods – As the official distributor and stringing services for Yonex in Hong Kong, you know that this sports store in Aberdeen caters to all racquet sports from badminton to tennis. www.mksg.biz
• Streamline Sports – Concentrating mainly on swimming, football and rugby (including mouthguards for little ones), this Aberdeen sports store is fairly well-equipped. www.streamlinesports.com.hk

Read more: Women In Sport – Why You And Your Daughter Should Get Involved

While it’s easy to find sports equipment such as tennis racquets and football shoes at most sports stores in the city, new and trending sports like skating or skateboarding or niche sports like fencing might need specialised sports shops.

ITSARA – Specialist sports store in Hong Kong for fencing

Fencing is fast becoming a popular sport in Hong Kong, and we expect it to become even more popular after Vivian Kong ad Cheung Ka-long’s golds this year! This year, as you watch the Olympics with your kids, they may be keen to give fencing a try. This fencing shop is well-equipped with equipment proudly designed by a team of fencers in Hong Kong.

ITSARA, www.itsarafencing.com

Other sports stores for fencing gear:

• Fencing Hall – One-stop shop for fencing gear in Tsim Sha Tsui. www.fencinghall.net

Read More: Hong Kong Fencing Schools For Kids – Where To Learn Fencing

Gourami – Sports shop for swimwear for kids and adults

Have your kids been watching Siobhan Haughey’s excellent performance at the Olympics? They might be keen to take up swimming and you will need to make sure they have the perfect swimwear! This family founded company offers a fun, unique and stylish range of swimwear for kids and adults, along with activewear for individuals who look for style and functionality for their workouts. They blend together inspiration from around the world through their travels to design collections with bold colours, unique styles, prints and trims. And as a bonus, Gourami is known to craft each piece of apparel to embrace and enhance a woman’s figure. This is an ideal sports store

Gourami, 9/F, Block B, Po Yip Building, 62-70 Texaco Road, Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong, 2707 9986, www.gourami.co

Read More: Swimming Classes In Hong Kong For Kids & Adults

Other sports stores for swimwear in Hong Kong:

• Vilebrequin – Stylish swimsuits for the whole family. www.vilebrequin.com
• Moody Tiger – Swimwear for all sorts of water sports. www.moodytiger.com

Read More: Water Sports And Activities For Kids In Hong Kong

Jollymap – Specialist sports stores in Hong Kong for cycles

With the nice weather and plenty of new biking routes and parks open, why not invest in some bikes for the family and start making bike rides a regular activity? This Kwun Tong sports shop offers kids’ cycles for all ages, from scooters to balance bikes, geared and ungeared kids’ bikes.

Jollymap, Unit H, 4/F, High Win Factory Building, 47 Hoi Yuen Road, Kwun Tong, Hong Kong, 2342 0780, www.jollymap.com

Other specialist sports stores for bicycles in Hong Kong:

• HK Bicycle – Bicycle shop in Sheung Shui with a wide range of kids’ bikes, protective equipment and bike repair services. www.hkbicycle.com
• Flying Ball Bicycle Company – This Kowloon store offers cycles for everyone in the family, including folding bikes that are ideal for travel. www.flyingball.com

Read More: Hong Kong Bicycle Shops – Where To Buy Kids Bikes, Balance Bikes & Scooters

Pr0 Skate – Rollerskating specialist sports store in Hong Kong

Roller skating and ice skating is not only heaps of fun for all ages, but it’s also an excellent full-body workout! Why not try something new and invest in skates and safety pads for you and your kids? This rollerskate specialist sports store offers skate customisation, repairs and even skating classes.

