5 Most Sought-After Private Members Clubs in Hong Kong
Wealth can be displayed in many forms such as a six-figure Louis Vuitton handbag or a fancy luxury car. In some cases, it goes beyond materials things, too. Wealth is synonymous with intangible lifestyle concepts that give moneyed people the most coveted status symbol of all: exclusivity.
In Hong Kong, Asia’s financial hub that is home to dozens of billionaires, wealth means access to an inner circle of elites as influenced by Britain’s private men’s clubs back in the mid-1800s. Today, these private members clubs cater to a myriad of interests—be it for affluent bankers, gourmands, or yachting enthusiasts.
Here are some of the most-prized private members clubs in Hong Kong.
The Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club
One of the oldest clubs in Hong Kong, The Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club (RHKYC) requires would-be members to prove their sailing or rowing experience, as well as willingness to participate in its activities. That is on top of the membership fee that costs as much as HK$2.25 million (corporate nominee membership). An ordinary membership is priced at HK$91,800 for singles and HK$137,700 for couples. These price tags give one access to lavish and exclusive facilities such as a bowling alley, squash courts, and restaurants. RHKYC has more than 13,000 members worldwide.
The Jockey Club Hong Kong
Founded in 1884, the Jockey Club Hong Kong is more than just horse bets. This institution has become an envied private club whose members are given personal access to a rooftop tennis court, a bowling alley, a six-lane pool, and a roster of restaurants that only cater to guests with distinctive taste. There are four membership options that vary depending on privileges. As with other clubs, membership here requires nomination, financial assessment, and voting. A full membership costs HK$800,000, which entails additional privileges such as the use of facilities at Happy Valley Clubhouse, Sha Tin Clubhouse, and Beas River Country Club.
Hong Kong Country Club
Sitting on five acres of lush grounds, the Hong Kong Country Club provides upscale facilities away from the humdrum of the rest of the city. Members can enjoy the glitzy view of Deep Water Bay while treating themselves to a fancy dinner at one of the club’s restaurants. There is a 10-year waitlist for those wishing to apply, with an entrance fee ranging from HK$600,000 to HK$5 million.
The Helena May
Housed in a heritage building, Helena May is a private membership club in Hong Kong that boasts an English-language library with more than 25,000 books, spacious events venues, and dining facilities. But it is best known for giving special accommodation to members and overseas visitors who prefer a more secluded stay to checking in a hotel. Helena May also organizes charity bazaars, afternoon tea gatherings, and musical events.
The American Club
Founded in 1925 in response to the growing number of American expatriates in Hong Kong, The American Club aims to “provid[e] a gathering place for social, recreational, and business activities for members and their families in a distinctive American atmosphere.” The Club has two locations in Hong Kong: one in Central where the onsite restaurants face the stunning view of Victoria Harbour and another in Tai Tam where members can access the 10,000-square-foot play area and sports courts. Membership is only exclusive to Americans and their families.
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