Hong Kong’s past comes alive in the “Kowloon Walled City: A Cinematic Journey” exhibition, a captivating new open-air display that transports visitors to the former site of the Kowloon Walled City. Once the world’s most densely populated place, this iconic urban enclave is now brought back to life through full-scale set recreations, offering a unique glimpse into a remarkable chapter of Hong Kong’s history.
Launched on May 23, the exhibition is the largest of its kind in Hong Kong, featuring meticulously crafted sets from the 2024 action film “Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In.” Visitors can immerse themselves in the gritty atmosphere of 1980s Kowloon Walled City, exploring realistic alleyways and shops, including a tailor, barber, bone-setting clinic, and fish ball factory. This immersive experience is set within the Kowloon Walled City Park’s Yamen area and is open daily for the next three years, with free admission for all.
Beyond the exhibition, the Kowloon City district offers visitors a deeper exploration of Hong Kong’s cultural heritage. The Hau Wong Temple, dating back to 1730, showcases traditional architecture with its porcelain figures, dragon carvings, and Chinese calligraphy. The Cattle Depot Artist Village, once a slaughterhouse, now houses art spaces and local artists. Visitors can also discover archaeological finds from the Song and Yuan Dynasties at the Sung Wong Toi MTR station.
Kowloon City is also renowned for its vibrant food scene. Long-standing cafés like Lok Yuen serve up signature dishes like satay beef French toast, complemented by Hong Kong’s iconic milk tea and coffee blends. Fong Wing Kee, open since 1952, remains a popular destination for hotpot enthusiasts, while Lok Hau Fook is celebrated for its Chiu Chow specialties, including roast goose and deep-fried taro. The neighborhood’s diverse retail offerings, from Thai grocery shops to international brand stores, add to the area’s dynamic character.
For a contemporary shopping and leisure experience, visitors can explore AIRSIDE at Kai Tak, which offers international brands, lifestyle boutiques, dining options, and even indoor surfing. Nearby, Kai Tak Mall hosts over 200 stores and indoor attractions, such as EpicLand and a climbing wall.
To plan your visit and discover more of Hong Kong’s rich cultural tapestry, visit Discover Hong Kong.