Pro Skate, Shop 103 1/F, Fortune Shopping Centre, 8 Hang Cheung Street, Fortune Estate, Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon, Hong Kong, www.pro-skate.com.hk

Other specialist sports stores in Hong Kong for skating equipment for kids:

• Madame Quad – This Causeway Bay store will kit your child out with everything needed to start skating, from protective gear to the skates to tools to repair them! www.madamequad.com
• HK Skatecity – With skateboarding being a popular sport in the Olympics, this sports shop has all the skateboarding equipment your teen needs. www.hkskatecity.com

Read More: Where To Go Ice Skating In Hong Kong – Ice Hockey And Skating Rinks

Pro Trek – Specialist sports stores in Hong Kong for camping equipment

To ensure a smooth family camping or hiking trip, it’s essential to shop wisely. You want to make sure you’ve got everything you need for every situation, come rain or shine, so take a look at these specialist camping stores to ensure your family has a successful camping trip. This sports store stocks camping equipment and apparel for all weather conditions and conveniently has outlets all over Hong Kong.

Pro Trek, various locations across Hong Kong, www.protrek.com.hk

Other sports shops for camping and mountain adventures, hikes and more:

• APA Outdoor Shop – Wong Chuk Hang sports store with camping, water sports climbing and other outdoor sports equipment and apparel. www.apaoutdoorshop.com
• RC Outfitters – Sports store with locations across Hong Kong offering backpacks, harnesses, sleeping bags and more for all outdoor activities. www.rcoutfitters.net

Read more: Best Hikes For Families – Where To Go Hiking With Kids In Hong Kong

Editor’s note: This post was originally published by Conny Cai in August 2018 and updated by Anita Balagopalan in July 2024. Thanks to Cecily Radford for her contribution. 

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After Hong Kong’s spectacular performance at the Tokyo Olympic Games, it’s but natural that we are all looking forward to the Paris Olympics 2024. From new sports included in the Olympic games to Hong Kong athletes to cheer on, we’ve told you exactly what Hong Kong can expect at the Paris Olympics this year. But do you know where you can watch all the action live (or recorded)?

Read More: Hong Kong At The Paris Olympics 2024 – What To Expect This Year

Where To Watch Olympics In Hong Kong: TV Channels

The Hong Kong government announced last month that they acquired the broadcasting rights for the games and that they will be free to watch on the three local television channels.

So you can watch the Paris Olympics 2024 on:

• TVB
• ViuTV
• HOY TV
• And the public broadcaster RTHK.

This means that you can watch the games at home or at any venue that has cable television. This great incentive means that it is easy to plan an event or view the games just about anywhere in Hong Kong.

When To Watch The Paris Olympics 2024: Time Difference & Competition Schedule

Don’t forget that Paris is six hours behind Hong Kong time! Keep checking the schedule of the Paris Olympics 2024 to plan which sports you want to watch. If you have a child who has sporting talent and could be our next Olympic champion in fencing or swimming, you definitely don’t want to miss any of the crucial games.

Important Events & Ceremonies To Watch At The Paris Olympics 2024

Opening Ceremony: For the first time in the history of the Olympics, the Opening Ceremony will be outside a stadium, set on Paris’ main artery, the River Seine and will quite a treat to watch! Unfortunately, it will be well past midnight for us, so make sure you catch the highlights of this spectacle.

The first week itself promises to be action-packed for Hong Kong. Check the schedule and be sure to watch important Olympic medal events for fencing and swimming.

The second week will be critical for our hopes for a badminton medal.

Taekwondo medal events will be towards the last leg of the games while table tennis, rowing and sailing events are evenly distributed over the 15 days of the games. Do check which sports your kids are most keen to watch this Olympics!

Read More: Family Support And Being A ‘Good’ Sports Parent To Kids With Sporting Talent

Where To Watch Olympics In Hong Kong: Sports Centres

Just as it has done for previous editions of the Olympics, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) will set up the Olympics Focal Site at the designated sports centres under its management across 18 districts to broadcast the events of the Games. The Olympics Focal Site will be open from 8am to 11pm between Saturday, 27 July to Sunday, 12 August 2024. Members of the public are welcome to visit and watch the broadcast of competitions.

