Hong Kong is renowned for its dynamic skyline and vibrant energy—a city that effortlessly blends tradition with cutting-edge modernity. However, beneath this pulsating urban veneer lies a rich tapestry of historical landmarks whose stories often remain untold amidst the clamor of contemporary life. These forgotten gems serve as poignant reminders of Hong Kong’s multifaceted history, each bearing tales that encapsulate cultural shifts and architectural evolution.
1. Shaw Brothers Studio (Movietown)
Nestled in Clearwater Bay lies Movietown, once a bustling hub for the film industry and known as the world’s largest privately owned studio during its heyday in the late 20th century. Established by the legendary Shaw Brothers in 1958, this cinematic powerhouse produced over a thousand films that defined Hong Kong’s golden era of cinema. The studio’s closure in 2003 marked the end of an illustrious chapter, leaving behind dilapidated structures and relics such as old film canisters, props, and machinery scattered amidst its ruins. Despite its Grade 1 historical designation, Movietown remains a poignant symbol of both creative triumphs and forgotten dreams, with its future hanging in balance.
2. Hong Kong Central Hospital
In the heart of Central lies an abandoned relic of healthcare history—Hong Kong Central Hospital. Opened in 1966, this institution was pivotal for providing affordable private medical services, including pregnancy termination, to thousands of residents. Its closure in 2012 after a rent dispute has left its fate uncertain, with plans for transforming it into a museum or art gallery yet unrealized. The hospital’s empty corridors echo the countless stories of patients and healthcare professionals who once walked its halls.
3. Victoria Road Detention Centre (The White House)
High on Mount Davis stands what was once the Royal Engineers’ recreational club, later repurposed as a detention center for political prisoners during colonial rule. Known as “The White House,” this site echoes with the whispers of those who passed through its gates in the 1970s before it was abandoned. Today, parts of its architecture have been preserved and incorporated into the University of Chicago’s campus, serving as a testament to Hong Kong’s complex political history.
4. Central Market
Hong Kong’s first wet market opened in 1842 at Central Market, once bustling with commerce as Southeast Asia’s largest meat market. Its closure in 2003 marked the end of an era, yet its transformation into a leisure landmark ensures that its spirit lives on. While it no longer serves its original purpose, memories linger of daily interactions and trades that were integral to the city’s rhythm.
5. Ma Wan Ghost Town
The haunting remnants of Ma Wan Ghost Town lie quietly amidst Lantau Island’s scenic vistas. Once a thriving fishing village, it was abandoned in the 1990s when residents were relocated for luxury development projects. The contrast between its dilapidated structures and nearby modern high-rises starkly illustrates the inevitable march of progress that often leaves behind echoes of the past.
6. State Theatre
The iconic State Theatre in North Point, built in 1952, was a cultural beacon, hosting performances by stars like Teresa Teng before its closure in 1997. Saved from demolition by public outcry, this Grade 1 historical site now awaits restoration. It stands as a symbol of the city’s enduring love affair with cinema and music, preserving memories of nights filled with art and entertainment.
7. Kowloon Walled City Park
The transformation of the infamous Kowloon Walled City into a serene park marks one of Hong Kong’s most remarkable urban reinventions. Once considered the world’s most densely populated enclave, it was demolished in 1994 to make way for green spaces that preserve remnants like the yamen and old wells. These elements now contrast sharply with its former chaotic existence, offering visitors reflection amidst tranquility.
8. Tai O Fishing Village
On Lantau Island, Tai O serves as a living museum known as the “Venice of Hong Kong.” This traditional fishing village is one of the last remaining examples of its kind in the region, with stilt houses and narrow waterways narrating stories of a disappearing way of life. The unique architecture not only offers picturesque views but also invites exploration into cultural practices that have sustained generations.
9. Blue House
In Wan Chai stands the Blue House, built in 1922 as one of Hong Kong’s last surviving tong lau structures—a testament to its colonial architectural heritage. Today, it houses the Hong Kong House of Stories, which serves as a cultural hub showcasing the city’s rich history through exhibitions and events. This Grade 1 historical building bridges past and present, inviting visitors to engage with narratives that have shaped Hong Kong.
10. Conclusion
These forgotten landmarks collectively weave a narrative tapestry that speaks volumes about Hong Kong’s journey from colonial outpost to global metropolis. They highlight the city’s ability to honor its past while forging ahead into an innovative future, making them indispensable threads in the fabric of its identity. As we explore these sites, they encourage reflection on how history can guide and inspire contemporary growth, urging us not to overlook the stories that have shaped our world.
