Hong Kong’s Original Architecture

Aside from being one of the densest places in the world, Hong Kong (HK) is a top tourist destination where we think you should take a glimpse of its architecture. Strolling around the busy suburbs of the city, HK is a blend of East and West – dynamic but never losing its identity.

Here at Grayton, we love exploring this crazy city and have curated just for you guys a short-list of our favorite buildings.

 

1. LAI TAK TSUEN

Lai Tak Tsuen is one of HK’s public housing estates. It features a cylindrical architecture that makes it different from other public housing. Getting here is a bit difficult, but the most common transportation is via MTR to Causeway Bay. Then, take a 20-minute walk through the Tai Hang neighborhood, then to the Tai Hang Road until you reach the Lai Tak Tsuen Road.

Upon reaching the place, expect the possibility of getting kicked out by the establishment’s guard (if you’re caught touring inside). Unlike the usual tourist attractions, this one is not really a tourist destination, but because of its architecture, we’d say it’s worth it.

2. CHOI HUNG ESTATE

Tagged as one of the famous and oldest public housing in HK, the Choi Hung Estate is a friendly neighborhood to visit with your squad. It is located in Wong Tai Sin District of Kowloon where it’s quickly noticeable because of its ‘rainbow-colored’ paint.

To get there, take the MTR to Choi Hung station on the Kwong Tong line then make sure to exit at C3 or C4. It is recommended to proceed to the area’s basketball court, which is above the complex’s parking lot. From there, you can get a good look at the place and take the best photos.

3. YIK CHEONG

Also known as the ‘Monster Building’, the Yik Cheong building is a residential estate located in Quarry Bay, Hong Kong. This infrastructure is a picture of the traditional HK style complexes, showing its urban architecture in the city.

You can reach Quarry Bay by taking MTR going to Tai Koo station. Take exit B and then take a short walk heading west along Kings Road. The entrance to the complex is a small laneway in between some stores. It would be nice if your companions will pay attention to the entrance to avoid getting lost.

4. TAI KWUN

Another must-go place in HK, as recommended by the locals, is the Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts. This restored establishment (former Central Police Station) is home for many contemporary arts, performing arts, and lifestyle experiences.

Tai Kwun is the recent recipient of the Award of Excellence in the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation 2019. It is an excellent destination in HK that you must visit. The complex is not a private development, so it is open to the public from 11 am to 11 pm every day.

5. POLICE MARRIED QUARTERS (PMQ)

Far from its old history, PMQ is now considered as one of the hippest spots in HK. Just like Tai Kwun, it is also a restoration project of the government. This transformed the place from being the Central School to a local creative hub, where design studios, shops, and offices can be found.

PMQ is located in Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong Island. It is open from 7 am – 11 pm. You can get here by having a train ride via MTR and then exit either through Sheung Wan Station Exit 2 or Central Station Exit C.

It is recommended to take the first route from Sheung Wan Station. Upon arrival, walk through the Grand Millennium Plaza to Bonham Strand. From there, cross the road and turn left on Wellington Street. Continue walking until you reach Aberdeen Street and walk for another three minutes to reach the destination.