Some of the sports centres included are:

• Smithfield Sports Centre
• Aberdeen Tennis & Squash Centre
• Pei Ho Street Sports Centre
• Kowloon Park Sports Centre
• Tung Chung Man Tung Road Sports Centre
• Tsing Yi Southwest Sports Centre
• Hong Kong Velodrome

Don’t be disappointed if you don’t find a sports centre near you mentioned above. There are plenty of places to watch the Paris Olympics in Hong Kong. For the complete list, visit the LCSD website.

Read More: Kids’ Sports Classes In Hong Kong – Badminton, Rugby, Tennis & More

Where To Watch Olympics In Hong Kong: Bars & Restaurants

This one is for the parents! You may not want to take your kids to bars (of course!) on a regular basis but you may want to make an exception for the Olympics! There are many bars with great dining options as well, and family-friendly fare on the weekends. Given that Central European Summer Time (CEST) or the time in Paris is six hours behind us, you’re probably going to head to the bars only after work on weekdays or after the kids have gone to bed anyway.

The Blind Pig – Family-friendly sports bar that’s an ideal place to watch the Olympics in Hong Kong

With frequent promotions for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and all child-favourite festivities, this is as kid friendly as a sports bar can get. They have giant screens for all sporting events and are currently asking followers on social media to vote for which Olympic events they should air.

The Blind Pig, Shop GB12-14A, 45 Tai Hong Street, Soho East, Lei King Wan, Sai Wan Ho, Hong Kong, www.theblindpig.com.hk

Delaneys – Irish pub for live sports, including the Olympics

You can count on the Irish for good beer, bar bites and a love of sports! This Irish pub in Tsim Sha Tsui is a great spot to watch live sports. While right now, it’s all about Euro 2024 and Wimbledon, keep checking their Facebook page to know their live sports schedule when it’s Olympics time in July and August.

Delaneys Kowloon, Basement, Mary Building, 71-77 Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, www.facebook.com/DelaneysKowloon

The Globe  – British gastro pub that airs sports

When it comes to a British bar, you can expect it to be a haven for football enthusiasts. But it’s not just football – The Globe will be airing the Olympics this year and offering Sunday roasts on weekends, traditional Shepherd’s pie and more. You can book the private lounge to watch sports with your friends here.

The Globe, Garley Building, 45-53 Graham Street, Central, Hong Kong, www.theglobe.com.hk

Wan Chai Stadium – Sports bar where you can watch all live action sports and the Olympics

When a bar has “stadium” in its name, it’s a dead giveaway about where its heart lies! Football fans frequently haunt this sports bar though it airs all types of sports. We love its bar bites too – nothing like munching on chicken wings while cheering on your favourite athlete.

Wan Chai Stadium, Shop A3, 72-86 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, www.instagram.com/wanchai_stadium_official

Other Bars & Restaurants In Hong Kong Where You Can Watch The Paris Olympics 2024

• Trafalgar – British pub in Wan Chai. www.trafalgar.com.hk
• Dockyard – Sports and skyline views at this Kerry Hotel bar and restaurant. www.shangri-la.com
• The Chippy – Fish and chips plus live sports make for the perfect evening in Discovery Bay. www.instagram.com/thechippyhk

Read More: Kid-Friendly Restaurants In Hong Kong We Love

Where To Watch Olympics In Hong Kong: Malls & Olympic-Themed Activities

It seems like every mall in Hong Kong is getting Olympic fever this summer. While there are always fun summer events in Hong Kong, this year, everything is themed around the Olympics! So there are make-shift sports grounds coming up, inflatable sports parks and more.

The government is set to host some events for the games but few have been announced at this time. A legislative council panel document was released in April 2024 by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau that is anticipating many free events and activities. Keep an eye out for some of these anticipated events!

Four of Sino Group’s largest malls are getting in on the action too. There will be massive screens put up at Olympian City, TMT Plaza, Citywalk and One North, so you can always catch the action while you’re in the middle of shopping or dining out. Besides this, these malls have collaborated with local TV stations to have cheering events while the live broadcasts are on (you can find the schedule here).

Other malls are also getting into the action. D.Park in Tseun Wan has announced that it will be airing the Olympics on its indoor lawn, while Central Market will also be airing the main events.

