Central, also Central District, is the central business district of Hong Kong. It is located in Central and Western District, on the north shore of Hong Kong Island.
As the central business district of Hong Kong, many multinational financial services corporations have their headquarters in the area. Consulates general and consulates of many countries are also located in this area, as is Government Hill, the site of the government headquarters. The area, with its proximity to Victoria Harbour, has served as the center of trade and financial activities from the earliest days of the British colonial era in 1841, and continues to flourish and serve as the administrative center after the transfer of sovereignty to China in 1997.
Nightlife in Central can be very entertaining. Lan Kwai Fong, an L-shaped, cobble-stoned lane near the Mid-Levels, is filled with expats on weekends. Its eating and drinking establishments are considered upmarket in price and the area is also considered a tourist spot. From the west side of the rectangle, Wo On Lane and Wing Wah Lane extend to host several more spots for drinks and food. The area arguably extends to Wellington Street and Wyndham Street, through to the Hong Kong Fringe Club. It is also home to a small number of art galleries.