To ring in the Olympics, AIRSIDE is partnering with the acclaimed HOYTV sports production team to bring live broadcasts of major events from the Paris 2024 Olympics, along with professional commentary. What’s more? Your kids have a chance to meet their favourite sporting heroes, Sarah Lee Wai-sze, Angus Ng Ka-long, Monnie Chu Ka-mong and Sze Ka-yam (on Thursday, 25 July)!

Read More: Family-Friendly Events And Happenings Over The Summer Holiday

Some of the events that we are interested in:

• Skaters’ Night – On Saturday, 27 July, Hysan Place is turning the spotlight on this new Olympic sport and inviting local skateboarding masters for special demonstrations and performances with children. Olympic table tennis bronze medalist Minnie So, and Hong Kong women’s high jump record holder Cecilia Yeung will join in the fun by skateboarding for themselves. There will also be breakdancing crews collaborating with BMX groups to put on a street culture spectacle. What’s more?  There will be live broadcasts of the Olympic skateboarding’s action from prelims to finals.
• Sport for All Day – Sunday, 4 August 2024: A wide range of free activities to be held at designated sports centres in 18 districts on the Sport For All Day 2024. www.lcsd.gov.hk
• Mr. Men Little Miss Mini Sports Playground – On until Sunday, 1 September 2024: Plaza Hollywood is opening a massive ‘Mr. Men Little Miss’-themed playground which will include trampolines, a 7-metre-tall slide (that ends in a ball pit), an inflatable maze and obstacle course. www.klook.com
• Power Up The Games – You can also participate in a host of interactive sports challenges with your children though July and August at AIRSIDE in Kai Tak. There’s an Under-16 Breakdance competition on Saturday, 3 August and a virtual bicycle race, children’s fencing performances, rope skippers, competitive cheerleaders and martial artists on the weekend of 17 and 18 August!

Read More: Weekend Planner – Activities And Events For Kids And Families In Hong Kong

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Going to a bowling alley is a fun activity for the family! Not only is it a great indoor activity that keeps you away from the rising temps, humidity and rain but it’s also a fun way to bond with the family while getting a little exercise in the process. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time bowler, there’s something for everyone at these bowling alleys. So grab your bowling shoes and get ready for a day of strikes, spares, and family fun.

Read More: Indoor Activities In Hong Kong – Things To Do With Family On Rainy Days

The post The Best Bowling Alleys In Hong Kong appeared first on Sassy Mama.

It’s going to get hot this summer! And no, we’re not just talking about the temperature. We’re looking at the sizzling summer line-up at Water World Ocean Park Hong Kong. From water battles to live shows, surfing demos and more, it’s all happening at this kid-favourite water park.

Water World Ocean Park Gets Into The Olympic Spirit

We know how fiercely competitive games with family and friends can be! But thankfully, when you’re at Water World Ocean Park, there won’t be any tempers flaring, because everyone will be having a splashing good time! The park is offering exciting water battles that will have you competing for Water Volleyball, Water Basketball and Water Tug of War glory.

If the younger ones in the family can’t play these sports, look at the fun mini-games – the water balloon, bucket and downpour battles. They promise to be so much fun that the kids will be fighting off their parents to get one more go at the games!

Shows & Performances At The Water World Ocean Park Summer Frenzy Party

What’s a party without song and dance? There will be water dance and drum shows every day, along with live band performances. Looking forward to learning something new as well? On weekends, you can watch a demonstration of surfing techniques and try them out yourself. Let your kids have a go under the watchful eyes of trained surf instructors and your family will be ready to ride the waves in no time!

The Summer Ambience At Water World Ocean Park

Pose as tropical forest explorers in the “Botanical Dream” Area next to the Reef Lobby or as surfing daredevils on the second floor. You’ll be able to snap up some beautiful family memories at all the Instagrammable spots this summer.

While you’re at Water World Ocean Park this summer, don’t miss out on the family favourite attractions and slides (we know your kids won’t let you forget!) – the ever popular wave pools, Whiskers’ Splash & Riptide.

Booking Tickets For The Summer Frenzy Party At Water World Ocean Park

Water World Ocean Park’s Summer Party starts Saturday, 6 July and continues until Sunday, 15 September 2024. It has a special summer promotion with tickets starting as low as $238! What’s more, the park is expanding its offer of free admission for children under 3 years. From Saturday, 13 July to the end of the summer promotion, all kids 5 years and under go free!

Book your tickets now!

Water World Ocean Park, 33 Ocean Drive, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, www.waterworld.oceanpark.com.hk

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If your family is anything like ours, you used to only play classic board games, such as Monopoly or Pictionary, every so often whenever someone was feeling nostalgic or exceptionally bored – that is, until COVID kept us all indoors. Like many other families during the pandemic, we turned to board games for non-digital entertainment and were quickly hooked.

We were surprised to discover that board games had evolved past the board games for kids that we grew up with, and many board games now have sophisticated designs and storylines with complex game mechanisms and characters. We’ve since made board games part of our weekly family time, and these fun board games have been great for pulling kids away from their phones and tablets. In fact, kids will even give up screen time for an hour or so of playing board games!

Read More: Screen Time For Kids – Top Apps And Sites To Manage Your Childs Digital Footprint

Why Play Family Board Games?

• It’s a great way to bond as a family. Although there are plenty of board games online, you can’t beat playing a physical board game together as a family. There’s nothing like being able to connect without a screen in the way, and the kids are sure to look back at this family time together with a great deal of fondness.
• The best board games all develop a certain skill. This could better focus, fine motor skills, general knowledge, colour matching, shape sorting, etc. The kids don’t really like it when you teach them anything, so why not let a board game do the work for you?
• Board games can teach competition and cooperation. Though it seems contrary, winning a board game is a thrill that gets kids (and adults, tbh!) going and there are certain cooperative games which require players to think and strategise together, teaching kids that teamwork makes the dreamwork!
• Which bring us to the next point – strategy. Our generation of parents have been accused of making life too easy for our kids, stifling their executive functioning in the process. Board games require some strategising, management and patience and can be excellent teachers of these essential life skills.

If you are convinced and raring to have a go at board games but don’t know where to start (and we can’t blame you, considering how many board games are out there now), Sassy Mama recommends popular board games that put a new spin to the classic board games. While the usual board games (Scrabble, Cluedo, Rummikub, etc.) are always winners, these new or relatively unexplored ones will make for an amazing addition to your family board game library. Because they are not as common in Hong Kong, we’ve rounded up where you can buy these board games, and for how much.

Read more: The Best Indoor Playrooms And Playgrounds In Hong Kong

Best Board Games For Families: Five Picks From Team Sassy Mama

Sushi Go!

This is a really fun, first card game or board game for kids. They won’t be able to resist the cute illustrations and design (neither can we!). Sushi Go! is what’s called a “pick and pass” board game, which means that a player must pick a card from a deck before passing the deck to another player. In order to win, you have to choose the dishes that you think will gain you the most points (or make other players lose the most points). There’s an element of strategy to this popular board game as the dishes can be combined in different ways to get more points. The fun part about this board game is that it does grow with your kids, who end up learning how to play more strategically as they grow older.

With three players, it usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes to go through one round of this, which makes it perfect for a quick pre-bedtime game.

Ages: 8 years and up

Sassy Mama Tip: Even our 5-year-olds enjoyed this, so it’s possible to start younger!

Where to buy: Bookazine, HKTVMall, Monster Geek BG and other toy stores, approx $160

Read more: Introduce Your Kids To Sushi At These Hong Kong Restaurants

Cat Lady

This fun board game requires players to build up points by “drafting” or collecting cards. However, Cat Lady is a little more complex than Sushi Go! as players have to select sets of cards from a grid of cards that combine cat characters, food, toys and costumes. The combination of all these different elements will determine your final scores.

Aside from the cards, the board game comes with adorable little tokens that you will have to count before putting away after each game as they have a habit of disappearing into the void of toy boxes or pockets.

It takes about 30 minutes to get through a game with three players, although with younger players, add another 15 to 20 minutes.

Ages: 14 years and up

Sassy Mama Tip: Despite the age advice by the manufacturer, we have found that kids younger than 10 enjoy playing Cat Lady with a little assistance (they won’t be able to grasp the strategies). Twelve-year-old kids and above will definitely be able to play it – and even beat the adults!

Where to buy: Amazon (though shipping charges apply) and BG Base, approx $160

Wingspan

The learning curve of this beautifully illustrated strategy board game is a little steep, but once you get the hang of it, it’s hard to stop playing this immersive game. The game’s theme is bird habitats, and players are supposed to attract birds to their habitats and help these birds flourish by collecting and trading food and eggs. If that sounds very educational and environmentally conscious, you’re right! We’ve found this board game to be a wonderful conversation starter about the environment, nature and animals (not just birds), and not a few kids have developed an interest in nature and birdwatching after playing this game!

Like Cat Lady, the board game provides wooden tokens (eggs and dice) that you can use as you play, as well as a charming 3D bird feeder that you’ll have to build. This is one of those games that can go for around an hour or even more, so it’s a great choice for a family night when you need something that lasts a little longer but still manages to keep everyone’s interest.

Ages: 10 years and up (recommended by the board game community)

Sassy Mama Tip: Because of all the fiddly pieces, it’s not ideal for younger kids. Kids as young as ten might be able to enjoy this strategy board game with a lot of help. However, kids 13 and up will be able to fully take advantage of the different tactics to gain more birds and points.

Where to buy: BG Base, approx $420

Read more: How To Teach Your Kids About Sustainability

Cranium Cadoo

Inspired by the original adult Cranium (one of our all-time favourite party games) this kids’ version employs the same silly and creative channels, such as Creative Cat, Word Worm, Data Head, Star Performer. That means, your kids and you are going to need to draw, act, sculpt, solve puzzles and crack secret codes!

Ages: 7 years and up

Sassy Mama Tip: You can start playing this with kids as young as five years! Kids who are 10 and up might find this version too easy and may be ready to graduate to the adult version of Cranium

Where to buy: Toys Central and Amazon, approx $500

Monikers

This is a hilarious party game where players take turns describing famous people, characters, or concepts without using the actual name. The goal is to get your teammates to guess the correct “moniker” before time runs out.

Ages: 16 years and up

Sassy Mama Tip: We’ve played it with kids as young as 14 and 11 years and they loved it! In general, kids above 11 should enjoy it as they will get the humour and have a bit more general knowledge about culture, history, people and world affairs.

Where to buy: BG Base, approx $230

Read More: Birthday Parties – Our Favourite Free & Easy Games For Kids

Where To Buy Board Games In Hong Kong

Hong Kong is lucky to have a handful of retailers that stock the newest and most popular board games in both Chinese and English editions. However, we do have a few shops that we prefer for their diverse selections and knowledgeable staff.

Capstone Board Game – Board game shop branches in Kwun Tong and Causeway Bay

One of the bigger board game shops in the city, Capstone has an impressive selection of board games, from classic board games to limited-edition releases and extension packs. They also run fun and educational board game design workshops, summer courses and certifications through their collaboration with the Hong Kong Board Game Education Academy.

Capstone Board Game, Room B, Floor 12, Block 1, Camel Paint Building, 62 Hoi Yuen Road, Kwun Tong, Hong Kong

Capstone Board Game, Room A, 11/F, Golden Swan Commercial Building, 438-444 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, www.capstone.hk

Monster Geek BG – Board game store where you can play board games too

With Jolly Thinkers and Wheat and Wood shutting down, we’ve been missing our board game cafes in Hong Kong! Luckily for us, Monster Geek BG allows “all you can play board games” in its store. It also allows board game rentals – so important for space starved homes in Hong Kong!

Monster Geek BG, Room 601, Island Centre, 470 Reclamation Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong, www.monstergeekbg.com

Painkiller BG – Online plus retail board game store with great prices

Pre-order your favourite board games here (including the ones not available in Hong Kong currently!). If you’re also looking at board game design and production, workshops, or just a shop where the staff can recommend good board games, Painkiller is your place!

Painkiller BG, Room1301, 13/F, Grandmark, 8A-10 Granville Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, www.shop.painkillerbg.com

The Lion Rock Press – Store and site with unique Hong Kong-inspired board games

Looking for board games with a Hong Kong flavour? This quirky store makes its own special version of popular board games like Ludo, Bingo, Snakes and Ladders, etc. So you can find Hong Kong Habitat Ludo, Hong Kong Wildlife Bingo and Hong Kong Snakes & Trails featuring the varied flora and fauna we find in this city. It makes for great gifts for newbies in the city, those who are leaving and even family overseas.

The Lion Rock Press, 1005 10/F Arion Commercial Centre, 2-12 Queen’s Road West, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, www.thelionrockpress.com

Read More: Toy Stores In Hong Kong – Where To Buy LEGO, Jellycat And More

Editor’s Note: This post was originally written by Anita Balagopalan in November 2021 and updated by Maloy Luakian in June 2024. 

The post Game On! Best Board Games To Play With The Family appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Were you one of the families swept up by the Ka-Long effect when he clinched a gold medal win in the men’s individual foil in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics? You’re not alone! Many families in Hong Kong realised the thrill that this almost delicate, fast and strategic sport brings. Fencing is also gaining popularity in schools – more than 80 secondary schools and 100 primary schools participate in various inter-school fencing competitions. If you’re keen to get your kids to learn fencing, there are plenty of Hong Kong fencing schools to choose from. Go on, we’re rooting for our next Olympic champion! En garde!

Read More: Hong Kong At The Paris Olympics 2024 – What To Expect This Year

Hong Kong Fencing Master – Headed by two-time Olympian fencer

This fencing club in Hong Kong offers highly sought-after after-school fencing classes. Classes are conducted in English and attract students from leading international schools. With a  coach-to-student ratio of 1-to-5, your little fencers will get the attention they need to excel at the sport. Fencing can help develop your child’s reflexes, attention and even imagination and no one knows this more than Olympian fencer Lau Kwok Kin, who heads Hong Kong Fencing Master. You know your young sports star will be coached by the best – Coach Kin was the coach leading Hong Kong fencing team (including Olympic gold medallist Cheung Ka Long, Ryan Choi, etc.) when they competed at the 2023 World University Games at Chengdu where the Hong Kong team bagged gold medals in individual and team events. He believes that the values and ethics instilled through fencing will help your kids not only succeed in this fast-paced sport but also in life.

Sassy Mama Tip: Not sure if fencing is right for your child? Try Fencing Master’s summer camps for kids from 3.5 to 15 years and you just might find that the kids (and you!) would like to continue beyond the summer as well!

Use the discount code SASSYFM to get $50 off any class or summer camp. 

Hong Kong Fencing Master, 2/F Jewellery Building, 178 Queens Road Central, Hong Kong, 6900 1070, info@hkfencingmaster.com, www.hkfencingmaster.com

Fencing Podium – Fencing club in Kowloon

This Hong Kong fencing school promises to teach kids of all ages fencing. It believes that no matter what age you start at, fencing can help your independent thinking and overall sporting ability. It proudly announces its young champions achievements on its social media, so your child will always feel like a fencing champion!

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: All ages

Fencing Podium, Unit 3, 2/F, Sing Shun Centre, 495 Castle Peak Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 3974 5524, www.facebook.com/fencingpodium

Read More: How To Identify Your Child’s Talent And Hone It

Academy of Fencing (Hong Kong) – 1-on-1 and group fencing classes for kids, adults and schools

Academy of Fencing (Hong Kong) has earned its fencing cred as one of the long-running fencing schools in the city. Established in 2012, it has a 3,000 square foot facility with international standard fencing equipment. The founder and Coaching Director is an ex-Hong Kong and ex-Canada fencing team member and the school provides fencing classes to kids as young as 4 years old.

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: 4 years and up

Academy of Fencing, 9/F TAL Building, 49 Austin Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 9421 3579, www.academy-fencing.hk

Hong Kong Fencing School – Fencing classes for kids starting at 4 years

This well-established fencing school has two branches, in Quarry Bay and Yau Ma Tei. With its pedigree of having trained Cheung Ka Long when he was young (the fencing institute itself is disarmingly modest about it!), this is a much sough-after fencing school. Classes are conducted only in Mandarin and Cantonese.

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: 4 years and up

Hong Kong Fencing School, Room 1001-1005, 10/F Gala Place, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Hong Kong Fencing School, 14/F, Kornhill Plaza-Office Tower, 1 Kornhill Road, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 59389848, www.fencing.com.hk

Excel Fencing – Well-equipped fencing school in Hong Kong

This fencing academy proudly claims to be the first fencing centre in Hong Kong that’s installed four 14-meter-long metal strips, which are the standard length used in competitions. It has six fencing strips, separate zones for different age groups, offering real sword and foam sword areas and large mirrors facing the fencing strips so fencers can observe and improve their skills. The staff speaks three languages and classes can be conducted for a mixed culture group of kids.

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: All ages

Excel Fencing, Unit 902-03, 9/F, Marina 8, 8 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 5616 1950, www.excel-fencing.com

Fencing Sport Academy – Private and group fencing classes for kids and adults

With Hong Kong Fencing Association (HKFA) certified coaches, Fencing Sport Academy trains enthusiastic fencers of all ages and stages, from novices to Olympic-level athletes. The kids’ foil classes start at 3 years and go all the way to adults. Classes are conducted in Cantonese, Putonghua and English.

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: 3 years and up

Fencing Sport Academy, Room 2706-10, 27/F, Prosperity Place, 6 Shing Yip Street, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 3568 0155, www.fencingsport.hk

Read More: Kids’ Sports Classes In Hong Kong – Badminton, Rugby, Tennis & More

ESF Explore – After-school fencing classes

Always a good option for extracurricular activities, ESF Fencing is headed by former two-time Olympian coach, Lau Kwok Kin (founder and lead coach of Hong Kong Fencing Master mentioned above). Students go from basic skills to advanced routines and learning competition rules before they can compete with different clubs across Hong Kong.

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: 5 to 12 years

ESF Fencing, various locations across Hong Kong, www.esfexplore.org.hk

Fencers Club Hong Kong – Hong Kong fencing school with branches all over the city

At this fencing school, classes start at an early age with safe fencing equipment (rubber, foam, etc.) and go on to Olympic level. The large coaching team includes former Olympic representatives, former Asian Games representatives, and even those involved with the current Hong Kong representative team! It has four branches in Shek Mun, on Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and Tuen Mun and you can get in touch with each branch via their respective social media accounts.

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: 4 years and up

Fencers Club Hong Kong, various locations across Hong Kong, www.facebook.com/fencersclubhongkong

Read More: Family Support And Being A ‘Good’ Sports Parent To Kids With Sporting Talent

HK Elite Fencing – Fencing classes for all ages, stages and blades

Do you know the difference between foil, epee and sabre blades and the fencing rules for each? HK Elite Fencing can explain this to your young fencers and help find the appropriate class for them. The fencing school uses its extensive international network to create training programmes, such as exchange activities with Ivy League schools and National teams.

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: 4 years and up

HK Elite Fencing, 10/F Landmark South, 39 Yip Kan Street, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, 9013 7999, www.hkelitefencing.net

Profencing – Classes starting from pre-school years

Profencing starts fencing classes for kids as young as three years old. All equipment is provided for beginners who can then graduate to the next level. Foil fencing classes are offered for ever age group, including teens, adults and advanced fencers.

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: 3 years and up

Profecncing, 3/F, Chinachem 333 Plaza, 333 Castle Peak Road, Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2390 3292, www.profencing.hk

Read More: Where To Take Sporty And Adventurous Kids In Hong Kong

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